Solar panels needed for 2,000 kWh per month
47 panels
of 400 W (18.5 kW) cover 2,000 kWh/month at 4.5 peak sun hours · about $51,852 before the 30% credit at $2.80/W
System size by peak sun hours
| Peak sun hours | System size | 400 W panels | Roof area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 h | 27.8 kW | 70 | 1,505 sq ft |
| 3.5 h | 23.8 kW | 60 | 1,290 sq ft |
| 4 h | 20.8 kW | 53 | 1,140 sq ft |
| 4.5 h | 18.5 kW | 47 | 1,010 sq ft |
| 5 h | 16.7 kW | 42 | 903 sq ft |
| 5.5 h | 15.2 kW | 38 | 817 sq ft |
| 6 h | 13.9 kW | 35 | 752 sq ft |
kW = monthly kWh ÷ 30 ÷ sun hours ÷ 0.8 (inverter, wiring, soiling and temperature losses). Southwest US ~5.5-6.5 h, Midwest/Northeast ~3.5-4.5 h.
FAQ
How many solar panels for 2,000 kWh a month?
About 47 panels of 400 W (18.5 kW) with 4.5 peak sun hours; 35 in a 6-hour sunny climate and 60 at 3.5 hours.
What does a 18.5 kW system cost?
At a typical $2.50-$3.20 per watt installed: $46,296-$59,259 before incentives.