How the calculator works

    Six simple steps to understand what you need. Each step includes explanations so you learn as you go.

    Step 1

    Choose your goal

    Are you looking to reduce power bills, add backup power, or go fully off-grid? Your goal shapes everything that follows.

    Step 2

    Estimate your energy use

    Tell us about your daily power consumption. You can enter it directly or we'll help you estimate from your appliances.

    Step 3

    Enter your location

    Your location determines how much sunlight your panels will receive throughout the year, especially in winter.

    Step 4

    Set panel direction and tilt

    The direction your panels face and their angle affects how much energy they can capture from the sun.

    Step 5

    Choose battery and backup preferences

    Decide how many days of backup power you want from your battery on low-sun days.

    Step 6

    Learn from results and explore trade-offs

    See how your choices affect system size, cost, and reliability. Adjust settings to understand the trade-offs.

    Why winter matters most

    Solar systems are designed for the hardest months, not the easiest. Winter performance usually sets the limits—shorter days and lower sun angles mean less energy when you often need heating most. Understanding this helps you size your system correctly.

    Ready to try it?

    Start the free calculator and learn as you go. No account needed.

    Start the calculator