Most Northern Ireland homes need between 10 and 12 solar panels to significantly reduce electricity bills, though the exact number depends on your annual consumption, available roof space, and budget. A typical 3-bedroom semi-detached house with annual consumption of 3,500kWh benefits from a 10-panel system generating approximately 4,000kWh yearly.
Calculating the right number of solar panels starts with understanding your electricity consumption. Review your electricity bills to find annual usage in kWh, then divide by 400 (the average annual generation per panel in Northern Ireland) for a baseline panel count. This calculation provides initial guidance, though professional assessment considers additional factors.
Roof space limitations often determine maximum panel numbers regardless of electricity consumption. Each panel requires approximately 2m² of unshaded roof space, meaning a typical semi-detached house can accommodate 10-14 panels. Terraced houses may be limited to 6-8 panels, while large detached properties can support 16-20 panels.
Budget considerations influence how many panels to install initially. While maximum coverage seems logical, the sweet spot for most Northern Ireland homes is 10-12 panels, balancing cost with generation. This size qualifies for simplified G98 grid connection, avoiding additional costs associated with larger systems.
For comprehensive information about solar panels for your property, see our complete guide to home solar panels Northern Ireland.