Written by Marijn

How many solar panels do you need?

An average Dutch roof fits about 10 solar panels. How many solar panels you need depends on the number of panels that fit on your roof and your energy consumption. In this article, you can read more about this so you can get the most out of your solar power system.

Estimated number of panels

Number of people in the household Average energy consumption Estimated number of panels
1 person 1800kWh 5 panels
2 people 2800kWh 8 panels
3 people 3500kWh 10 panels
4 people 4300kWh 12 panels
5 people or more 5300kWh 15 panels

The energy yield of your solar panels

Coolblue solar panel installation

The table above is an estimate. We calculate with a power of 425Wp and the average energy consumption of Dutch households. How many solar panels you need depends on:

  • Your power consumption
  • The total power (Watt-peak) of your solar panels
  • Your roof

Your power consumption

Power consumption Coolblue customer

To calculate how many solar panels you need, we look at your energy bill. This way, we get a good insight into your power consumption. We adjust the number of panels to this. More solar panels isn't always the best option. When you generate more than you use, you return power to the net. You only receive the lower feed-in tariff for your supplied electricity, which isn't always the most beneficial for you. Want electric charging or a heat pump in the future? We'll take that into account.

Watt-peak of your panels

Coolblue solar panel installation

How much Watt-peak a solar panel generates depends on the model. With Watt-peak, we mean the maximum a panel can generate in the right setting. For example, the perfect angle or no shade. Some panels generate more than others. To create your solar panel quote, we check which model suits your situation best.

Your roof

Roof solar panel installation

Your roof is an important part of your solar power system. We'll look at:

  • The position of your roof
  • Shadow on your roof
  • The space on your roof

We'll look at the space on your roof and how many solar panels can fit on there. The position is also important. A solar panel that's directed to the south generates more than a panel to the north. We also take shadows into account, for example from a tree or chimney. This also affects the amount of sunlight that reaches your panels.

Want to know more?

Want to know more?

Curious how many solar panels fit on your roof? Request a free advice appointment. Our advisors are happy to help you and give you advice without obligations. Together, we'll create a solar roof that's best suits your situation. This way, you get the most out of your solar panels. Our advisors are available from Monday to Thursday from 9:00 to 20:00 and on Friday from 9:00 to 17:00.

Marijn
Article by:
Marijn Solar Panel Expert.