50kw Solar System

hat size solar panel system do you need? Each and every situation is different, and there are a variety of solar kits available. In this article, we will focus on one of them – a widespread option for commercial and community use.

A 50kw solar power system consists of high-efficiency solar panels, a solar inverter (possibly several units), a rack mounting system, cabling, and solar batteries (optional).

When should you opt for a 50kw solar system?

One point to consider right from the beginning is that 50kw solar systems are primarily designed for commercial applications. Falling under the medium-sized business category, such solar kits usually suit office buildings, schools, hotels, or farms.

But they are not solely for commercial use. A 50 kW capacity is frequent in community solar projects, where several households or businesses share one solar system. And, of course, a 50 kilowatt solar system is also suitable for large residential properties.

How much space does this solar kit require?

The amount of suitable space you have plays an essential role in selecting photovoltaic equipment. A 50kw solar system typically requires approximately 300 square meters of shadow-free space. Photovoltaic panels can be installed either on the roof or the ground.

The measurements of solar panels in this kit are pretty much the same, about 1.6 meters x 1 meter. But the number of panels in a 50kw solar power kit can vary depending on the panel’s wattage. This leads to different areas of required space. The majority of panels range between 275 watts and 350 watts. With 275-watt panels, such a system will require 182 solar panels, which is around 291.2 square meters. As a comparison, with 350-watt panels, such a system will require 143 solar panels, which is 228.8 square meters.

How much solar electricity will be generated by this solar system?

This question is rather tricky to answer because the amount of electricity your 50kw solar power system will be able to produce is dependent on various factors. For example, in a humid continental climate like Vermont, United States, a 50kw solar system will generate about 200 kWh per day in clear weather.

As for the amount of generated solar power, the geographic location can become a determining factor. For this reason, businesses in California or Texas certainly have more favorable conditions to produce solar energy than those in Washington or New York.

As for other factors, the quality of the components of your photovoltaic system should be high. Also, your solar equipment should be appropriately installed to receive maximum direct sunlight.

What is the price of a 50kw solar system?

The cost of all solar panels has dropped dramatically over the past two decades and continues to decline. This is mainly thanks to improved photovoltaic technology.

The price for a 50kw solar system can vary ± 10 to 12 percent depending on the location, sunlight availability, solar brand, etc. Today, a 50kW solar power kit will cost approximately $1.05 to $1.90 per watt or $52500 to $95000. Just for a comparison, the average cost for a typical residential 5 kW solar system is about $3–$5 per watt or $15000–$25000.

How much savings can you expect from this solar equipment?

A 50kW solar system is relatively less expensive with per-watt pricing compared to solar options with smaller capacities. Therefore, when you purchase a 50 kilowatt solar system, you can expect a better return on investment than when you settle for a smaller kit size.

Estimated annual energy savings are about $15,000 per year. The average payback period of such solar systems is 3–6 years. However, the payback time will certainly depend on your electricity tariffs, as well as the amount of energy you consume.

50kw solar system - on-grid or off-grid?

A 50kw solar power system can be on-grid, off-grid, or hybrid. Your choice should be based on how remote your location is from the grid, the availability of net metering in your area, and your electricity needs.

An on-grid solar kit is directly connected to the electricity grid. The grid-connected kits usually include photovoltaic panels, a DC-to-AC inverter, a rack mounting system, hardware, and cabling. When on-grid equipment generates surplus power, it can be fed into the electricity grid through net metering. Net metering is a billing tool that allows solar panel owners to generate their own power to offset the cost of the electricity from the grid.

An off-grid solar kit is perfect for remote places without grid connection or when people just want to be independent of the electricity grid. In an off-grid kit, you will get photovoltaic panels, an off-grid inverter, batteries, and other accessories. This solar system is specially designed to provide long power backups during nights or power blackouts.

A hybrid solar kit is a combination of on-grid and off-grid options. It is connected to a utility network and, at the same time, has batteries as a backup solution. In this case, you can draw power from the grid and benefit from net metering, while batteries provide your property with electricity when the grid’s power is unavailable.