Solar Energy Formula:
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Definition: This calculator estimates the energy production (in kilowatt-hours) of an RV solar system based on solar panel capacity and sunlight hours.
Purpose: It helps RV owners and solar installers determine how much electricity a solar system can generate.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: The solar power capacity is multiplied by the number of peak sunlight hours to calculate daily energy production.
Details: Accurate energy estimation helps size solar systems properly, ensuring sufficient power for RV appliances and preventing battery drain.
Tips: Enter your solar system's rated power in kW and the expected peak sunlight hours. Both values must be > 0.
Q1: What are typical peak sunlight hours?
A: This varies by location but ranges from 3-6 hours in most continental US areas.
Q2: How do I convert solar panel watts to kW?
A: Divide watts by 1000 (e.g., 300W = 0.3kW).
Q3: Does this account for system inefficiencies?
A: No, this is theoretical maximum. Multiply result by 0.75-0.85 for real-world estimates.
Q4: Can I use this for monthly estimates?
A: Yes, multiply daily kWh by number of days, or use monthly average sun hours.
Q5: What's a good solar size for my RV?
A: Most RVs need 0.5-2kW systems depending on power needs and battery capacity.