How Much Do Solar Panels Weigh?

What is a Solar Panel

So, you decided that Solar panel installation is right for your home. You can use solar panels to convert light from the sun into electricity and cut your utility costs. 

Solar panels can be used for many applications; including powering telecommunications equipment, remote sensors, and producing electricity for residential and commercial solar electric systems.

A typical residential home has more than enough roof space to accommodate the required number of solar panels, which can generate enough solar electricity to meet the home's entire energy needs.

How Solar Panels Work

A solar power system with a solar battery can store excess energy produced so electricity can also be used at night.

Solar batteries, charge controllers, and in most instances, inverters are required parts in off-grid solar installations.

Direct current (DC) electricity from the solar panel array travels through the charge controller, and the system stores it in the battery bank. The inverter transforms the DC into an alternating current (AC).

You can then use the AC to power devices that do not operate in DC, which draw power from the battery.

Moreover, solar panel experts can size solar panel arrays to satisfy even the most stringent electrical load needs with the aid of an inverter. It is possible to use the AC to power loads in residential or commercial structures.

How Much do Solar Panels Weigh

Knowing the typical solar panel sizes offered on the market is essential for choosing the appropriate size. Solar cells, typically 6-by-6 sq. inches, make up every solar panel system.

Two basic types of solar panels are readily available based on the number of cells. Solar panels typically include 60 cells, known as residential solar panels, and 72 cells, known as commercial solar panels.

Both varieties of solar panels come in various sizes and weights. The length differs also they are the same width and depth.

For instance, the average length of residential solar panels is 65 inches, while the average size of commercial solar panels is 78 inches. Residential solar panels have 60 solar cells, while commercial solar panels have 72 solar cells. Yet, the average width of residential and commercial solar panels is 39 inches.

Both solar panel systems have an average depth of 1.5–2 inches. A home 60-cell solar panel has a surface area of 17.62 square feet, while a commercial 72-cell solar panel has a surface area of 21.13 sq. ft. Solar panel installation firms will measure the location of your roof to determine how many boards someone may securely install.

Size-Determining Factors for Solar Panels

The following factors can influence how much your solar panel weighs.

Panel Substance

The solar panel material influences the size and design of the solar panel. Three primary materials are used to make solar panels: monocrystalline, polycrystalline, and thin film.

For instance, monocrystalline is the most expensive, but also the best choice. Compared to thin-film material, it is lighter and takes up less room. The more space a solar panel occupies and weighs less, the more efficient it is.

Brand Panel

The dimensions and weight of solar panels vary slightly among brands based on the materials used in manufacturing. But a typical 60-cell solar panel weighs roughly 40 lbs.

Voltage

The surface area of the panels will increase with the amount of power a solar system generates. Solar panel installers can link in a series or parallel configuration to enhance voltage as necessary.

Need for Electricity Output

Last but not least, the size of your solar panel system must correspond to the target electrical production needed. You must monitor your electricity usage from your bill and note the total kilowatt-hours spent.

It's crucial to consider changes in consumption and usage caused by the weather and the use of various appliances. It is ideal for producing more energy than you need and storing it or selling it 

back to the local grid.

What is the Weight of Standard-Sized Solar Panels?

The weight of a solar panel varies depending on the manufacturer, but a typical 60-cell solar panel weighs roughly 40 pounds. Commercial solar panels typically weigh 50 lbs. Both panels' frames and mounting hardware weigh about the same.

It is convenient to generate electricity for many uses by using solar panels. Solar power systems are an excellent asset for any cabin or home in remote areas. If properly maintained, a solar electric system can cut utility costs and provide power for up to three decades.

Solar panels make the ability to live off-grid with all the modern luxuries possible, but probably the most significant advantage of using solar energy is that it is both 100% environmentally friendly and cost-effective.

The ongoing climate crisis means property owners must reduce their carbon footprint and their negative impact on the environment. Solar panel installers construct each solar panel carefully so they remain durable year-round. That’s why with proper solar panel maintenance, solar panels can last for decades.

If you don't consume as much energy as your solar electric system generates, you can sell the extra energy to your electric utility provider for a sizable return on investment. 

Take the SmartSolar.org quiz and learn more about the benefits of installing solar panels.