13kW Solar System
A 13kW solar system is considered the Ultimate residential solar system, often sought after by homeowners facing high electricity bills, those with 3-phase power supply, electric vehicle owners, and those interested in future proofing their energy needs. The 13kW Solar System from Outback Solar is the pinnacle of our residential solar solutions and serves as an ideal entry point for small Australian businesses as well. This system size caters to homes with high electricity bills or businesses with moderate energy consumption, provided adequate roof space is available for installation. If you seek true energy independence and no longer want to rely completely on the grid network, then the 13kW solar system would be the ideal system to choose.
How many panels are there in a 13kW Solar System?
Typically, a 13kW solar system includes approximately 30 to 34 solar panels, based on the popular panel wattage size in Australia, which falls between 390 Watts to 440 watts per panel. For example, if I am using a 390W solar panel, then I will require 34 solar panels, or if I am using 440W panels I will require only 30 to achieve a system size of 13200W or 13.2kW. However, variations may occur based on the individual panel efficiency, physical size, available roof space, orientation (whether installed Landscaped or Portrait), shading issues, and local energy distributor regulations. In 2024, a 13kW solar system can be installed using less panels that are more powerful such as the 440W. This means less roof space is required. In the past, you would have needed 50-70 panels to make up a system equal to 13kW of power, whereas now you can get away with only installing as little as 30. It is always advised for an Outback Solar Installer to conduct an on-site measure and inspection to determine the correct number of panels you can fit on your roof prior to installation ocuring.
How much power does a 13kW Solar System produce?
In Australia a 13kW solar system can produce on average approx. 50-60 kWh kilowatt hours (kWh) of electricity per day, depending on factors such as sunlight exposure, weather conditions, and location of solar panels installed. In an annual year this equals to roughly 18,250-21,900 kWh annually.
This level of energy production can power a variety of household appliances and devices, making it a versatile option for both residential homes and businesses. A 13kW solar system can comfortably power a range of essential household or workshop appliances, including air-conditioning, refrigerators, washing machines, dryers, dishwashers, electric ovens and even pool pumps. These appliances typically consume varying amounts of electricity, but collectively, they can be sustained by the output of a 13kW Solar System.
Surplus energy generated by a 13kW solar system, can be sent back to the grid when it produces more electricity than your house or business needs. In Australia, this is typically fed back into the grid through a process known as net metering or feed-in tariffs, depending on the policies of your local grid network or Energy Retailer. Ideally you would rather use the solar energy generated than send it back to the grid at a lower rate.
Should I get a 10kw Solar System or a 13kW Solar System
Energy Consumption: Evaluate your household or business energy consumption. If you have high energy demands or anticipate an increase in energy usage in the future, a 13kW solar system might be more suitable.
Roof Space: Consider the available roof space for solar panels. A 13kW solar system will require more space compared to a 10kW system. An Outback Solar Installer can confirm if your roof can accommodate the additional panels required for a larger system.
Budget: Compare the cost difference between the two systems. Generally, a 13kW solar system will be more expensive compared to a 10kW system, however with generous STC incentives in Australia, part of the additional cost will be covered as you are installing a bigger system.
Energy Goals: Determine your energy goals. If you aim to offset a certain percentage of your energy consumption or achieve energy independence, a larger system might be preferable.
How much will a 13kW solar system cost me?
The cost of a 13kW solar system can vary depending on several factors, including the choice of solar panels, inverter, mounting, installation complexity, location, and any additional features or options such as consumption monitoring or batteries. On average, in Australia, the cost of a quality 13kW solar system can range from approx. $10,000 to $14,000. It will cost more if you were to use more sophisticated inverters than traditional string inverters.
Australia offers various government incentives and rebates to encourage Australians to switch to solar power, such as Small-Scale Technology Certificates and State specific rebates that make going solar even more attractive. These incentives can significantly reduce the upfront cost of your 13kW solar system.
Your 13kW solar system may require minimal maintenance and up keep. Consider the ongoing maintenance costs and factor them into your purchasing decision.
Would I need a 13kW Solar System with Battery Storage?
An Outback Solar consultant can assess your energy usage patterns, including peak demand times and periods of low energy consumption to advise you if getting a battery with your 13kW solar system is a good choice. If you have high energy demands, especially during peak times or at night, battery storage can help offset electricity costs by storing excess energy generated during the day for use when the sun isn’t shining. A 13kW solar system alone can significantly reduce your electricity bills by using solar energy during the day time, instead of buying electricity from your Energy Retailer. If you often consume electricity during the evening or night, then a 13kW solar system with battery storage could be an advantage.
If having backup power is important to you, then adding a battery to your 13kW solar system is definitely recommended, particularly if you experience frequent outages.
13kW Off-grid solar systems require batteries for energy storage because they operate independently of the traditional electrical grid. In these cases batteries are necessary.
Speak to an Outback Solar consultant or installer to help evaluate your energy consumption requirements and customise a 13kW Solar System with battery storage tailored to your energy needs.
What savings could I expect with a 13kW solar system?
Expecting how much savings you will get with a 13kW solar system depends on various factors such as the install location, your consumption of the solar energy, electricity rates, and your Feed in Tariff. On average, a 13kW solar system in Australia can generate approximately 18,250-21,900 kilowatt hours (kWh) of energy output annually, which can significantly reduce your electricity bills.
The payback period or return on investment depends on your total price spent, consumption of energy, amount of energy getting exported to the grid, and the feed-in-tariff. An example of a payback on a 13kW solar system is shown below.
Lets say your total purchase price for getting a 13kW solar system is $12,000 and you are spending on average 0.32 cents kWh on your electricity bill with a feed-in-tariff of 8 cents.
Annual Energy Savings:
Your solar system generates an average of 18,000 kWh of electricity per year.
50% of the generated electricity is consumed onsite: 18,000 kWh year × 0.5 = 9,000 kWh year.
The remaining 50% is exported to the grid: 18,000 kWh year × 0.5 = 9,000 kWh year.
For onsite consumption, the yearly energy savings would be: 9,000 kWh/year × $0.32 kWh = $2,880 year.
For exported energy, the revenue generated would be: 9,000 kWh year × $0.08 kWh = $720 year.
Total annual energy savings: $2,880 year + $720 year = $3,600 year.
Payback Period:
Using the formula for payback period:
Payback Period = Purchase Price / Yearly Energy Savings
Payback Period = $12,000 / $3,600 which is approximately 3.33 years
This is would be longer If you were to add battery storage with your 13kW solar system. Additionally, if you are eligible for state government rebates, you can save even more. Over the 25 year lifetime of the system, or more, the accumulated savings from reduced electricity bills can be significant.
Our Solar Selector Tool and calculator recommends the optimal solar system for your needs and estimates annual solar production and savings.
Another useful resource for Australians interested in exploring energy savings options is the ‘Energy Made Easy’ website, an Australian government initiative designed to help consumers compare electricity offers from different retailers. The website offers tools and information to help consumers understand their energy usage, compare energy plans, and find potential savings. Click Here or Visit www.energymadeeasy.gov.au
Or feel free to speak to an Outback Solar expert who can assess your lifestyle needs and provide you with an accurate 13kW Solar System quote.
