1. What is Cost per kW?

Cost per kW is a metric used to compare the price efficiency of solar panel systems by calculating how much each kilowatt of capacity costs. It helps standardize comparisons between systems of different sizes.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses a simple formula:

Where:

• Total Cost — The complete price of the solar panel system including installation (in £)
• kW — The system's capacity in kilowatts

Explanation: This calculation gives you the price per unit of capacity, allowing for fair comparison between different solar installations.

3. Importance of Cost per kW Calculation

Details: Knowing the cost per kW helps consumers compare solar panel quotes, understand pricing trends in the market, and evaluate whether they're getting good value for their investment.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the total cost of your solar panel system (including installation) and the system size in kilowatts. Both values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a good cost per kW for solar panels?
A: As of 2023, typical costs range from £1,500-£2,500 per kW for residential systems in the UK, with prices varying by region and system specifics.

Q2: Does this include maintenance costs?
A: No, this calculation only includes the upfront installation costs. Maintenance costs would be additional.

Q3: Why compare cost per kW instead of total cost?
A: Cost per kW normalizes the price, making it possible to compare systems of different sizes fairly.

Q4: Should I always choose the lowest cost per kW?
A: Not necessarily. Consider quality, warranty, and efficiency ratings as well. Sometimes paying slightly more per kW gets you better long-term value.

Q5: How does system size affect cost per kW?
A: Larger systems often have lower cost per kW due to economies of scale in both equipment and installation.