1. What is Price per Watt?

Price per watt is a standard metric used in the solar industry to compare the cost-effectiveness of different solar power systems. It represents the cost of each watt of power generating capacity in the system.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses a simple formula:

Where:

• Total Cost — The complete installed cost of the solar system (including panels, inverter, installation, etc.)
• System Power — The total wattage capacity of the solar system

Explanation: This calculation gives you the cost per unit of power generating capacity, allowing for easy comparison between different solar installations.

3. Importance of Price per Watt Calculation

Details: Price per watt is crucial for comparing solar system offers, evaluating cost-effectiveness, and understanding the value proposition of different solar installations.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the total installed cost of your solar system and its total wattage capacity. Both values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a good price per watt for solar systems?
A: As of 2023, the average price per watt ranges from $2.50 to $3.50 for residential systems, though this varies by location and system specifics.

Q2: Does this include all costs?
A: For accurate comparison, the total cost should include panels, inverter, mounting hardware, installation labor, permits, and other associated costs.

Q3: How does system size affect price per watt?
A: Larger systems typically have lower price per watt due to economies of scale in both equipment and installation.

Q4: Should I use DC or AC wattage?
A: Standard practice is to use DC (panel) wattage for price per watt calculations, though some use AC (inverter output) wattage.

Q5: How does this compare to LCOE?
A: Price per watt is a simple upfront cost metric, while Levelized Cost of Energy (LCOE) accounts for system lifetime and energy production.