Complete Guide to 6.6kW Solar System

What Is A 6.6kW Solar System?

Photovoltaic cells are solar energy converters which are used in solar panels. Thin layers of semi-conducting materials, like silicon, encase photovoltaic cells.

When photons from sunshine strike each layer, their unique electronic characteristics energise them and produce an electric field. This phenomenon, called the photoelectric effect, generates the current required to create electrical power.

Electricity is produced using direct current solar panels. After that, it goes through an inverter to turn it into an alternating current. This current can then be used by the home or business where the solar panels are placed or sent to the National Grid.

A 6.6kW solar system typically comprises 15 to 16 solar panels, each producing 415 to 440W of power. The purpose of these panels is to collect sunlight and transform it into electrical energy. 

You can use solar energy to power your home because it is a plentiful and never-ending energy source. Solar screens are an essential part of using renewable energy.

An average Australian household can generate enough electricity with a 6.6kW system and a 5kW solar inverter. The sunlight available where you live will determine how much electricity is produced. 

(Data Source: Bureau of Meteorology)

For instance, a 6.6kW system in Melbourne generates 23.8kWh of electricity daily, whereas a system of a comparable size in Brisbane generates 27.7kWh.

What Are The Advantages of A 6.6kW Solar System? 

A 6.6kW solar system has gained popularity among homeowners due to its advantages. Let's explore some of these benefits:

Optimal Size for Many Households: A 6.6kW system compromises cost-effectiveness, spatial needs, and power output. Many average-energy-consuming homes can utilise it to lower their electricity costs drastically and become less dependent on the grid.

Compatibility with Residential Energy Needs: An average household's energy needs can be met by a 6.6kW system, which can power electronics, lighting, appliances, and other necessities. It guarantees a smooth transition to greener living by offering a dependable and sustainable energy supply.

Maximising Solar Incentives: Homeowners can maximise their eligibility for feed-in tariffs, rebates, and solar incentives provided by local governments and electricity companies by installing a 6.6kW solar system. These incentives further improve the financial advantages and reduce the payback time.

How Does A 6.6kW Solar System Work? 

Harnessing solar power involves converting energy from the sun into usable power. Two types of energy are harnessed from the sun for our utilisation - electricity and heat.

Both are generated using solar panels, which come in various sizes, from small residential rooftops to large 'solar farms' that cover acres of rural land. As for a 6.6kW solar system, it has many components and works respectively.

Solar Panels: Sunlight is transferred into electricity by solar panels, and for a 6.6kW solar system, you need to install 20-28 panels with a 250-330W power output. Costs and power output could rise with more panels installed. 

Inverter: 6.6kW or more is required to convert DC power from solar panels into AC electricity suitable for your home.

Mounting Equipment: Racks and mounts will most likely be required to install the solar system properly. Tilt the panels carefully so that the maximum amount of solar exposure for your area is achieved.

Batteries: Using batteries as an energy storage solution enables you to use solar electricity without sunlight. Batteries provide independence from fossil fuels and backup power, albeit raising system costs.

An installation this size could produce over 10,000kWh annually - which should be enough to power an average home.

Roof Space: A solar panel typically has a surface area of 1.8 m². As previously stated, a 6.6kW solar system comprises 20 x 330W solar panels. This indicates that 36 m² of roof space is needed for a 6.6 kW solar power system, or perhaps more, depending on how your roof is configured.

If tilt frames are needed, they will require more space than solar panels that are level with the roof. The solar power company's solar technicians will visit the location and determine the precise amount of space needed for solar installation.

Most homeowners have an anticipated total payback period of fewer than ten years by taking advantage of financial benefits such as tax credits, which usually lower costs by up to 30% as a minimum, and by paying installation charges ranging from $15,000 to $30,000. So, if you want to try solar energy, you can choose Jackery Solar Generator first.

Factors including your site, sun exposure, energy use, and the installer will enormously influence the performance and return on investment of a 6.6kW solar system.

How Much Electricity Can A 6.6kW Solar System Produce? 

For the average Australian household, 6.6kW of solar power combined with a 5kW inverter will usually be more than adequate to meet their electrical needs. The amount of electricity a 6.6kW solar system produces varies depending on where you reside. For example, in Melbourne, the system produces 23.8kWh, but in Brisbane, it generates 27.7kWh.

An estimate of the daily power output of a 6.6kW solar system in Sydney can be obtained by considering the average peak hours of sunlight, which vary from 4 to 5. Multiplying the system's capacity (6.6 kW) by the average number of peak sunshine hours yields the daily energy output:

The average peak sunshine hour is Midway between 4 and 5 hours or 4.5 hours.

The daily power production is 6.6kW x 4.5 hours = 29.7 kWh (kilowatt-hours). Thus, under ideal circumstances, a 6.6kW solar system in Sydney can generate about 29.7 kilowatt-hours of electricity daily.

Factors Affect 6.6kW Solar System Production  

The system generates an average of 24kW daily, with variations ranging from 19.1kW to 29.1kW due to various factors. Several vital concerns affect solar output:

1. Orientation

The installation angle of your solar panels also plays a vital role in determining their power output. Installing your system at a 90-degree angle is recommended for optimal energy production. Alternatively, if installation at that angle is not feasible, positioning them between 30 and 60 degrees will still yield satisfactory power output.

The angle of your roof is a factor to consider. However, it generally doesn't significantly impact the overall power output of your system unless you're aiming for optimal results from every kilowatt-hour generated.

1. Power Inverter

The choice of inverter also plays a significant role in determining the power output of your system. Specific inverters have higher efficiency levels, producing more excellent solar energy conversion into usable electricity. If the efficiency of your inverter falls below 95%, there may be a decrease in the power generated.

1. System Age

Due to technological advancements, outdated solar systems may not generate as much power as their modern counterparts. If you have an obsolete system, consider an upgrade to maximise the benefits of your solar investment.

1. Regular Upkeep

How effectively do you maintain your system? Without proper maintenance, the power generated will be below its maximum potential. Low voltage and high friction can significantly impact the energy output of your panels.

1. Shading

Shading can have a critical impact on energy production. When trees or buildings are near your solar panels, their ability to generate power is impacted. Shading can significantly affect the power generation of your system.

What Can A 6.6kW Solar System Run  

It may come as a surprise to learn that a 6kW solar system can provide power for numerous common household appliances. A typical Australian household consumes 19 kilowatts (kW) of electricity daily, while a 6 kW solar system generates 24 kW of power on an average day.

A 6kW solar system will generate sufficient energy to operate your fridge for a whole day, eliminating the need for grid electricity.

How Much Does A 6.6kW Solar System Cost?

Installing a solar system in your home offers several benefits. Solar panels have the potential to drastically lower costs, reduce carbon emissions, and pay for themselves in four to seven years.

Purchasing solar panels is an investment that must be made over time. A system's cost, savings, and return period define its financial feasibility. In 2024, solar panels can be a good investment because of their longevity and the very short payback times that can be achieved in different parts of Australia.

The mean costs of solar power systems installed in residences are shown in the following table. There are several reasons why the cost of solar panels varies—the quality of the parts (panels and inverters) and the installation business you select. 

Average Cost of A 6.6kW Solar System  

A fully fitted Premium 6.6kW solar power system costs about $5,390 (financing is also available). High-performance 440W solar panels with a standard installation are included with this system (i.e., no cherry pickers etc.).

For less than $4,500, it is feasible to acquire a very affordable 6 kW solar system; however, this would usually entail purchasing low to mid-range panels made in China, frequently without any after-sales assistance.

Examining systems below the $3,500 threshold is a very different story. Reliability, output, and lifespan are all crucial factors for larger residential solar systems, so making a higher upfront investment may save much money throughout the system's lifetime.  

Generally, you can save up to and more than $2,000 on your annual electricity expenses with a 6.6kW solar system.

Of course, you will need to utilise a lot of power during the day - up to 30 kWh during the summer - to save $500 to $600 on a quarterly payment. If not, adding battery storage can assist you in storing extra solar energy for use at night.

Here is a table showing how much money homeowners can save with a 6.6kW solar system in different states in Australia.

If installing a solar power system in your home may cost a lot, you can choose a Jackery Solar Generator to try solar energy first. If you believe it is worth it, then it is never too late to select solar power for your home.

Jackery Solar Generators: Portable Solar Systems

Implementing a solar energy system in your residence provides numerous advantages. Jackery is a renowned manufacturer in the solar industry, focusing on producing top-notch solar equipment like solar generators, solar panels, and portable power stations. Jackery Solar Generators offer a reliable and uninterrupted power supply for your household appliances using lithium-ion batteries.  

In conjunction with Jackery Solar Panels, a Portable Power Station facilitates the efficient conversion and storage of more sunlight for future use. By having numerous output ports, you can charge multiple appliances at the same time. Additionally, a Portable Power Station offers several options for recharging, such as Jackery Solar Panels, carports, wall outlets, or other electric generators.

Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Plus

Jackery has unveiled the Solar Generator 2000 Plus, a cutting-edge portable power solution with exceptional performance. Thanks to its substantial capacity and formidable power output, this device can sustain the operation of standard domestic appliances for several weeks and fulfil all the power needs associated with outdoor adventure or professional activity.

The Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Plus allows adding extra battery packs, which boosts the capacity from 2 kWh to a remarkable 12 kWh, thus enhancing the solar charging capabilities significantly. With the ability to be expanded to 3000W, this solar product offers a 30% higher rated power than other 2 kWh solar goods available in the market. Practically all essential household equipment is energised.

The Explorer 2000 Plus is an industry's pioneering add-on battery pack that can be recharged using solar panels. This feature enhances versatility, improves charging efficiency, and reduces charging time. The LiFePO4 battery, with its sophisticated technology, guarantees a lifespan of 10 years, even with daily usage limited to once per day. Jackery solar panels generate more energy over their lifespan due to their exceptional solar conversion efficiency, reaching up to 25%.

Jackery Solar Generator 1000 Pro

The Jackery Solar Generator 1000 Pro, which consists of the Explorer 1000 Pro portable power station and SolarSaga 80W solar panels, can power multiple devices simultaneously during a power outage or outdoor activity. You can charge your appliances using the Explorer 1000 Pro, which has a battery capacity of 1002Wh. The BMS stands out as the industry leader due to its 94V-0 fire certification, foldable handle, and utilisation of pure sine wave technology.

The Explorer 1000 Pro portable power station includes three ports: one DC car port, two USB A connectors, and two 1000W AC outlets. It can supply electricity for more than 93% of the camping electrical needs, such as portable stoves, freezers, phones, and other devices. It can supply electricity to a 20W light for 40.1 hours, plenty of time to illuminate an area. It can supply electricity to a television with a power consumption of 100 watts for 8 hours.

The collapsible design of the handle allows for easy transportation and storage. This lightweight power source is perfect for camping trips and can be charged up to one thousand times. A pure sine wave inverter, which offers a clean and uninterrupted electrical signal, can reliably provide your gadgets with stable power without any variations in voltage. This product, regulated by a Battery Management System (BMS) and operates at an ultra-quiet noise level of 46 decibels, maintains a long-lasting battery life.

Can A 6.6kW Solar System Save Electric Bill?

A 6.6kW solar system often saves you between $1000 and $2,000 annually. The good news is that you can save at least $50,000 throughout your lifetime! How much you save will also depend on how much power you use.

A low-energy-using home that pays a maximum of $1,600 annually for electricity might have all of its power needs met by the solar system. Without solar, a medium-sized home that uses 15 to 25 kWh daily would probably pay roughly $2,200.

These households can save over $1,840 by switching to solar power, bringing their annual electricity costs down to less than $360.

By installing a 6kW solar system, a high-energy-consuming household that uses more than 25 kWh and pays roughly $2,800 a year without solar can lower its power bill to about $800 annually. As a result, a household like this may save $1900 annually.

The predicted energy use, electricity costs, and savings for various household types are displayed in the table below.  

Feed-in tariff credits and reduced energy bills account for these savings. These savings are calculated using a variety of factors.

Savings on Energy Costs: Switching to solar energy will free you from the shackles of high electricity bills. Producing and using your energy will result in a significant reduction in your power expenses. 

Credits for Feed-in Tariffs: The feed-in tariff is the amount you are paid for adding extra power to the grid. After switching to solar power, there will be times when your system generates more electricity than you need. Without batteries to store the excess energy, it's all for nothing. 

Another option is to send it to the grid for some credit. Energy retailers offer varying feed-in tariffs. The feed-in rate for your excess electricity increases with the utility your solar power system provides.

6.6kW Solar System FAQs

The following are the frequently asked questions about the 6.6kW solar system in Australia.

1. Is a 6.6 kW solar system worth it?

A 6.6kW solar system is a dependable and affordable way to power a typical home. This is an excellent purchase for those looking to reduce their carbon footprint and power expenses because of its high energy output and battery compatibility.  

2. How much does a 6kW solar system produce per day?

Twenty to thirty kilowatt-hours (kWh) of power may be produced daily on average by a 6kW solar system, translating to 600 - 900 kWh monthly.

3. How much will a 6kW solar system save you?

What is the cost-saving potential of a 6kW solar power system? This size of the system can save up to $2,000 annually. Nevertheless, it's crucial to remember that this number depends on the system's quality and installation location.

4. What size battery do I need for a 6.6 kW solar system?

Typically, a solar battery with a storage capacity of at least 10 kWh is a solid starting point for a 6.6kW solar system. Depending on the location in Australia, a 6.6kW solar power system typically generates around 17 - 21 kWh per day. The energy usage and contribution to the grid can vary per your daily schedule and needs. On average, a typical household sends back approximately two-thirds of the power produced, equivalent to around 13 kW daily.  

5. How many kW to run a house?

The typical Australian household consumes an average of 900 kilowatt-hours (kWh) every month or 30 kWh daily, resulting in an annual usage of approximately 10,800 kWh. This implies that most solar energy systems will need to be of sufficient size to generate this specific number of kilowatt-hours in a given year. Every household will require varying quantities of solar panels to achieve this level of energy generation.

Final Thoughts

A 6.6kW solar system is an intelligent purchase for households who want to lower their energy costs, become more energy-independent, and lessen their carbon footprint. Clean and renewable energy can power your home sustainably with a 6.6kW solar system thanks to its eco-friendly operation, efficient construction, and long-term cost savings. If installing a solar system costs too much, consider investing in a Jackery Solar Generator.