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How Big Are Residential Solar Panels? What Homeowners and Businesses Need to Know

This guide explains the typical size of residential and commercial solar panels, how much energy they produce, and how to plan for battery storage and future upgrades

By Michael Mrowka Published 9 months ago 4 min read
How Big Are Residential Solar Panels? What Homeowners and Businesses Need to Know
Photo by Bill Mead on Unsplash

If you’re thinking about installing solar panels at your home or business, one of the first questions you’ll likely have is: how big are residential solar panels, really? It’s a practical concern, especially when you're trying to figure out if your roof can handle a full system — and what that system will look like in terms of size, output, and future upgrades like a SigenStor Battery.

Whether you’re in Sydney, Perth, the Gold Coast, or anywhere else across Australia (or globally for that matter), understanding solar panel sizing is key to making a smart investment — and getting the most out of incentives like the solar battery rebate.

Let’s break it down.

Standard Size of Residential Solar Panels

Most residential solar panels fall into a fairly consistent range. A standard residential panel typically measures about 1.7 metres high by 1 metre wide, covering roughly 1.7 square metres. These panels usually generate between 370W to 440W per panel, depending on the brand, efficiency, and cell type.

For an average Australian household aiming to install a 6.6kW system, you’d be looking at around 15 to 18 panels, which would need around 30 square metres of roof space. Of course, the actual number can vary depending on your energy needs, roof orientation, and whether you're planning to add a SigenStor Battery to store excess power for night-time or cloudy-day use.

What About Commercial Installations?

If you're running a business or managing a commercial property, your needs will scale up. Commercial solar panels are often larger — around 2 metres by 1 metre — and they tend to have higher wattage outputs (up to 600W per panel). But the principle is the same: you need to consider the space available, how much power you want to generate, and how much energy you want to store using a SigenStor Battery or similar solution.

Also, commercial setups often qualify for greater financial incentives and rebates — including the solar battery rebate in some Australian states — which makes sizing and planning even more important from the start.

Things That Affect Solar Panel Size Selection

Here’s where it gets a little more nuanced. Panel size isn’t the only factor at play — several things will affect what size system you need and what panel dimensions will work best:

Your average daily energy usage

The roof space and its orientation (north-facing is ideal in Australia)

Shading from trees, chimneys, or neighbouring buildings

Plans to add a battery system, like the SigenStor Battery

Future energy needs – EV charging, home office use, etc.

If you’re planning to take advantage of the solar battery rebate, you might opt for a larger system now to bank power and maximise savings over time.

Sizing Example: A Real-World Breakdown

Let’s say you live in Brisbane and your family uses around 20kWh of electricity per day. A good system size to cover that would be around 6.6kW, which would generate roughly 24-28kWh/day in sunny Queensland. That translates to 17–18 panels, each around 1.7m x 1m, taking up around 30–35 square metres of roof space.

Now, if you add a SigenStor Battery, you can store the excess generated during the day and use it at night — reducing your reliance on the grid and protecting against rising energy costs. And with the solar battery rebate available in some states, the upfront cost of this addition can be significantly reduced.

What About Global Buyers?

Outside Australia, the panel sizes and system configurations are pretty similar, although incentives vary. In the US, UK, and parts of Europe, you’ll find comparable panel dimensions, and battery systems like the SigenStor Battery are gaining popularity globally for their flexibility and integration features.

REA Power doesn’t just serve customers in Australia — we offer support and scalable solar and battery solutions internationally. If you’re a business in Singapore or a homeowner in New Zealand, we’ll work with you to tailor the system to your specific location and local incentives.

Why Trust REA Power?

Choosing a solar energy provider is more than just comparing prices. You want to know you're working with a team that understands the tech, the incentives, and your long-term energy goals.

At REA Power, we don’t just sell solar panels — we design customised systems built to suit your home or business. Whether it’s helping you maximise your solar battery rebate, choosing the ideal location for a SigenStor Battery, or planning future expansions, our expert team is there from start to finish.

Here’s what sets us apart:

Fully accredited Clean Energy Council (CEC) solar designers and installers

Top-tier components from trusted brands like SigenStor and beyond

Local support with a global reach — we understand Aussie conditions and international energy needs

Long-term value through energy monitoring, system upgrades, and dedicated service

Ready to Make the Switch?

Whether you’re just starting out or ready to scale up with batteries and smarter energy storage, REA Power is ready to help.

✅ Get expert advice on panel sizing and roof suitability

✅ Find out how much you can save with the solar battery rebate

✅ Future-proof your system with the high-performing SigenStor Battery

✅ Work with a team that supports you locally and globally

Contact REA Power Today

📞 Call 1300 360 047

📩 Or contact us here

Power your future with confidence — and trust REA Power to deliver smarter, scalable, and future-ready solar energy systems.

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About the Creator

Michael Mrowka

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