How Many Solar Panels Do You Need?
Selecting the right solar system size depends on several factors, including your location, annual electricity consumption, and local electricity prices. Before placing an order, PrimeBid will work with you to provide a recommended system size aimed to maximize your savings.
Why the Largest System May Not Yield the Greatest Savings
There are days when your solar system might produce more or less energy than you consume. Many utilities employ net meteringA billing mechanism that credits Tesla Solar Roof system owners for the electricity they add to the grid, offsetting their consumption from the grid., where excess energy you generate is credited against your annual consumption. However, not all utilities offer full credit for excess energy beyond your annual consumption. To maximize savings, base your system size on expected usage without generating excessive surplus energy.
PrimeBid’s recommended system size offsets your currentThe flow of electric charge, measured in amperes (A), which is crucial in determining the performance of solar power systems. energy usage based on your average electric bill. If you plan to add electric vehicles or other appliances, consider opting for a larger system.
Roof Eligibility
The type of roof you have determines whether PrimeBid’s solar panels or The Tesla Solar Roof are suitable for your home. The table below shows compatible roof types and the appropriate mounting systems:
| Roof Type |
Traditional Solar Panels |
Tesla Solar Roof |
| 3-Tab Asphalt or Composition Shingle |
✓ |
✓ |
| Dimensional/Architectural Asphalt Shingle |
✓ |
✓ |
| Concrete TileAn individual piece of a Tesla Solar Roof that generates electricity and integrates with other roof tiles to form a complete solar power system. |
✓ |
✓ |
| Flat Roof (Rolled Asphalt, Torchdown, Foam) |
✓* |
Not qualified |
| Other Roof Types (e.g., metal, slate, wood shake, clay tile) |
Not compatible |
Ideal |
*Regional restrictions may apply.
Layout for Efficiency and Aesthetics
Tesla uses high-resolution aerial and satellite imagery to design your solar system. Panels are placed for optimal energy production and arranged aesthetically.
Optimizing Solar Production
To maximize production, panels should be free from obstructions and ideally positioned on a south-facing roof plane. East and west orientations are also effective. A roof slope of 15-45 degrees is ideal for energy production. For flat roofs, panels are angled on a rail system to maximize sun exposure.
Adding More Solar Over Time
If you wish to expand your solar capacityThe maximum output a Tesla Solar Roof system can produce under ideal conditions, usually measured in kilowatts (kW). in the future, it’s best to add an additional system rather than expanding the existing one. This ensures each system operates efficiently and maintains its warranties.
