by web@dmin
25 January 2024 
Are you curious to know the cost of solar panel installations at your home? If yes, this blog will give you a brief idea about the potential cost and factors affected by this cost. Generally, solar panel installation prices vary ranging from 18000 Ksh and may go high around 3.3M KSh for a larger home. If you would like to install a battery backup system along with the solar system, it can cost you more as the battery starts from 350K KSh. Let’s break it down in detail for a clear understanding:
The four main components of a solar system are solar panels, an inverter, a mounting kit, and an electrical kit. Below is the cost for the basic system size of 5kW with the components:
- The 5kVA inverter, priced between 85,000 KSh and 257,000 KSh, is included.
- The cost of PV panels, ranging from 250w to 600w and requiring a minimum of 14 to 20 panels, is between 180,007 KSh to 4,300,007 KSh.
- Electronic components are estimated to cost between 857 KSh to 25,770 KSh.
- The roof mounting kit, with a quantity of 14-20, ranges from 180,007 KSh to 860,007 KSh, totaling approximately 260,007 KSh to 2,600,007 KSh.
Apart from this, if other electric upgrades are required, such as in the meter box or switchboard, then extra cost is added for around 85k to 1.1M k. After this, labor costs are included to install the solar system, which varies on the system size.
If you include a battery with the solar system, it will cost you depending on the size of the battery.
It is a very basic calculation and these prices include the normal brand to premium brand. Depending on your budget and needs, you can choose the product.
Most homeowners focus on a good brand of inverter because this is the crucial component that converts Direct Current (DC) into Alternative Current (AC), so it may require repair and replacement. Inverters usually have 5-10 years of warranty, depending upon the brand manufacturer. The panel efficiency is almost the same for all brands and also comes with a 25 year performance warranty. Hence, fewer chances require repair and replacement.
You need to choose the solar system depending on the size of the house and the monthly electricity consumption.
- Monthly bill of approximately 11034Ksh is equivalent to around 63,500 KSh for a 2kW system size.
- For bills between 11034 Ksh to 18700 Ksh, a 3kW system size would be needed, costing around 74,000 KSh.
- Bills ranging from 18700 Ksh to 43000 Ksh would require a 5kW system size, with a cost of 110,000 KSh.
- If the bill exceeds 43000 Ksh, a 10kW system is needed, which can cost around 188,000 KSh.
- Larger homes can opt for a 20kW system, with a cost of up to 375,000 KSh
Factors that affect the solar panels in 2024
These are the basic estimations for the solar panel installation cost. There are diverse factors that can impact the overall cost. These factors include the solar installation tailored to the specific homeowner’s needs and property characteristics. Below are the key aspects that influence the pricing:
System size and capacity
The size of the solar system is measured in kilowatts, which also determines the cost according to kW. A larger system with high inverter capacity incurs higher costs due to the increased number of solar panels and additional hardware required.
Solar Panels
There are various types of solar panels available in the market. The most popular and latest is monocrystalline. However, many homeowners choose polycrystalline or thin-film panels as they are affordable. The higher efficiency and premium brane panels tend to be more expensive because of the market value and reliability.
Inverter
The inverter is the most critical component. Homeowners must choose inverters only from the premium brand. Different types of inverters include standard, hybrid, and micro-inverters.
Battery
With the hybrid inverter, you can easily incorporate a battery storage system to store excess solar energy, which enhances the initial investment and provides greater energy independence during grid disruptions and abrupt outrages.
Installation complexity
It depends on various factors such as roof type whether it’s tin, tile, or terracotta. The best is the tin and tile roof. A terracotta tile roof requires a special installer as it needs extra safety measures. The angle of the roof also plays a significant role, if it is a steep roof, it requires other safety materials to install the system.
If the installation is on a flat roof or south direction, it requires tilt angles for maximum efficiency. It is one of the most time-consuming and difficult installations to ensure that it complies properly. You also need to ensure whether your property is single, double, or multi-storey so you can decide the best system size.
Location and Climate
Geographical location and climate conditions can affect solar energy production. Hence, the installation in Africa should be done north-facing. If the north space of your house doesn’t have enough space, you can choose the northwest space or northeast space for good production.
Labor Costs
Professional installation costs vary from region to region. The metro cities in Africa will have minimum costs, but in the regional areas, the labor cost for installers would be high. Solar is a huge investment so it should be installed by certified and experienced installers who ensure the maximum system’s efficiency.
Government grants and incentives
Government grants and incentives for solar energy are crucial in promoting sustainability and encouraging the widespread adoption of solar panel installations. Providing financial support, tax credits and other incentives, governments make renewable energy solutions more accessible and financially attractive for individuals and businesses. These initiatives contribute to reducing the environmental impact and stimulate economic growth, job creation, and innovation in the rapidly evolving solar industry.
Other Electrical Components
Sometimes, additional costs are incurred due to an old meter box and switchboard. When you install the solar system for the first time in your home, you need to ensure the necessary components, which may add to some extra costs.
Conclusion
The tax incentive for solar panels presents a valuable opportunity for individuals to generate clean electricity and reduce their dependence on the grid. By leveraging the rebate, individuals can not only realize cost savings but also play crucial roles in fostering a more sustainable future.
