Are you concerned about the increasing monthly expenses of your electricity? With a 3kW solar system, the concern will automatically dissipate.
Solar energy has changed and improved the way people power their homes and lives. Countless individuals have adopted solar energy and harnessed the sun’s free, clean, and abundant energy. Solar energy is emerging as one of the most widely used ‘unconventional’ source of energy because of its low cost per watt and ease of installation. In this article, it will explain how much savings in electricity units does a 3 kW solar power system can generate for a user. It will also resolve one important nagging question: “Is 3 kW of solar power enough for a household?”
1. What is a 3kW Solar System?
A 3 kW solar system is capable of generating renewable energy for homes and mini offices. The system comprises around 8 to 10 photovoltaic (PV) panels, an inverter and a mounting structure for installation. Inverter converts solar energy into usable energy. It requires just 200 to 300 sq. ft. of rooftop space. If needed, you can set up a 3 kW solar system as a portable system, offering flexibility for temporary use. If you wish to have a permanent setting, then a rooftop-mounted system is the best option. 3 kW solar system price is Rs. ₹2,30,000 – ₹2,40,000 and the government offers a subsidy of Rs. 78,000, making the purchase easy for energy consumers. The price may vary by state or region.
2. Electricity produced by a 3kW Solar System?
A typical 3 kW solar system produces between 12 to 15 kWh of electric energy every day, totalling to 375 kWh a month. It means the yearly output falls between 4,000 and 5,500 kWh. Despite this estimation, actual energy generation figures may differ side by side across different regions due to the weather, solar panel type and efficiency, and the angle at which the solar panels are installed.
For example, systems in Rajasthan or Gujarat have abundant sunlight. Therefore, the energy production in these regions is high. Whereas, systems in cloudier areas may produce less due to frequent overcast conditions.
The tilt and orientation are important. South-facing panels fitted at an optimal angle receive maximum sunlight. It improves their efficiency. Understanding these factors can help you estimate real-world savings and maximise solar output.
3. Units saved with a 3kW Solar System?
Is a 3kW Solar System Worth It? is a common query asked by many.
Electricity is measured in units. One unit equals 1 kilowatt-hour (kWh) of electricity used. A 3 kW solar system is capable of producing 4,000 to 5,500 kWh of energy each year.
Now, let’s compare the above data with a typical household’s average electricity usage. A home consumes around 800 to 1000 units per month. A 3 kW system fulfils about 40 to 50% of the requirement. It means your dependency on grid electricity reduces, subsequently lowering the bill amount.
If your electricity rate per unit is Rs. 8, you save approximately 4500 units per year, which means 4500 x 8 = Rs. 36,000 in annual savings. However, as mentioned earlier, the savings depend on the energy produced, which depends on regional factors.
4. Factors Affecting Your Savings
Saving units through a 3 kW solar system depends on several factors.
4.1 Geographic Location & Sunlight Hours
The more sunlight, the more energy is produced. Solar systems produce more energy in areas with abundant sunshine and less in areas with cloudy conditions.
4.2. Panel Efficiency & System Quality
High-quality panels convert a higher percentage of sunlight into electricity. It means more unit savings over time.
4.3 Roof Size & Orientation
The direction and tilt of panels matter. In India, south-facing panels absorb maximum sunlight. resulting in high energy production.
4.4 Household Electricity Consumption
If you use a high amount of electricity, this system helps you cover a small portion of your needs. However, if your consumption is moderate, it significantly reduces your dependency on grid power.
4.5 Net Metering & Feed-in Tariffs
With net metering, you can sell excess solar energy back to the electric grid. It reduces your electricity bills, saving both units and money.
4.6 Battery Storage
Storing excess energy in battery systems can help you utilise electricity during emergencies.
5. Appliances Powered by a 3kW Solar System?
What will a 3 kW solar system run? It can run Lights and Fans, Refrigerators, TVs, laptops, a Microwave, and a Washing Machine. It can also charge laptops and use small electronics without any hindrance.
However, it cannot continuously run Air Conditioners and Ovens. Additionally, water heaters and heavy machinery, which require more electricity, are beyond the range of a 3 kW solar system.
6. Cost vs. Savings Overview
Here’s a simple breakdown of the Cost vs. Savings Overview
| Factor | Details |
| Installation Cost | ₹1,80,000 – ₹2,85,000 (varies by brand, quality, and location) |
| Government Subsidies | Reduces cost by 30 to 40% |
| Solar panel return on investment | 10 to 14 years, based on electricity savings and incentives |
| Annual Savings | Rs. 30,000 to Rs. 38,000 based on sunlight hours and electricity rates |
| Total savings over 25 years | Rs. 7.5 to Rs. 9.5 lakhs- estimating rising electricity costs. |
Conclusion
If you wish to cut down on your electricity bills, adopt solar energy. It not only saves your energy units, resulting in huge savings, but also gives you an opportunity to preserve nature.
A 3 kW solar system is an ideal option for individual houses and mini offices. It can run essentials like lights, fans and a refrigerator. However, do not expect to run heavy appliances.
Buying solar systems becomes more affordable with government subsidies. Investing in a solar system is a smart move, giving you returns for over 10 to 15 years more, after recovering the initial cost.
Install a solar system today and start saving your energy units immediately.