Solar for Single Person

Is solar worth it for one person?

Solar panels for a single-person household: CONSUMPTION: 1,800-2,500 kWh/yr (below the 2,900 kWh average). RECOMMENDED SYSTEM: 2-3kW (5-8 panels). Cost: £3,500-£5,500. Generates: 1,800-2,800 kWh/yr — covering 80-120% of annual needs. SAVINGS: £350-£550/yr. Payback: 8-12 years. KEY CHALLENGE: lower daytime self-consumption if you work away from home. Solution: (1) Timer appliances to run midday. (2) Smart plugs for automated scheduling. (3) Small battery (3-5kWh, £2,500-£3,500) for evening use. WITHOUT BATTERY: self-consumption 25-35% (lower than average — single person out during the day). WITH BATTERY: 65-80%. A smaller, well-optimised system gives excellent returns even for solo households.