Solar energy has become one of the best ways for Indian homeowners to reduce electricity bills and gain energy independence. Before installing solar, the most important question is always: How many solar panels does my home really need?
This guide explains the panels needed for 1 2 3 BHK homes in India, along with system size, cost, savings and rooftop space.
Understanding the right number of panels ensures that your solar system performs efficiently for the next 25 years.
According to the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy official website, homeowners can apply for subsidies through the national rooftop portal.
⭐ What Decides the Panels Needed for 1 2 3 BHK Homes?
The number of panels your home needs depends on five main factors:
- Daily electricity consumption
- Panel wattage (usually 400–550W in 2025)
- Sunlight hours your location receives
- Type of solar system
- Available rooftop space
A modern 450W panel generates around 1.8 to 2.2 units per day, which is the basis for all calculations in this guide.
Electricity Consumption for BHK Homes in India
The usage pattern of each home decides how big the solar system should be. Average consumption in Indian households is:
- 1 BHK: 3–5 units per day
- 2 BHK: 6–8 units per day
- 3 BHK: 10–15 units per day
These values include standard appliances like fridge, lights, fans, TV, washing machine and occasional AC usage.
Panels Needed for 1 BHK Home
A 1 BHK home needs a 1.5 kW to 2 kW solar system.
This is the ideal size for small families with light to moderate usage.
✔ Panels needed for 1 BHK
| System Size | Panel Wattage | Number of Panels |
|---|---|---|
| 1.5 kW | 450W | 3–4 panels |
| 2 kW | 450W | 4–5 panels |
A 1 BHK system can run all essential appliances and reduce monthly electricity costs significantly.
✔ Monthly Savings
₹800 to ₹1,500 per month.
✔ Rooftop Space
150–200 sq. ft. of shadow-free area.
Panels Needed for 2 BHK Home
A 2 BHK home generally needs a 2.5 kW to 3 kW system because of higher daily usage.
✔ Panels needed for 2 BHK
| System Size | Panel Wattage | Number of Panels |
|---|---|---|
| 2.5 kW | 450W | 5–6 panels |
| 3 kW | 450W | 6–7 panels |
This system supports fridge, TV, washing machine, lights, fans and limited geyser or AC usage.
✔ Monthly Savings
₹1,800 to ₹3,500 per month.
✔ Rooftop Space
250–350 sq. ft.
Panels Needed for 3 BHK Home (2025 Guide)
A 3 BHK home requires a 5 kW solar system to manage higher loads and frequent AC usage.
✔ Panels needed for 3 BHK
| System Size | Panel Wattage | Number of Panels |
|---|---|---|
| 5 kW | 450W | 10–12 panels |
This is ideal for families with more appliances and heavier energy demand.
✔ Monthly Savings
₹4,000 to ₹7,000 per month with net metering.
✔ Rooftop Space
500–600 sq. ft.
Cost of Solar Systems for 1 2 3 BHK Homes
Average post-subsidy cost in India (2025):
| System Size | Approx Cost |
|---|---|
| 1.5 kW | ₹70,000 – ₹85,000 |
| 2 kW | ₹90,000 – ₹1,10,000 |
| 3 kW | ₹1,35,000 – ₹1,65,000 |
| 5 kW | ₹2,20,000 – ₹2,75,000 |
Prices depend on location, brand, structure type and inverter quality.
Rooftop Space Needed for Solar Panels in BHK Homes
On average, you need 100 sq. ft per kW of clear rooftop space.
This includes distance between panels, walkway space and panel angle.
Factors That Affect Panel Requirements
Even similar-sized homes may need different numbers of panels due to:
- Appliances used daily
- Sunlight hours
- Roof direction (south-facing is best)
- Panel efficiency
- Net metering availability
High-efficiency panels reduce the number of panels needed but increase upfront cost.
Benefits of Installing Solar Panels
- Up to 90% reduction in electricity bills
- Government subsidies available through MNRE
- Very low maintenance
- Increases home value
- Supports clean, renewable energy
Summary: Panels Needed for 1 2 3 BHK Homes
Here is a quick summary for easy reference:
| Home Type | Daily Usage | System Size | Panels Needed |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 BHK | 3–5 units | 1.5–2 kW | 4–5 panels |
| 2 BHK | 6–8 units | 2.5–3 kW | 6–7 panels |
| 3 BHK | 10–15 units | 5 kW | 10–12 panels |
In simple terms, the panels needed for 1 2 3 BHK homes range from 4 to 12 panels depending on household consumption and system size.
Also Read : Solar Size Calculation: How to Choose the Right Solar System
