Solar Energy Output Estimator
Project your solar system's production year by year and calculate lifetime energy output and CO₂ offset.
Solar Production Factors
What Affects Output?
Solar production depends on system size, local sun irradiance, panel orientation and tilt, shading, and inverter efficiency. A south-facing roof at optimal tilt captures the most sunlight in the Northern Hemisphere.
Panel Degradation
All solar panels lose a small amount of efficiency each year due to UV exposure and thermal cycling. Most modern panels degrade at 0.5% per year — meaning a panel producing 400W today will produce about 390W in year 5. Premium manufacturers warranty panels to no less than 80% output at year 25.
CO₂ Offset Calculation
The US average grid emission factor is approximately 0.386 kg CO₂ per kWh of electricity consumed. By generating solar electricity, you displace grid power and avoid that CO₂ emission. Regional factors vary: California is as low as 0.218 kg/kWh while coal-heavy regions can exceed 0.5 kg/kWh.
Lifetime Production
Over 25 years with 0.5% annual degradation, a system produces approximately 94% of what it would without any degradation — meaning you still get the vast majority of the rated output across the system's life.