How big are solar panels? Solar panel size and weight

Solar panels generate clean energy and significant savings, but they aren’t a one-size-fits-all solution. The size and weight of solar panels vary depending on the make and model, with most residential panels measuring about 5.5 feet by 3 feet and weighing between 40 and 50 pounds. 

The total system size is also influenced by the output and efficiency of the panels—a system using 50-pound 450-watt panels might actually be more compact than one using 40-pound 350-watt panels. 

With so many factors at play, designing a solar panel system requires creativity and flexibility. While your installer will manage the design, it’s important to understand what options make the most sense for your space. Let’s break down solar panel sizes and compare some of the best brands on the market.

Solar panel size varies from brand to brand, but you can expect your residential panels to measure around 5.5 feet by 3 feet and weigh about 40 to 50 pounds. Commercial solar panels tend to be about a foot longer than residential solar panels at 6.5 feet by 3 feet and can weigh 50 pounds or more. 

The exact size of residential and commercial solar panels depends on the manufacturer and their specifications.

Monocrystalline vs. polycrystalline solar panels 

Solar panels are made of a bunch of solar cells put together to capture sunlight. Residential solar panels typically use 60 solar cells, whereas commercial modules consist of 72 or 96 cells. The most common types of solar cells are monocrystalline and polycrystalline. 

While a panel’s composition doesn’t necessarily affect its dimensions, it can affect the overall size and weight of your entire system. 

• Monocrystalline solar cells are made from a single crystal of silicon. These cells are more efficient than polycrystalline cells, so you’ll need fewer to achieve the same output. 

• Polycrystalline solar cells are made from many melted silicon fragments, which makes them less efficient than monocrystalline solar cells. 

Total system size

The amount of space your solar panel system takes up depends on its output and efficiency: The bigger the system’s output, the more panels you’ll need. At the same time, high-efficiency panels can produce more power with fewer panels. Let’s look at an example from one of the most popular brands on EnergySage, Maxeon. 

Comparing Maxeon solar panel system sizes

You’ll usually need more space than that to accommodate your roof’s unique shape and orientation. A simple, more compact setup may allow you to place your panels closer together and use less roof space, but often, you’ll have to get a little creative to fit your panels around things like chimneys and other obstructions.

Just like solar panel size, weight varies from brand to brand. We reviewed the best solar panels on EnergySage and found that most panels weigh between 40 and 50 pounds. 

Solar panel weight by brand

Once you understand the size and weight of your solar panel options, it’s time to determine if your roof can support your installation. Let’s look at those Maxeon panels again: 

Comparing Maxeon solar panel systems’ weights

Notice that even though the Maxeon 6 model weighs more per panel, the total weight of a 10-kilowatt system is lighter than that of the Maxeon 3 system. Going with the larger solar panel can actually save you space and lighten the load on your roof. 

Solar panels alone can weigh 1,000 pounds or more––that’s not including mounting hardware and other equipment. Talk to a roofing company if you’re concerned about your roof and solar. Newer roofs should be able to handle solar panels with no problem, but still, a straightforward roof inspection can help you determine whether your roof can withstand the additional weight.