Van Solar Array Sizing Calculator
Estimate the solar panel wattage a van needs to cover its daily energy use, from your peak sun hours and realistic system losses. The maths runs entirely in your browser — nothing you type is sent or stored.
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Methodology
Solar sizing is one deterministic step: divide the energy you use each day by the usable sun you actually harvest (peak sun hours, minus real-world losses).
- Required solar (W) = daily use (Wh/day) ÷ (peak sun hours × (1 − losses ÷ 100)).
- Peak sun hours vary by latitude and season — UK/Northern EU winter can be ~1, summer ~5.
- Losses (~20–30%) cover MPPT efficiency, panel temperature, wiring, dirt and angle.
- This sizes generation to replace daily use; pair it with a battery bank sized for autonomy.
This calculator gives a planning estimate, not a guaranteed specification. Real output depends on season, latitude, shading, panel angle and temperature. Undersize your expectations for winter, and confirm figures against panel and MPPT datasheets before buying.
Sources
What this page is based on — every source is verified and links out so you can check it yourself.
- Verified / official
- Provisional
- Out of date