Solar Panel Calculator & Material Planner
Roof fit, nameplate DC capacity and mounting material allowances.
Project estimate
Solar Panel Planner
$8,324–$9,573
Material estimate + optional reserve · USD
- Panels that fit
- 20
- DC nameplate capacity
- 8 kW
- Working time allowance
- 2 days
32 person-hours / 2 people / 8 h per day. Provisional activity rates; adjust in advanced options.
Excludes labor, tax, delivery, equipment rental, permits and site work. Sample prices are not live retailer quotes. Upper budget includes 15% contingency.
Cost breakdown
- Solar
- $3,600
- Mounting
- $1,324
- Electrical
- $3,400
Shopping list
0 / 4 checkedWhole packages rounded up. Edit a unit price to use your supplier's quote.
Solar
Solar modules
20 panels
$3,600$180 per panels
Mounting
Mounting rail
154 ft
$924$6 per ft
Mounting clamps
80 pieces
$400$5 per pieces
Electrical
Microinverters (if specified)
20 units
$3,400$170 per units
Save this project
Saved on this browser only. No account required.
Assumptions & project notes
- Material allowance: 10%. Package sizes and coverage rates are editable in the inputs.
- Enter usable roof dimensions after required setbacks. Nameplate output is not energy yield. Roof loading, electrical design and utility approval are separate.
- Check final dimensions, product specifications and any required local approvals before ordering.
Tools & preparation
- Tape measure and framing square
- Level and layout string
- Drill / driver and specified bits
- Suitable saw and clamps
- Footing excavation and concrete tools where required
A preparation list; confirm installation tools with your selected products.
How to use the solar panel planner
Start with length, width, panel length including gap, panel width including gap, panel rating. The result includes panels that fit, dc nameplate capacity. Open advanced options to match your product sizes, material allowance and labor expectations.
1. Measure and specify
Measure the footprint, finished levels and access; settle the structural design before choosing member sizes.
2. Adjust the estimate
Match board widths, spacing, stock lengths and connections to the approved layout.
3. Prepare your order
Lay out cuts and supports, then confirm the material list with the timber and hardware supplier.
4. Plan the work
Plan foundations, framing, weather protection and final inspection in the order required by the design.
Frequently asked questions
What does the solar panel planner estimate?+
Roof fit, nameplate DC capacity and mounting material allowances. The shopping list includes solar modules, mounting rail, mounting clamps, microinverters (if specified).
Which assumptions should I check?+
Enter usable roof dimensions after required setbacks. Nameplate output is not energy yield. Roof loading, electrical design and utility approval are separate.
Are the prices current supplier quotes?+
No. Initial unit prices are illustrative USD budgeting inputs. Enter a price beside each material to use your own quote. The total includes materials only; labor, shipping, taxes, permits and rental are excluded.
Can I save or share my project?+
Save stores the inputs and prices on this browser. Share link includes the configuration in the address so another device can reopen it. Download CSV exports the shopping list, and Print / PDF opens your browser’s print dialog.