The use of solar energy has gained popularity due to its sustainability and cost-effectiveness. Among various solar power ratings, the 10 kW solar system stands out for its ability to meet household energy requirements. In this blog, we will explore the 10 kW solar system cost in both off-grid and on-grid variants, highlighting their essential components.
10kW Solar System Cost
A 10kW solar power system usually covers 55 to 70 square meters and can generate up to 16,700 kWh of electricity annually. The cost of a high-quality 10kW solar system falls within the range of $9,900 to $26,600. This cost is influenced by factors such as module efficiency, tilt angle, orientation, space required and the geographical location of the solar power system can impact the overall cost.
10kW Solar System Price Breakdown
We can break down a 10kW system into its basic components as follows:
| Components | Quantity | Price per Unit (USD) | Price (USD) |
| 500Wp Solar Panels | 20 pcs. | USD 190 | USD 3,800 |
| 8kW Solar String Inverter | 1 no. | USD 1,520 | USD 1,520 |
| Solar Structure | 5 sets | USD 250 | USD 1,250 |
| Connectors | 4 pairs | USD 3 | USD 12 |
| DC Cables + Earthing Cable | 150 meters | USD 5 | USD 750 |
| AC Cables | 20 meters | USD 10 | USD 200 |
| Earthing Cables | 20 meters | USD 5 | USD 100 |
| Cable Management System | 1 lot | USD 200 | USD 200 |
| AC Breakers | 2 nos. | USD 110 | USD 220 |
| DC Disconnects | 2 nos. | USD 160 | USD 320 |
| Metering Panel | 1 no. | USD 550 | USD 550 |
| Fixings and Accessories | 1 lot | USD 50 | USD 50 |
| Total Cost (Approx.) | $ 8,972 |
Also See: 25kW Solar System Price
Details of 10 kW Solar System
The quantity of each component depends on the system’s capacity, increasing with kilowatts. To understand the 10kW solar system price, we have divided it into the basic components:
1. Solar Panel
Solar panels typically contribute to 45% to 60% of the total system cost. When selecting panels for a 10kW solar system, their output rating is crucial. Output ratings range from 200 to 400 watts, with higher-rated panels generating more power in less space. Optimal for this system are 500-watt solar modules, requiring a calculation to determine the total needed.
The number of modules for a 10 kW system depends on their capacity, ranging from 250 to 670 watts. Choosing modules with higher capacity is advisable for long-term cost savings. Higher-capacity modules reduce the total needed, cutting down on cable length, support structures, and maintenance costs.
2. Solar Panel Mounting Structures
Mounting structures, necessary for securing panels to roofs or the ground, are available in various materials and designs. This can be made of either GI steel or aluminum. Railings, end clamps, mid-clamps, mounting brackets, and other accessories are commonly used and account for a significant amount of the total system cost.
3. Balance-of-System (BOS)
Balance-of-system components, which include cables, wiring accessories, metering equipment, breakers, and switches, account for 10-20% of the total cost of the system.
4. Power Cables
For a 10kW solar system using a string inverter, it is recommended to use a minimum AC cable size of 10 sq.mm. To connect the inverter to the 3-phase main distribution board, a 4-core copper-protected cable is required. The DC cable should be a single-core copper solar cable with a minimum size of 4 sq. mm, connecting the solar strings to the inverter. On average a 10 mm DC solar wire would be Rs. 230 per sq. meter in India and would cost around $ 100 per 300 ft. in the U.S.
5. Breakers and Switches
It is critical to ensure the proper sizing of breakers for installation on the AC Main distribution board. To get an idea of the cost, confirm the maximum output current of the inverter because this information will help you choose the appropriate breaker size. A 32A 3-phase breaker is usually recommended for a 10kW solar power system.
6. Metering Panel
The metering panel serves as the housing for the solar meter, which can be installed by either you or your electric utility. Its primary purpose is to measure the amount of energy produced by your system in kilowatt-hours (kWh). Its price varies for different areas and also depends on the electricity provider.
Also Read: 5kW Solar System Price with Battery
10kW Solar System with Micro Inverter Cost
After learning about the 10kW solar system cost with a string inverter, let us check the price for the micro-inverter. A 10kW Solar System with a micro-inverter is priced in the range of $14,133 to $24,600. These micro-inverters are directly connected to individual solar panels, typically positioned just beneath each module.
The required number of micro-inverters depends on the number of solar modules installed. These inverters produce alternating current (AC) with a capacity close to that of the connected panel. Due to their lower output, a combiner or collector is necessary to merge the smaller AC outputs from micro-inverters into an electrical panel, providing power close to the system’s total capacity.
However, there are drawbacks to using micro-inverters, including increased operational and maintenance costs. Additionally, factors such as the choice of other components, brand, and quality significantly influence the overall price range.
Now, in the upcoming segments, let’s delve into the details of the 10kW solar system with battery price, and the on-grid without battery option.
Also, check out How Much do Solar Panels Cost for 1000-1500 sq ft House?
10kW On Grid Solar System Price
A 10kW on grid solar system cost ranges from Rs. 5, 00,000 and Rs. 7, 11,000. In a grid-tied solar energy setup, electricity flows bi-directionally between your system and the local grid. The system includes solar panels, an inverter, and a net meter. Excess electricity not used by your household is fed back to the grid, accumulating solar credits through net metering regulations. These credits are then applied to your subsequent energy bills, leading to a reduction in overall home energy costs.
Additionally, a grid-tied solar system offers the flexibility to draw electrical power from the grid to meet additional power needs beyond what your solar panels generate. The solar credits obtained can be used to purchase additional units of grid power.
For those seeking a cost-effective solar solution, especially with subsidies, a 10kW on-grid solar system is worth considering. This 10kW solar system cost is lower, due to the exclusion of the solar batteries; making it more budget-friendly compared to other solar installation frameworks.
Also Read: Understanding Your Average Monthly Electric Bill with Solar Panels
10kW Off-Grid Solar System Price
A 10kW solar system with battery price ranges from Rs. 6, 00,000 and Rs. 7, 00,000, emerges as a cost-effective solution for communities located far from conventional power sources. These areas often face high electricity tariffs for grid connection, leading them to rely on expensive diesel-fired power for additional energy needs. In such circumstances, the off-grid solar plant proves to be a more practical and economical alternative to traditional energy sources.
The off-grid system comprises solar panels, an inverter, and a battery bank, ensuring a continuous 24-hour power supply. With 10kW solar panels, there is sufficient power to energize residential or commercial spaces, with excess energy available for charging batteries and creating a reserve.
Note: Before making a purchase decision, reach out to different suppliers to confirm component costs and assess if the system aligns with your household requirements. Consider potential discounts or incentives, and be aware that the installation cost of a solar system can fluctuate based on factors such as location, chosen components, labor costs, and specific requirements.
Cross-Reference: GROWATT SPH 10000 TL3 BH-UP HYBRID,10KW,2 MPPT, 3 PHASE,<10MS
Ultimately, the cost of a 10kW solar system varies for off-grid and on-grid battery configurations. While the 10kW off-grid solar system price may be higher, it provides reliability and the ability to store surplus energy. However, the on-grid option offers independence, especially in remote areas by providing a reliable connection to the main electricity grid. For more solar content, keep reading our blog posts.
