Sun, Space & Savings: How To Maximize A 20 kw Solar System Down Under

By Author: Zip Solar
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As electricity prices rise and sustainability becomes a national priority, more Australian households and businesses are turning to large-scale solar solutions. One system in particular—the 20kW solar system—has emerged as a popular choice for those looking to significantly cut their energy costs and reduce reliance on the grid.

In this article, we’ll explore how Australians can make the most of their 20kW solar investment—from installation to long-term savings.

Why Choose a 20kW Solar System in Australia?

A 20kW solar system is ideal for:

Large homes with high electricity usage

Rural or semi-off-grid properties

Small to medium-sized businesses (cafés, farms, retail, warehouses)

Commercial properties wanting long-term energy cost stability

With abundant sunshine across much of Australia, a 20kW system can generate anywhere from 75kWh to 90kWh per day, depending on your location and installation angle.

Maximizing Your Solar Output

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To get the most out of your 20kW solar system, consider the following:

1. Panel Placement ...
... & Tilt

Proper orientation and tilt (ideally north-facing at 25–35 degrees) can significantly boost your daily generation. If space allows, split your array across east and west for more balanced energy throughout the day.

2. Use Smart Appliances During Peak Solar Hours

Running appliances like washing machines, dishwashers, or pool pumps between 10am–4pm lets you use solar power in real-time—cutting your reliance on grid electricity.

3. Add a Battery for Extra Savings

Pairing your system with a solar battery (10–20 kWh) lets you store excess energy for night-time use, increasing your solar usage to up to 90%.

4. Monitor Performance

Use a smart solar monitoring app to track your system's output and usage patterns. Quick detection of drops in performance can save you money in the long run.

How Much Roof Space Do You Need?

A 20kW solar system typically requires 90 to 120 square metres of roof space and consists of around 50 to 60 solar panels, depending on panel wattage (commonly 330–450W per panel).

For commercial or industrial setups, ground-mounted installations are also an option.

What About a 20kW System with Battery?

A 20kW system paired with a 15–20 kWh battery allows you to store excess energy, reduce feed-in dependence, and maximize self-consumption. It’s ideal if:

Your feed-in tariff is low

You use energy at night (e.g. electric heating, EV charging)

You're preparing for future energy independence or outages

Who Should Invest in a 20kW Solar System?

This system size is perfect for:

Multi-family households

Farms and rural homesteads

Businesses with daytime operating hours

Anyone looking to future-proof their energy usage

If your quarterly bill exceeds $1,500 or you’re looking to electrify your property (EV, heat pumps, induction cooking), a 20kW solar system is worth serious consideration.

Final Thoughts: Is It the Right Size for You?

Whether you're an ambitious homeowner or a growing business, a 20kW solar system offers a powerful mix of long-term savings and energy independence. With proper planning, orientation, and smart usage, you can expect to see a payback period of 4–6 years—and decades of clean energy ahead.

At Zip Solar, we make it easier to make smart switches. As a NETCC-approved solar retailer, we offer a full range of residential and commercial solar systems, including tailored solar + battery packages to suit your needs. Whether you're looking at a 6.6kW system for your home or a 20kW solution for your business, our expert team helps you choose the right size and get the best return on investment after installation.

We are Australia’s growing solar retailer, developed with a vision to provide clean energy solutions to more homes and businesses. Our goal is to provide homes right across the country with renewable energy solutions and high-quality solar energy systems. We are proud of the work we do, working towards a cleaner future for our beautiful country while saving our valued customers money on every bill. With a quality system and workmanship guarantee, our customers are happier and more power efficient with Zip Solar.