Tool
Built by the Solar Samachar editorial desk · Figures updated for 2026
≈ — at 12 V tubular (50% DoD) · or — usable lithium
Inverter (VA) = load ÷ 0.8 power factor, rounded to a standard size. Battery energy = load × hours. Running an AC on battery needs a large, expensive bank — for AC, an on-grid system is usually smarter. Indicative 2026.
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Add up the wattage of everything you want to run at once, then divide by ~0.8 (power factor). A typical home running lights, fans, a TV and a fridge needs about a 1–1.5 kVA inverter; add an AC and you need 3 kVA or more.
Battery energy (Wh) = total load (W) × backup hours. Divide by 1,000 for kWh. Running an AC on battery needs a very large, costly bank, which is why most homes use an on-grid system and keep batteries for essentials only.
Lithium (LFP) is lighter, lasts longer and allows deeper discharge, but costs more upfront. Tubular lead-acid is cheaper but bulkier and shorter-lived. For most backup needs either works — lithium wins on lifetime cost.
If your goal is lower bills, no — an on-grid system with net metering needs no battery. Add a battery only if you want power during outages.
Sources: PM Surya Ghar / MNRE (pmsuryaghar.gov.in) · Electricity (Rights of Consumers) Rules, 2020
These are planning estimates for 2026 — your actual system, tariff, sunlight and quotes will vary. Always confirm with an installer.