Solar Panel Output in Utah (UT)
Utah combines high altitude desert conditions with 5.5-6 peak sun hours daily. The state offers excellent solar potential with cool temperatures at elevation improving efficiency. Southern Utah rivals Arizona for sun, while the Wasatch Front has strong production.
Peak Sun Hours (Annual)
5.5
Summer Peak Hours
6.5
Winter Peak Hours
4.5
Optimal Tilt Angle
39°
Daily Solar Output in Utah
Expected daily production from common panel sizes in Utah conditions.
| Panel Size | Summer (Wh/day) | Winter (Wh/day) | Annual Avg (Wh/day) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 100W Panel | 650 | 450 | 530 |
| 200W Panel | 1300 | 900 | 1060 |
| 400W Panel | 2600 | 1800 | 2120 |
* Based on 5.5 average peak sun hours and 85% system efficiency.
Seasonal Peak Sun Hours
Spring
5.5 hrs
Summer
6.5 hrs
Fall
5.5 hrs
Winter
4.5 hrs
Solar Production by City in Utah
| City | Peak Sun Hours | 100W Daily Output | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Salt Lake City | 5.3 hrs | 451Wh | Good solar, some winter inversions |
| St. George | 6.2 hrs | 527Wh | Southern desert, excellent production |
| Provo | 5.3 hrs | 451Wh | Similar to Salt Lake City |
| Moab | 5.8 hrs | 493Wh | Desert conditions, great solar |
Utah Climate Considerations
- •High altitude increases solar intensity
- •Snow in mountains requires proper mounting
- •Southern Utah has desert conditions
- •Dry climate is easy on equipment
- ✓Desert off-grid living
- ✓Mountain cabins
- ✓Year-round systems
- ✓Remote properties
- !Winter inversions (SLC)
- !Snow in mountains
- !Temperature extremes
Solar Tips for Utah
- •Southern Utah (St. George, Moab) has Arizona-level production
- •High altitude means panels often exceed rated output
- •Install at steep angles (40-45°) for snow shedding in mountains
- •Winter inversions in SLC can reduce production temporarily
- •Dry climate is ideal for long equipment life
Frequently Asked Questions: Solar in Utah
How much solar power can I generate in Utah?
Utah averages 5.5 peak sun hours. A 100W panel produces about 530Wh daily, with southern Utah reaching 600Wh+.
Is solar better in St. George or Salt Lake City?
St. George is significantly better (6.2 vs 5.3 hours). Southern Utah has desert conditions similar to Arizona.
Do winter inversions affect solar panels?
Yes, Salt Lake Valley inversions can reduce output for days at a time in winter. Size your battery bank with buffer for these periods.