Profitability & Planning

How large should a photovoltaic system for a single-family house

The optimal size of a PV system depends on various factors – particularly on the household’s electricity consumption. A typical four-person household consumes around 4,000 kWh of electricity per year. If you also want to power a heat pump or charge an electric vehicle with solar energy, the demand increases accordingly. In addition, the available roof area plays an important role: the more space available, the more modules can be installed. Your personal goals – such as cost savings, energy independence, or climate protection – also influence the system design. 

A commonly chosen system size for a single-family house is around 6 kWp – corresponding to approx. 34 modules and at least 34 m² of the RHEINZINK-PV system.

How can I use the self-generated electricity?

With a PV system on your roof, you generate clean electricity – but not always when you need it. In summer, the yield is usually high, but consumption tends to be low. In winter, it’s the opposite.
Without a power storage unit, you can use about 20–30 % of the generated electricity directly. With a storage system, self-consumption increases to around 60–80 %, as stored solar power can be used in the evening or at night. Surplus energy is fed into the public grid, and you receive compensation for it.
 

How much electricity can be generated on my roof?

The costs vary depending on the project. They depend on:

  • Number of modules
  • Installation effort
  • Components used (e.g., storage, inverter)
  • Labor costs
  • Possible subsidies

Therefore, no general figure can be given. For a reliable estimate, we recommend requesting an individual quotation from a qualified installer.

 

Technical Features & System Questions

What are the technical characteristics of RHEINZINK-PV?

The system is characterized by the following features:

  • Module type: frameless glass-glass laminate in full black design
  • Cells: monocrystalline N-Type TOPCon, bifacial (dual-sided power generation)
  • Power per module: 180 Wp
  • Size: 1900 mm × 506 mm (matched to the double standing seam width of 530 mm)
  • Installation height: approx. 40 mm
  • Ventilation gap: approx. 30 mm
  • Roof inclination: suitable from 3° to 60°
  • Hail resistance class: 3
  • Certification: IEC 61215 and 61730
  • Special feature: patented module clamp, allowing unrestricted thermal expansion of the zinc roof panels
     

What distinguishes RHEINZINK-PV from other PV systems?

RHEINZINK-PV is specially designed for integration into RHEINZINK double standing seam roofs. The frameless modules blend harmoniously into the roof design – without visible mounting profiles or disturbing construction elements.
The centerpiece is the patented seam/module clam, which both holds the module and maintains the freedom of movement of the zinc panels. This ensures the natural movement of the metal roof – a major advantage over conventional fastening systems.

Is the RHEINZINK-PV system certified and tested?

Yes, the PV modules used are certified according to the applicable international standards IEC 61215 and IEC 61730. In addition, the RHEINZINK double standing seam roof covering has a general building authority approval (abZ) in Germany.

Who is responsible for the planning and design of the PV system?

The detailed planning is carried out by an electrician or solar installer. They design the system layout, calculate the number of modules, and plan components such as inverters, storage systems, and possibly a monitoring system.
All relevant data sheets and planning documents are available in the RHEINZINK download center.
 

For which roof inclination can RHEINZINK-PV be used?

The system is suitable for roof pitches between 3° and 60°. Currently, RHEINZINK-PV is not intended for façades or very steep roofs. 

Where can I find the technical data of the modules?

All technical information can be found in the download center at 

RHEINZINK Download Center 

Installation & Application

How is the PV system installed?

The modules are attached directly to the double standing seam using the RHEINZINK-PV clam. Installation should be carried out by an experienced roofer, who has the necessary know-how to adjust seams if required and correctly position the modules. They also lay the PV cables according to the electrician’s wiring plan.
The electrical planning and installation (inverter, storage, grid connection, etc.) are handled by the electrician or solar installer.


Tip: An installation video is available and provides a practical step-by-step guide. 
 

Can RHEINZINK-PV also be installed on roofs made of other metals?

No. The system has been specially developed and tested for use on RHEINZINK double standing seam roofs. There is no approval or test data for use with other metals such as aluminum, steel, or copper.

How many modules and clams are needed for a 6 kWp system?

Example: For a typical 6 kWp system, you need approx. 34 modules at 180 Wp each. The number of required PV clams depends on the local wind load. As a reference, at least four clamps per module side are required.For 34 modules in two rows, this results in at least 144 clams – more if wind loads are higher.

Exact values can be found in the wind load table in the planning documents.
 

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