A small AC (5,000 BTU) may use about 500-600 watts. Larger units, such as a central air conditioning system, could consume 3,500 watts or more per hour. Larger units. Running an air conditioner on solar power sounds great, but the big question is how many panels you'll actually need. With the right setup, you can keep your home cool without sending your electric bill sky high. A standard 3,500W central air conditioner needs approximately 10-12 panels in regions receiving 4-5 peak sun hours daily, generating 18-20 kWh to. The typical residential air conditioner uses between 500-4,000 watts depending on size, efficiency rating, and technology. In other words, the higher the energy.