At a glance
- An induction cooker uses about 1,200 to 2,000W.
- A 4kW or bigger hybrid inverter can run it comfortably in daytime.
- Cook lunch and boil water on solar, keep gas for peak gas hours.
- Induction pans must have a magnetic (iron or steel) base.
This winter, many homes are getting gas only in the morning, at lunch and at dinner time. If you miss those hours, cooking becomes a problem. An induction cooker running on solar fixes much of that, and it is cheaper than you might think.
How much power does induction cooking use?
| Appliance | Typical power |
|---|---|
| Single induction plate | 1,200 to 2,000W |
| Electric kettle | 1,500 to 2,200W |
| Rice cooker | 500 to 900W |
| Air fryer | 1,200 to 1,800W |
Most cooking takes 15 to 40 minutes, so the total energy used is small, often under 1 unit for a meal.
Which solar system can run it?
- 3kW inverter: can run one induction plate if other loads are light.
- 4kW to 6kW inverter: runs induction, a kettle and normal home loads comfortably.
- With a lithium battery: you can make tea or a quick meal in the evening too.
Simple tips for cooking on solar
- Cook lunch between 11am and 3pm when solar is strongest.
- Boil water in a kettle instead of a pan. It is faster and uses less energy.
- Use one heavy load at a time. Do not run induction, a heater and a water pump together on a small inverter.
- Check your pans. If a magnet sticks to the bottom, the pan works on induction.
- Watch your inverter app to see how much solar you are making.
Good to know: Under NEPRA’s 2026 net billing rules, using your solar power at home is worth more than exporting it. Cooking with solar is one of the easiest ways to do that.
Frequently asked questions
Can I cook on induction during load shedding?
Yes, with a hybrid inverter and a lithium battery, for short cooking times. Long cooking on battery will drain it quickly.
Is induction cooking safe?
Yes. Induction heats the pan, not the glass, and switches off when the pan is removed.
Do I need special wiring?
A normal 15A socket is usually enough for one induction plate. Avoid cheap extension boards.
Get your system sized
Send a photo of your electricity bill and we will do the sizing for you, free.