Photovoltaic Efficiency Calculator

Calculate the electrical output of a solar panel system from irradiance, panel area, and module efficiency.

kWh/m²/day
%
%

Net Daily Output

25.8 kWh

Net Annual Output9,417 kWh
Gross Daily Output30.0 kWh

Net Daily Output vs Daily Solar Irradiance

Solar Panel Electrical Output

A photovoltaic (PV) system converts sunlight into electricity. The actual output depends on available irradiance, panel efficiency, and system losses.

Formula

Gross Output (kWh/day) = Irradiance (kWh/m²/day) x Area (m²) x Efficiency

Net Output = Gross Output x (1 - System Losses)

System losses include wiring resistance, inverter conversion, soiling, and temperature derating. Typical total losses are 10-20%.

Example Calculation

A 30 m² array with 20% efficient panels, 5 kWh/m²/day irradiance, and 14% system losses.

  1. 01Gross output = 5 x 30 x 0.20 = 30 kWh/day
  2. 02Net output = 30 x (1 - 0.14) = 30 x 0.86 = 25.8 kWh/day
  3. 03Annual output = 25.8 x 365 = 9,417 kWh/year

Frequently Asked Questions

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