Production Factor
The ratio of actual energy produced by a solar system to its theoretical maximum if operating at nameplate power for all daylight hours. Accounts for real-world losses from temperature, shading, soiling, and inverter efficiency.
Why It Matters
A typical residential system achieves a production factor of 75-85%. If your system is significantly below this range, something may be wrong.
Related Tools
Related Terms
Performance Ratio (PR)
The percentage of a solar system's theoretical maximum output that is actually achieved, accounting for all real-world losses (temperature, shading, soiling, wiring, inverter). Typical: 75-85%.
Degradation Rate
The annual decrease in solar panel efficiency. Modern panels typically degrade 0.3-0.5% per year.
Soiling Loss
Energy production lost due to dirt, dust, pollen, bird droppings, or other debris accumulating on solar panel surfaces and blocking sunlight.