Verified Mathematical Model & Formulation
Daily Generation (kWh) = Array Wattage (W) × Peak Sun Hours (hrs) × System Derate Factor (0.75 - 0.85) / 1,000
Multiplies array peak capacity by daily solar irradiance (peak sun hours) and applies standard National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) derate factors (temperature coefficient, dirt/soiling, wiring loss, inverter clipping).
Configurable Parameters & Standard Units
- Total Solar Array Size (Watts): (Default: 5000 w)
- Average Daily Peak Sun Hours: (Default: 4.5 hours)
- System Derate Efficiency (%): (Default: 80 percent)
Standard Worked Example & Practical Verification
Scenario: A 6,000W system located in an area receiving 4.8 average peak sun hours per day.
Calculated Solution
23.0 kWh/day (~703 kWh/month)
Practical Takeaway: Covers approximately 75% of an average single-family home’s annual electricity consumption.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Peak Sun Hours?
A peak sun hour is an hour during which solar irradiance averages 1,000 Watts per square meter. It is not total daylight hours, but solar intensity equivalent.