Difference between capacity and the electricity generation on your roof solar panels

 

Capacity is the maximum electric output solar panels can produce under specific conditions.

Generation is the amount of electricity panel produce over a specific period of time.

 

WASHINGTON, D.C. — According to the latest “Energy Infrastructure Update” report from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission’s Office of Energy Projects, renewable energy sources (i.e., biomass, geothermal, solar, water, wind) accounted for 24.93 percent of all new domestic electrical generating capacity installed in the first six months of 2013 for a total of 2,144 MW. That is more than that provided thus far this year by coal (1,579 MW – 18.36 percent), oil (26 MW – 0.30 percent), and nuclear power (0 MW – 0.00 percent) combined.

The difference between the Capacity and the actual electricity Generation could be huge. Normally what you pay is not what you get especially in the real world. The solar capacity is enormous (2,144 MW) but the real electricity generation is only 3.4 percent. It’s a big gap here (24.93% Capacity—->3.4% Generation).

Your Ferrari is  600 hps but is not able to make a 3.0 sec 0-60mph !

 

There are many variables and conditions you should take care of.  Some of them are factory spec which you can do nothing about. The others, however, can be documented, measured and making improvements from your living areas. Some of the key performance indicators are:

• Choosing the right panels —-The optimum operating temperature of the panels fitting with your living weather temperature statistics.
• The endurance  of the panel supporting structure and the connecting cable ( remember this a 30yr pay back period, Panels are OK but the Structure could be very weak if the Installer is reducing cost…)

Now for the first time, You can see the Working on Progress of your panels either in the Installation process or the solar generation period

Installations, Again, this may have huge impact on the durability of the whole system ( the built-Compliance and the correct installation procedures)

As said, The true electricity generation can be affected easily such the the moving clouds

The actual solar power electricity Generation analysis timelapse

That will be even cooler if putting on top of your caravan

Once again, Your local solar panel installers are crucial in your real electricity generation. the Construction camera from Brinno is also recommended in these long term observation and statistics

Now available at:

How much is your roof worth with solar panels ?