1. What is a Solar PV Calculator for the UK?

Definition: This calculator estimates the annual electricity production of a solar PV system in the UK based on its peak power rating.

Purpose: It helps homeowners and businesses estimate potential solar energy generation and evaluate system performance.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( \text{kWh} \) — Annual energy production (kilowatt-hours)
• \( \text{kWp} \) — System peak power (kilowatt-peak)
• \( 900 \) — UK average annual production factor (kWh per kWp)

Explanation: The system size in kWp is multiplied by 900, which represents the average annual kWh production per kWp in the UK.

3. Importance of Solar PV Calculation

Details: Accurate energy production estimates help with system sizing, financial planning, and understanding potential savings and carbon reductions.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Simply enter your system size in kWp (kilowatt-peak). The calculator will estimate annual production based on UK average conditions.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is 900 used as the multiplier?
A: This represents the UK average of 900 kWh annual production per kWp of installed capacity, accounting for typical weather and sunlight conditions.

Q2: How accurate is this estimate?
A: It provides a reasonable average, but actual production varies by location (south gets more sun), system orientation, shading, and panel efficiency.

Q3: What's a typical kWp for a home system?
A: Most UK homes install 3-4 kWp systems, which would produce about 2,700-3,600 kWh annually according to this calculator.

Q4: Does this account for seasonal variations?
A: No, this is an annual average. Production is typically higher in summer and lower in winter.

Q5: How does this compare to other countries?
A: The UK factor is lower than sunnier countries (e.g., Spain uses ~1,500, Germany ~1,000) due to its northern latitude and cloudier weather.