Capacity factor is the percentage of a power plant's maximum output that it actually produces over time. A nuclear plant with a 93% capacity factor runs nearly all the time. Solar panels have capacity factors around 20-25% because they only generate during daylight. Wind turbines average 25-45% depending on location. Capacity factor is critical for comparing different energy sources and understanding the true cost and reliability of generation assets.
Capacity Factor
The ratio of actual electricity output to maximum possible output over a period, measuring plant efficiency.
Related Terms
Base Load
The minimum level of electricity demand over a 24-hour period, typically supplied by always-on power plants.
Generation Mix
The combination of energy sources (coal, gas, nuclear, renewables) used to produce a state's electricity.
Megawatt (MW)
A unit of power equal to one million watts, used to measure the capacity of power plants.