Utility-Scale Solar Clipping Loss Budgeter
Quickly assess inverter clipping by pairing DC buildout, inverter AC limits, peak sun hours, and irradiance shape so you can size oversupply against an acceptable loss budget.
This is a planning approximation. Validate losses with detailed energy models, site-specific weather files, and inverter datasheets before finalizing EPC contracts.
Examples
- 220 MWdc, 180 MWac, 2,000 sun hours, 0.78 shape ⇒ Clipping 1.93% (8,474.07 MWh lost), 431,525.93 MWh delivered, keep DC/AC ≤ 1.23 for 2.00% loss target.
- 140 MWdc, 120 MWac, 1,850 sun hours, 0.65 shape ⇒ Clipping 0.90% (2,338.19 MWh lost), 256,661.81 MWh delivered, keep DC/AC ≤ 1.25 for 2.00% loss target.
FAQ
Can I model multiple inverter blocks?
Yes. Run the calculator for each block with its own DC/AC ratio, then average the MWh losses based on block capacity.
How do energy storage add-ons change clipping?
DC-coupled storage can recapture clipped energy. Reduce the shape factor or loss target to mirror expected battery absorption before rerunning the numbers.
Does temperature derate affect this estimate?
You can lower the DC capacity input to reflect temperature-corrected output if your modules rarely hit nameplate at high heat.
What if my loss tolerance is tighter than 2%?
Adjust the loss target input downward—the recommended ratio output will shrink accordingly, showing how much oversizing headroom you can afford.
Additional Information
- Shape factor summarizes how peaky the irradiance profile is—tracking systems have higher factors than fixed-tilt arrays; use plant simulation exports for accuracy.
- Clipping fraction uses a simplified quadratic fit. Compare against PVsyst or Helioscope runs before finalizing procurement decisions.
- Peak sun hours should reflect net plane-of-array hours after soiling and availability adjustments to avoid overstating production.
- Loss targets help size DC oversupply relative to interconnection constraints or storage add-on plans.