Capacity Factor

Syllable breakdown

Dictionary meaning

The ratio of actual energy output of a power plant over a given period to its maximum possible output if it operated at full nameplate capacity for that same period. A wind farm with a 35% capacity factor produces 35% of what it would if running at full power continuously.

Examples

• Offshore wind farms typically have higher capacity factors than onshore sites due to stronger, more consistent winds.
• The capacity factor for nuclear plants is often above 90%, whereas solar averages 15–25% depending on location.