What are System Losses and how does Enact Model it?

What are System Losses and how does Enact Model it?

System losses in solar power systems refer to the energy losses that occur between the theoretical maximum energy that could be generated by a solar array and the actual energy delivered to the grid or load. These losses are inherent to the design, operation, and environmental factors of the system. Understanding and minimizing these losses is crucial for optimizing system performance and efficiency.

Categories of System Losses

1. Optical Losses

  • Reflection Losses: Some sunlight is reflected off the surface of solar panels instead of being absorbed.
  • Soiling Losses: Dust, dirt, bird droppings, or snow on the panels block sunlight and reduce energy generation.

2. Electrical Losses

  • Mismatch Losses: Variations in the performance of individual solar panels in an array (due to shading, manufacturing differences, or degradation) lead to inefficiencies.
  • Cabling Losses: Resistance in DC and AC cables results in power dissipation as heat.
  • Inverter Losses: Energy is lost during the conversion from DC (direct current) to AC (alternating current).
  • Transformer Losses: Energy losses occur in transformers, especially in larger systems.
  • Parasitic Loads: Auxiliary equipment like monitoring systems, tracking mechanisms, or cooling fans consume power, reducing the net output.

3. Degradation Losses

  • Over time, solar panels, inverters, and other components degrade, reducing their efficiency. Typical panel degradation rates are around 0.5–1% per year.



Enact models the 14% System losses as below: