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Shading Loss

Annual generation loss from partial shading.

Performance

Inputs (SI units)

Results

Amplified loss
20 %
Energy lost
3,000 kWh/yr
Remaining generation
12,000 kWh/yr

Save & Load Project

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Engineering Formula

  • Loss% = min(100, shade% × amp)
  • E_loss = Loss% × E_unshaded / 100

PV bypass-diode topology amplifies partial shading: 10% shade often costs 20–30% of a string's output. The amplification factor captures this non-linearity.

Step-by-step Calculation

  1. 1.Lossshade × amp20 %
  2. 2.EnergyLoss × E3,000 kWh

Design Assumptions

  • Series-connected cells with 3 bypass diodes per module.
  • Uniform amp factor over the year.

Engineering Tips

  • Use micro-inverters / MLPE if unavoidable shading > 15%.
  • Move shading elements (antennas, ACs) if possible.

Warnings

  • Persistent hot-spots from shading can crack cells long-term.

Standards & References

IEC 61853-2NREL Shading Report

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