Skip to content
Calculator Tools
Renewable Energy Calculators

Capacity Factor Calculator

Capacity factor of any generator — actual output against its theoretical maximum.

Enter values

Results update as you type.

Result

Capacity factor

25.11%

Maximum possible output
8,760 kWh
Equivalent full-load hours
2,200 hours
Average output
0.2511 kW
Typical comparison
Typical solar PV

About the Capacity Factor Calculator

Capacity factor of any generator — actual output against its theoretical maximum.

Also known as: plant capacity factor, load factor calculator, utilisation factor, generator capacity factor.

How to use this calculator

  1. Enter actual annual generation, rated capacity, hours in the period.
  2. The result updates instantly as you type — press Calculate (or Enter) at any time.
  3. Review the breakdown shown under the main result.
  4. Use Copy result or Share to save the answer or send a link with your inputs.

Formula

capacity factor = actual output ÷ (rated capacity × hours)

Worked example

Using the values pre-filled in the calculator above:

  • Actual annual generation = 2,200 kWh
  • Rated capacity = 1 kW
  • Hours in the period = 8,760

the calculator returns:

  • Capacity factor: 25.11%
  • Maximum possible output: 8,760 kWh
  • Equivalent full-load hours: 2,200 hours
  • Average output: 0.2511 kW