kilowatt-peak

Kilowatt peak, abbreviated as kWp, denotes the maximum rated power of a photovoltaic system under specified standard test conditions. The English term "peak" means "tip" and indicates that it is a theoretical peak value.

The unit kilowatt peak allows for the comparison of the output of different solar modules and photovoltaic systems. One kilowatt peak is equivalent to 1,000 watt peak, abbreviated as Wp.

How is kilowatt peak calculated?

The total output of a photovoltaic system results from the number of installed solar modules and the respective rated power of a module.

Number of solar modules × Power per module = Total system output

An example: Our 36 solar modules SPM420/108 each have a maximum output of 420 Wp. This results in the following total output:

36 × 420 Wp = 15,120 Wp = 15.12 kWp

Thus, the 36 solar modules achieve a total maximum rated power of 15.12 kWp under standard test conditions.

What is the difference between kWp and kWh?

Kilowatt peak describes the maximum output of a photovoltaic system. In contrast, kilowatt hours, abbreviated as kWh, indicate how much electrical energy the system actually generates over a specific period.

How much power a system produces depends not only on its output in kWp. Other influencing factors include:

• Solar radiation

• Location and orientation

• Inclination angle of the solar modules

• Shading

• Weather conditions

• Efficiency of the components

Therefore, a system with 15.12 kWp does not continuously produce 15.12 kilowatts. The kWp value primarily serves as a size indication and for comparing photovoltaic systems.

Kilowatt peak in solar carports and parking canopies

The output in kilowatt peak is also significant when planning covered parking spaces. Parking canopies equipped with photovoltaic modules integrate vehicle protection with renewable energy generation. The existing parking area can thus be used additionally for electricity production.

The generated solar power can be used for adjacent business buildings, electrical devices, or charging electric vehicles, for example. The actually suitable system output depends, among other things, on the number of parking spaces, the available area, and the individual energy needs.

Our carports and solar carports can also be equipped with powerful solar modules. They protect vehicles from sun, rain, and snow while providing a suitable space for sustainable power generation.

The specification in kWp helps compare different solutions and select the photovoltaic system appropriate for the intended area of use.