CAPACITY FACTOR Meaning and
Definition
-
The term "capacity factor" refers to a numerical measurement that indicates the efficiency and utilization of an energy-generating system, such as a power plant or renewable energy facility. It is calculated by dividing the actual energy production of the system over a specific period by the maximum possible energy production during that same period, given its installed capacity.
Capacity factor is typically expressed as a percentage and provides an understanding of how often and how effectively the system operates at its full potential. A higher capacity factor implies greater efficiency, as it indicates that the system is consistently generating energy close to its maximum capacity.
This metric is particularly significant in analyzing renewable energy sources such as wind and solar power, which rely on natural resources that are not continuously available. For instance, if a wind farm has a capacity factor of 30%, it means that it produced 30% of the total energy it would have been capable of generating if the wind had been consistently blowing at its maximum output throughout the entire period.
Capacity factor is a key parameter for assessing the economic viability and profitability of energy projects, as it affects the return on investment and levelized cost of electricity calculations. It also assists in analyzing the reliability and stability of power supply systems, aiding in effective energy planning and policy-making decisions.
Common Misspellings for CAPACITY FACTOR
- xapacity factor
- vapacity factor
- fapacity factor
- dapacity factor
- czpacity factor
- cspacity factor
- cwpacity factor
- cqpacity factor
- caoacity factor
- calacity factor
- ca0acity factor
- capzcity factor
- capscity factor
- capwcity factor
- capqcity factor
- capaxity factor
- capavity factor
- capafity factor
- capadity factor
- capacuty factor
Etymology of CAPACITY FACTOR
The word "capacity factor" is derived from the combination of the words "capacity" and "factor". The etymology of these individual words is as follows:
1. Capacity: The word "capacity" originates from the Latin word "capacitas", which means "ability, capability, size". It entered Middle English in the 15th century, initially referring to the ability to contain or hold. Over time, it expanded to encompass various meanings, including potential, volume, power, or quantity that can be produced.
2. Factor: The word "factor" comes from the Latin word "factor", which means "doer, maker". In the 15th century, it entered English with the meaning of "agent, representative, or mediator". Later, it acquired the sense of a contributing element, influence, or condition.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
