kWp

The abbreviation "kWp" stands for kilowatt peak and is a measure of the power output of photovoltaic (solar) systems. This term is used to express the maximum nominal performance of a solar panel or solar system under optimal conditions.

In the context of photovoltaics, kWp is a key metric because it determines the maximum amount of energy that a solar panel can produce under ideal conditions. These ideal conditions include:

-          Solar radiation with an intensity of 1000 watts per square metre (W/m²)

-          A cell temperature of approximately 25°C (which is often lower than the ambient air temperature)

-          Absence of shade and other limiting factors that could reduce panel performance

For example, a 5 kWp solar system should produce 5 kilowatts of electricity under these ideal conditions. However, in real-world conditions such as weather changes, installation location, angle of the sun's rays, and other factors, the actual energy produced may vary.

In practice, kWp is used to compare different solar systems or to calculate the expected annual electricity production depending on geographic location and other factors. This value helps users and installers determine how large a solar system they need.