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Calcimator

Solar Shading Analysis Calculator

Estimate production losses from shading on your solar array.

Inputs

kW
hrs
%
hrs
hrs

Results

Production Loss

12%

Actual Production

12,672 kWh/yr

Energy Lost1,728 kWh/yr
Unshaded Production14,400 kWh/yr
How to Use This Calculator
  1. Enter the solar panel array dimensions and tilt angle.
  2. Input the height of nearby obstructions (trees, buildings, chimneys) and their distance from the array.
  3. Set your latitude and the time periods of interest (e.g., winter solstice morning).
  4. Review the shading impact percentage on annual energy production.
  5. Even partial shading on one panel can significantly reduce string output — consider microinverters or optimizers.

How the result changes with Peak Sun Hours/Day

Peak Sun Hours/DayProduction LossActual Production
2.821.4%11,314 kWh/yr
4.812.5%12,600 kWh/yr
7.28.3%13,200 kWh/yr
9.26.5%13,461 kWh/yr

What each input means

System Size
Rated system size in kilowatts.
Annual Sun Hours
Total annual peak sun hours for your location.
Shading Severity
Percentage of panel output lost during shaded periods.
Shading Hours/Day
Average hours per day panels are affected by shade.
Peak Sun Hours/Day
Average daily peak sun hours.

How this is calculated

Worked example, using the default values

  1. Identify Input Parameters
    4 parameters
    System Size = 8, Annual Sun Hours = 1800, Shading Severity = 30, Shading Hours/Day = 2 = 5 input(s) provided
  2. Calculate Production Loss
    Production Loss
    12 = 12
  3. Calculate Actual Production
    Actual Production
    12672 = 12672
  4. Calculate Energy Lost
    Energy Lost
    1728 = 1728
  5. Calculate Unshaded Production
    Unshaded Production
    14400 = 14400

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