Size arrays confidently and understand inverter headroom better. Tune assumptions for climate, layout, and economics. Download results instantly as CSV or printable PDF reports.
| Scenario | DC Size (kWdc) | AC Rating (kWac) | Peak Multiplier | Yield (kWh/kWdc·yr) | Profile Modifier | Estimated Clipping (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Urban rooftop | 8.0 | 6.0 | 1.10 | 1500 | 1.00 | ~3–7 |
| High-irradiance site | 10.0 | 7.0 | 1.15 | 1700 | 1.15 | ~8–18 |
| Conservative sizing | 7.0 | 6.5 | 1.05 | 1450 | 0.95 | ~0–2 |
Values are illustrative; use project-specific yields whenever available.
Where excess = max(0, Effective Ratio − 1). The coefficient k depends on sensitivity.
shape is driven by capacity factor and your profile modifier, representing how often your site operates near peak.
Clipping occurs when the DC array can deliver more power than the inverter’s AC limit. The inverter caps output at its rating, so the “top” of the power curve is flattened during high irradiance or cold-module conditions. In construction projects, clipping matters because it influences expected annual production, equipment selection, and revenue forecasts in bid models.
The calculator focuses on inputs that most strongly influence clipping frequency. DC size and inverter AC rating set the base DC/AC ratio. Peak DC multiplier approximates cold-weather voltage lift and bright-sky peaks. Annual specific yield represents site energy potential before clipping. Performance adjustment scales the yield to match your loss assumptions, while the profile modifier reflects how concentrated your irradiance distribution is near midday.
Results are presented as an estimated clipping percentage and an annual clipped-energy value. A small clipping percentage can still represent meaningful energy if the system is large. The equivalent lost full-power hours converts clipped energy into an intuitive metric that can be compared with downtime allowances and maintenance windows. Use net energy after clipping when estimating production-based savings or contract guarantees.
Sizing decisions are usually economic, not purely technical. A higher DC/AC ratio can reduce inverter count and wiring costs, improve low-light utilization, and raise annual energy until clipping dominates. However, excessive clipping can push performance below contractual expectations. Compare the value of extra modules versus additional inverter capacity, and document the chosen sensitivity level to keep estimates consistent across design options.
Use this tool for early-stage screening, value engineering, or comparing alternatives quickly. For final design, build an hourly model when you have complex shading, tracker backtracking, export limits, or frequent curtailment. Hourly simulations also capture temperature, inverter efficiency curves, and control logic that can shift clipping timing. Treat the estimate as a planning baseline and refine it as data improves.
Inverter clipping is the AC power cap that occurs when available DC power exceeds the inverter’s AC rating. The inverter limits output to protect itself, and the difference becomes clipped energy.
DC size, inverter AC rating, and peak DC multiplier drive the effective DC/AC ratio. Profile modifier and sensitivity shape how often peaks occur, while yield and performance adjustment scale annual energy.
Often yes. Moderate clipping can be a cost-effective tradeoff if module cost is low and the site has strong midday sun. Validate with project targets, contractual guarantees, and any export-limit or curtailment rules.
Use a higher value for cold climates and high-irradiance sites where modules can exceed STC conditions. If you have measured weather data or detailed simulations, tune the multiplier to match expected peak behavior.
Net energy after clipping is the production value you should use for savings, payback, and performance comparisons. Pre-clipping energy is useful for understanding theoretical potential and the magnitude of clipping losses.
Run hourly modeling for complex shading, tracking systems, tight export limits, frequent curtailment, or when contractual penalties are significant. Hourly tools capture temperature effects, inverter efficiency curves, and control strategies.
Disclaimer: This calculator is for planning estimates. For final design, use detailed hourly simulation with module temperature, irradiance, and inverter efficiency curves.
Important Note: All the Calculators listed in this site are for educational purpose only and we do not guarentee the accuracy of results. Please do consult with other sources as well.