Solar Curtailment Loss Calculator

Model curtailment scenarios for safer project forecasts. Tune inputs for capacity, tariff, and emissions targets. Get clear losses, exportable summaries, and actionable next steps.

Inputs
Use the form to estimate energy and loss impacts.
Construction use-case ready
Nameplate capacity used for planning energy production.
Typical range: 12–28 depending on location and design.
Use 30 for a month, 365 for annual planning.
PPA tariff, avoided diesel cost, or grid export rate.
Downtime allowance for maintenance or outages.
Cables, soiling, mismatch, and auxiliary consumption.
Short-term estimate for the selected period.
Choose the method that matches your data source.
Use utility curtailment logs or forecast constraints.
Best for SCADA or inverter event records.
Use your local grid factor or project baseline.
Clear Results

Example data table

Scenario Capacity (kW) CF (%) Days Curtailment Price Net Expected (kWh) Curtailed (kWh) Revenue Loss
Baseline month 250 18 30 8% 0.12 ≈ 30,305 ≈ 2,424 ≈ 291
High curtailment 250 18 30 15% 0.12 ≈ 30,305 ≈ 4,546 ≈ 545
Higher tariff 250 18 30 8% 0.20 ≈ 30,305 ≈ 2,424 ≈ 485

Values are indicative and depend on availability, degradation, and other losses.

Formula used

  1. Theoretical Energy (kWh) = Capacity (kW) × Period (days) × 24
  2. Expected Energy (kWh) = Theoretical × Capacity Factor ÷ 100
  3. Net Expected (kWh) = Expected × Availability ÷ 100 × (1 − Degradation ÷ 100) × (1 − Other Losses ÷ 100)
  4. Curtailed (kWh) = Net Expected × Curtailment ÷ 100 or direct curtailed input
  5. Revenue Loss = Curtailed (kWh) × Energy Price
Optional emissions

CO₂ reduction lost (tonnes) = Curtailed (kWh) × Emission Factor (kg/kWh) ÷ 1000

Turn off emissions if you only need financial results.

How to use this calculator

  • Enter system capacity, capacity factor, and the planning period.
  • Add your energy price to convert curtailed kWh into loss.
  • Set availability and other losses for realistic net energy.
  • Select curtailment mode: percent forecast or measured curtailed kWh.
  • Click Calculate Loss to view results above the form.
  • Use the CSV button for spreadsheets and cost tracking.
  • Use the PDF button for reports and stakeholder updates.
  • If results look high, verify the period and capacity factor.
  • For measured data, prefer direct curtailed energy mode.
  • Adjust tariff to compare grid export and fuel offset cases.

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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.