Liam is analyzing solar panel efficiency. His panel produces 1.8 kW of power under ideal conditions. If cloud cover reduces output by 25% and temperature loss reduces it by an additional 10% of the remaining power, what is the final output in kW?

Sat, 09 May 2026 02:58:42 +0000

Liam’s Solar Panel Efficiency: How Cloud Cover and Temperature Impact Power Output When evaluating solar energy systems, accuracy hinges on understanding real-world performance beyond ideal conditions. Liam, an energy analyst, is closely studying the efficiency of a high-performing solar panel that generates 1.8 kW under perfect sunlight. His latest analysis reveals how environmental factors—like cloud cover and temperature—significantly reduce actual output. Under ideal conditions, the panel produces 1.8 kW of power. However, cloud cover obstructs sunlight, cutting production by 25%. To calculate the output during cloudy conditions, apply the 25% reduction:
1.8 kW × (1 – 0.25) = 1.8 × 0.75 = 1.35 kW But the impact doesn’t stop there. Temperature further reduces efficiency by 10%—but this decrease applies only to the power already reduced by clouds, not the original full output.
So, we reduce 1.35 kW by 10%:
1.35 kW × (1 – 0.10) = 1.35 × 0.90 = 1.215 kW