Installatiecapaciteit

Installatiecapaciteit refers to the maximum power output a generating facility can produce at any given time. It is typically measured in watts (W), kilowatts (kW), megawatts (MW), or gigawatts (GW). For example, a solar farm might have an installation capacity of 100 MW, meaning it can generate up to 100 million watts of electricity under optimal conditions. This is distinct from actual energy produced, which is a measure of power over time, usually expressed in watt-hours (Wh) or kilowatt-hours (kWh).

The installation capacity is a crucial factor in determining the potential contribution of a power source to the grid. It is a key metric used for planning and assessing the electricity supply. Different types of power generation have varying installation capacities. For instance, a single nuclear reactor typically has a much higher installation capacity than a residential solar panel system. Understanding installation capacity is essential for grid operators to manage supply and demand effectively and for policymakers to set energy targets and plan infrastructure development. It represents the theoretical upper limit of a power plant's output.