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Capacity factor

Capacity factor is the share of a plant's maximum possible output that it actually delivers over a year. Baseload nuclear and coal run high (70-90%); solar and wind are weather-limited (typically 15-45%).

Frequently asked questions

What is a good capacity factor?

Nuclear often exceeds 85%; combined-cycle gas 40-60%; solar PV ~15-25%; onshore wind ~25-40%.

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