Installed capacity
Installed capacity refers to the maximum output that a system, typically related to energy generation or consumption, can produce under optimal conditions. This is commonly used in reference to renewable energy installations (such as solar panels or heat pumps), combined heat and power (CHP) systems, or battery storage capacity within a building:
- Solar Panels (Photovoltaics - PV): Installed capacity refers to the total peak output (in kilowatts, kW or megawatts, MW) of all solar panels on a building when operating under ideal sunlight conditions.
- Heat Pumps: The installed capacity of an air-source or ground-source heat pump indicates its maximum heating or cooling output in kilowatts (kW).
- Battery Storage: For buildings with energy storage, installed capacity refers to the maximum charge/discharge rate or total energy storage (typically in kilowatt-hours, kWh).
- Combined Heat and Power (CHP) Units: The installed capacity of a CHP system represents its maximum electrical and thermal power output, usually measured in kW or MW.
Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) and Building Regulations may reference installed capacity when assessing energy efficiency. Feed-in Tariffs (FITs) and Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) schemes use installed capacity to determine eligibility and payments for energy generation. Larger installations may require approval based on their installed capacity and potential grid impact.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
Featured articles and news
Heritage, industry and slavery
Interpretation must tell the story accurately.
Conserving the ruins of a great Elizabethan country house.
BSRIA European air conditioning market update 2024
Highs, lows and discrepancy rates in the annual demand.
50 years celebrating the ECA Apprenticeship Awards
As SMEs say the 10 years of the Apprenticeship Levy has failed them.
Nominations sought for CIOB awards
Celebrating construction excellence in Ireland and Northern Ireland.
EPC consultation in context: NCM, SAP, SBEM and HEM
One week to respond to the consultation on reforms to the Energy Performance of Buildings framework.
CIAT Celebrates 60 years of Architectural Technology
Find out more #CIAT60 social media takeover.
The BPF urges Chancellor for additional BSR resources
To remove barriers and bottlenecks which delay projects.
Flexibility over requirements to boost apprentice numbers
English, maths and minimumun duration requirements reduced for a 10,000 gain.
A long term view on European heating markets
BSRIA HVAC 2032 Study.
Humidity resilience strategies for home design
Frequency of extreme humidity events is increasing.
National Apprenticeship Week 2025
Skills for life : 10-16 February
Update on the future of Grenfell Tower
Deputy Prime Minister decides for it be carefully taken down to the ground.
Ending decades of frustration, misinformation and distrust.