East/West split panels — This 13kW system has roughly half the panels facing east and half west. Generation starts earlier in the morning as the east panels catch the rising sun, then the west panels take over in the afternoon. You will see a dual-hump curve through the day rather than the single midday peak of a north-facing system.

Why doesn't it always hit 13kW? Cloud cover, panel temperature (hot panels are less efficient), the angle of the sun in winter, and inverter limits all reduce output. A 13kW system on a good summer day might peak around 10–11kW. In winter with partly cloudy skies, 5kW is a solid result.

Don't get sold a number. When comparing solar quotes, ask for the expected annual output in kWh — not just the panel capacity. That is what actually pays your bills.