The present article assesses the study of the PV generator capability curves for use in large scale photovoltaic power plants (LS-PVPPs). For this purpose, the article focuses on three main aspects: (i) the modelling of the main components of the PV generator, (ii) the operational limits analysis of the PV array together with the inverter, and (iii) the capability curve analysis considering variable solar irradiance and temperature. To validate this study a PVPP of 1 MW is designed, modelled and simulated in DIgSILENT PowerFactory (R). The results for each case scenario shows that the capability curve and the limitations are directly affected by: the solar irradiance, temperature, dc voltage, and the modulation index. (C) 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.