This paper presents a simple but valid design factor calculation method of grid-connected photovoltaic system using normalized yield model. The proposed calculation method can be represented as a quantitative value about five design factors from irradiance to system output power. The validity of this method is identified by analyzing design factor with three years monitored data. These results will indicate that it is useful to determine the optimal design and selection of grid-connected photovoltaic system to meet different user purposes and enhance long-term reliability and stability of grid-connected photovoltaic system.