Study on the Performance of Selected Solar Photovoltaic Systems Installed by Government Intervention Agencies in Delta State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study evaluated the performance of selected solar photovoltaic (PV) projects installed by Federal and State government intervention agencies in Delta State, Nigeria. Thirty projects were studied, these projects were selected from Delta North, Central and South Senatorial Districts. The data for this study was obtained by using a structured questionnaire and field inspection. The data was statistically analysed using Kruskal-Wallis test at 5% and two-sample Ttest. The results of the field inspection revealed that the performance of the installed solar PV projects is significantly different (P> 0.05) between the two government agencies. There are number of factors that affects solar PV system performance in Delta State, Nigeria, these include; high cost, poor awareness, theft/ insecurity, poor maintenance and lack of technical manpower. Practical steps and measures that can promote better performance (installation, operation and maintenance) of solar PV system as a clean and sustainable source of energy in Delta State are also discussed.