Technical and Economic Performance of 1MW Grid-connected PV system in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

In this paper, a feasibility study has been done utilizing real time solar irradiance data for a 1MW grid-connected PV system in Qassim region in the middle of Saudi Arabia. The analysis has been done using both technical and economic indicators. Technical performance indicators are; Yield Factor, Capacity Factor and Performance Ratio. Economic indicators are; Levelized cost of energy and simple payback time. The simulation results show high energy productivity, and both technical and economic indicators are high compared with similar systems in different countries. Also, the greenhouse gas emission reduction has been estimated. The prices of PV modules and balance of system components are up to date. The analysis results proved the viability of the proposed system supposing there is no any governmental incentives or grants which could make big difference..

Techno-Economic Feasibility Assessment of Grid-Connected PV Systems for Residential Buildings in Saudi Arabia—A Case Study

“…Because of the various module efficiencies and array designs, the yield factor is used to measure the system's productivity. Yield factor is measured in kWh/kWp, by dividing the energy yield by the PV array's nominal power (P STC ) [27].…”

“…This estimate was based on solar irradiance, while a stand-alone system with 85 MW capacity was analyzed. The study in [27] reported a total energy yield of 1 MW over the lifetime of a proposed 42,978.9 MWh grid-connected PV system in the Qassim region, assuming a 1% annual energy yield reduction due to project degradation. The yield factor, capacity factor, and performance ratio were analyzed as technical performance indicators, while the levelized cost of energy and payback period were used as economic performance indicators.…”

“…Sustainability 2020, 12, 262 11 of 25 PV array that is usable, and the most ideal CF is 50% because of the daily sun availability (almost 12 h at maximum)[27].…”

Analyzing the Impact of Bapco 5 MW Solar PV Grid-Connected Project on Bahrain’s Outlook for Energy-Mix Production

“…An analysis has been done using both technical and economic indicators such as Yield Factor, Capacity Factor and Performance Ratio, Levelized cost of energy and payback period. Almarshoud results [5] show high energy productivity, and both technical and economic indicators are high. A 10 MW photovoltaic grid-connected power plant commissioned at Ramagundam in India was studied whereas at this site average solar radiation about 27.3˚C [6].…”

“…Several studies had been made in the region to study the performance of such non-linear systems (solar electricity) so the economical outcome from such systems is compared and analyzed before engaging in further investment in such technology (solar PV installation). Almarshoud [5] studied the feasibility of utilizing real time solar irradiance data for a 1 MW grid-connected PV system in Qassim region in the middle of Saudi Arabia. An analysis has been done using both technical and economic indicators such as Yield Factor, Capacity Factor and Performance Ratio, Levelized cost of energy and payback period.…”