Computational tool for technical-economic analysis of photovoltaic microgeneration in Brazil

Abstract

This paper proposes a new computational tool, called SolarEnergy, which was implemented through an innovative methodology to perform technical-economic analysis of photovoltaic (PV) microgeneration in Brazil. SolarEnergy calculates energy flow and energy bill savings based on the rules of the Brazilian NEM scheme. From the maximization of the net present value, SolarEnergy provides the optimal nominal power according to the orientation and slope of PV panels and the electricity consumption profile. This functionality is crucial to avoid undersizing or oversizing, which commonly occurs in practice. In addition, the tool provides the following information: (i) electricity generation, (ii) net present value, (iii) modified internal rate of return, (iv) discounted payback time, and (v) sensitivity analysis of key parameters (e.g., nominal power, pv system cost, electricity tariff, and minimum attractive rate of return). Currently, such particularities are characterized as relevant differences in relation to other computational tools. The validation and applicability of SolarEnergy are demonstrated from case studies of PV systems installed in the state of Goiás, Brazil.