Energy performance and loss analysis of 100 kWp grid-connected rooftop solar photovoltaic system

Abstract

In the present work, simulation and energy analysis of a grid-tied 100 kWp solar photovoltaic power plant mounted on an institute's building rooftop in Bhopal city of India are carried out. The present study provides insight into the solar power plant's performance linked to the medium range grid under actual operating conditions in Central India. It is observed that the standard performance ratio and the capacity factor of the plant are 80.72% and 19.27% respectively. The average monthly energy produced is highest in April and lowest in July. Simulation results using different simulation tools have been compared and are shown to be in near agreement with the real calculated values. This plant set-up is expected to gain profit after a period of 5.9 years with a capacity to mitigate 136 tons of CO2 emission annually. Practical application: This study estimates the energy output, system losses and performance parameters for a 100 kWp rooftop grid connected solar photovoltaic system. This helps to check the feasibility of such a system at this location. Also the payback period and reduction in carbon footprint are calculated to highlight the economic and environmental benefits. This would attract public interest for installation of more such plants on rooftops of buildings in the near future.