Performance evaluation of large-scale photovoltaic power plant in Saharan climate of Algeria based on real data

Abstract

In this study we evaluate a large-scale, grid-connected photovoltaic power plant (LS-PVPP) in a hot climate in Adrar, Algeria. The plant's performance was evaluated using both real-world data from 2018 and simulations conducted with PVsyst in terms of various parameters, such as reference yield, capacity factor, performance ratio, statistical indicators, and carbon emission savings. The results indicate a significant reduction in carbon emissions by the LS-PVPP, with a final yield of 4.98 kWh/kWp/day, a performance ratio of 71.67 %, a capacity factor of 20.72 %, and a global system efficiency of 10.66 % and save 19,388 metric tons of carbon in 2018. The industrial approach analysis revealed a target performance ratio (PR) of 71.17 %. The difference of 0.5 % led to extra energy generation of 252.67 MWh and additional revenue of 27,957.42USD. The simulated data predicted a final yield of 5.36 kWh/kWp/day, a performance ratio of 77 %, a capacity factor of 22.38 %, a global system efficiency of 11.55 %. The aim of this research is to offer data on the performance of a (LS-PVPP) in a hot climate. Researchers, photovoltaic project developers, and stakeholders can utilize the findings to assess project viability, optimize performance, and maximize the environmental and economic benefits.