Using Photovoltaic (PV) Cells on Enduring DoD Installations in the Middle East: A Feasibility Study

Abstract

Abstract : This study focuses on the feasibility of using solar energy on Department of Defense (DoD) installations located throughout the Middle East. These DoD installations are currently using electricity generated from the local power grid at commercial rates, or generated by contractor-provided diesel generators. As an alternative, the effective use of solar energy may result in considerable savings and operational efficiency. In contrast to oil prices, the cost of renewable energy has been declining rapidly in recent years. The cost of solar panels, for example, has decreased by more than 60 percent since 2009 (Reichart, 2011). The aim of this paper is to carry out an analysis of the use of solar photovoltaic (PV) panels at DoD installations with respect to their cost-effectiveness in installation, operation, maintenance, security, sustainability, and reliability. We will examine meteorological data that provide the average monthly sunlight levels for different geographical areas, information on the effectiveness of the commercial solar PV panels currently available, electricity consumption levels for DoD installations at different times of the day, and current cost structures. Noneconomic attributes of solar installations also need to be considered to properly assess the feasibility of solar power as a substitute for current sources of electricity. The research is limited to evaluating the feasibility of using solar PV panels for electricity generation in forward operating bases. We have analyzed a trend in levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) for solar PV panels and have come to the conclusion that solar PV panels will become competitive with grid energy around 2020, provided that current growth projections in installed capacity and a corresponding decrease in the cost of solar PV-generated electricity continue. In light of our findings, we are confident that solar PV has the potential to compete with grid electricity in the near future.