Utilizing built infrastructure and otherwise non-utilizable space for solar PV power projects—A case study for an educational institution

Abstract

Ground mounted solar PV systems utilize a large amount of land that could otherwise be used for different developmental activities, such as agricultural growth, fuel crops production, and industrial development. Utilizing the already built infrastructures such as building rooftops, parking sheds, and canal water systems for installation of solar PV projects has proven beneficial as it minimizes the procurement and opportunity cost of the land. Taking into consideration the best practices adopted globally, Pakistan must evolve its policy for a shift towards utilization of existing infrastructures rather than using prime lands for solar PV power projects. Building Integrated Photovoltaic (BIPV) systems have been effective for deployment and penetration of solar PV technology (SPVT) in different countries. In this paper, we present a case study, established on the basis of existing BIPV principles followed in developed countries. This case study proposes to utilize existing storm water drains, parking lots, and land across lake sites for solar PV system installation at an educational institution, National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST). A detailed analysis has been performed to evaluate the project's financial feasibility in terms of economic indexes such as Payback Period, Discounted Cash Flows, Net Present Value, and Internal Rate of Return. Results show that a 5 MW distributed solar PV system installed on an otherwise non-utilizable land at the university's premises shall provide a payback period of 7.09 years at an attractive internal rate of return of 13%.