Whether rural rooftop photovoltaics can effectively fight the power consumption conflicts at the regional scale – A case study of Jiangsu Province

Abstract

To fight the power consumption conflicts at the regional scale, rooftop solar photovoltaics (RTSPV) in rural areas is considered as a critical way. In this study, we constructed a sophisticated framework for evaluating the regional RTSPV power generation potential of rural areas. Focusing on Jiangsu Province, the rural RTSPV power generation potential was evaluated. Then, the generation potential was compared with electricity demand to describe the spatial heterogeneity of the supply and demand situation, and proposed the pathways to alleviate the regional consumption conflicts. The results showed that the total RTSPV power generation potential of rural areas in Jiangsu Province is 202.91 TWh, which can meet the electricity demand of rural areas in this province. From the perspective of supply and demand, the conflicts between rural RTSPV power generation and electricity demand will be aggravated, especially in areas of rapid economic development. The rural RTSPV power generation of Suzhou, Wuxi, and Changzhou is far low the actual demand for electricity. While for the city with significant disparities between urban and rural areas, the development of rural RTSPV can effectively alleviate the power consumption conflicts. In particular, the rural RTSPV power generation in Xuzhou can meet the demand of total electricity.