Adoption Of Photovoltaic Systems Research Articles

A review on modulation techniques of Quasi-Z-source inverter for grid-connected photovoltaic systems

Photovoltaic (PV) is a promising way to meet the increasing global energy demand due to its sustainability, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. For the wide-scale adoption of PV systems, converters with reliable input sources, stable control strategies and appropriate modulation techniques must be designed. In the literature, various modulation techniques have been developed that help to boost the voltage of the PV modules by implementing shoot-through (ST) in which the upper and lower switches of an inverter conduct simultaneously and short-circuit occurs. Various optimised modulation techniques have been implemented to enhance its performance. Among those, the quasi-Z-source inverter (qZSI) has attracted much attention due to its ability to achieve higher conversion ratios for grid-connected PV applications. In this paper, a detailed comparison of the modulation schemes for the qZSI PV systems has been done to understand the trade-off and select the most suitable approach. Upon the selection of the space vector modulation with unique switching sequences and rearranging upper ST and lower ST states, the inverter can achieve ST with reduced switching losses. Furthermore, a 600 VA three-phase grid-connected system utilizing a three-level neutral-point-clamped qZSI topology is modulated and simulated. It has been demonstrated that the constant boost control offers good performance in terms of reduced voltage stresses on switches, lower total harmonic distortion, and hence, higher efficiency.

Sustainable energy transition in Bangladeshi academic buildings: A techno-economic analysis of photovoltaic-based net zero energy systems

Bangladesh faces challenges with global carbon emissions and energy security due to its heavy reliance on imported fossil fuels. This paper investigates the techno-economic viability of photovoltaic (PV) systems for achieving net-zero energy in academic buildings as a sustainable alternative. The study evaluates the performance of PV systems based on factors including annual energy production, capacity factor, net-zero energy potential, self-consumption/sufficiency ratio, renewable fraction, levelized cost of energy (LCOE), net present value (NPV), payback period, profitability index (PI), and carbon emission reduction. The results indicate that optimally sized PV systems can generate net positive energy: 6.18 MWh for universities, 4.04 MWh for high schools, and 3.62 MWh for primary schools. Economic viability was assessed under two billing methods (net metering and all energy buy/sell), and all cases showed positive NPV and PI values greater than 1. Decarbonization analysis revealed significant reductions in CO2 emissions: 2026.5 tons for universities, 18.9 tons for high schools, and 9.7 tons for primary schools. Finally, a sensitivity analysis assessed the optimal PV system size for seven other regions in Bangladesh. These findings suggest that the widespread adoption of PV systems in academic buildings can play a crucial role in achieving net-zero energy, contributing significantly to the government and policymakers' pursuit of sustainable development goals.

An integrated fuzzy evaluation of photovoltaic systems adoption barriers in rural island communities of developing economies

Among the renewable energy technologies that address sustainability issues in energy consumption, photovoltaic (PV) systems are found most applicable in rural island communities. However, due to several interplay factors, the adoption of PV systems in such areas faces barriers. In this regard, this study presents a thorough analysis of these barriers using an integrated analytic modeling approach. The fuzzy Delphi method was used to reduce the 85 barriers initially sourced from the literature to 35 significant barriers. To draw a holistic understanding of the problem, the transitive relationships of the identified barriers were examined using the fuzzy decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory (DEMATEL) method. Findings suggest that insufficient policies and regulatory frameworks, research and development, education, and training were among the most crucial barriers that impact other barriers. To address these barriers, five policy measures are outlined that may have synergistic effects in the increased adoption of solar PV systems, including the inclusion of local government units in energy planning and activities, incentivizing enhanced cooperation initiatives, supporting technology transfer programs, development of battery energy storage industry, and implementing community solar programs. The analysis of these barriers in the context of a developing country provides useful insights to policy- and decision-makers. Other developing economies with minor differences in socio-economic and political makeup may consider the policy measures to augment solar PV system adoption in their rural island communities.

Implications of strategic photovoltaic deployment on regional electricity self-sufficiency by 2050: A case study in Iraq

The study explored the impact of strategic photovoltaic (PV) deployment on regional electricity self-sufficiency in Iraq, offering key insights into the advantages and challenges of transitioning towards an energy-independent system by 2050. Findings indicate a noteworthy contribution of rising PV supply towards improved self-sufficiency, with a PV supply of 83.1 TWh catering to a total demand of 66.2 TWh in 2022, achieving a 76% self-sufficiency level. This suggests PV generation covers 76% of the districts electricity needs, thus bolstering energy security by reducing external energy source reliance. Furthermore, the study emphasizes the significance of expanded rooftop PV capacity to augment self-sufficiency and decrease dependency on conventional energy. Predictions suggest a potential rise in rooftop utilization for PV installations from 66% in 2022 to 88% by 2050, accentuating the need for policy initiatives to endorse and incentivize rooftop PV system adoption. The paper offers several recommendations, including the creation of supportive regulatory frameworks for PV integration, the introduction of financial incentives, capacity building initiatives, public awareness campaigns, grid modernization efforts, and regional energy planning which incorporates PV deployment considerations and sets self-sufficiency targets..

An Effective Analysis of Risk Assessment and Mitigation Strategies of Photovoltaic Power Plants Based on Real Data: Strategies, Challenges, Perspectives, and Sustainability

Due to the extensive usage of fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and gas, the energy crisis and environmental pollution issues have garnered global attention, making the creation of clean, renewable energy an unavoidable option. Solar photovoltaic energy production is regarded as one of the most promising technologies owing to its safety, dependability, and lack of environmental impact. However, the adoption of photovoltaic systems comes with some risks that may affect their deployment. This paper examines the risks of sustainable photovoltaic power plants through a realistic case study. A comprehensive approach is presented through which consultants can use linguistic variables to express their opinions about risks, priorities, and strategies for dealing with them. Evaluating and prioritizing risk assessment is a complex task that requires consideration of multiple criteria. Therefore, this paper proposes a hybrid multicriteria decision-making (MCDM) approach to deal with risks and their priorities. The risks of five aspects of sustainability were considered: the economic, technical, institutional, social, and environmental aspects. The developed approach consists of two decision-making methods: the criteria importance through intercriteria correlation (CRITIC) method, which is used to determine the weights of the criteria, and the evaluation based on distance from average solution (EDAS) method, which is used to arrange risks according to their priorities. The developed approach is performed in a neutrosophic environment and uses type-2 neutrosophic numbers (T2NN) to address uncertainty. Also, the paper adopts a developed model to determine the consultants’ reputation weights instead of assuming them. In addition, the model was applied to classify the risks of each aspect of sustainability into three levels, which are high, medium, and normal risks. The results indicate that 52% of the risks in all aspects are high risks, 36% are medium risks, and 12% are usual risks. Also, sensitivity analysis was performed to prove the correctness and stability of the developed approach with differences in weights.

Determinants of Adoption and the Type of Solar PV Technology Adopted in Rural Pakistan

The electricity crisis in Pakistan has been triggering grid power outages (load shedding) for many decades, which has not only affected the commercial and industrial sectors but also the domestic sector, specifically the livelihood of rural areas of the country. However, the extant literature advocates that renewable energy technologies (RETs), such as solar photovoltaic (PV) can be the remedy. Given the abundant availability of solar energy in Pakistan that can be converted into electrical energy using a solar PV system, this study examines the determinants of solar PV adoption in rural areas of Pakistan. Our preliminary investigations—using government/official publications—indicate that despite the huge potential of solar energy in Pakistan, the usage of solar PV systems at the household level in rural areas is still untapped, which makes this research agenda more appealing and provocative. In doing so, this study first conducts surveys, face-to-face comprehensive interviews, and questionnaires in four different districts of Pakistan and then implements a stepwise two-stage novel approach on a sample of 1,140 selected rural households. The first stage focuses on the determinants of solar PV system adoption, whereas the second stage focuses on the determinants of the type of solar PV system adopted. Using logistic regression, this study finds that age, education, children in school, income level, access to credit, gender (female), and price of a solar PV system are the factors significantly affecting the solar PV system adoption. In the second stage, we use a multivariate probit model and find that among these significant factors, the former five are significantly positive for the uptake of solar home-system, whereas the latter two are significant for both solar shed-lighting and solar panel-kit systems. In addition to these factors, landholding and access-to-road are significant for solar home systems, whereas household size, distance-to-market, and access-to-grid-electricity are significant for both solar shed-lighting and solar panel-kit systems. Since burning fossil fuels and solid biomass fuels for domestic energy needs are common in rural areas globally and cause carbon emissions and several severe health issues, the findings of this study are useful in many ways. In specific, we contribute to the literature examining the determinants of RETs in rural communities in developing countries.

Economical Validation of Residential Solar Power Investment: A Cost–Benefit Analysis Approach

The externalities of investment decisions with regard to residential photovoltaic (PV) systems have been changing rapidly in recent years. This study thoroughly explored these fast-changing dynamics by investigating the costs and benefits of PV investment. Five case studies were analyzed to populate the generalized observations of various PV investment conditions. This research proves that the initially high one-time installation cost can be recouped by measured benefits, although the level of return may vary from state to state depending largely on the financial incentives provided. For those enjoying either low electricity prices or peak sun hours, the results of this analysis did not support the installation of a PV system. These findings provide up-to-date benchmarking results for PV investments that homeowners can reference when assessing the costs and benefits associated with the adoption of PV systems.

Recycling schemes and supporting policies modeling for photovoltaic modules considering heterogeneous risks

Photovoltaic (PV) power generation systems are expected to play an indispensable role in the future power supply towards the carbon-neutrality target in China. However, without appropriate practices and systems being set up for recycling, recovering, and reusing, tremendous waste materials would occupy land space and pollute environment, posing threats to human health. Effective management of End-of-Life (EoL) PV modules serves a critical part for sustainable development of solar PV power. Here, we developed a complex network model considering incomplete and imperfect information to simulate its scheme and policies for PV module recycling. Three types of recycling modes and three policy scenarios were simulated and analyzed, and sensitivity analyses of risk levels, PV manufacturing and recycling costs are conducted for the robustness test. Based on the current status of recycling technology, the policy of mandatory recycling will impose additional costs and negatively impact the PV system adoption, while the subsidy policies can partially offset such negative impacts. Subsidies targeted at either recycled capacity of PV modules or electricity generated from PV power during its life time show similar effects. In addition, the subsidy policies also bring benefits in enhancing the robustness of the whole PV market. The fluctuation caused by unsystematic risks including project relocation, uncertainties in land contracts, PV module replacement, etc., will also be smoothed.

Decisions on design and planning of solar-assisted hydroponic farms under various subsidy schemes

Due to rapid urbanization in developing countries, it is necessary for respective governments to seek new approaches to providing sustainable fresh food and clean energy supplies. The implementation of photovoltaic (PV) systems in hydroponic farms offers an innovative solution to shortages of energy and fresh food in urban areas. These shortages have become increasingly serious during the Covid-19 lockdown periods. This paper proposes an approach to analyzing the impacts of the PV system subsidy schemes on solar-assisted hydroponic farm (SAHF) design and planning, in terms of the profit and outputs of the SAHF and the effectiveness of the subsidies. The subsidy schemes considered include the improving electricity tariff (IET), feed-in tariff (FIT) scheme, and investment co-funding (ICF) scheme. A quadratic programming model is developed to optimize the type and capacity of the PV system simultaneously. The proposed model can be solved by most commercial solvers using the linearization approach proposed in this study. A case study in Qatar is analyzed and incentive thresholds that promise PV system adoption profitability for SAHFs under IET, full FIT, surplus FIT, and ICF subsidies are identified. The thresholds are 0.0425 $/kWh, 0.0063 $/kWh, 0.027 $/kWh, and 14.90%, respectively. The subsidy conditions that lead to optimum benefits for hydroponic farmers and the government are identified via sensitivity analysis. Our method helps policymakers to optimize subsidy levels and therefore reduces subsidy inefficiency. For hydroponic farmers, it is profitable to take full advantage of the available space to enlarge their PV systems if the surplus electricity can be sold to the grid or other entities.

Product traits, decision-makers, and household low-carbon technology adoptions: moving beyond single empirical studies

Although single empirical studies provide important insights into who adopts a specific LCT for what reason, fundamental questions concerning the relations between decision subject (= who decides), decision object (= what is decided upon) and context (= when and where it is decided) remain unanswered. In this paper, this research gap is addressed by deriving a decision framework for residential decision-making, suggesting that traits of decision subject and object are determinants of financial, environmental, symbolic, normative, effort and technical considerations preceding adoption. Thereafter, the decision framework is initially verified by employing literature on the adoption of photovoltaic systems, energy efficient appliances and green tariffs. Of the six proposed relations, two could be confirmed (financial and environmental), one could be rejected (effort), and three could neither be confirmed nor rejected due to lacking evidence. Future research on LCT adoption could use the decision framework as guidepost to establish a more coordinated and integrated approach, ultimately allowing to address fundamental questions.

A comprehensive approach: Diffusion of environment-friendly energy technologies in residential photovoltaic markets

The rapid upsurge in distributed solar adoption in Malaysia provides an opportunity for adopters to lower electricity bills and gain additional community benefits, including grid stability and lower grid emissions. The main factors for rising electricity generation from renewable fuels are gaining independence from fossil fuels and combating climate change. Solar photovoltaic (PV) is believed to have the most significant potential between renewable technologies. The National energy strategies have stated that a renewable energy system, such as a photovoltaic (PV) system, plays a vital role in the minimization of energy consumption. Therefore, the successful installation has given rise to a progressive response cycle whereby amplified customer acceptance resulted in reduced demand from Utility providers. However, the number of individuals adopting solar photovoltaic technologies is still comparatively small. Elsewhere, innovation and monetary influences and ecological incentives seem to be significant for associating renewables with energy reserves. However, this paper has highlighted numerous factors that were founded on the modified norm simulation model based on the Theory of planned behavior (TPB) and value-belief-norm theory (VBN). The researcher examined how eco-friendly enthusiasm and other socio-psychological, socio-technical, and socio-economic aspects influence the PV adoption behavior among households consumers. Several norms reinforce the customer adoption rates of the PV system. Also, researchers have discussed the current trends and benefits towards the adoption of PV systems, whereas past research in PV systems has only been discussed in the domain of monetary benefit. Lastly, some future research directions are suggested for further advancement towards the reduction of energy consumption, which will lead to new insights for policymaking concerns and from the consumer aspect.

Sunny days: Spatial spillovers in photovoltaic system adoptions

Spatial spillovers – peer effects from neighboring actions on one's own decisions – play an important role in the diffusion of technologies, particularly the adoption of residential photovoltaic (PV) systems and have important implications for renewable energy policies meant to encourage small-scale solar energy generation. Existing research notes spillovers manifest at large spatial scales but evidence at smaller scales is currently absent. In this work, we examine if spatial spillovers in residential PV system adoptions exist at small scales – specifically within one's nearest set of neighbors – using spatially explicit data on residential PV installations from Baltimore, MD. We find strong evidence for the existence of spatial spillovers, with a neighboring installation increasing PV system adoption likelihood by 16.5–17.1 percent. The results indicate the presence of a potential multiplier effect that can be targeted by policymakers interested in encouraging solar energy development to meet renewable energy goals. • Spatial spillovers play an important role in residential PV adoption decisions. • Observing a neighboring PV installation increases future installation 16.5–17.1%. • Policymakers may use this multiplier to encourage small-scale solar generation.

Analysis of perceptions towards the rooftop photovoltaic solar system policy in Indonesia

In 2018, the Indonesian government issued the Rooftop Photovoltaic Solar Systems (RPVSS) policy that allows customers of the State Electricity Company (PLN) to generate their own electricity supply from solar photovoltaic (PV) systems and export surplus electricity to the national grid, valued at 65% of the full retail tariff. This policy is an effort to increase renewable energy levels in the national energy mix by 23% by 2025. Customer adoption of PV systems relies on the perceptions and perceived benefits of the technology, as well as general issues of confidence in the product. This paper explores the public's acceptance of the RPVSS policy from multiple perspectives. An online survey of PLN customers (n = 987) indicated consumer issues in adopting PV systems, such as high capital costs, long term return on investment and lack of information, as well as institutional issues such as the limited role of PLN and the absence of government financing mechanisms. Additional interviews with the government, private sector and energy experts identify the export rate for electricity injected into the grid as the main barrier to attracting prospective users. This paper's findings provide useful recommendations for policymakers to successfully implement the policy and increase solar energy deployment.

Barriers and opportunities to operate photovoltaic systems in commercial buildings in Nigeria

The rapid growth of energy consumption worldwide has increased rapidly, and has raised concerns over problems of energy supply, energy sustainability, and exhaustion of energy resources. These problems can be solved by contributing significantly to the utilization of renewable energy sources. Most developed countries are taking counter measures by implementing building energy standards in order to reduce building energy consumption by recognizing new energy policies and encouraging investment in PV system which is one of the biggest renewable energy sources and, thus, achieve sustainable energy efficient buildings. However that is not the case in a developing country like Nigeria, as there is a huge gap between the demands for electricity and demand for sustainable energy in the country. The use of PV technology in Nigeria is not new, but it still encounters many barriers for its penetration into the commercial sector. In respect to that, this research paper investigates the key challenges in the adoption of Photovoltaic systems and identifies the effective strategies of implementing PV systems in commercial buildings in Nigeria. The study focuses on identifying renewable energy sources for commercial buildings in Nigeria; examining the need for PV systems in commercial buildings in Nigeria; Identify the effects of PV systems on energy optimization in commercial buildings; review the policy context for renewable energy in Nigeria; identify the barriers in adopting photovoltaic systems in commercial buildings in Nigeria; and recommend possible ways of overcoming the barriers.

Participation is the fuel

Adoption of photovoltaic systems has been thought of in some countries as a choice influenced by political preferences. In the US, this polarization may be even stronger due to political polarization around climate change. Now, research shows that photovoltaic adopters can be found in both parties and they are politically active.

Optimal Feed‐In Tariff Policies: The Impact of Market Structure and Technology Characteristics

This study models a multi‐player environment consisting of a grid operator responsible for meeting electricity demands, a photovoltaic (PV) manufacturer, customers who might install (solar) PV systems, and a regulator who must set an optimal feed‐in tariff (FIT). The grid operator must meet exogenous electricity demand and also buy back all electricity (produced by PV systems) at the FIT set by the regulator. Customers decide whether or not to invest in a PV system. Adoption rates affect the manufacturer and operator by (respectively) establishing the demand for PV systems and determining how much PV electricity is fed into the grid. The PV manufacturer’s decision variable is the sales price per PV unit. The decisions of all players in the model are intertwined in a way that clearly affects their respective welfare. We demonstrate in particular how technology and market characteristics—including PV manufacturing cost and market competition—change the optimal decisions of players and thereby influence the effectiveness of FITs, the number of PV adopters, and the cost to provide the social benefit of on‐demand electricity. Our findings confirm the importance of considering technology manufacturers when devising schemes to incentivize the adoption of PV systems.

Adoption of Photovoltaic Systems Along a Sure Path: A Life-Cycle Assessment (LCA) Study Applied to the Analysis of GHG Emission Impacts

The expansion of photovoltaic solar energy in the world is significant. However, its contribution to decreases in greenhouse gases (GHG) is not an absolute guarantee. In this context, it is necessary to evaluate its benefits in advance, considering the structure of the electric energy supply matrix of the country producing the photovoltaic solar system, as well as the country where the technology will be implemented. This study evaluates the adoption of renewable sources for electric power generation in a country with a high share of renewable energy. A life-cycle assessment (LCA) of a set of multi-Si photovoltaic (PV) systems installed in the Brazilian northeast (NE), was carried out. The actual generation data of 10 plants totaling 1.1 MWp installed capacity were evaluated during two years of operation. Energy payback time (EPBT), greenhouse gas emission rate (GHGe-rate), and emission payback time were calculated. The great influence of the electric matrix characteristics of the country manufacturing PV systems was evidenced in the results. The interconnected Brazilian electrical system had a 2020 projected GHGe-rate of 63.9 g CO2/kWh, while the results of 70% of the photovoltaic solar power plants (PSPS) assessed herein exhibit higher GHGe-rates. Thus, in countries where the electric matrix comprises a high share of renewable sources, such as Brazil, the incentive to use PV systems manufactured in nations whose electric matrix registers high emission factors should be well evaluated in terms of the impacts of GHG concentrations and the promotion of sustainable development, in order to avoid indirect import of significant amounts of carbon embedded in the systems.

Analysis and Modeling of Interharmonics From Grid-Connected Photovoltaic Systems

The industry of solar photovoltaic (PV) energy and its application is still booming to enhance the sustainability of the society. When PV systems are connected to the grid, challenging issues should be addressed. One of the challenges is related to interharmonics in PV systems, especially with a large-scale adoption of PV systems. However, the origins of interharmonics remain unclear, although the impact of interhamonics has been reported in the literature. Thus, this paper explores the generation mechanisms of interharmonics in PV systems and the characteristics. The exploration reveals that the perturbation from the maximum power point tracking (MPPT) algorithm is one of the origins of interharmonics appearing in the grid current. Accordingly, the MPPT controller parameters such as the perturbation step size and the sampling rate have an inevitable impact on the interharmonic characteristics. Furthermore, an approach to characterize the interharmonics in the grid current is proposed. With the proposed model, interharmonics can be predicted according to the designed controller parameters in terms of frequencies and amplitudes. Experimental tests are performed on a single-phase grid-connected PV system. The results are in a close agreement with the analysis and, thus, validate the effectiveness of the proposed model.

Optimal sizing of stand-alone photovoltaic systems in residential buildings

Solar photovoltaic (PV) system is one of the matured solar-to-electricity conversion technologies with a great potential for residential applications. For wider adoption of PV systems, there is a need for an accurate sizing and economic assessment tool to inform decision makers. In this study, we propose a new optimization model based on integer programming for the adoption of stand-alone PV systems in the residential sector. The proposed model not only determines the optimal number of PV modules and batteries but also assesses the economic feasibility of the system through annualized cost. The model takes into account site-specific data in finding the optimal sizes. The effectiveness of the proposed model is assessed through a case study in Bursari, Nigeria. The result obtained from the model reveals that establishing a solar PV system is not only environmentally friendly but also about 30% cheaper than the diesel generators that are currently in use at Bursari. In particular, annually about 361 USD per residential building could be saved if the proposed system is used to replace the diesel generators. Finally, this study also provides valuable managerial insights about the effect of several parameters on the performance of the proposed PV system.

The Effect of Electricity Prices on Residential Solar Photovoltaic Panel Adoption: Fukushima as a Natural Experiment

There are a range of private financial benefits of residential solar photovoltaic (PV) installation, such as a reduced electricity bill, tax incentives and a feed-in tariff for generated electricity. To empirically analyze how rising electricity prices affect household adoption decisions, we use the 2011 Fukushima nuclear disaster as a natural experiment. The shutdown of nuclear power plants across Japan led to a sizable increase in electricity prices that varied by region, allowing us to identify the effect of electricity prices on household PV system adoption. We find that higher electricity prices are significantly more influential on PV adoption on existing homes than on newly-built homes. Our estimated electricity price elasticity of PV systems ranges from 0.9 to 1.2 for existing homes and is much smaller and statistically insignificant for newly-built homes. We discuss behavioral mechanisms explaining this difference and implications for policies stimulating residential adoption of renewables.