Performance Evaluation, Economic Assessment and Environmental Impact of a 134.55 kWp Grid Connected Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Power Plant in Palestine

Abstract

This research investigates the techno-economic elements of a 143.55 kWp solar photovoltaic (PV) system erected on the main building's rooftop at Palestine Technical University-Kadoorie (PTUK) in Tulkarm, Palestine. The system includes 414 PV panels that were monitored throughout 2019. The PVsyst software was used to design solar PV systems and determine the expected monthly energy production, final yield, and performance ratio based on climate information data that was derived from Metronome 8.0. In addition, the system's performance, and the PV power generated and supplied into the grid were compared to simulation results. The project's outcomes included an exceptional yearly energy output of 206.6 MWh, a normalized final system yield of 4.03 kWh/kWp/day, a performance ratio (P_R) of 79.6% and a capacity factor (C_F) of 16.8%. The economic analysis results are quite positive, indicating a great possibility for the widespread use of PV systems in Palestine. The system's payback period was determined to be 3.4 years, and the estimated levelized cost of energy is USD 0.03/kWh. Furthermore, the project is expected to minimize carbon emissions by 141.71 tons per year. These data highlight the benefits of using university roofs for PV system installations in Palestine, emphasizing the need to adopt this renewable energy source more extensively.