Viability analysis of 10 MW PV plant in Turkey

Abstract

This project examines economically and environmentally feasible places in Turkey to build a 10 MW PV-grid connected solar photovoltaic power plant. Long term solar radiation and sunshine duration data for twenty different sites are considered and analyzed to assess the distribution of solar radiation, sunshine duration, air temperature and humidity. Also the compatibility of meteorological parameters in Turkey with the safety operating conditions of PV modules is determined. In addition, two different solar panel mounting systems, fixed panels with 35 degrees and two axis solar tracking system, are compared. In addition, Green House Gas (GHG) mitigations due to PV plant installation are investigated. Energy production analysis, financial analysis and GHG emission analysis are carried out by RETScreen version 4.0 software. It is found that all of the cities considered through this study are feasible for a 10 MW solar PV power plant investment. However, Adana offers highest profitability, energy production and GHG emission reduction. On the other hand, it is also observed that economic and environmental feasibility of these investment increases remarkably if two axis tracking system is used rather than mounting solar collectors on a fixed structure.