Techno-Economic Analysis of Grid-Connected PV Power Plants in Different Zones of Egypt

Abstract

The industrial sector plays a crucial role in driving the economic progress of nations. However, Egypt's ongoing energy crisis stands as a formidable barrier hindering its path to economic growth and development. The utilization of diesel generators as a dependable backup power source in numerous industrial and commercial settings during periods of load shedding significantly escalates the cost per kilowatt-hour (kWh) of energy and contributes to environmental emissions. Grid-connected photovoltaic (PV) plants contribute to elevating the proportion of solar energy within the power grid, thereby mitigating environmental emissions. This study conducts a comprehensive analysis of a 1.4-kW grid-connected PV system installed in Dokii, Cairo, Egypt. Through meticulous examination of metrics such as energy injection into the grid, payback period, and reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, the study provides a holistic evaluation from technical, economic, and environmental standpoints. Findings reveal an annual average daily electrical energy production of 6.87 kWh/day, culminating in an approximate annual total of 2507.69 kWh/year. Financial analysis underscores the system's substantial long-term benefits, with a calculated payback period of approximately 6.4 years. Moreover, validation of simulation results through the utilization of PVsyst software, compared against data from an operational 1.4-kW PV solar system in Dokii, demonstrates a notable concurrence between actual and simulated performance. To attract government and investor interest in PV solar projects, we conducted a comprehensive study involving technical, economic, and environmental analyses for a large-scale 1-megawatt grid-connected PV plant in Ras El Hekma and Sohag using simulation software.