Grid-connected PV systems installed on institutional buildings: Technology comparison, energy analysis and economic performance

In this paper, a performance analysis and economical/environmental assessment of two grid-connected PV systems in Meknes (Morocco) were carried out and their real energy production was reported. The PV system installed in an institutional building, consisted of polycrystalline silicon (Poly-Si) and monocrystalline silicon (Mono-Si) solar cell technologies. The monthly average and annual performance parameters of the PV systems assessed include the total energy generated, final yield, capacity factor and overall system efficiency. It is found that, for the same rated capacity, Poly-Si modules have higher monthly total average final yield than Mono-Si modules. Generally, the installed PV systems in Meknes possess higher performance indicators compared to other regions in the world like Greece, Ireland, India, South-Africa and UAE. This study has also evaluated the levelized cost of electricity (LCOE), Payback time (PB) and annual avoided CO2 emissions for the two systems under investigation. The LCOE found to be in the range 0.073-0.082 $/kW h and PB found to be in the range 11.10-12.69 years for this analysis. Furthermore, it was shown that the installed PV systems have the potential of reducing approximately 5.01 tons of CO2 emission per year. (C) 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.