Techno-economic and environmental analysis of PV power plants in Northern Cyprus

摘要

The objective of this paper is to examine techno-economical and environmental feasibility of 1 MW grid connected solar photovoltaic (PV) power plant at three different cities of Northern Cyprus (NC). Long term solar radiation and sunshine duration data for Nicosia, Morphou and Rizokarpaso, are considered and analyzed to assess the distribution of solar radiation, sunshine duration, air temperature and humidity. Also the compatibility of meteorological parameters in NC with the safety operating conditions of PV modules is determined. In addition, two different solar panel mounting systems, fixed panels with 35° and two axis solar tracking system, are compared. The project viability analysis is performed using RETScreen version 4.0 software through electric energy production analysis, financial analysis, and green house gas (GHG) emission analysis. It is found that all of the sites considered through this study are feasible for a 1 MW solar PV power plant investment. However, Morphou offers highest profitability, energy production and GHG emission reduction. On the other hand, it is also observed that economical and environmental feasibility of these investments increases if two axis tracking system is used rather than mounting solar collectors on a fixed structure. Finally, the preliminary economic analysis recommends the implementation of PV technology in NC.