Comparative Evaluation of New Low-Cost Array Field Designs for Grid-Connected Photovoltaic Systems

摘要

New array field designs which have been developed to minimize the balance-of-system (BOS) cost for grid-connected photovoltaic (PV) systems are examined. Previous experience with intermediate-size systems experiments has shown the array field BOS to be a major cost contributor to PV systems, with BOS costs in the range of $5/W/sub p/ and up. These new designs which are appropriate for both intermediate and large-size ground-mounted flat plate arrays have significantly reduced the BOS cost. Key features of the array field BOS components including structures, foundations, intermodule connection, field wiring, and system grounding are identified for each design. Cost projections as well as cost experience on prototype and full-scale installations are presented and compared. It is concluded that $0.50/W/sub p/ for the array field BOS is achievable for large - size systems. (ERA citation 09:032863)