Potential contribution of solar energy towards electrical peak demands in South-East Queensland

Abstract

Given, heavy diurnal electricity peak demands causing high volatility in electricity prices, this study shows evident economic benefit in assigning part of diurnal loads to photovoltaic and solar water heating systems. Besides covering demand peaks, the solar system – being located on site – offers the advantage of avoiding transmission losses and voltage drops throughout the network. Life-time cost calculations for solar kWh indicate the ability of the solar system to provide competitive prices to cover demand peaks. The project incorporates a 1kW (peak-power) grid-connected photovoltaic and an evacuated tube solar water heater SWH. The unit represents an initial technical and economic assessment of the technology at local conditions. The results quantify the power able to be waived by using solar systems in Queensland. It is advisable to consistently join photovoltaic (PV) equipment with solar water heaters in order to ensure the PV electricity is not being used to supply thermal loads.