Design of a photovoltaic solar plant: Distributed generation in medium tension to a bar of the electricity substation

Abstract

Usage of not conventional and renewable energy sources (NCRE), as photovoltaic plants, to generate electricity and self-consumption of residential areas, shops and industry, is known as distributed generation. The present research aims to design a photovoltaic solar plant of 1.5 MW to be ground mounted. It will be interconnected with the bar of the substation of the local distributer of electricity in medium tension. The project is explained from its beginning, including site description of the terrain chosen, solar irradiation data, distribution and inclination of solar panels, electrical connexion among the panels, and inter-connection with the local distributer. The calculated production of the planned solar plant would be near 2.5 million of kWh, having taken into account the technical loss of energy in about 3.5 % including all loss sources. Finally, economic study has been carried out to obtain a return period for the investment of only two years, with an estimated profit, in the 20 years of the solar plant life, of about 15 million USD. In conclusion, it is possible technical and economically to invest in this solar plant, but it would be also desirable for ecological and social reasons.