Techno-economic performance analysis of grid-tied solar PV systems under tropical savanna climatic conditions in Kenya

Abstract

The contribution of solar PV to the electricity generation in Kenya was approximately 3.6% as of June 2021. The challenges for low utilising were associated with limited information on the potential opportunities and economic benefits. The objective of this study was to conduct a techno-economic performance of PV systems in Kenya. The methodology involved a case analysis of four grid-tied PV systems installed at Strathmore University. The meteorological data were collected from the weather station, located within 300 metres from the power plant. The electrical parameters were captured by the SolarEdge monitoring system. The performance of the systems was assessed based on two scenarios. Scenario one was on the same fixed tilt angle but different orientation while second scenario consisted of same orientations but different tilt angle. The results indicated a performance ratio and levelized cost of energy (LCOE) of 68% and US$0.17 respectively. The model developed indicates that an increase in relative humidity decreases power output of PV system. The results provide clear evidence of the technical and economic viability of PV technology in tropical savanna climatic conditions and contributes to better understanding of the status and prospects for PV systems uptake in Kenya.