Estimation of Load Behaviour, Insulation Capacity and Designing an Optimal Photovoltaic System for Residential Consumption

Abstract

Harvesting energy from renewable sources could assist carbon emission reduction, limiting global warming and mitigate the growing energy demand. The research was set out to estimate the load behaviour, insulation capacity and design an optimal photovoltaic (PV) system for residential consumption, and to carry out an environmental techno-economic analysis of the PV system using cash flow analysis and environmental impact analysis using standard methods. In this research, a Solar PV net capacity of 1,839 kWh was achieved for residential building with total energy consumption of 3258 kWatt-year and the remaining load generated from the grid, due to the limitation posed by roof space. The system was designed for optimal solar energy generation and economic performance such as capital cost, net present value, internal rate of return (considering fuel escalation) and the overall cash flow on investment was established. An estimate of CO₂ emissions prevention was conducted to determine and evaluate the environmental impact of the system.  Result showed that investing in a renewable energy alternative such as Solar PV yields comparative economic benefit.