A Simple Selection Method of PV Systems for University Campuses

Abstract

This paper briefly outlines part of the research work being carried out on the application of the photovoltaic systems to cover universities electrical energy needs, with due consideration to the technical, architectural, economic, social and legal aspects and impacts of this application. The paper considers optimizing the PV system selection objectives and methodology with a case study application.The main objective here is to develop a practical simple method of selecting an optimum PV system that gives the maximum energy yield possible in a certain period of one year, with the minimum specific energy cost per kwh, where a multiple-variable multi-criteria decision making method is applied, to help designers and system engineers in selecting the optimum system. The developed method is demonstrated in an example of a typical case.The work concludes that a viable PV application is feasible, encouraging its application in various campuses provided that a comprehensive planning and careful considerations are given to the related aspects.