Economic Feasibility of PV Mounting Structures on Industrial Roofs

Abstract

This study determines the viability and profitability of photovoltaic (PV) mounting structures on industrial roofs. For this purpose, more than 656,000 different cases have been analyzed, combining different consumption patterns, energy prices, locations, inclinations, azimuths, capacity installed, and excess income. The results show that the industry’s consumption pattern is a key factor, leading to significant reductions in the available assembly budget for inclined structures compared to the coplanar option when the pattern is seasonal and/or irregular. The increase in energy prices experienced in the last 2 years represents a substantial change in the viability of the structures. The budget for inclined structures increases by hundreds of euros compared to the coplanar option. Depending on the azimuth and inclination of the roof, the maximum available budget can vary by more than a thousand euros per kWp, being highly profitable in orientations close to the east and west and on roofs partially inclined to the north. Differences between low-irradiation and high-irradiation locations can mean variations in the average budget of more than 1 k€/kWp, especially with high electricity prices.