Techno-economic feasibility analysis of 1 MW photovoltaic grid connected system in Oman

TLDR

Solar photovoltaic panels in Oman face cost, policy, and technical challenges, yet a grid‑connected PV system could reduce peak load and supply alternative energy to meet the country’s growing demand. The study numerically determines the optimal configuration for a 1 MW grid‑connected PV plant in Adam city. Hourly real‑time data from the site drive a simulation that evaluates both technical performance and economic feasibility. The assessment shows the site is highly promising, with an annual yield factor of 1875.1 kWh/kWp, a 21.7 % capacity factor, and a cost of energy of about 0.226 USD/kWh, indicating economic viability.

Abstract

Solar photovoltaic panels (PV) face many challenges in the Sultanate of Oman. These challenges include costs, policy and technical development. With the growing needs of the Sultanate in the energy sector, Grid Connected PV (GCPV) system could help in reducing peak load demand and offer an alternative energy source. This study aims to numerically discover the optimal configuration for a 1 MW GCPV plant in Adam city. Real time data, on hour-by-hour basis, from the location are used to ensure highest accuracy. The simulation not only is set for technical evaluation but economic as well. Investment in GCPV technology needs a bigger push both by research, development and policy. The assessment results show that the PV technology investment is very promising in this site whereas the annual yield factor of the system is 1875.1 kW h/kW p. Meanwhile, the capacity factor of the proposed system is 21.7%. The cost of energy found for the plant is around 0.2258 USD/kW h which is economically feasible and shows great promise.