Showing papers on "Grid parity published in 1996"

Influence of photovoltaic power generation on required capacity for load frequency control

Abstract: We developed a mathematical model to evaluate the impact of small (rooftop) photovoltaic (PV) power-generating stations on economic and performance factors for a larger scale power system, and applied this model to the Tokyo metropolitan area. We used solar radiation data from five local meteorological stations to estimate both the individual and aggregate contributions of the projected PV stations to the local power grid. We found that an electrical power system containing a 10% contribution from PV stations would require a 2.5% increase in load frequency control (LFC) capacity over a conventional system. The break-even cost for PV power generation was found to be relatively high for contribution levels of less than 10%. Higher proportions of PV power generation gave lower break-even costs, but economic and LFC considerations imposed an upper limit of about 10% on PV contributions to the overall power systems.

Unlocking the grid [electricity industry restructuring]

Abstract: If the ideas of electricity as a product and its transport as a service are separated, consumers can be given a choice among competing generators. So how can consumers choose suppliers? The authors answer this question by considering the four main points of electricity industry restructuring. The first is the question of who can sell what to whom, or, how much competition is necessary to ensure that the competitive market benefits the electric power sector as a whole. Second, what rules should govern the wholesale power market and bilateral trades (how the transmission system should be controlled and priced). Third is the issue of ownership. Decisions need to be made as to which functions must be operated separately because of market power concerns or conflicts of interest. Fourth is managing the transition.

Application potential of solar and mini-hydro energy sources in rural electrification

Abstract: Renewable energy sources are increasingly being considered as viable alternatives to conventional supply systems, in the provision of electricity to isolated communities, especially in the rural areas. Traditionally, rural loads are supplied from either stand-alone diesel power stations or via grid extensions. Such sources are sometimes not cost-effective due to the high fuel and maintenance costs of diesel stations, as well as, long distances from the grid to the loads. Provision of electricity to rural areas is considered uneconomical by many utility companies, because of the low consumption and poor load factors. On the other hand, renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind and mini-hydro, are suitable for supplying small loads operating independently. Also, they are, in most cases, available in abundance in rural areas. The main disadvantage of such sources is the initially high capital costs of the energy conversion equipment, and the variable power output. However, if appropriately applied individually or in combination, renewable energy sources have the potential to be cost-effective sources for some of the rural loads. An assessment of mini-hydro and solar energy sources shows that the energy unit cost decreases with increasing load factor, and it is lower for the mini-hydro sources. In areas where grid supply is uneconomical or not available, mini-hydro sources can be used to supply groups of households, while solar energy sources are more suitable for supplying individual households.

A fresh look at space solar power

Abstract: Studies of systems (circa 1978-1981) to provide solar power from space for terrestrial use defined very large, geostationary Earth orbit (GEO) satellite concepts that-given massive initial government investments and extremely low cost space launch-might have led to power production at costs only somewhat higher than expected commercial prices. These studies of space solar power (SSP) succeeded in establishing technical feasibility. Shortly after the completion of the 1970s study, however, US funding came to an abrupt and seemingly permanent halt-in part because projected costs for the reference system were staggering: well in excess of $100B to achieve the first commercial kilowatt-hour of power. SSP has seen sporadic study and limited experimentation during the past decade (e.g., in Japan). Still, no existing SSP concept has engendered private development. New technologies now make possible concepts and approaches that suggest that SSP economic feasibility may be achievable early in the next century. In 1995, NASA's Advanced Concepts Office initiated a study taking a fresh look at innovative concepts for SSP that differ markedly from previously examined concepts, addressing innovative system architectures, markets and technologies that could radically reduce initial and operational costs. This paper explores the issues associated with SSP and summarizes the results to date of NASA's "fresh look" at this important and increasingly timely field of space applications.

Lunar-solar power system

Abstract: Solar power must become the primary source of commercial power for everyone in the world to achieve the same high standard of living. A power system is needed that is independent of Earth's biosphere and provides abundant energy at low cost. To do this mankind must collect dependable solar power in space and reliably send it to receivers on Earth. The Moon is the key. Here, the author details the needs, concept, challenges and pay-offs of a lunar-solar power system.

A learning curve approach to projecting cost and performance in thin film photovoltaics

Abstract: The current cost of electricity generated by PV power is still extremely high with respect to utility power and there remain questions as to whether PV power can ever be competitive with electricity generated by fossil fuels. A previous paper by the authors supplied an objective framework for considering this important question and introduced analytical tools to define and project the technical/economic status of PV power through the year 2010. In this paper, we update this previous work in the context of the announcements by Amoco/Enron Solar of projected sales of PV power in 1997 at rates considerably less than the US average.

A Scenario for the Expansion of Solar and Wind Generated Electricity in Australia

Abstract: This article examines the opportunities for, and barriers to, the expansion of the production and use of Australian solar and wind electricity generation systems. Australia has large solar and wind resources. It also has one of the world's largest near-term (5–15 years) domestic markets for solar electricity generation systems. This market comprises the displacement of diesel fuel used to generate electricity in remote towns, farms, outstations and mining camps. There is also a vast potential export market in the Asia and Pacific regions. In addition, grid-connected windpower is already economically competitive with medium-scale hydro-electricity in Tasmania and is close to competitiveness with medium-scale coal-fired electricity in Western Australia. Some of the barriers to a more rapid development of solar and wind generated electricity are cross-subsidies to rural users of grid electricity and diesel fuel; failure to include the environmental, social and health costs of fossil fuels in their prices; po...

Photovoltaics of the Neunburg vorm Wald solar hydrogen project

Abstract: Electric power to supply the water electrolysers installed in the solar hydrogen facility at Neunburg vorm Wald, Germany, is generated in two photovoltaic (PV) power systems with a combined module power rating of 277 kWp. Since they were commissioned in January 1990, operation of the PV systems has been accompanied by a test programme. To date, both PV systems have fulfilled expectations with regard to utilisation factor and reliability. Based on these experiences six further developed PV systems were installed at the end of 1993/beginning of 1994.

Private Power Development in India [Asian and Australian Power Policy]

Abstract: electricity markets of the Asia-Pacific region to further their business growth. Some are achieving credible successes in this region. In order to realize the full potential of competition in the electricity market, it is necessary that there be complementary reforms in the gas industry. Gas competes with electricity in meeting customer’s thermal energy needs. Advances in gas turbine technology are now such that gas is becoming competitive with Australia’s low-cost coal resources for electricity generation. In addition, increasing global concerns over the greenhouse emissions favor gas as an alternative source of energy. A competitive market in gas will encourage investment in development of gas resources and technology and gas plant contributing to an efficient energy industry. The forces of competition, technology development, and of the environmental imperatives are combining to dramatically affect how energy is supplied and used. These forces will have strong policy implications for the energy industry in the pursuit of increasing Australia’s international competitiveness and prosperity. Competition reforms, efficiency improvements, and investment in technology development have positioned the Australian electricity industry to meet the challenges of markets looking increasingly for sustainable energy solutions.

Design and analysis of a simpler DC to AC power transfer circuit for residential size photovoltaic panels

Abstract: The evolution of photovoltaic (PV) based power generation systems for residential applications has been hindered by the high cost required to operate in a nonisolated mode with respect to the electric power grid. The inverter-type circuits used by some utilities to interface PV energy with the AC power grid are prohibitively expensive for residential use. Thus, in residential applications, the energy conversion potential and cost savings potential of the PV system are never fully realized. The storage of PV energy in batteries is a step toward enhanced utilization of PV energy but is still an isolated mode operation. The basic power transfer circuit described in this paper provides a simple, cost-effective means of interfacing PV panels with the electric utility in relatively low power residential applications. The residential PV panel will therefore operate in a nonisolated mode and function as a generator on the electric grid which will result in a decrease in net power consumption and a corresponding reduction in electric utility costs. Nonisolated operation of residential PV energy conversion systems through the use of a power transfer circuit will result in a reduction in system payback time as well as decreased use of finite supply fossil fuels and the harmful emissions resulting from their combustion.

Correlation between wind and solar energy availability and demand for electricity in Montana

Abstract: This paper reports on the correlation between wind and solar energy availability and the demand for electricity in Montana. Following the suggestions of utility technical personnel the analysis focuses on using renewable resources for distributed generation in two types of applications: renewable generation connected to substations where the load is of the order of MW, or to individual loads in the kW range. For distributed generation in the MW range four sites were selected, based on their different patterns of seasonal renewable resource availability and electric demand. To study individual loads in the kW range, a ranching operation was selected as representative of potential application of renewables at the end of rural feeders. Because in many Montana locations wind power density peaks during winter complementing solar power density peaking in summer the potential benefits of one type of renewable generation, wind or solar, was compared with a combination of wind and solar generation. In all cases renewable generation will decrease the peak loading on the electric feeders connecting either the substations or the individual load to the network. A combination of wind and solar generation will decrease the peak further than one type of renewable generation alone, thereby increasing themore » load factor on the feeders. It is also shown that distributed combined wind and solar generation provides energy to the grid when the demand on the network is the highest; therefore giving electric energy from renewables energy an additional energy deferral value.« less

Technology progress in solar thermal power generation

Abstract: The sun radiates endless energy to the earth. Though the solar radiation reachingthe earth's surface changes with the table and weather, which brings some difficulties to utilization of solar energy I solar energy is abundant and easily available,and there is no need to pay anyenvironment cost for use of it. These advantagies, at which the conventional energies can notmatch ie, are bound to make it a kind of the global important enerdies in 21st century. This papergives an overview of the development of solar thermal power generation plants, the solar thermalpower stations combined with use of natural gas) and the chemical storage energy system for thesolar thermal power station.Some significant progresses in this field is covered as well.

Wind energy as a significant source of electricity for the United States

Abstract: This paper discusses wind energy and its potential to significantly impact the generation of electricity within the US. The principles and the equipment used to convert wind energy to electricity are described, as is the status of current technology. Markets and production projections are given. There is discussion of the advances required to reduce the selling cost of electricity generated from the wind from today`s price of about $0.05 per kilowatt-hour to full cost-competitiveness with gas- and coal-based electricity.

Competitive power and fresh water for arid coastal regions

Abstract: A novel method of utilizing the solar energy striking the ocean surface to generate both electric power and fresh water simultaneously, is described. The method modifies an existing patent in a manner that significantly reduces installation costs and permits a greatly expanded customer base. The key elements of the concept are presented, together with very preliminary calculations of anticipated outputs and potential revenues that might be derived from a typical installation. These indicate that the concept is commercially viable.