THE VALUE OF ELECTRICITY FREED BY DISTRIBUTED SOLAR SYSTEMS
Abstract
Due to the rising cost of conventional energy sources such as coal, nuclear and oil, increased attention is now being paid to solar energy. This research is concerned with dispersed solar hot water and heating systems used on individual residences. Solar energy systems require backup energy which is usually supplied in the form of electricity. The main purpose of the research is to determine the value of electricity freed by the solar energy systems. To achieve this purpose, a model applicable to solar hot water or solar heating is developed which looks at the impacts of solar energy on an electric utility over a 20 year study period. The model explicitly considers uncertainty in electricity demand and peak load as well as uncertainty in the solar energy market penetration. At the heart of the model is a probability tree structure used to organize the elements of uncertainty. The modelling approach is this thesis considers the solar/utility system as an integrated whole rather than in fragmented parts. In order to test the model, it is translated into a computer program and a case study for solar hot water systems is performed on the Duke Power Company.
Degree
Ph.D.
Subject Area
Industrial engineering
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