39. Photovoltaics and the Energy System: Adaptation of Layout and Load

In the foreseeable future sustainable electrical energy systems should be capable of handling 100 % renewable energy across electrical distribution grids. Due to the recent drop in the price of photovoltaic (PV) systems, PVs will play a major role in the global renewable energy portfolio. The technical implications of this energy transition from fossil fuels to renewables are manifold and will affect all sectors of electricity supply (generation, transmission, distribution, operation management), and consequently lead to a new system design. The major challenge facing the effective integration of PVs into the grid is variable generation as a result of positioning to the sun, weather conditions and load level. Here, we address generation issues by suggesting that PV power plants be adapted to load requirements to achieve peak power output during periods of high demand using azimuth and tilt angle modifications, thermal conditioning of PV modules, smart site selection and a combination of complementary energy sources. Moreover, we also address several possibilities regarding load management such as load shifting, inducements, load adaptation and appropriate market design. A brand new, non-technical method is to shift the holiday season; this has the potential to achieve the most effective results for a small cost within the shortest time period.