Design of a Photovoltaic System Connected to the Grid in the Engineering Faculty Facilities of the Technical University of Cotopaxi

Abstract

This research study quantified the amount of energy that a photovoltaic system connected to the grid can supply to the facilities of the engineering faculty of the Technical University of Cotopaxi, with the purpose of reducing the billing of the electric service.

In the study the global radiation was collected for the period of one year, data that helped determine the solar potential of the institution. The highest average irradiation was presented in November with a value of 5.4 kW∙h/(m²∙day) and maximum average irradiance of 931 W/m² at 1:00 pm.

The weekly demand for the facilities of the faculty of engineering was estimated with the Fluke 435 series II Analyzer, which recorded a maximum average power of 35.11 kW on Wednesday at 18:00 h. In addition, at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday where the highest irradiance was found, it measured an average value of 29.88 kW. The photovoltaic generator has 66 solar panels, whose installed capacity is 26.4 kW divided into two groups: 14.4 kW and 12 kW, respectively located on the roof of the building in a free area of 573.47 m². In this way, the system annually could deliver 30336 kW∙h to the institution, at the same time; avoid the emission of 18.42 tons of CO₂ per year.

Finally, in the financial study of the project with an investment of 83,290.88 USD, three scenarios were considered; the second being the best option, when the price of electricity is 0.6812 USD/kW∙h. This implies having an annual income of 21,078.37 USD, a net present value of 116,363.42 USD, internal rate of return of 24.07% and benefit/cost ratio of 2.28.