The idea of photovoltaic parks represents a set of installations designed to convert solar energy into electricity using solar panels. It is currently a very important objective for the European Union.
They contribute to reducing carbon emissions and diversifying energy resources by providing renewable resources.
For a more thorough understanding, it is necessary to know a few things about the technology, optimal placement, and environmental impact. We will also discuss the economic and legislative implications.
What is a photovoltaic park?
A photovoltaic park is a facility that converts solar energy into electricity using solar panels. These devices consist of photovoltaic cells that use the photovoltaic effect to convert sunlight into electrical energy.
Types of photovoltaic parks
Depending on several criteria, there are several types of photovoltaic parks, which are structured according to size, technology, integration into the landscape, or destination.
In terms of size, photovoltaic parks are divided into small photovoltaic parks small (several tens of kWp), medium (several hundred kWp/several MWp) and large (tens or hundreds of MWp – gigawatt scale).
From a technological point of view, photovoltaic parks can consist of monocrystalline, polycrystalline and thin film.
To blend into the landscape, photovoltaic parks can be built on agricultural land agricultural, on roofs, on water or in industrial areas.
As a destination, photovoltaic parks can be connected to the national power grid or used for self-consumption (with or without a storage system).
How does a photovoltaic park work?
The functionality of a photovoltaic park involves a complex process of essential steps. In the first phase, solar panels convert sunlight into direct current (DC), which is then converted into alternating current (AC) by an inverter for use in the electrical grid. The energy can be consumed immediately or stored in batteries. Monitoring systems ensure real-time supervision of performance and production.
What are the benefits of a photovoltaic park?
Solar energy is the solution for a clean and sustainable energy future. Inexhaustible and clean, it far exceeds current global energy needs.
The only limitation is the efficiency and cost of converting it into electricity, aspects that are constantly improving.
Solar technologies are becoming increasingly accessible, offering a viable and environmentally friendly alternative for homes, businesses, and transportation, contributing to reduced carbon footprints and financial savings.
So, it reduces greenhouse gas emissions, is a renewable source, creates jobs, and provides long-term savings by reducing energy costs.
What types of panels are most effective for photovoltaic parks?
An essential aspect in park design is the choice of photovoltaic panel types, which can significantly influence the efficiency and profitability of the investment.
There are various types of panels available on the market, ranging from monocrystalline and polycrystalline models to thin-film panels.
Monocrystalline panels are made from a single silicon crystal, offering between 15% and 22% efficiency. Due to their small size, they are ideal for confined spaces.
On the other hand, polycrystalline panels are made of multiple silicon crystals, with slightly lower efficiency, between 13% and 16%, but are often more affordable.
When analyzing the initial costs of photovoltaic panels in relation to long-term savings, a major factor for differentiation in terms of budget can be observed.
There are also photovoltaic parks consisting of thin-film panels, which are made from materials such as cadmium telluride or amorphous silicon and have the advantage of being flexible and easy to install.
Although their efficiency is lower (between 10% and 12%), they can perform well in low light conditions and are less affected by high temperatures. In areas with varied climatic conditions, they are an attractive option.
What are the conditions for establishing a photovoltaic park?
- Feasibility study: Assessment of solar resources available at the proposed location, analysis of topography, weather conditions, and accessibility to the electricity grid;
- Obtaining the necessary permits and authorizations: Selecting the type of photovoltaic panels (monocrystalline, polycrystalline, etc.);
- Conducting the solution study: Developing detailed technical plans for the park, including panel placement, cabling, monitoring, and protection systems;
- Obtaining ATR: Requires technical documentation and compliance with safety and environmental standards;
What is the minimum area for a photovoltaic park?
The minimum area for a 1 MW photovoltaic park is between 1 and 1.4 hectares. This area varies depending on the morphology of the land and the density of the photovoltaic panels used.
However, there is no rule regarding the minimum regulated area for the installation of photovoltaic parks. The size of the area may depend on the following criteria:
- The higher the installed power (in kWp or MWp), the larger the area required will be;
- Different panels have different sizes and efficiencies;
- Uneven terrain will require a larger area than flat terrain for the same installed power;
- The optimal tilt angle varies depending on latitude and can influence the occupied area;
- A certain distance between panels is required for ventilation and maintenance access.
How much does a photovoltaic park cost?
The cost of installing a 1 megawatt (MW) photovoltaic park of photovoltaic panels in Romania ranges between €700,000 and €1,000,000. However, the cost may vary depending on the specifics of each project, as well as geographical diversity, land topography, and accessibility.
How much does a photovoltaic system produce?
If there are four hours of peak sunlight per day on average over the course of a year, a 1 MW park would produce up to 1,460 MWh per year. The output of a photovoltaic park can vary depending on the intensity of solar radiation, the angle and orientation of the panels, weather conditions (clouds), the quality and efficiency of the panels, and the geographical location.
See which photovoltaic panels are the most efficient.
1MW photovoltaic parks
How much does a 1 MW photovoltaic park produce? A photovoltaic park with a capacity of 1 megawatt (MW) can produce between 1,000 and 1,460 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity, depending on its geographical location.
Kilowatt-hour (kWh) refers to the amount of energy produced by the photovoltaic park in one hour.
Are you wondering how much money a 1 MW photovoltaic park generates? Installing a 1 MW (megawatt) photovoltaic park in southern Romania would generate an estimated gross income of 641,565 lei (128,960 euros) per year. This income is based on an average production of 1,345 kWh/kWp and an average energy price of 477 lei/MWh.
The investment can be recouped in about 10 years, taking into account the increase in energy prices. The lifespan of the panels is an important factor, as they are guaranteed to function for 25 years.
5MW photovoltaic parks
The annual production of a 5 MW system can reach a price/MW for own consumption of approximately €130, which would mean a saving of €889,720/year based on the current price of energy.
A price/MW injected into the grid of approximately €95 would result in revenue of €650,180/year from energy production.
With an investment of approximately €2,750,000, the investment would be amortized in three years in the business itself. Looking at the investment in energy sales, the investment would be amortized in four years.
The lifespan of a system of this level is 30 years with a profit on own consumption of 868% or a profit on energy sales of 685%.
