Assessment of the Techno-Economic Potential of Solar Power Systems in Residential Buildings in Gilan Province
Mir Hamed Hakemzadeh
1
(
Researcher, Department of Environmental Engineering, Environmental Research Institute, Academic Center for Education Culture & Research (ACECR), Rasht, Iran
)
Shahram Sharifi
2
(
Assistant Prof, Department of Regional Studies, Environmental Research Institute, Academic Center for Education Culture & Research (ACECR), Rasht, Iran
)
mohammad reza golriz eram sadati
3
(
Researcher, Department of Environmental Engineering, Environmental Research Institute, Academic Center for Education Culture & Research (ACECR), Rasht, Iran
)
Maryam Haghighi
4
(
Assistand Professor, Department of Water Monitoring, Environmental Research Institute, Academic Center for Education Culture & Research (ACECR), Rasht, Iran
)
morteza karimi
5
(
Researcher, Department of Water Monitoring, Environmental Research Institute, Academic Center for Education Culture & Research (ACECR), Rasht, Iran
)
seyyed javad mousavi
6
(
Assistand Professor, Department of Environmental Engineering, Environmental Research Institute, Academic Center for Education Culture & Research (ACECR), Rasht, Iran
)
Keywords: Renewable energy, Solar energy, Photovoltaic power plants, Techno-economic evaluation, Greenhouse gas emissions,
Abstract :
The growing energy demand, the need to reduce fossil fuel dependency, and the global transition to renewable energy have made solar photovoltaic (PV) systems a viable option for electricity generation in Gilan Province, Iran. However, due to the region’s climatic conditions and limited solar radiation for much of the year, no comprehensive techno-economic study has assessed the feasibility of PV systems for residential electricity supply. This study evaluates the technical and economic viability of solar PV systems in Gilan, aiming to provide sustainable energy, reduce environmental impacts, and assess cost-effectiveness for residential applications. NASA climatic data and PVsyst software were used to simulate system performance under three scenarios: (1) off-grid systems, (2) grid-connected systems with battery storage, and (3) grid-connected systems without batteries. The findings indicate that off-grid systems and grid-connected systems with batteries are not economically feasible due to high storage costs and low electricity tariffs. In contrast, grid-connected systems without battery storage are economically viable, considering system longevity and lower operating expenses. Among the counties studied, Rudbar exhibits the highest technical and economic potential, with optimal solar radiation of 2166 kWh/m², making it the most suitable location for PV system deployment in residential buildings. These results provide valuable insights for policymakers and investors to promote renewable energy development in Gilan Province, contributing to regional sustainability and long-term energy independence