研究目的
To address the economic profitability of photovoltaic (PV) systems for residential customers under different demand charge tariffs, by evaluating various economic parameters such as internal rate of return, net present value, payback period, and profitability index for different building types and PV system sizes.
研究成果
Under demand charge tariffs, PV systems are not economically justified for residential customers, as all economic parameters (payback period >20-30 years, NPV negative or low, IRR ≤4%, PI <1) indicate loss-making investments. Smaller PV systems are slightly less unprofitable than larger ones. The suitability varies by building type and state, with no clear universal benefit.
研究不足
The study assumes a 30-year lifetime for PV systems and ignores maintenance costs, which may underestimate total expenses. Results are sensitive to electricity tariffs and may not generalize to other regions or building types. The economic analysis is purely financial and does not consider environmental benefits.
1：Experimental Design and Method Selection:
The study uses EnergyPlus software for building energy simulation to model energy consumption and PV system performance. Economic analysis is conducted using parameters like payback period, net present value, internal rate of return, and profitability index.
2：Sample Selection and Data Sources:
Three residential building types (two-story wood frame, one-story concrete block, one-story wood frame) are selected as case studies. Data for validation are extracted from previous studies by Arababadi and Parrish.
3：List of Experimental Equipment and Materials:
EnergyPlus software is used for simulation. PV systems of sizes 2 kW to 7 kW are considered, with costs and rebates based on surveys from solar companies.
4：Experimental Procedures and Operational Workflow:
Buildings are modeled in EnergyPlus with inputs like geometry, climate conditions, and thermal characteristics. Energy consumption and PV production are simulated hourly and annually. Economic parameters are calculated based on electricity bills from two utility price plans (state A and state B) with demand charges.
5：Data Analysis Methods:
Statistical indicators (NMBE and CVRMSE) from ASHRAE Guideline 14 are used for model validation. Economic parameters are analyzed to assess profitability.
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