Promoting sustainable infrastructure: a feasibility analysis of a utility-scale PV covered parking structure

Abstract

The growing demand for clean electricity production is driven by increased energy consumption, electricity rate volatility, and environmental policy changes that reflect a change in consumer preferences. The need for a more sustainable society presents a unique opportunity for educational institutions to help facilitate this change with the construction of environmentally friendly energy producing systems. The purpose of this research is to assess the feasibility of a utility-scale photovoltaic (PV) electricity generation system on Illinois State University's (ISU) campus. The potential power production from the PV system can be estimated through analysis of the climate information and utilising PV system modeling software. In this feasibility analysis, eight utility-scale PV systems were modeled and simulated to determine three optimal systems for the university. Implementing clean energy systems into educational institutions will also increase the general public's awareness about the societal shift towa...