Performance Analysis of First Grid Connected PV Power Plant in Subtropical Climate of Pakistan

With the increasing penetration of both grid connected and standalone photovoltaic (PV) systems in Pakistan to cater the shortfall of energy, it is necessary to determine the performance and durability of already installed PV systems in different climates of country. This work aims to analyze the performance of first grid connected PV power plant located in Islamabad, Pakistan. The performance degradation of PV plants primarily depends on PV modules type (technology and design), regional climatic factors and field operating conditions. In this paper, performance ratio (PR) and degradation rate have been calculated from meteorological and performance data of plant to investigate the energy efficiency and modules quality over the course of operational years. Temperature losses due to module operating temperature were also estimated that primarily contribute to overall energy losses. This evaluation is of paramount importance for estimating the cost effect of the performance, identification of the underlying performance degradation and energy losses mechanisms, that help investors to choose climate specific modules technology and design for future plants and also to make efficient scheduling for preventive maintenance.