Alternative non-optimal orientations in highly PV self-consumption integration: Exploring Spanish prosumers as a case study

The urgency to mitigate the greenhouse effect and achieve sustainable production systems is driving the exploration of novel clean energy options. Indeed, some European nations are currently undergoing an energy transition characterized by a growing emphasis on renewable energy sources, with a particular focus on promoting the adoption of self-consumption photovoltaic systems. Among these, solar energy stands out as a particularly promising candidate due to its inherent lack of pollution. However, Photovoltaic (PV) energy is generally not considered a dispatchable resource due to its inherent limitations, including seasonal and daily fluctuations in output, as well as dependence on weather conditions. Therefore, and aiming to ensure that PV installations from prosumers on the distribution grid receive fair compensation for the value they provide to the system, reimbursement mechanisms should be designed to reflect the dynamic value of their electricity production. Under this framework, this paper describes and assesses the trade-off between annual economic profits and potential reductions in electricity generation by estimating the most appropriate PV installation orientations. To analyze future power systems with potentially high PV integration into households, different real PV installations representing current Spanish prosumer profiles are included as case study, assessing 2640 different generation profiles. Indeed, Spain exemplifies a remarkable case study in the widespread adoption of photovoltaic (PV) systems over the past few decades. This surge can be attributed to the relative ease of installation and competitive pricing of PV technology. Notably, the installed capacity of PV power in Spain has witnessed impressive growth, expanding by nearly 30% in the past year alone. Results provide numerous benefits for such specific non-optimal orientations. These findings, confirmed after a full year of operation, include an increase in annual economic benefits in spite of a lower energy production compared to the optimal-producing orientation.