Decentralized PV systems in Sweden
Techno-economic analysis with a case study of Stockholm
Time: Thu 2025-05-15 09.30
Location: Kollegiesalen, Brinellvägen 8, Stockholm
Video link: https://kth-se.zoom.us/j/68360743311
Language: English
Subject area: Energy Technology
Doctoral student: Tianqi Ruan , Kraft- och värmeteknologi
Opponent: Professor Thomas Olofsson, Department of Applied Physics and Electronics, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
Supervisor: Professor Björn Laumert, Kraft- och värmeteknologi
Abstract
Photovoltaic (PV) systems could be a promising option for accelerating sustainable transition in the power sector. However, it is not straightforward to implement solar PV in Sweden. While the huge gap between current and desired solar capacity generates great opportunities for solar PV technologies, the challenges arise regarding accurate performance prediction, optimization of sizing and installation, optimization for high latitude regions and integration with other technologies. This study focuses on a multi-dimensional probe into the potential and feasibility of PV systems in Sweden with a case study of Stockholm. The techno-economic potential of PV systems is evaluated regarding weather, space, infrastructure, operation configuration and economics. The results reveal the technical and economic feasibility of PV systems in Swedish contexts, despite limitations on existing infrastructure. The research highlights the significant PV generation loss due to snow conditions. The annual electricity generation loss is found to be 14.7%, which is greater than most prior research findings. Regarding this significant snow loss, bifacial PV can reduce snow-induced PV generation losses by up to 6 percentage points under heavy snow conditions. It also outperforms monofacial PV with lower levelized cost of electricity (LCoE) and shorter payback year in Sweden. Wall-mounted PV could also be an alternative. Compared to fixed-tilt PV, wall-mounted PV can achieve comparable annual benefits due to higher generation during the snow season when the electricity price is rather high. Future projections indicate an anticipated increase in PV generation by approximately 5% compared to historical periods. The change in PV generation is expected to be relatively minor during future periods, with an estimated variation of less than 30 kWh/kWp by 2100. Additionally, an optimal tilt angle has been determined for Sweden, applicable across all cities, which could enhance PV generation by 3-6% compared to the common installation angle.