Exploiting existing dams for solar PV system installations

摘要: Recognizing the issues of land shortage and growing concerns for protecting natural lands, installers project developers, with help scientists engineers, continuously try to locate alternative spots photovoltaic (PV) system installations. In present paper a novel approach is suggested analysed: installing solar PV systems on downstream face existing dams. This provides advantages that could favour even large-scale capacity several MWp. First, produced energy cover water reservoirs' needs supporting energy-intensive processes as pumping treatment in sustainable manner. Moreover, provision inhabited areas near dams subsequent creation independent mini grids mitigate poverty. case hydroelectric dams, so-created hybrid (PV-hydro) become notably efficient, because intermittent would be counterbalanced by flexibility hydropower. Finally, we found notable number reservoirs Africa are either under-utilized or non-powered. That unexploited potential can also amplified PV-system installation. The analysis included data collection from various sources. Datasets have been cross-checked extended newly created GIS-based model, enabling selection most suitable sites South Africa, taken studies. Following their identification, selected analysed using PVGIS tool order estimate annual production. results very encouraging, indicating an advantageous option renewable © 2015 Authors. Progress Photovoltaics: Research Applications published John Wiley & Sons Ltd.