Economic evaluation and optimization of hybrid diesel/photovoltaic systems integrated to utility grids

An analytical approach to evaluate and to optimize the life cycle savings of hybrid diesel-photovoltaic plants is carried out. The life cycle savings is evaluated, considering one or more diesel generator sets, operating in different fixed power levels, with special attention to the case of high specific fuel cost. The condition under which optimum photovoltaic module area exists is analyzed. In the particular region of the northern part of Brazil, it is shown that there are several favorable conditions to implement photovoltaic generation, in the range of current electricity tariffs and diesel oil costs practiced in the market. 2003 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.