Trade-off between environmental and economic implications of PV systems integrated into the UAE residential sector

PV technology offers clean resource and environmental advantages over fossil-fuel-based electricity generation; however, it remains more expensive than conventional technology in most grid-connected applications. The trade-off between environmental and economic parameters represents a challenge for governments. The objectives of this study are: firstly, to review studies in relation to the use of PV systems in the Gulf region and secondly, to assess the trade-off between environmental and economic parameters that influence the value of building integrated photovoltaic (BiPV) technology applied into the UAE building sector. This work examines residential buildings and concludes that the economic viability of BiPV systems is subject to capital cost, system efficiency and electricity tariff. To be a cost-effective option in the UAE, subsidies for PV investments and reasonable electricity tariff must be implemented. It is suggested that BiPV systems offer cost reductions in both energy and economic terms over centralised PV plants, especially if the costs of saved operating energy and avoided building materials are taken into account. Each square meter of BiPV is capable of making a significant reduction in CO2 emissions generated by conventional power plants. This will limit the impact of global warming on the UAE and others.