PV dispatchability and intermittency: Potential limitations to PV growth, and critical strategies

The level of PV installations is rapidly approaching >;35 GW worldwide. Conventional wisdom is that the need for renewables will continue the drive to increased PV implementation. However, there are several key points of concern which are now developing which may limit the expansion of PV and need to be addressed. The following issues may begin to limit the sustained PV growth: (1) as PV and renewables reach a significant level of energy generation, at what point will the Utilities not be accepting the inputs for various reasons, (2) if the grid is not accepting the PV power input then what is the impact on the FIT models of revenue generation, (3) at what level is the “dispatchability” requirement a major factor in determination of the PV choice, (4) what are the best strategies for storage and what are the current developments particularly for CSP (Concentrated Solar Power), as well as more standard approaches more suitable to PV. This paper examines key developing trends across the globe where the issues of PV supply may be impacted by larger considerations such as the grid availability. The ultimate goal of baseline energy from PV requires addressing intermittency, dispatchability and storage. A survey of storage is provided with a focus on CSP options. The relative cost considerations of the different solar approaches are examined. The aspect of grid “readiness” for acceptance is also examined with case studies. Market research analysis is developed looking at the specifics of dispatchability, regional grid issues, and storage. Quantitative comparisons for different solar approaches and wind are presented. Learning from the wind sector is highlighted as it is ~10× that of PV. Specific strategies are developed and discussed in the context of preparation for acceleration of solar as a power source.