The first installation under the Italian PV Rooftop Programme: A performance analysis referred to 11 years of operation

Energy and cost assessment of solar photovoltaic (PV) electricity, justified by the economic competition between energy sources, is strongly related to reliable long-term systems performances and actual O&M costs. In this sense, the pilot PV plant at Politecnico di Milano represents the first installation under the national PV Rooftops Programme of Ministry of Environment in Italy and plays a significant role in respect of the promotion and development of photovoltaic technology. The study and the design were made in detail not only to improve system productivity and efficiency, but also in respect of its visibility to illustrate a good example of the integration of photovoltaic into buildings. After eleven years of its operation, the measured data and parameters represent an important benchmark to analyze real benefit and reliability of PV technology.