Performance of grid-connected photovoltaic systems on residences and commercial buildings in New England

The focus is a detailed examination of energy production, including a discussion of the capacity value of photovoltaic (PV) systems in New England. Data are presented on the customer demand reduction potential of roof-mounted residential PV systems. It is shown that these systems can contribute, on average, 63% of their normalized capacity (1.8 kW) during 6-h peak load periods. The range of output is 34% to 80% during these periods. Reverse energy flow (customer to utility) from residential PV systems has been analyzed. The data indicate nonzero reverse energy flow for almost all participants in summer, and high amounts (approximately 50%) for one group of participants. The commercial and institutional PV systems generally operate in a more hostile electrical environment. In consequence, they have required more attention to maintain operating status and metering accuracy