Guidelines for the Economic Evaluation of Building-Integrated Photovoltaic Power Systems
Eiffert, P.
2003 International Energy Agency PVPS Task 7:Photovoltaic Power Systems in the BuiltEnvironment, National Renewable Energy Laboratory, BechtelContract No. DE-AC36-99-GO10337, NREL/TP-550-31977
Eiffert, P., (2003), "Guidelines for the Economic Evaluation of Building-Integrated Photovoltaic Power Systems", International Energy Agency PVPS Task 7:Photovoltaic Power Systems in the BuiltEnvironment, National Renewable Energy Laboratory, BechtelContract No. DE-AC36-99-GO10337, NREL/TP-550-31977.
Abstract:
his report identifies the economic parameters of building-integrated PV (BIPV) systems. Theguidelines are structured in three major parts: the investment analysis (methods and ownershipissues), benefits, and costs. Measurement and verification are also discussed briefly.The outline and evaluation of investment analysis methods showed their effectiveness for BIPVsystems. All investment methods can be used to evaluate BIPV economics (in relation to other techniques). However, for designing and sizing BIPV systems, either net present value or lifecycle cost is recommended because BIPV tends to have increased net benefits and leads toreduced life cycle costs.The criteria for cost effectiveness depend on the investment decision maker. The most likelydecision maker is the long-term owner-occupant, who is best positioned to reap the benefits of acapital-intensive BIPV system with low operating costs.The advantages of BIPV systems include multiple (building) functions, electricity benefits, grid-support benefits, control of load growth by utilities (institutionalized by utility and nationalincentives and programs), demand savings, power quality and reliability, promotional andeducational benefits, environmental benefits, shading and thermal benefits, and security. Eachtopic is addressed, and international examples are given for most.The costs of BIPV systems depend on the system technology, utility interconnection costs, labor and installation costs, associated costs for building permits, maintenance costs, costs for replacement and repair, and the salvage costs (or value). Each topic is addressed, andinternational examples are given for most.The international BIPV market is diverse and rapidly developing, so no general quantitative datacould be presented of its costs and benefits. However, this report reflects an extensive list of valuable data addressing all possible economic factors relevant for an economic analysis. Thereport can be used as a guideline to perform an economic analysis of BIPV systems.
This publication in whole or part may be found online at: here.
