Optimal Residential Solar Photovoltaic Capacity in Grid Connected Applications

Microgeneration using solar photovoltaic systems is becoming increasingly popular in residential households as such systems allow households to use a renewable energy source, while also reducing their reliance on the electricity grid, to fulfill their electricity demand. In this study, we explore the attractiveness of PV microgeneration systems of different capacities in the absence of incentives and net metering options and under both flat and variable tariff scenarious. Smaller systems that are below 1 kW in capacity are more attractive under such conditions, however, at current cost levels, they still remain economically unattractive. The cost levels which allow for these PV systems to be economically viable are also determined.