Avoided cost benefits of PV on diesel-electric grids

EDRL has been assessing the effects on plant operation and avoided cost benefits of using PV power systems on diesel-electric grids in Canada's northern communities. Modelling results to date show that the major impact of PV on a diesel grid is the energy credit associated with reductions in fuel consumption. In addition, although PV has little effect on runtime, it reduces generator starts which can be a benefit with those which are not kept pre-heated when on standby. This paper discusses the results of this analysis and briefly presents a 3 kW/sub p/ grid-connected PV power system which is being installed in the remote community of Iqaluit. This work is part of the PV for the North program.