A cost analysis of photovoltaic technologies under Jamaica'S climatic conditions

With the spiraling cost of imported fossil fuels and high values of insolation, the Caribbean region hopes that photovoltaic (PV) technologies will provide a more cost effective and secure energy solution. PV performance parameters are given under Standard Test Conditions (STC). Since STC is never realised under normal operational conditions (NOC) within Jamaica's climate, it is essential that we investigate the actual performance characteristics and the most cost effective technology for Jamaica. We present the results of energy delivered by 8 commercially available PV modules under NOC and hence determine the levelised cost per kWh delivered over their average warranted lifetimes.