Design, analysis and optimization of grid-connected solar photovoltaic system using RETScreen in eight divisions of Bangladesh

Design, technical and financial analysis, and optimization of 100 kW grid connected solar photovoltaic system at each division of Bangladesh have been carried out using RETScreen along with NASA's data of location and solar radiation. Slope and azimuth of placing solar panels affect absorption of solar irradiation by the panels and this has considerable impact on the amount of electricity being generated by a solar grid, the technical and financial aspects of the solar grid. Bangladesh is an Asian country having eight divisions. Due to varying geographical locations, the amount of solar radiation being incident on the divisions vary significantly. Thus, placing solar panels at the same slope and azimuth in all the divisions does not allow the panels to absorb maximum amount of solar radiation. This paper discusses about the design of 100kW grid connected solar photovoltaic system, performs technical analysis and demonstrates the optimum slope and azimuth of placing solar panels at different divisions of Bangladesh. This paper also represents financial analysis of the solar grid for all the divisions. The optimized solar grid is capable of reducing approximately 166 tons of carbon dioxide emission annually which is equivalent to eliminating the use of 30.4 cars and light trucks annually.