Site selection of large-scale grid-connected solar PV system in Egypt

Installing a photovoltaic (PV) power plant at a proper location is a critical problem for the system planners and investors. This study explored the potential of large-scale grid-connected solar PV generation in Egypt. Overall, 27 locations were assessed for their technical potential considering a 100 MW PV power plant in each site. The main analysis criteria are geographical conditions, economic profits, environmental benefits, availability of vacant lands for installation in the present and future developments, availability of water resources and the distance from transmission lines, substations, and highways. The project viability analysis has been accomplished based on RETScreen Expert package depending on electricity production, financial, and GHG emission analyses. Taking into account the other criteria beside the results obtained from RETScreen Expert, the suitable sites for the installation of the proposed power plant will be determined.