The Use of Photovoltaic Panels - The New Economic Challenge for the Future: Albanian Case

Abstract

The technology of photovoltaic (PV) systems is improving continuously in relation to their cost and performance, so their use is increased considerablyPV systems today are quite reliable in the different applications. The use of PV’s as the electrical power source for a residence has reducing the need for electricity. Refrigerators, air conditioners, electric water heaters, electric ranges, electric dryers, and washing machines are all large users of electricity [7]. Alternative sources of energy are available to greatly reduce the use of electrical energy. In this paper, we are focused on the concept of installation solar photovoltaic (PV) system that generally requires engineering services for each individual application. There is relevant information regarded to PV systems stand-alone (off - grid) or grid connected (on - grid) ones. On the other hand there are a lot of guidelines on the subject of the design process of a PV system such as: the calculation of the electrical load, the size of the PV System, PV subsystems – inverters, controllers, wiring, mounting PV panels, batteries, types of photovoltaic cells [1]. The purpose of this paper is to show how PV panels can be used on the environments of a public institution in Albania conditions, in particular in one of the Albanian University (UET). The results of the study will be based on accurate calculation of installed solar panels and initial cost of their installation. Furthermore, in this paper it will also discuss the main advantages and disadvantages of implementing of this contemporary technology in our country.

DOI: 10.5901/ajis.2015.v4n2p67