Tailored performance evaluation framework for PV systems based on type and application

Recent advancements in solar energy technologies, particularly in photovoltaic (PV) systems coupled with Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), have led to a surge of interest in optimizing their performance. This study addresses a critical gap in the literature by applying the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) to systematically classify and prioritize criteria and sub-criteria for evaluating a 78 Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) across various types of PV systems that include storage components, such as microgrids, large-scale facilities, residential installations, and industrial applications. Previous studies have often overlooked the nuanced distinctions between these contexts, as well as the inclusion of all relevant criteria and KPIs. In contrast, this study provides a detailed assessment through extensive consultations with 19 domain experts — including technicians, engineers and project managers — as well as a thorough review of relevant literature. It provides a structured evaluation framework tailored to the specific priorities of each PV+BESS application, recognizing that not all indicators are equally relevant to each installation due to different priorities. The result is a detailed hierarchical tree of criteria and sub-criteria, and a multicriteria evaluation model designed to effectively assess each PV installation type coupled with (BESS). This approach enhances the understanding of the decision-making dynamics in PV+BESS systems by providing practical insights for optimal resource allocation.