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Optimal Placement of Distributed Solar PV Adapting to Electricity Real-Time Market Operation

Author

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  • Xi Chen

    (School of Design, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
    Hubei Engineering Research Center for Tech of Digital Lighting, Wuhan 430074, China
    The Key Laboratory of Lighting Interactive Service and Technology Ministry for Ministry of Culture and Tourism, Wuhan 430074, China)

  • Hai Long

    (China-EU Institute for Clean and Renewable Energy, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China)

Abstract

Distributed photovoltaic (PV) generation is increasingly important for urban energy systems amid global climate change and the shift to renewable energy. Traditional PV deployment prioritizes maximizing energy output, often neglecting electricity price variability caused by time-of-use tariffs. This study develops a high-resolution planning and economic assessment model for building-integrated PV (BIPV) systems, incorporating hourly electricity real-time market prices, solar geometry, and submeter building spatial data. Wuhan (30.60° N, 114.05° E) serves as the case study to evaluate optimal PV placement and tilt angles on rooftops and façades, focusing on maximizing economic returns rather than energy production alone. The results indicate that adjusting rooftop PV tilt from a maximum generation angle (30°) to a maximum revenue angle (15°) slightly lowers generation but increases revenue, with west-facing orientations further improving returns by aligning output with peak electricity prices. For façades, south-facing panels yielded the highest output, while north-facing panels with tilt angles above 20° also showed significant potential. Façade PV systems demonstrated substantially higher generation potential—about 5 to 15 times that of rooftop PV systems under certain conditions. This model provides a spatially detailed, market-responsive framework supporting sustainable urban energy planning, quantifying economic and environmental benefits, and aligning with integrated approaches to urban sustainability.

Suggested Citation

  • Xi Chen & Hai Long, 2025. "Optimal Placement of Distributed Solar PV Adapting to Electricity Real-Time Market Operation," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(15), pages 1-19, July.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:17:y:2025:i:15:p:6879-:d:1712469
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Andreja Stefanović & Ivana Rakonjac & Dorin Radu & Marijana Hadzima-Nyarko & Christiana Emilia Cazacu, 2025. "Technical, Economic, and Environmental Assessment of the High-Rise Building Facades as Locations for Photovoltaic Systems," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(19), pages 1-26, October.

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