Techno-economic assessment and optimization of grid-connected solar PV systems in Saudi Arabia's building sector

This research proposes an optimum grid-connected photovoltaic (PV) installation to meet the energy requirements of residential buildings in Saudi Arabia (KSA). Load profile data is used to establish a realistic electricity demand pattern. Sensitivity analyses are performed for 19 cities, varying the renewable fraction from 0% to 100%, to determine the minimum renewable energy fraction required to achieve competitive Cost of Energy (COE) values. The results show that increasing the renewable fraction reduces the COE of PV systems but leads to higher capital costs and Net Present Cost (NPC). The study also emphasizes the importance of considering CO2 emissions reduction achievable through PV system integration. Based on tradeoffs between renewable fraction and NPC, Hail, Sakaka, and Jeddah rank as the top three sites, balancing economic viability and renewable energy utilization. The outcomes provide valuable insights for decision-making and promote sustainable energy transition in KSA. Grid-connected PV systems bring social benefits, including job creation, improved living conditions, reduced emissions, enhanced energy security, and increased public awareness. This research contributes to understanding the renewable energy landscape in KSA and provides a methodology based on a multi-criteria assessment, using a search space algorithm to minimize the NPC or identify optimal PV installation sites that support the decisions of energy policymakers.