3539 Guidance on large-scale solar photovoltaic (PV) system design, development and operation

Overview:

Solar photovoltaic (PV), which converts sunlight into electricity, is an important source of renewable energy in the 21st century. PV plant installations have increased rapidly, with around 1 terawatt (TW) of generating capacity installed as of 2022. With the continued growth of solar PV, and to aid further growth as the global energy system transitions to zero carbon, the Energy Institute (EI) recognised the need for concise guidance to help developers, operators and other stakeholders to understand the key considerations when planning to build a solar PV plant.

This guidance covers a large number of topics at a high level. Its goal is to provide an overview of the key elements that should be considered when designing and operating solar PV plants, including:

• location planning;
• PV design;
• yield prediction;
• markets and financing;
• contracting arrangements;
• construction, and
• operation and maintenance.

While this publication does not go into detail on any one topic, it does include an extensive list of references to relevant standards.

This guidance is for operating companies, operators, network operators, local authorities, investors, decision and policy makers, regulators, and health, safety, environmental and sustainability managers.