Desert Solar Power Generation System Diagram

Why do desert areas need a photovoltaic system?

Desert areas benefit from high irradiation levels , and the photovoltaics power potential in these areas exceeds 2100 kWh/kWp . This means only a small area of desert covered by PV modules can potentially cover today's world's need for electricity , and this drives the major installation market to these areas . ... ...

How much energy does the desert produce?

In other words, only 8% of the surface area in the desert (without space factor, the value becomes 4%) is enough to provide global primary energy today. Another example is that, Gobi desert area located between China and Mongolia can generate 5 times more than the annual world power demand. Why VLS-PV in the desert?

Can solar power power the Sahara Desert?

However, this result remains very encouraging for the DESERTEC initiative: The Sahara desert covers approximately 9.4 million km 2, and covering less than 2% of it with 3.5% overall-efficiency solar power plants would surpass the energy content of Middle East oil production. From a physical standpoint, the energy is indeed there.

What are the problems with PV power plants in the desert?

PV power plants in the desert areas have to endure severe environmental conditions. One of the most serious issues is a dust settlement (soiling). Dust accumulated on the surface of the PV panel can reduce the power output considerably.

Which desert area should be chosen for PV power installation?

... Through researching several factors, such as environmental factors, policies, sites, and human factors, there are some desert areas that have been recently chosen or are expected to be chosen for the installation of PV power-for example, Negev, Thar, Gobi, Sonora, Sahara, and Great Sandy .

Are deserts a good place for solar power plants?

Deserts have become an attractive site for solar power plants, possessing both bountiful year-round insolation and land that does not compete with agriculture or civilization.