Performance and suitability analysis of rooftop solar PV in Oman: A case study of university branches

One of the goals of Oman vision 2040 is to attain a 30 % of renewable energy mix, mainly from solar and wind energy projects for electricity generation by 2030, in alignment with the net zero emissions commitment by 2050. The adoption of residential rooftop solar PV installations supports achieving this target. This paper aims to assess the feasibility and performance of the rooftop solar PV projects at various locations in Oman and to suggest the strategies for promoting rooftop solar PV projects in Oman. In the Middle East countries like Oman, dust from sandstorms and temperature are significantly affects the performance of PV systems and is an important derating factor to consider when evaluating their performance as discussed in this paper. This paper starts by qualitatively assess the suitable regions in Oman for solar PV projects based on temperature levels, dust accumulation, humidity and population density and then proceeds to find the best locations in the selected region. A rooftop solar PV system is designed, analysed its performance, Levelized Cost of Electricity (LCOE) and environmental benefit were calculated for smart bus stop load located in the selected region's university of technology and applied sciences (UTAS) campus using analytical method. The results obtained through analytical method were compared with System Advisor Model (SAM) software. Key findings from the study: The northern part regions of Oman were identified as the most suitable region to install the solar PV systems. In the northern part regions, Ibri is the best location for rooftop solar PV projects compared to other locations. However, at other locations, the AC energy generation from 2.2kWp solar PV systems ranges from 4243.44 kWh to 4841.34 kWh annually, shows that these locations are also competitively suitable for solar PV projects. The LCOE and carbon emission cost of all UTAS branch locations ranges from 8.5 ¢/kWh to 9.7¢/kWh and 128.16 $ per year to 146.74 $ per year accordingly. After finding the most suitable locations and analysis, attractive rooftop policies in solar PV of successful countries are discussed, based on that few strong strategies are suggested to develop rooftop solar PV projects in Oman. The findings from this study will provide the useful guidelines for Oman's energy sector and policymakers to implement and promote roof top solar PV projects in Oman.