An evaluation of photovoltaic generation potential and load demand usage at Baylor University (Texas)

Determining if a correlation exists between photovoltaic panel generation output and the electrical consumption levels of buildings could reduce usage during peak demand times and reduce peak load generation from off site generation facilities.; Because geographic sites differ in the amount of solar generation due to latitude and weather patterns, this study provides data on the potential energy generation for the Waco, Texas area. It shows the anticipated generation potential of solar energy during the months of May through August 2002. This model indicates when solar energy is available and when it would be most effectively used. Additionally, this paper examines the impact of two virtual photovoltaic arrays on the electrical usage of three campus buildings taken during the same period. The data provides time correlated impact displays of the averaged quarter hour demand and solar generation for each month.*; *This dissertation is compound (contains both a paper copy and a CD as part of the dissertation). The accompanying CD requires the following system requirements: Adobe Acrobat.