Developing a framework to increase Solar Photovoltaic (Solar PV) microgrid penetration in a tropical region: A case study in Indonesia

Islami, Muhammad Saladin (2019) Developing a framework to increase Solar Photovoltaic (Solar PV) microgrid penetration in a tropical region: A case study in Indonesia. Masters by Coursework thesis, Murdoch University.

Abstract

Although tropical regions receive a significant amount of solar radiation throughout the year, most tropical countries have low solar photovoltaic (PV) penetration. Indonesia has around 208 gigawatts of solar potential but less than one percent of this potential has been harnessed. This research combined both quantitative and qualitative research to develop a framework for increasing solar PV microgrid penetration in Indonesia.

A techno-economic evaluation was performed to identify the performance of a solar PV microgrid in Indonesia and to evaluate its economic potential based on two different land acquisition scenarios. Additionally, surveys and interviews were conducted to obtain some perspectives from key stakeholders regarding the policy landscape of the country. The study shows that although high solar radiation is great to produce higher power, the performance ratio can be quite low. The economic evaluation shows that the land purchasing scenario can give a higher profit while the land leasing scenario can provide a quick return. This study also found out that the declining investment costs and the presence of a Power Purchase Agreement are the drivers for the development of solar PV microgrid in the countries. In contrast, the unstable grid connection and the insufficient technical knowledge are some barriers to this development.

The development of solar PV microgrid in Indonesia is a complex issue because of a complex relationship between different technical, financial, social and regulatory aspects. The financial aspect, particularly the presence of a solar PV market, has been seen as the top priority to be resolved in the country. After determining the priority, a framework for successful implementation of solar PV microgrid in Indonesia is being developed. The developed framework has four stages in which each key stakeholder has different roles in each stage. Successful implementation of the framework can increase solar PV microgrid penetration in Indonesia.

Item Type:	Thesis (Masters by Coursework)
Murdoch Affiliation(s):	Engineering and Energy
United Nations SDGs:	Goal 7: Affordable and Clean Energy Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
Supervisor(s):	Urmee, Tania
URI:	http://researchrepository.murdoch.edu.au/id/eprint/58582

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