Using PVsyst to Evaluate the Performance of Solar Power Plants in Al-Anbar Governorate: An Applied Vision for Sustainable Energy Planning
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Abstract
This study evaluates the technical performance of photovoltaic (PV) systems in Al-Anbar Governorate, Iraq, using the PVsyst simulation software. Al-Anbar, located within the global solar belt, offers high solar irradiance, extended sunshine duration, and expansive undeveloped lands—yet remains underutilized for solar energy production. The research integrates high-resolution climatic data (1991–2023) from ground stations and NASA POWER to simulate solar output across 14 geographically distributed sites. Key performance metrics, including Performance Ratio (PR), annual energy yield, and system losses, were analyzed under realistic environmental assumptions (e.g., dust, heat, shading). Results indicate PR values between 80%–82%, with annual yields ranging from 1700 to 1850 kWh/kWp, reflecting strong performance under desert conditions. Seasonal and spatial variations showed production peaks between May and August, with higher efficiency at elevated and clearer sites such as Rutba and Nukhayb. The study underscores the importance of altitude, dust frequency, and solar angle in optimizing PV performance. Findings provide a replicable framework for sustainable energy planning in arid regions and support data-driven investment decisions in Iraq’s solar sector. The integration of PVsyst modeling with GIS spatial analysis establishes a comprehensive method for site selection and system optimization.
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