Technical and economic assessment of utility interactive PV systems for domestic applications in south-east Queensland

Electric utilities in Australia have been developing policies to stimulate interest and permit the purchase of electricity generated by renewable energy sources such as photovoltaic systems (PV). Studies show that under current conditions, it is technically feasible to introduce small-scale, grid connected, roof-top photovoltaic generation systems with or without battery storage. Economic analysis show that the electricity tariff structure for PV and other renewables requires a major change to allow a reasonable and an acceptable pay-back period if PV is to become an attractive economic investment to private owners. The technical policy developed by the utility should be reviewed to better match the operational characteristics of PV and inverter systems.