An Improved Understanding of The Balance of System Costs Can Improve The Economics of Solar PV Projects

Initiative Electricity Sector Transitions
Type Commentary
Date September 18, 2019

Abstract

Much of the discussion around the cost of solar photovoltaic (PV) generation has focused on the costs of PV modules that convert sunlight to electricity. The overall capital cost of a PV system consists of two components: the cost of the modules and the balance-of-systems (BOS) costs. The BOS is a catch-all term to describe everything needed to erect and commission the PV system. The BOS costs include cables, the mounting system, solar inverters, labor costs, permitting costs, and site preparation costs.

Authors

Amro Elshurafa

Research Fellow Amro is a research fellow with 15 years of research experience on three continents in the fields of technology and energy. His… Amro is a research fellow with 15 years of research experience on three continents in the fields of technology and energy. His interests lie in renewable energy policy, particularly technology assessment, cost trends, supply chain development of the solar industry, and how solar energy interacts and affects conventional forms of power generation. Previously, he was a research fellow at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), a registered professional engineer in Canada and a senior member of the IEEE. Amro is the author of more than 40 papers and reports and is also the inventor of several patents.

Expertise

Solar PV
Renewable energy policy and microgrids

Publications See all Amro Elshurafa’s publications

Demystifying Policy Support Mechanisms for Distributed Solar Photovoltaic Systems

Much of the discussion around the cost of solar photovoltaic (PV) generation has focused on…

June 3, 2020

The Impact of High Temperatures on Battery Performance in Solar-PV Systems With Storage

Much of the discussion around the cost of solar photovoltaic (PV) generation has focused on…

December 17, 2019

Nawaz Peerbocus

Research Fellow Nawaz is the program director for Energy Transitions and Electric Power. Before joining KAPSARC, he was chief economist at the… Nawaz is the program director for Energy Transitions and Electric Power. Before joining KAPSARC, he was chief economist at the Saudi Electricity Company (SEC) where he led the strategic transformation project and advised on strategic planning issues. Prior to SEC, Nawaz was director of market strategy at Enbala, and senior economist at the Ontario Independent Electricity System Operator.

Expertise