Pace Energy and Climate Center

28 Jun 2006

Quantifying Residential PV Economics in the US: Payback vs Cashflow Determination of Fair Energy Value

Author: Richard Perez, Linda Anne Burtis, Tom Hoff, Sam Swanson, Christy Herig

Topics: Markets, Solar,

States: National,

Resource Type: Report

Adoption Year: 2006

Abstract: Payback is often used as a measure of profitability by prospective PV owners. Contrasting this measure with another financial gauge -- life-cycle cash flow -- the paper discusses why payback may not be the most appropriate measure for residential PV applications and why it may hide sound financial opportunities for those deciding to invest in a PV system. In parallel, the paper addresses another aspect of economic feasibility: the value of energy produced. For residential applications, this value is currently set at residential net-metered retail rates. We present preliminary evidence that a higher value, reflective of the local effective capacity of PV ought to be claimed for residential PV applications.

Guidebook for Small Combined Heat and Power Systems Seeking to Obtain Emissions Reduction Credits in New York State

Author: Thomas Bourgeois, Daniel Rosenblum, Chris Young

Topics: CHP, Emissions,

States: New York,

Resource Type: Report

Adoption Year: 2006

Abstract: Combined Heat and Power (CHP) is typically more efficient than the separate generation of electricity in a central power plant and production of heat in an on-site boiler. This improved efficiency can result in a reduction of air pollutant emissions. CHP projects with significant reductions in emissions are eligible to participate in the NYSDEC emission reduction credit (ERC) program. Facilities certifying ERCs can trade them, thereby improving the financial benefit of installing CHP. This guidebook is intended to assist facility managers with quantifying emissions reduction credits. An additional report, “Emissions Allowance Market Opportunities for Small Scale CHP Projects,” (NYSERDA Report #06-04) evaluates how allowance-based regula...

Inspector Guidelines for PV Systems

Author: Prepared for Pace by Brooks Engineering

Topics: Solar,

States: National,

Resource Type: Report

Adoption Year: 2006

Abstract: This report provides some background to the Inspector Guidelines that follow. This work is part of the Renewable Energy Technology Analysis Project of the Pace Law School Energy Project. These guidelines provide a framework for the permitting and inspection of PV systems. These are two separate guidelines since jurisdictions normally treat the process in two steps. First is the plan check stage where the information is reviewed for accuracy and completeness. Second is the field inspection stage where the installation is reviewed for compliance with the approved plans.