The Spatial Distribution of Photovoltaic Power Plants in Relation to Solar Resource Potential: The Case of the Czech Republic and Slovakia

Abstract

Over the last few years, many European countries experienced a rapid growth of photovoltaic (PV) power plants. For example, more than 20, 000 new PV power plants were built in the Czech Republic. The high spatial and temporal variability of the solar resource and subsequent PV power plant production, poses new challenges for the reliability and predictability of the power grid system. In this paper, we analyse the most recent data on PV power plants built in the Czech Republic and Slovakia, with a focus on the spatial distribution of these installations. We have found that these power plants scarcely follow the solar resource potential and, apparently, other factors affect decisions for their location. Recent changes in the support schemes for solar applications also influence these patterns, with new installations mostly confined to built-up areas. These changes will require new tools to assess the appropriate locations of PV systems.

Keywords

• solar energy
• photovoltaic power plant
• geographic information systems
• Czech Republic
• Slovakia