Introduction

A stand-alone SPV power plant is typically designed for specific requirements. The capacity of a stand-alone power plant varies from 1 kWp to 25 kWp, and is some cases even higher. These systems are used where conventional grid supply is not available, or is erratic or irregular. A stand-alone power plant functions like an uninterrupted power supply system (UPS) and provides a constant, stable, and reliable supply to the loads. These power plants can also be used in areas where grid supply is available; in such places the power plants operate like a hybrid power plant, working with grid, as well as with SPV. The capacity of its battery bank depends on user requirements. The most common use for such plants is the electrification of remote villages. Other uses include power for hospitals, hotels, communications equipment, railway stations, border outposts, etc.,

Stand-alone SPV power plants comprise PV array, battery bank, inverter, and charge controller. Depending on the system voltage, SPV modules are arranged in series and parallel combinations. The standard combinations are 2,4,6,10,20 or more modules. The corresponding system voltages are in the range of 24 to 240 V. The size of the battery bank is determined by the system voltage and ampere-hour requirements of the load. The inverter is selected based on the system voltage and peak-load capacities. Other components such as junction boxes, distribution boxes, and cables are selected according to the maximum amount of current to be handled by them.

Cost

The cost of a stand-alone power plant depends on the PV array size, battery bank capacity, inverter, etc. The approximate cost of stand-alone power plant is between Rs 3.00 lakhs and Rs 3.50 lakhs per kW of PV capacity. Distribution costs (such as in a village) may be extra.

Contact:

Ministry of Non-Conventonal Energy Sources,
Govt. of India
Block-14, CGO Complex, Lodi Road
New Delhi – 110 003
Tel: 91 11 2436 0707/ 2436 0404
Fax: 91 11 2436 1298