SOLAR POWER SUPPLY UP TO 75% GRID INDEPENDENT IN

THE CENTER OF GERMANY FOR PRIVATE AND INDUSTRIAL

CONSUMERS VIA STORAGE ACCUMULATORS.
-NOT ONLY FOR ROOFS ORIENTED SOUTH BUT ALSO FOR
ROOFS ORIENTED EAST AND WEST

Author: Christoph Geiler, B.Eng. Mechatronics

Co-Author: Eberhard Zentgraf, Certified Electronic Engineer

Scientific team involved in designing, planning, installing, measuring, recording and

evaluating:
C. Geiler
E. Zentgraf
A. Wolf
S. Hock
A. Zentgraf
S. Schulz
T. Staab
M. Moore

Page 2 of 35

A L IST OF CONTENTS
A. List of Contents
B. List of Figures
C. List of Tables

3
4
5

1. Preface .................................................................................................................. 7
2. Yields of a south-oriented roof ............................................................................... 8
3. Yield of east- plus west oriented roof ....................................................................11
4. Comparison of south versus east-west ..................................................................13
4.1 Comparison of yields........................................................................................... 13
4.2

Economical view without storage media ............................................................ 14

4.3

Economical view with storage media ................................................................. 16

5. Optimizing own consumption without storage ......................................................19

5.1 Self initiative........................................................................................................ 19
5.2

Smart Metering ................................................................................................... 19

6. Island systems with possible highest autarchy .......................................................20

6.1 Real measuring to autarchy ................................................................................ 21
7. Own consumption with electrochemical batteries .................................................25
7.1. Conventional battery technologies ..................................................................... 25
7.1.1

Lead-acid batteries ......................................................................................... 25

7.1.2

Redox-Flow ..................................................................................................... 26

7.2. More accumulation technologies ....................................................................... 27

7.2.1

Li-ion technology............................................................................................ 27

7.2.2

Nickel battery .................................................................................................. 28

8. Optimization of own consumption with other storage media ................................29

8.1. Hydrogen ............................................................................................................. 29
8.2. Methane .............................................................................................................. 29
8.3. Methanol ............................................................................................................. 29
8.4. Compressed air ................................................................................................... 29
8.5. Flywheel energy storage ..................................................................................... 30
8.6. Pumped hydro storage........................................................................................ 30
8.7. Water heating ..................................................................................................... 31
8.8. Refrigerators / Freezers ...................................................................................... 31
8.9. Air conditioning units / air conditioning systems ............................................... 31
8.10. Ice-Heating .......................................................................................................... 31
8.11. CHP (Cogeneration / combined heat and power plant) ..................................... 32
Page 3 of 35

9. Conclusion and comments to an east-west oriented roof layout and to the

optimization of own-consumption ........................................................................34

Index of web sources ........................................................................................35

Page 4 of 35

B.

List of Figures

Fig 1: Percentage of highest possible yield depending upon orientation and angle of inclination of the
roof [1]. ......................................................................................................................................... 8
Fig 2:Performance curve of panels in south orientation standardized to one kWp during sunshine on
May 26th, 2012 ............................................................................................................................. 9
Fig 3:Performance curve of panels in south orientation standardized to one kWp during sunshine on
May 26th, 2012 ............................................................................................................................. 9
Fig 4: Performance curve of south oriented panels standardized to one kWp during considerably
cloudy skies on May 15th, 2012.................................................................................................. 10
Fig 5: Global irradiation on May 15th, 2012.......................................................................................... 10
Fig 6:Performance curve of panels in east-west-alignment standardized to one kWp during sunshine.
..................................................................................................................................................... 12
Fig 7: Performance curve of panels in east-west-orientation standardized to one kWp during
considerably cloudy skies. ........................................................................................................... 12
Fig 8: Comparison of yields of south versus east-west on May 26th, 2012 .......................................... 13
Fig 9: Comparison of yields south versus east-west on May 15th, 2012 .............................................. 14
Fig 10: Yields of a south oriented roof (5 kWp) and an east (3 kWp) plus west (3 kWp) oriented roof in
comparison to a daily demand.................................................................................................... 21
Fig 11: Yields of a south oriented system (5 kWp) and an east- (5 kWp) west (5 kWp) system in
comparison to the daily demand ................................................................................................ 22
Fig 12: Excess and purchase of power with a south oriented system with 5 kWp ............................... 23
Fig 13: Excess and purchase of power with an east (3 kWp) plus west (3 kWP) system ...................... 23
Fig 14: Excess and purchase of power with an east (5 kWp) plus west (5 kWp) system. ..................... 24
Fig 15: Schema of lead-acid battery [2]................................................................................................. 26
Fig 16: Schema of a Redox-Flow battery [2].......................................................................................... 27
Fig 17: Schema of a Li-ion accumulator [3] ........................................................................................... 28
Fig 18: Schema of a pumped storage hydro power station [6] ............................................................. 31
Fig 19: Schema of an ice-heater [7] ....................................................................................................... 32
Fig 20: Schema of a CHP [8 .................................................................................................................... 33

Page 5 of 35

C.

List of Tables

Table 1: Base value for our south oriented system............................................................................... 14

Table 2: Balances with virtual energy price increments for south oriented PV system ....................... 15
Table 3: System values of an east-west oriented roof .......................................................................... 15
Table 4: Balances for a 6 kWp system ................................................................................................... 15
Table 5: Balances for a 10 kWp east-west oriented system ................................................................. 16
Table 6: Base values for our south oriented system ............................................................................. 16
Table 7: Balances with virtual energy price increments ....................................................................... 17
Table 8: System values of an east-west system with energy storage ................................................... 17
Table 9: Balance of 6 kWp east-west oriented system ......................................................................... 17
Table 10: Balance of a 10 kWp east-west oriented system .................................................................. 18
Table 11: Overview of different systems .............................................................................................. 22

Page 6 of 35

1.

Preface

This review performed by the TEC institute for technical innovations (TEC Institut fr
technische Innovationen GmbH & Co. KG) deals with the optimization of photovoltaic
own consumption and the so-called east-west roof occupancy with photovoltaic
modules (panels). An east-west alignment demonstrates an alternative to the
conventional roof occupancy facing south in which the panels are preferably installed.
In this case, the panels are being installed towards east as well as west.
Based on our own measurements and research we are able to demonstrate that PV systems
facing east and west require only approximately additional 20% panels to reach the almost
exact yield as a system with a complete south orientation.
The coherency of this and the optimization of own consumption with and without storage is
described in detail in the following chapters.
This subject matter evolved on the basis of permanently decreasing feed-in remunerations
and inconstant politics the PV industrial sector does not wish to nor is able to depend upon
any longer if they should remain competitive. Based on the current political situation and
lobbyistic influences of the major electric power companies, it is to be expected that the feedin remunerations in 2013 are no longer cost-effective and will be omitted on short term
notice. However, the energy reference prize shall rise continuously. The following report
shows, amongst others, that PV systems in fact are profitable if as much as possible of the
self produced PV energy is being self consumed. As a conclusion of our research and
measuring, we can display that 75% autonomy in the middle of Germany is indeed possible.
It is therefore very important that everyone contributes to the energy turnaround to make
Germanys electricity generation more environmentally friendly.

Page 7 of 35

2.

Yields of a south-oriented roof

As reference to our east-west roof occupancy we use a south oriented roof. Standardizing
takes place on one kWp. In the following diagrams we show a sunny day (fig 2) and a
considerably cloudy day (fig 4). The data was simultaneously recorded with the data of the
panels facing east and west.
Some of our panels are installed at an inclination angle of 30 and a 0 deviation facing
south. This results in a yield of app. 100%, according to our table (fig 1). In reference to that
we measured the global irradiation.

Fig 1: Percentage of highest possible yield depending on orientation and inclination angle of the roof [1].

Case study:
In the following case study (installed system performance of 1kWP) a demand of 320W for
as long as possible is to be established. We chose May 26th, 2012 as an example for such
observation. Since the 1kWp system yielded a peak performance of about 800Wp on this
day 40% of the reached peak value equates to 320W.
As displayed in fig 2 and fig 3, May 26th, 2012 was a nice and sunny day at large, except for
some minor clouds around noon. We could also observe the curve progression of metered
panels oriented south (fig 2) coincides with the curve progression of the global irradiation (fig
3). If we assume an own consumption (constant performance) of 320W, as indicated in
graphs, this energy would be available from about 8 am until about 5:30 pm which meets a
time span of 9 hours and 30 minutes. Projected onto an one-family home with a 5 kWp PV
system on its south oriented roof could in this case retrieve a continuous performance of
1600W for 9h and 30min. To be able to actually use this energy, someone would have to
remain at home, which is seldom the case since most people are usually at work during that
time of the day.

Page 8 of 35

Fig 2: Performance curve of panels in south orientation standardized to one kWp during sunshine on May 26th, 2012

Fig 3: Performance curve of panels in south orientation standardized to one kWp during sunshine on May 26th, 2012

Page 9 of 35

In the second case, we chose a considerably cloudy day. As you can see in fig 4, the steady
performance we assumed could not consistently be reached. Due to shading from the cloudy
skies there were repeatedly performance collapses. Again, we integrated the global
irradiation (fig 5) as a validation factor.
The lacking energy referring to a continuous energy demand of 320W must additionally be
obtained from the public grid, provided no storage media is being used.

Fig 4: Performance curve of south oriented panels standardized to one kWp during considerably cloudy skies on May
15th, 2012.

Fig 5: Global irradiation on May 15th, 2012

Page 10 of 35

3.

Yield of east- plus west oriented roof

Parallel to our measuring of the south oriented panels, the data readings of the east-west
panels were recorded. All three roofs were equipped with the same nominal panel capacity.
Again we chose one sunny and one heavily overcast day.
The panels were assembled at an inclination angle of 30 and a deviation of 90 towards
east, respectively west. According to the table (see fig 1) this yielded 1% of about 82%. And
once again, we used the global irradiation as reference value.
The magenta colored graph in fig 6 displays the performances of the panels facing east. The
blue colored graph shows the performance of the panels facing west and the orange graph
displays the added overall performance. All standardized to one kWp.
As already done with the south alignments, we mapped an own consumption of 40%, though
once referring to the south oriented roof and once to the overall performance of the eastwest-oriented roof. On this particular day, neither the east nor the west oriented sides of the
roof could quite reach peak performance of 800Wp. We can nevertheless assume that the
560W of our case study match closely the 40% of the peak performance of our east-westroof.
The upper dashed line in fig 6 shows the app. 40% own consumption of the east-west
system. As can be seen, the 40% own consumption of about 560W referring to the overall
performance of the east-west roof remained available for about one hour longer than on a
solely south oriented roof. In our case, solar electricity was available from 7:50 am until 6:45
pm, which conforms to a time span of 10h and 55min.
The bottom dashed line shows the 40% own consumption of a south oriented roof. This small
amount of energy performance is considerably longer available on the east-west oriented
roof, hereafter from 6:45 am until 8 pm, which adds up to a time span of 13h and 15min. This
amounts to 3h and 45min more than from a solely south oriented roof. This would be a
greater possibility for working people to utilize the self produced electrical energy in their own
home even without using storage media.

Page 11 of 35

Fig 6: Performance curve of panels in east-west-alignment standardized to one kWp during sunshine.

As well as for the south oriented roof we opted for a heavily overcast day (see fig 4) for our
east-west oriented roof to record the performance curves. As you can see in Fig 7, we again
could not continually establish a durable performance. Yet in comparison to the south
oriented roof the deficiencies were not as high and not as long. Still, even in this case,
energy has to be obtained from the public grid since the demanded continuous power rating
isnt permanently available. Again in this case energy storage could fill in the demand gap by
providing energy when panels have performance collapses due to shading caused by clouds.

Fig 7: Performance curve of panels in east-west-orientation standardized to one kWp during considerably cloudy skies.

Page 12 of 35

4.

Comparison of south versus east-west

In the following chapters well elaborate the pros and cons of both variations of roof
occupancy to enable an overview demonstration.

4.1

Comparison of yields

When comparing the different roof orientations we noticed that when all roofs are equipped
with the same panel performance, the east-west system proved a higher yield in an annual
average than the south oriented system (see chapter 6). But investment costs (especially in
this case) are also about twice as high. It also should be noted, that in spite of double the
amount of installed kWp, the peak value performances from an east-west roof (fig 6) are not
twice as high than from a south oriented roof (fig 2).
In fig 8 we compared the days performances of May 26th, 2012 of both systems and
discovered a performance plus from the east-west roof of over 90%. This is most likely
caused by minor clouds at peak solar altitude and thereof conditions for the south oriented
roof were not quite perfect at the best expected time of day. In a long-term average we
assume a yield of approximately 164% from the east-west roof with a double of installed
capacity compared to the south oriented roof.

Fig 8: Comparison of yields of south versus east-west on May 26th, 2012

Comparing yields on May 15th, 2012 when heavily overcast, we detected an even higher
difference in yields of slightly more than 100% (see fig 9). This is probably explained by the
fact that from about 10 am until 1 pm there was hardly any solar irradiance. We once again
noticed the peak performance of the east-west system is generally not twice as high as from
the south oriented system (see fig 4 and fig 7), still true, especially for May 15th, 2012 the
yield of the east-west roof was twice as high as for the south oriented roof.
Page 13 of 35

Fig 9: Comparison of yields south versus east-west on May 15th, 2012

4.2

Economical view without storage media

To view the systems not only in terms of energy, we also disclosed a view in terms of
economy.
Lets begin with the south oriented roof and assume a 5kWp system and an own
consumption of 40%. The table below adds a few values to the basis of our economical point
of view, such as:

Annual average [kWh/kWp]

5 kWp system [kWh]
40% own consumption [kWh]

950
4.750
1.900

Table 1: Base value for our south oriented system

Certainly the electricity rates will rise and not remain steady for the next years
We therefore implemented two calculations for the timeframe of 20 years in which we
assumed an annual price increase of 3% in one and an increase of 6% in the other.
Acquisition costs of a PV system presently (effective June 2012) range at about 1.500,- per
kWp including project planning, assembly and implementation.

Page 14 of 35

Acquisition costs for a 5kWp south oriented

system
40% own consumption (annual expenses
+3%)
Profit

Acquisition costs for a 5kWp south oriented

system
40% own consumption (annual expenses
+6%)
Profit

net price
-7.500,00

gross price (incl. taxes)

-8.925,00

11.231,82

13.365,86

3.731,82

4.440,86

net price
-7.500,00

gross price (incl. taxes)

-8.925,00

15.376,36

18.297,89

7.876,38

9.372,89

Table 2: Balances with virtual energy price increments for south oriented PV system

As shown above, south oriented roofs constitute major cost savings. Managing an own
consumption of 40% is difficult though, since the energy required is only available for a
comparatively short period of time during the day. In comparison to that we now take a look
at an east-west oriented roof. Again we assume 3 and 5 kWp for both roof areas in a system
which indicates an overall system size of 6 respectively 10 kWp and an own consumption of
40% of the overall performance. An east-west system yields 82% for each roof side which
adds up to 164% of the annual yield of a south oriented roof. This results in following yields:
Average annual yield [kWh / kWp]
6 kWp system [kWh]
10 kWp system [kWh]
40% own consumption for 6 kWp [kWh]
40% own consumption for 10 kWp [kWh]

807,5
4.845
8.075
1.938
3.230

Table 3: System values of an east-west oriented roof

Calculations with +3% and +6% annual price increments are subsequently listed below:

Acquisition costs for a 6 kWp south oriented

system
40% own consumption (annual expenses
+3%)
Profit

Acquisition costs for a 6 kWp south oriented

system
40% own consumption (annual expenses
+6%)
Profit

net price
-9.000,00

gross price (incl. taxes)

-10.710,00

11.052,11

13.152,01

2.052,11

2.442,01

net price
-9.000,00

gross price (incl. taxes)

-10.710,00

15.130,36

18.005,12

6.130,36

7.295,12

Table 4: Balances for a 6 kWp system

Page 15 of 35

Acquisition costs for a 10 kWp south oriented

system
40% own consumption (annual expenses
+3%)
Profit

Acquisition costs for a 10 kWp south oriented

system
40% own consumption (annual expenses
+6%)
Profit

net price
-15.000,00

gross price (incl. taxes)

-17.50000

18.420,18

21.920,01

3.420,18

4.070,01

net price
-7.500,00

gross price (incl. taxes)

-17.850,00

25.217,26

30.008,54

10.217,26

12.158,54

Table 5: Balances for a 10 kWp east-west oriented system

As displayed above, the profit of a 10 kWp east-west oriented system is even greater in spite
of higher acquisition costs. Nevertheless, it still bears difficulties disposing off 40% of energy
as own consumption or more, if there is no one at home operating appliances and electrical
devices whenever power is available.

4.3

Economical view with storage media

Since all the foregone research took place proposing no storage media is used, we hereafter
calculate all values again, this time using one storage possibility, i.e. rechargeable battery.
Like before, we begin with the south oriented roof assuming a 5 kWp system with a battery
storage system and thus assume 70% own consumption. We subsequently list some values
as basis for our economical views:
Annual average [kWh/kWp]
5 kWp system [kWh]
70% own consumption [kWh]

950
4.750
3.320

Table 6: Base values for our south oriented system

We now set up evaluations based on a time span of 20 years, assuming annual price
increments of 3% respectively 6%. Acquisition costs of a PV system ranging at about
3.000,00 per kWp (effective June 2012) including project planning, assembly and
implementation.

Page 16 of 35

Acquisition costs for a south oriented 5kWp

system
70% own consumption (annual expenses
+3%)
Profit

Acquisition costs for a south oriented 5kWp

system
70% own consumption (annual expenses
+6%)
Profit

net price
-15.000,00

gross price (incl. taxes)

-17.850,00

19.622,68

23.390,26

4.655,68

5.540,26

net price
-15.000,00

gross price (incl. taxes)

-17.850,00

26.908,66

32.2021,31

11.908,66

14.171,31

Table 7: Balances with virtual energy price increments

As can be seen, there are definite possibilities to obtain significant savings. By means of
storing energy, it is much easier to accomplish a possible own consumption of 70%. Now
well compare it with an east-west oriented roof. Assuming one PV system of 3 kWp for both
sides of the roof and one system of 5 kWp for each side of the roof equals an overall system
of 6 kWp respectively 10 kWp and an own consumption of 70% of the total performance. An
east-west oriented system of 10 kWp in comparison to the southbound system of 5 kWp
yields approximately 82% for each side of the roof, which adds up to 164% of the annual
yield of the south oriented roof in a long term average This yields the following returns:
Average annual yield [kWh / kWp]
6 kWp system [kWh]
10 kWp system [kWh]
70% own consumption for 6 kWp [kWh]
70% own consumption for 10 kWp [kWh]

779
4.674
7.790
3.271,8
5.453

Table 8: System values of an east-west system with energy storage

Here again we have the evaluations based on a time span of 20 years, assuming annual
price increments of 3% respectively 6%. (see table 9).

Acquisition costs for an east-west oriented 6

kWp system
70% own consumption
(annual expenses +3%)
Profit

Acquisition costs for an east-west oriented 6

kWp system
70% own consumption
(annual costs + 6%)
Profit

net price
-18.000,00

gross price (incl. taxes)

-21.420,00

19.341,19

23.016,01

1.341,19

1.596,01

net price
-18.000,00

gross price (incl. taxes)

21.420,00

26.478,12

31.508,96

8.487,12

10.088,96

Table 9: Balance of 6 kWp east-west oriented system

Page 17 of 35

Acquisition costs for an east-west oriented 10

kWp system
70% own consumption
(annual expenses +3%)
Profit

Acquisition costs for an east-west oriented 10

kWp system
70% own consumption
(annual expenses + 6%)
Profit

net price
-30.000,00

gross price (incl. taxes)

-35.700,00

3.2235,31

38360,02

2.235,31

2660,02

net price
-30.000,00

gross price (incl. taxes)

-35.700,00

44.130,20

52.514,94 e

14.130,20

16.814,94

Table 10: Balance of a 10 kWp east-west oriented system

As displayed again in table 10, the profit is greater than from a south oriented system is spite
of greater acquisition costs. Reaching a higher own consumption with storage means is thus
much easier. For the future we can assume a significant decrease in costs for
electrochemical storage devices, in particular for lithium-ion accumulators.

Page 18 of 35

5.

Optimizing own consumption without storage

A higher autonomy from power supply companies is more possible with an east-west
oriented roof than with a south oriented roof. To attain a higher own consumption, it is
important to know the individual consumers behaviors, because the possible own
consumption rate strongly depends on their conduct. Several factors play a roll, for instance,
whether or not someone is at home during the day or if all residents are gone, and at what
times of the day they wish to use electrical power. To attain the best possible use of the self
produced power, there are several opportunities. Subsequently we amplify procedures that
manage without storage media.

5.1

Self initiative

The most inexpensive way to optimizing own consumption is to operate electrical devices like
dishwashers, washers, dryers, etc only at times when the solar generator supplies electrical
power. Generally, this is only possible if someone is at home. Due to the absence during the
times of highest solar altitude this type of optimizing ones own consumption is not feasible.
Yet there are more ways of optimization which well subsequently illustrate.

5.2

Smart Metering

In the future, another way of optimizing own consumption can be an intelligent power
meter, the so-called Smart Meter. These digital metering devices will in the future replace the
commonly known Ferraris meter. These meters enable the individual consumers to track
their own consuming behaviors and thus perhaps alter some behavioral habits to that effect.
Furthermore, these devices have a data interface enabling them to communicate with
appliances and electrical devices such as washers, dryers, dishwashers and so on.
Therefore consumers can operate appliances from afar when there is enough solar power
available.

Page 19 of 35

6.

Island systems with possible highest autarchy

In order to realize a system operating completely off-grid, there are several things to
consider: from the construction of the power supply that is being used up to the storage
devices that require sufficient capacity to bridge the time-gap when there is no power source
available.
The primary consideration should be given to what type of power source is being used. If it is
supposed to be solely photovoltaic the arrangement should ensure sufficient stored power to
last the winter months. But this also implies a greatly over dimensioned system. This, on the
other hand implies that the excess energy has to be discharged somehow or else valuable
energy is wasted which would be lacking during winter.
This leads to the next step of storing energy, since it is impossible to reach 100% autarchy
without storage. As mentioned earlier, excess power can be stored and thus be used when
the sun is not shining. The question is how long a household is to be kept up during times of
lacking power source, but the bottom line is only a matter of prize. Exploitations of further
renewable power sources such as wind energy also make sense. Since then another source
of energy could be used and one wouldnt be totally depending on sunshine.
But for now (June 2012) fossil fuels such as diesel, gasoline, domestic or petroleum gas
have to be resorted to in order to reach 100% autarchy. These can be used in times when
there is no energy available from renewable energy sources and batteries are exhausted.
Then a combustion motor could possibly be operated to supply the required power.
But primarily the consuming behaviors of the user have the largest impact on the autonomy
of the consumer. If he uses the energy at times when it is naturally available, the storage
devices can be configured smaller to bridge the times of lacking energy recovery. Also a
combustible motor operated with fossil fuel would not necessarily have to startup quite as
often, which in return would have a positive impact on the lifespan of the motor as well as on
our environment.
Systems with 100% self sufficiency are by far not as economical as for instance systems with
only 70% autarchy (effective June 2012) due to the required combustible motor using diesel
or gas.

Page 20 of 35

6.1

Real measuring to autarchy

Since in our institute (TEC Institut) measuring series of panel performances oriented east
and west have already been carried out, therefore we are now able to arrange an overview
for one entire year (also see bachelor thesis from A. Hfling:Further Development and
Optimization of a Photovoltaic Island System). For comparison we again used our south
oriented roof. Standing in for the displayed power demand, we recorded the real demands of
a 4-person household for over 12 months (timeframe: April 1st, 2010 thru March 31st .2011).
This enabled us to determine the monthly as well as the annual demand of 4.305,60 kWh
and the annual dispensation of consumption (fig 10). The first diagram (fig 10) shows a
comparison of a 5 kWp south oriented system with a 6 kWp east-west oriented system. The
6 kWp are equally divided into 3 kWp on the east side and 3 kWp on the west side of the
roof. As can be seen within the high-yield months, the east-west oriented system yielded
more power than the south oriented system. In winter the south oriented system took a
scarce lead. We also discovered that from March thru September we yielded more power
than demanded. Regardless of whether south oriented (5 kWp) or east-west oriented with
each 3 kWp (sum of 6 kWp) systems, during the cold months from November thru February
the demand for power could not be met with solar power. However, in October the PV power
could barely meet the demand to self sustain the 4-person household.

Fig 10: Yields of a south oriented roof (5 kWp) and an east (3 kWp) plus west (3 kWp) oriented roof in comparison to a
daily demand

We once more calculated the same comparison but this time using the results from the eastwest oriented system each side equally equipped with 5 kWp, resulting in a sum of 10 kWp
(see fig 18). This shows a self-sufficient power supply from March thru October is met. But
just like before, the yields during the cold months of the year do not suffice to ensure
complete autarchy. In this case the 4-person household can barely be provided with enough
solar power for autarchy in February.
Page 21 of 35

Fig 11: Yields of a south oriented system (5 kWp) and an east- (5 kWp) west (5 kWp) system in comparison to the daily
demand

Successive diagrams will show the excess power respectively purchase of electrical power
for the individual months for every type of system. We clearly see how much solar energy is
being fed-in the public grid respectively has to be purchased from the power company. Just
as in previous diagrams it is clear that the additional power demand in winter is significantly
less than the excess produced in summer.
As displayed in fig 10 thru fig 14, an achievable self sufficiency from examples with batteries
(useable storage 12 kWh) is evident (see table 11).
Orientation
of PVsystem

Size (overall)
of PV-system

South
East-west
East-west

5 kWp
6 kWp
10 kWp

Months of
complete
autarchy
8
7
8

Months of
90%
autarchy
1
1

Monthly
purchase (%
of annual
demand)
28 %
32 %
25 %

Reachable
autarchy

72 %
68 %
75 %

Table 11: Overview of different systems

Conclusion: Self sufficiency of 72 %, 68 % and 75% are possible, depending on system size.
As mentioned earlier, it will be quite difficult to manage 100 % self-sufficiency with solar
power (effective: June 2012), because during the few months in winter there is insufficient
solar irradiation within our latitudes. We therefore believe that complete autarchy from the
public grid can only be made possible with a mix of renewable energies. However, these
should be put to use only in specific sites, meaning that in regions with little wind it should be
avoided to focus on wind energy.
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Fig 12: Excess and purchase of power with a south oriented system with 5 kWp

Fig 13: Excess and purchase of power with an east (3 kWp) plus west (3 kWP) system

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Fig 14: Excess and purchase of power with an east (5 kWp) plus west (5 kWp) system.

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7.

Own consumption with electrochemical batteries

Subsequently we dwell on optimizing own consumption with electrochemical batteries,

outline pros and cons of individual systems and how these individual systems have to be
designed.

7.1.

Conventional battery technologies

7.1.1 Lead-acid batteries

Lead-acid batteries are among the oldest electrochemical storage devices. In1854 Wilhelm
Josef Sinsteden, a German physician and physicist developed the first lead-acid battery. Due
to the long history of the lead-acid battery there already is a lot of experience of stationary
use (for example the battery system at Steglitz, the combined heat and power site). As all
systems, the lead-acid technology offers some advantages but also some disadvantages
which are listed below:
Advantages:
Low budget
Closed batteries (so-called dry-cell batteries) broaden the spectrum because they are
maintenance-free and have a better life-span
High economically recyclable components
Disadvantages:
Low energy density
Not storable when discharged, due to sulfate building up on both electrodes
high weight
low lifespan, e.g. compared to Li-ion accumulators
Necessary maintenance (lead-acid)
Separate and ventilated storage room at specific performance categories

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Fig 15: Schema of lead-acid battery [2]

Lead-acid batteries should preferably be operated fully loaded to reach the possibly highest
lifespan. In practice, this is hardly feasible. On solar systems during the summer months we
have fragmented cycles with low DODs (depth of discharge), while in cooler and less sunny
days we have larger DODs up to full cycles. These irregular loads diminish the lifespan of our
batteries.
When designing the individual system performance one should note that half of the nominal
capacity is available as useable power in order to increase the lifespan.

7.1.2 Redox-Flow
The Redox-Flow cell is a storage media with potential. Such cells know no self-discharge nor
do they have a memory effect. Therefore they are able to store energy from renewable
sources. Since electrical power is stored in liquid form, the lifespan is significantly higher,
because no structural changes take place on the electrodes. Furthermore, large quantities of
the electrolytes and thus energy can be stored inside waterproof containers, i.e. barrels or
drums.
Advantages:
High efficiency (>75%)
Long lifespan
Minor degradation for each cycle
Flexible modular design
Quick load suspension (s-ms)
Charge / discharge (0% - 100%)
Low maintenance costs
Minor discharge
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Disadvantages:
High energy density (volumetric, gravimetric)
High capital costs

Fig 16: Schema of a Redox-Flow battery [2]

7.2.

More accumulation technologies

7.2.1

Li-Ion Technology

Lithium ion accumulators are characterized by high energy density. They are thermally stable
and have no memory-effect. Other than lead-acid batteries which should always be operated
fully charged, Li-ion batteries have a different technology. They age slower, even when
operated partially discharged. In this case though, it strongly depends on the chemical
composition. Therefore the stationary systems should be oversized in order to still operate
properly at a low SOC (state of charge).
Advantages:
High energy- and power-density
High cell voltage (3.6 V 3.7 V for each cell)
High energy efficiency (>90 %)
High development potential
No maintenance necessary
Disadvantages:
Electronic surveillance necessary during operation

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Fig 17: Schema of a Li-ion accumulator [3]

7.2.2 Nickel battery

Just as lead-acid batteries, the nickel technology is also somewhat older. However, due to
high commodity prices it initially was not often used. It took until the mid-20th century and
further advancements in technology for the nickel cell to have a break-thru in the market.
Just as with other batteries the performance of this type strongly depends on the chemical
composition. Subsequently we address two technologies, one, the nickel-cadmium (NiCd)
and the other, the nickel metal hydrate battery (NiMH). Due to prohibitions within the EU, the
use of nickel cadmium batteries is very limited and thus this type of technology will most
likely disappear from the market completely on long terms.
Advantages:
Availability
Recyclable
Suitability in the HEV (hybrid electric vehicle) operation already established
Simple battery management systems (BMS) (no charge balancing system necessary)
Disadvantages:
Limited potential for cost reduction
Limited potential for technological advancements
Performance above 50C critical
Lower specific performance and power in comparison to Li-ion accumulators
Cadmium (Cd) is poisonous and must be treated as hazardous waste

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8.

Optimization of own consumption with other storage media

8.1.

Hydrogen

An optimization of own consumption could very well be achieved by producing hydrogen

from excess PV power. However, to this day this is not yet practicable for the common user
because it still entails some (hazardous) risks. Two carriers of energy, hydrogen and oxygen
can be produced from water by electrolysis. This is done by means of electrical current. But
now there is a problem of storing. Even if it is collected directly inside a container succeeding
electrolyses, it still has to be compressed in order to collect greater amounts in a pressure
vessel. Currently, this system is not yet practicable in private homes, but should be possible
in about 3 to 5 years.

8.2.

Methane

Producing methane would be a similar procedure. Here too, water is transformed to

hydrogen and oxygen by electrolysis. But now CO2 is added to the hydrogen and thus
liberates methane (CH4) This could be stored and used to operate a methane gas driven
generator at times when there is no solar power available. If no generator is to be used,
methane could also be fed-in the public gas grid. Since only test systems of this type have
been operated until now (effective June 2012) it could also take another 3 to 5 years until it
could effectively aid renewable energies.

8.3.

Methanol

Producing methanol takes it one step further. Here methanol (CH4O) is produced from
(CH4). Advantages of methanol are quite obvious, because it is much easier to store,
transport and use than methane. It also offers advantages compared to premium gasoline
with octane ratings of 95 98, while methanol reaches an octane number of 133. Methanol
in this form is renewable and CO2 neutral.

8.4.

Compressed air

Compressed air reservoirs are also quite interesting as a medium for storing energy. This
technique has existed for awhile. A good example for it is a compressed air storage power
plant founded in 1978 in Huntdorf, Germany (see fig 18). The problem with this type of
storing is the reservoirs occupying enormous space. Therefore this type of technique makes
probably more sense in the area of off-shore wind farms since in northern Germany there are
many underground salt domes available as compressed air energy storage space. This
method can be used to avert peak power demands with which power plants can be operated
at optimum operating point to decrease wear out. The conclusion of the above mentioned
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processes is, that they should preferably be used at large-scaled industry, rather than in
private homes, since they are still economically not of interest to homeowners (effective June
2012).

Fig 18: Compressed air storage power plant [5]

8.5.

Flywheel energy storage

Accumulating energy with a mechanical storage device is also possible. Flywheel energy
storage technique is already being used inside large sites, i.e. in the USA. There they are
used to improve the grid to intercept frequency fluctuations. One great advantage of such
storing method is the ability for multiple million cycles. Moreover, they can absorb and
release large amounts of high energy in very little time. However, this type of energy storage
bears one tremendous disadvantage, that is their quick self-discharge. Even for systems with
a magnetic bearing, installed inside an evacuated room, the stored energy diminishes very
fast due to friction. For private home-owners, flywheel energy storage is also not of interest.

8.6.

Pumped hydro storage

Pumped storage hydro power stations (see fig 19) generally operate almost like conventional
storage power stations, except for the upper reservoir isnt naturally fed. Water from the
bottom reservoir gets pumped into the upper reservoir. This takes place at times in which an
excess of electric energy is at hand. When energy is demanded from the grid, it can be made
available by water in the downpipes actuating the turbines which drive a generator that feeds
the produced energy into the grid. These systems have a high efficiency of approximately
75% One disadvantage of these systems is the enormous space requirements and the
immense interference in the environment. In Germany, building new pumped storage hydro
power stations is quite difficult due to a lack of space. However, in other countries, where
space is available, building these stations implies a good alternative to absorb excess power
in the grid and releasing it again when demanded.

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Fig 19: Schema of a pumped storage hydro power station [6]

8.7.

Water heating

Another variety of using excess energy is a boiler. Here, excessive solar energy is used to
heat water inside a boiler with a heating resistor to meet the daily demand of warm water.
These systems generally do not suffice to meet the entire demand of hot water they however
contribute a great deal to decrease the heating costs.

8.8.

Refrigerators / Freezers

Another idea of storing a surplus of PV energy could be via appliances which keep cold for a
long time, i.e. freezers. They should be configured to the effect of drawing PV power for
cooling when it is available, respectively an excess is present. This could also increase the
own consumption.

8.9.

Air conditioning units / air conditioning systems

They are primarily needed when solar irradiation is at its peak.

8.10. Ice-Heating
Using ice as a source of energy initially sounds paradox, but however is possible (see fig 20).
When water solidifies to ice so-called heat of crystallization is liberated. This energy can be
made available for heating a house and for heating service water via a thermal heat pump.
The emerged ice can be used for cooling the house in summer which increases the
efficiency, because now the heat inside the house is withdrawn to melt the ice. The
withdrawn heat is being stored for winter. Furthermore, warmth is being contributed into the
system via solar thermal panels to ensure optimal supply in winter. One complete ice-heater
consists of the following components: ice storage, air-to-air heat pump and buffer and
collector panels for solar heat.
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Conclusion: An interesting technique, however very young and thus without long scaled
empirical values.

Fig 20: Schema of an ice-heater [7]

8.11. CHP (Cogeneration / combined heat and power plant)

A CHP (see fig 21) essentially consists of a motor, a synchronous machine and a heat
exchanger. The combustion engine drives the generator for power production. The heat
produced is depleted from the coolant and the exhaust gases via a heat exchanger. This
certainly is a worthwhile support for the PV system; nevertheless it is not a storage device in
the true sense.

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Fig 21: Schema of a CHP [8

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9.

Conclusion and comments to an east-west oriented roof

layout and to the optimization of own-consumption

From figs 10,12 and 13 it is distinctly visible, that an east-plus west roof with each 3 kWp PV
performance ( in sum 6 kWp) ranges very close to a south oriented roof with 5kWp in central
Germany in reference to the highest possible annual autonomy.
This type of east-west roof layout is a good alternative for home owners that have so far
renounced the acquisition of a PV system, due to not having a south oriented roof.
Furthermore, the capital costs of a PV system have decreased drastically that in the mean
time it is actually worth (and in the future even more so, due to rising energy bills) storing
and using as much as possible self produced PV power.
The east-plus west roof layout ensures an even higher independency from power supply
companies.
In households where a parent, children and/or adolescents for example are often home
during the day, a very high own consumption can easily be managed.
In addition we presently still receive a feed-in compensation which will range at about 15
Euro cents by December 2012.
Moreover, a PV system will probably significantly exceed a lifespan of 20 years. We
generally calculate about 30 to 40 years. The additional 10 to 20 years are not yet taken in
consideration.

Recommendation of the TEC institute:

South oriented roof with app. 5 kWp or
east-plus west oriented roof with app 6 kWp (better: 10 kWp)
utilizing batteries
Connections should only be carried out by specialized companies
Use only current consuming optimized devices
Use benefit of remuneration for feeding-in grid, as long as possible
Taking in account that a PV system lasts more than 20 years

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List of references

[1]

http://www.photovoltaikweb.de/images/stories/PV_Suche/prozentanteil_vom_maximalen_ertrag_in_abhaengi
gkeit_der_ausrichtung_und_der_dachneigung.jpg

[2]

http://de.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Datei:Schema_eines_Bleiakkus_2009-0209.svg&filetimestamp=20090209222323

[3]

http://www.energynet.de/2010/04/21/wind-und-solarstrom-auf-Vorrat

[4]

http://www.windkraft-journal.de/2012/04/21update-to-the-rpland-berger-study-onautomotve-li-ion-batteries

[5]

http://www.bine.infor/hautnavigation/themen/erneuerbareenergien/photovoltaik/publikation/druckluftspeicher-kraftwerke

[6]

http://www.energieroute.de/wasser/speicherkraftwerke.php

[7]

http://www.eiheizung.com/wp-content/uploads/20111/01/eisheizung.png

[8]

http://www.bhkw.de/de/was_ist_ein_bhkw/bhkw_funktionsschema.html

List of web sources:

[9]

http://www.isocal.de

[10]

http://batteryuniversity.com/partone-4-german.htm

[11]
http://www.eurosolar.de/de/images/storie/pdf/Sauer_Option_Speicher_regenerativ_okt06.pdf
[12]

http://www.smart-metering.info/

[13]

http://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Smart_Metering

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