Solar Energy Development Prospects in the Republic of Dagestan

Abstract

Solar energy development prospects in the Republic of Dagestan are analyzed. The expected amount of electricity generated by solar power plants is estimated. The data obtained have shown that this region has a sufficient potential for the development of solar energy, which makes it possible to compensate for the shortage of electricity generation in the Dagestan electric power system equal to 3.1 billion kWh per annum. Electric power generation versions implying the use of photovoltaic converters (PVC), a solar tower with Rankine cycle planar heliostats (STPP), and a Stirling cycle parabolic dish heliostat (PDPP) are considered. In terms of technical and economic indicators, the PDPP is more preferable, and good prospects of the system are beyond doubt. However, more matured PVC and STPP technologies are presently put is use on a mass scale in the big energy sector. In view of a significant scatter in the technical and economic indicators around the world, for the PVC, STPP and PDPP technologies to be compared in a correct way, they should be implemented according to the standards and prices of one country. The kinds of renewable energy sources that are probabilistic in nature should be considered in the big electric power industry as backup-and-replacement sources; i.e., their function is to save hydrocarbon and, to a certain extent, nuclear fuel. The introduction of these technologies in the Republic of Dagestan will make it possible to save a significant amount of hydrocarbon fuel in the United Power System of South (for example, 706329114 m³ of gas, which necessary to generate the amount of electricity equal to the above-mentioned shortage, by thermal power plants operating with efficiency equal to 40%). This is important, because the absolute calm in 2021 in the European wind energy caused a jump in the spot price of gas up to $1969 for thousand cubic meters, whereas the price of Gazprom's exports to the far abroad was $313.4 for thousand cubic meters. When exporting gas at these prices, the state will receive $1390762026 or $221363544, respectively, and $191028200 when exporting electricity directly in the amount of the above-mentioned shortage. The obtained study results can be used in the development of regional and local programs of stimulating investments in the renewable energy. Gas exports are currently more profitable than the direct exports of electricity, and the proceeds gained from the gas exports should preferably be invested in the further development of renewable energy.