Analysis of Power Generation and Transmission from Very Large-Scale Photovoltaic Systems in Algeria

Abstract

In addition to the well-recognised two values of vast land and sunshine of Algeria, its Sahara desert has the third value, energy production and export. Subsequently, Algeria can then become a role model to other countries in the world that has huge solar and energy feedstock. In this article, a particular attention is being given to the Algerian Sahara in terms of solar potential capability in that it could capture enough solar energy to meet the total energy needs for sustainable development of Algeria, Sahara cultivation and Repopulation and electricity Export to Europe using Very Large Scale- Photovoltaic (VLS-PV) system. Moreover, the article is also concerned with studying the energy transmission losses from the generation site, in depth Sahara of the south of the country, to the north as well to European countries. A rough calculation of the Losses was made for a transmission overhead line of 400 kV three-phases, 1000 MVA using ALMELEC cable of 1600 mm2. The calculated losses results were found to be 15% per 1000 km. The optimal location to start the installation of VLS PV systems is proposed.