Solar PV with Battery Storage Cheaper Than Conventional Power Plants
A Fraunhofer Institute study shows solar photovoltaics with battery storage are now cheaper than coal and gas in Germany, with costs for renewables expected to decline further by 2045.
Read original article
A recent study by the Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems ISE reveals that solar photovoltaics (PV) combined with battery storage are now more cost-effective than traditional coal and gas power plants in Germany. The study, which has been tracking electricity generation costs since 2010, indicates that ground-mounted PV systems and onshore wind turbines are the most economical, with costs ranging from 4.1 to 9.2 cents per kilowatt hour. The costs for PV battery systems vary between 6.0 and 22.5 cents per kilowatt hour, influenced by the price of battery systems and solar radiation levels. The analysis also forecasts that by 2045, costs for small PV roof systems could drop to between 4.9 and 10.4 cents per kilowatt hour. While renewable energy costs are expected to decline, flexible power plants, such as biogas and biomass, will still be necessary for backup, albeit at higher costs ranging from 20.2 to 43.3 cents per kilowatt hour. The study emphasizes the importance of integrating renewable energy sources with flexible technologies to achieve a climate-neutral energy system.
- Solar PV with battery storage is cheaper than coal and gas power plants.
- Ground-mounted PV systems and onshore wind are the most cost-effective energy sources in Germany.
- Electricity generation costs for renewables are projected to continue decreasing until 2045.
- Flexible power plants will be needed as backup but will have significantly higher costs.
- The study highlights the importance of combining renewable energy with flexible technologies for a sustainable energy future.
Related
One Year Since Germany's Nuclear Exit: Renewables Expand, Fossil Fuels Reduced
One year after Germany's nuclear exit, Fraunhofer ISE reports increased renewable energy capacity, reduced fossil fuel electricity generation, and a cleaner energy mix. Renewable sources compensated for lost nuclear power, leading to a 26% decrease in non-renewable generation.
Germany – Coal generation at low during Q2 2024
Germany's electricity generation decreased by 1.2% in Q2 2024, with renewables hitting a record high of 65.3%. Hydropower surged due to heavy rainfall, while wholesale prices dropped by 26.9%. Germany was a net importer, trading electricity with neighboring countries.
Germans Combat Climate Change with DIY Solar Panels
Germany is witnessing a rise in lightweight, plug-and-play solar panels, enabling individuals to generate electricity affordably. Over 500,000 systems installed, driven by regulations, rising electricity prices, and climate concerns.
Germans Combat Climate Change from Their Balconies
Germany is witnessing a rise in lightweight, plug-and-play solar panels, enabling self-installation for electricity generation. Over 500,000 systems installed, driven by relaxed regulations and rising costs, promoting sustainability.
Germans Combat Climate Change with DIY Solar Panels
Germany is experiencing a rise in lightweight, plug-and-play solar panels, enabling self-installation and increasing solar capacity. Over 500,000 systems have been installed, promoting energy independence and sustainability.
4 commentsAt the 7 year mark my cost per kwh will be below $0.02 . Power in my area (southwest US) is $0.12 per kwh. Some factors are complex to measure. Such as how much more I run the AC because it is essentially 'free' than I would if it were still $0.12 per kwh. Another complex factor is that I can generate much more power than I consume currently. If I found a sensible use for the surplus power then costs drop even lower even faster. My consumption is about 50% of max, on an annual basis.
Related
One Year Since Germany's Nuclear Exit: Renewables Expand, Fossil Fuels Reduced
One year after Germany's nuclear exit, Fraunhofer ISE reports increased renewable energy capacity, reduced fossil fuel electricity generation, and a cleaner energy mix. Renewable sources compensated for lost nuclear power, leading to a 26% decrease in non-renewable generation.
Germany – Coal generation at low during Q2 2024
Germany's electricity generation decreased by 1.2% in Q2 2024, with renewables hitting a record high of 65.3%. Hydropower surged due to heavy rainfall, while wholesale prices dropped by 26.9%. Germany was a net importer, trading electricity with neighboring countries.
Germans Combat Climate Change with DIY Solar Panels
Germany is witnessing a rise in lightweight, plug-and-play solar panels, enabling individuals to generate electricity affordably. Over 500,000 systems installed, driven by regulations, rising electricity prices, and climate concerns.
Germans Combat Climate Change from Their Balconies
Germany is witnessing a rise in lightweight, plug-and-play solar panels, enabling self-installation for electricity generation. Over 500,000 systems installed, driven by relaxed regulations and rising costs, promoting sustainability.
Germans Combat Climate Change with DIY Solar Panels
Germany is experiencing a rise in lightweight, plug-and-play solar panels, enabling self-installation and increasing solar capacity. Over 500,000 systems have been installed, promoting energy independence and sustainability.