The potential role of photovoltaic conversion in the future is assessed, and a number of illustrative examples of candidate missions are evaluated in order to indicate the competitive position of photovoltaic technology in the future energy economy of the Southwest. A conservative approach is taken in which photovoltaic conversion is treated without favoritism as a competitor in a realistic energy marketplace. Both on-site missions and central station power production are considered. Data on isolation and power demand for the computer simulation are discussed, and the simulation model is described. Reliability analysis and economic evaluation are performed. (LEW)
DOE contract number: AT03-76ET30351 OSTI Identifier 6407523 Research organization: Aerospace Corp., El Segundo, CA (USA). Energy and Transportation Div.