Frequently Asked Questions

General Information
What is a 108 MWp solar PV project?

A 108 MWp (megawatt-peak) solar photovoltaic (PV) project is a utility-scale power generation facility designed to convert solar energy into electricity, with a nominal installed capacity of 108 MW under Standard Test Conditions (STC).

How much electricity will the PV plant produce annually?

A 108 MWp solar PV plant is expected to generate:

  • Approximately 140–180 GWh per year, depending on solar irradiance, system design, and losses.

In the Kosovo/Balkans region, a typical annual generation range is 150–165 GWh

How many households can this supply?

The plant can supply electricity to approximately 20,000–30,000 households, depending on average annual consumption per household.

Technical Aspects
What components are included in the project?

The main components of a utility-scale PV plant include:

  • Photovoltaic (PV) modules
  • Inverters
  • Mounting structures
  • DC and AC cabling systems
  • Step-up transformers
  • Substation and grid interconnection infrastructure
  • SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) and monitoring systems
What is the expected lifetime of the plant?
  • PV modules: 25–30 years
  • Inverters: 10–15 years (typically replaced once during the project lifetime)
  • Overall project lifetime: 25–30 years
What is the capacity factor?

In the Balkan region, the expected capacity factor typically ranges between 16% and 20%, depending on site-specific conditions.

Land & Environmental Impact
How much land is required?

A 100 MWp solar PV plant typically requires approximately 100–120 hectares, equivalent to 1.0–1.2 hectares per MWp, depending on layout and technology.

Does the project harm the environment?

When properly designed and permitted, environmental impacts are minimal:

  • No greenhouse gas emissions during operation
  • Low noise levels
  • Potential for dual land use (e.g., agricultural activities)
Grid Connection & Operation
How is the PV plant connected to the grid?

The plant is typically connected to the transmission network via a 110 kV substation, in accordance with grid operator requirements.

Does solar affect grid stability?

Solar PV introduces variability; however, impacts are manageable through:

  • Detailed grid impact and interconnection studies
  • Implementation of voltage control and reactive power support
  • Integration of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) where required
Financial Aspects
What is the approximate investment cost?

The total investment cost for a 100 MWp solar PV project is typically in the range of €60–70 million, depending on technology selection, market conditions, and project-specific factors.

What are the main cost components?

Key cost components include:

  • PV modules (~40–50% of total CAPEX)
  • Inverters
  • EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction) services
  • Grid connection infrastructure
  • Land acquisition and permitting
What is the expected payback period?

The typical payback period is:

  • 10–12 years, depending on:
  • Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) terms
  • EPC costs
  • Financing structure and cost of capital
Construction & Timeline
How long does it take to build the PV plant?
  • Development phase (permitting, studies, financing): 3–5 years
  • Construction phase: 12–18 months
What are the main project phases?

The project is typically implemented through the following phases:

  • Feasibility study and site assessment
  • Permitting and regulatory approvals
  • Financial close
  • EPC construction
  • Testing and commissioning
  • Commercial operation
Operation & Maintenance
What maintenance is required?

Routine operation and maintenance activities include:

  • Periodic cleaning of PV modules
  • Vegetation management
  • Electrical and mechanical inspections
  • Inverter maintenance and servicing
What is the annual O&M cost?

Annual operation and maintenance costs are typically approximately €10,000 per MWp per year

Risks & Challenges
What are the main risks?

Key risks associated with solar PV projects include:

  • Regulatory and policy changes
  • Grid constraints and potential curtailment
  • Variability in solar resource
  • Equipment degradation and performance risk
What is curtailment?

Curtailment refers to the reduction of electricity output by the grid operator due to network constraints or system balancing requirements

Social & Economic Impact
Does the project create jobs?

Yes, the project contributes to job creation:

  • Construction phase: 150–300 jobs
  • Operational phase: 5–15 permanent positions
What are the benefits for the local community?

The project provides several local benefits, including:

  • Employment opportunities
  • Infrastructure improvements
  • Contribution to clean and sustainable energy supply
Sustainability & Future Outlook
What happens after 25-30 years?

At the end of its operational life, the project may:

  • Be repowered with newer, more efficient technologies
  • Be decommissioned, with site restoration and material recycling
Are solar PV modules recyclable?

Yes, PV modules are largely recyclable. Up to 90–95% of materials can be recovered and reused.

What performance metrics are used?

Key performance indicators include:

  • Performance Ratio (PR): typically, 75–85%
  • Specific Yield: approximately 1,400–1,700 kWh/kWp per year