Abstract

Qatar declared that by 2020 solar energy would produce at least 2% of its total generated electric power (EP). The known solar power plants EP at utility scale level are concentrating solar power (using parabolic trough collectors, linear Fresnel collector, and solar tower), photovoltaic (PV), and integrated solar combined cycle using fossil fuel (natural gas) besides solar collectors. EP generation by PV is reliable, clean, well proven, and matured technology, with 25 years warranties on solar panels. PV is the direct conversion of solar radiation (sunlight) into direct electric current by semiconductors that exhibit PV effect. The PV can be applied to large scale power plants called photovoltaic power station or solar parks. A solar park is connected to the grid, and thus supplies its bulk produced EP to this grid. Transfer solar energy directly to EP is achieved without using moving parts means very low maintenance and operation requirements. Once a solar park is installed (with relatively high cost compared to conventional power plat such as combined cycle), the operating costs with no fuel supply are extremely low compared to conventional power plants. This paper presents the technology and economics of the PV power station. It outlines the main components of the PV power plants including the solar PV modules, module mounting and tracking systems, inverters (or converters), and step-up transformers. It reviews the materials of the PV cells, the PV cells degradation, and the existing PV power plant. Utility PV power plants around the world were reviewed. PV panel are extensively used for small-distributed power generation used in homes and in remote areas. One of the advantages of building solar parks in Qatar (and other GCC) is the coincide of its power output with the high air conditioning electric power demand in hot summer days. The GCC is the Gulf Co-operation countries including Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Oman, and Bahrain. Recent reduction