Small scale solar PV from distributed systems has a strong role to play in our future energy mix.  The phenomenal uptake of solar PV in the last few years, due to significantly reduced costs and encouraging government policies, means it has the potential to reduce electricity demand.

This research demonstrates the potential domestic and small-scale grid-connected solar has to reduce electricity demand during peak periods.  By comparing the hourly generation from a range of PV systems across NSW and Queensland during summer and winter months, to hourly electricity demand from the grid, it is shown, as anticipated, that diurnal electricity demand is reduced.  What is also demonstrated is that morning and evening peak demand can be reduced, particularly in the summer months.  Another interesting finding is the positive effect of daylight savings in NSW on reducing evening peak demand from the grid.

As decision-makers roll-back support for renewable energy, this work is able to graphically express the benefits of solar PV from distributed systems.   It is concluded that continued high uptake of solar PV reduces the need for additional power from conventional sources during times of high electricity demand and high cost.