PHOTOVOLTAIC PLANT TO SUPPLY ENERGY FOR AN ELECTRIC COFFEE DRYER - ENERGY COSTS AND COMPENSATION

ABSTRACT

In this work, we sought to minimize electricity costs in the coffee bean drying process by carrying out the theoretical sizing of the economic viability of the Photovoltaic Power plant (PVP) ongrid used to supply a Dryer Unit (DU). The methodology consisted of adequate sizing of a PVP generation plant to promote the electric energy balance. It used economic indicators such as internal rate of return, discounted payback, and net present value. Two scenarios were considered: a pessimistic with DU use on-peak period; and an optimistic with full use of the DU during the off-peak period. It was considered local electricity tariff values, and the results indicated the economic feasibility for the PVP installation also the feasibility of the dryer use in both scenarios, there are no restrictions on operating hours. It can be concluded that it is essential to understand the Brazilian electricity bill legislation because only in this way is it possible to properly develop the on-grid photovoltaic power plant projects. The technical and economic parameters are inseparable and indicated that the electricity tariff should not exceed US$ 0.22 (kWh) ^-1 to ensure the photovoltaic power plants installation viability to supply DUs that remain in operation during on-peak periods.

Coffea Arábica L.; distributed generation; energy pricing; grain drying; post-harvest; photovoltaics