Is solar energy a viable source of energy in Iran?

Particularly, Iran enjoys a high potential for solar radiation up to 5.5 kWh/m 2 /day where implementation of solar power plants is completely feasible and affordable , . Due to great access to solar energy, several studies have evaluated the potential of generating electricity from this abundant and clean source of energy.

Why are solar PV modules reducing performance in Iran?

The annual average air temperatures of all the provinces of Iran is higher than 25 °C. Therefore, the PV modules performance will dramatically reduce due to high ambient temperatures.

What are the major issues affecting solar electricity sector in Iran?

Principal issues of solar electricity sector in Iran are prolongation of licensing process, non-targeted agreement on electricity purchases, complexity of financing, lack of confidence in private sector and volatility of laws and regulations.

Can PV technology be deployed in Iran?

Although there is a high tendency of the government and policy makers for deployment of PV technology in Iran, there are still some impediments to turn potential into reality in this sector due to insufficient industry growth, financing problems, deficient of governing rules, and lack of a sustainable development roadmap.

Why does Iran need solar energy?

The other reason is that under the “Paris Agreement” terms, Iran obliged to reduce its GHG emissions by at least 4% and at most 12% by 2030. Among RE resources, Iran has the remarkable potential for solar energy with the average annual rate of 4.5–5.5 kWh/m 2.

How much does a solar power plant cost in Iran?

The guaranteed purchase tariff rates announced by SUNA in May 2016 . Official exchange rate for the US dollar announced by the Central Bank of Iran on September 1, 2016. The basic price for an average of different install capacities of PV power plants was 7290 IRRs/KWh in 2015 and 5940 IRRs /KWh in 2016 and 2017 .