Potential analysis of a target area selection for photovoltaic-based distributed generation in cases of an existing city in Korea

To promote the use of renewable energy, renewable energy systems should be installed in the existing urban context. However, there is a limit to the application of renewable energy to new buildings. This paper evaluates the potential application of photovoltaic systems in an urban context for distributed generation. After considering the physical characteristics that affect the potential application, complexes are categorized. Based on the concept of a district unit plan, urban types are divided into four categories of low-rise, mid/low-rise, multiple housing, and business complex areas. Representative building and complex archetypes are proposed based on the results of a present condition survey. These complex block archetypes are used to analyze the potential applicability of rooftop PV systems. The total potential of energy share is 21, 15, 7, and 2% for low-rise housing, mid/low-rise housing, multiple housing, and business complex, respectively. The revenues of RPS by unit complex area increase in the order mid/low-rise housing, multiple housing, low-rise housing, and business complex. The results will be utilized as basic data for setting targets of renewable energy.