Photovoltaic low power systems and their environmental impact:Yuma, Arizona, U.S.A. case study and projections for Mexicali, Mexico

This article presents a proposal for the implementation of photovoltaic systems in homes located in Mexicali, Mexico. With exhibition of new insulation and different consumption characteristics. The photovoltaic low power system is proposed as a type of electrical supply that helps in reducing the environmental impact of generating energy by burning fossil fuels. A photovoltaic system installed in the city of Yuma, Arizona in the United States, which supplies the electrical needs to a building is selected as a reference for solar resource use. Energy use improvement and consumption costs are calculated, and the equivalent amounts of greenhouse gases, not generated since solar technologies were implemented are determined. Furthermore, comparisons of the solar potential between Yuma and Mexicali show that the Mexican city has a higher annual solar potential, so the applicability of this solar technology is too feasible in Mexicali.