This report provides an overview of the method and outcomes of the project investigating low cost methods for Photovoltaic Direct Electrical Heating (PV-DEH).
Report extract
The project represents a significant step toward decarbonising industrial heat supply by leveraging innovative PV-DEH technology. By reducing BOS costs and simplifying system integration, it paves the way for broader adoption of solar PV in industrial settings, contributing to substantial emissions reductions in Australia.
The key innovations described in this report are:
- Direct Electrical Heating (PV-DEH): The project introduces a novel PV-DEH technology where DC current from PV systems directly heats industrial processes through resistive devices, bypassing conventional inverters.
- Modular Heating Units: The PV-DEH system can be modularized and scaled. Calculations based on a 100 MW DEH plant indicate potential BOS cost savings of around 25% compared to conventional system.
The report discusses learnings including the benefits of using AC vs DC current for heating, the development of 5-10kW modular demonstration rigs, various heat storage options, and a GIS mapping tool to analyse market opportunities in the Melbourne region.
