Electricity from photovoltaic solar cells: Flat-Plate Solar Array Project final report. Volume VIII: Project analysis and integration

Abstract

The Flat-Plate Solar Array (FSA) Project, funded by the U.S. Government and managed by the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, was formed in 1975 to develop the module/array technology needed to attain widespread terrestrial use of photovoltaics by 1985. To accomplish this, the FSA Project established and managed an Industry, University, and Federal Government Team to perform the needed research and development (R&D). PA&1 performed planning and integration activities to support management of the various FSA Project R&D activities. Technical and economic goals were established by PA&I for each R&D task within the Project to coordinate the thrust toward the National Photovoltaics Program goals. A sophisticated computer modeling capability was developed to assess technical progress toward meeting the economic goals. These models included a manufacturing facility simulation [Solar Array Manufacturing Industry Costing Standards (SAMICS)], a photovoltaic power station simulation [Lifetime Cost and Performance (LCP)] and a decision aid model incorporating uncertainty [SIMulation of Research ANd Development Projects (SIMRAND)]. This family of analysis tools was used to track the progress of the technology and to explore the effects of alternative technical paths. Numerous studies conducted by PA&I signaled the achievement of milestones or were the foundation of major FSA Project and National Program decisions. This document summarizes the most important PA&I activities during the Project's history. It discusses the PA&I planning function and how it related to Project direction and reviews important analytical models developed by PA&I for its analytical and assessment activities. The document summarizes major studies completed during the term of the Project and provides considerable insight into the role played by PA&I in supporting Project management.