This paper looks at the implementation of a mixed-integer multi-period optimization model that maximizes a household’s savings based on selection of PV cell type and number of solar panels for a sample home with a given load profile over a 25 year period. Scenarios with different electricity pricing structures and EV storage options were investigated. Results show that utilizing an EV battery as an energy storage resource can increase savings, and that for most scenarios tested, multi-junction panels were chosen as the most cost effective. When the household receives no credit for energy exported to the grid, however, the optimal choice of panel type is thin-film.
Full paper here.
Github code here.