Abstract

Geographical Potential for Utility-Scale Solar PV in South Carolina
Track: Renewables
Authors: Amanda Farthing

The purpose of this study is to determine optimal locations for the implementation of utility-scale solar PV and the resulting socio-environmental potential of solar energy in South Carolina. A GIS suitability analysis was used by reclassifying land-use, slope, and aspect values and combining layers with a weighted overlay. The study shows that, in the mid-range scenario, 5,500 - 10,300 TWh of solar energy is available on suitable lands, which comprise 4.3 - 7.9 percent of state land area.