A comprehensive review of CAPEX-driven LCOE optimization strategies for utility-scale PV systems


S. Pillai D., Bayindir A. B., Thiruchutan A., Lopez Garcia J., Bayhan S., Aissa B., ...Daha Fazla

Solar Energy, cilt.306, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus) identifier

  • Yayın Türü: Makale / Derleme
  • Cilt numarası: 306
  • Basım Tarihi: 2026
  • Doi Numarası: 10.1016/j.solener.2025.114296
  • Dergi Adı: Solar Energy
  • Derginin Tarandığı İndeksler: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, Compendex, Environment Index, Geobase, INSPEC
  • Anahtar Kelimeler: Balance of system, Capital expenditure, Levelized cost of electricity, Operational expenditure, Utility-scale PV plants
  • Gazi Üniversitesi Adresli: Evet

Özet

Utility-scale photovoltaic (PV) systems play a pivotal role in the global energy transition, with capital expenditure (CAPEX) being a key determinant of project competitiveness. This paper presents a systematic assessment of CAPEX components supported by industry benchmarks from recent market studies along with projected CAPEX scenarios highlighting regional and global trends. Unlike prior studies that focused primarily on cost reporting, the core contribution of this work is a comprehensive review of levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) optimization strategies, which include module technology selection, optimized system configurations, innovative balance-of-system (BOS) designs, digitalization and AI-enabled tools for design and operation, as well as emerging approaches aimed at improving reliability and durability. Each approach in various strategies is systematically assessed for its individual impact on CAPEX, BOS, and LCOE, providing a clear understanding of cost-performance trade-offs. More importantly, the current maturity level of each strategy, existing industry standards, implementation challenges and future research needs are benchmarked. By bridging CAPEX analysis with optimization pathways for the industry, this review evaluates how capital components can be strategically selected and optimized during both design and operation to improve project economics. The findings offer a structured roadmap to reduce costs, enhance reliability, and accelerate the competitiveness of utility-scale PV systems in the coming decades.