Regional Interferences to Photovoltaic Development: A Polish Perspective

Abstract

The stability of energy generation is crucial for the functioning of every country. Currently, the EU policy is moving towards becoming independent of fossil energy sources, which can be replaced with sources that are not exhaustible, for example, energy from the sun. Public awareness of renewable energy is increasing. People are willing to invest in natural solutions. However, planning large photovoltaic farm projects is difficult due to complex location requirements. The study aimed to analyse the interferences/barriers to be considered when searching for a suitable location to install a photovoltaic farm. The analysis was conducted for the territory of Poland. The study used a literature and local legislation query and the Delphi method. The Delphi method identified the most important interferences from the investor’s perspective. Eleven interferences have been identified, classified into legal, spatial, technical, social, and financial groups. Several are locally determined and only exist in selected locations (e.g., technical determinants of the power grid condition, etc.). In contrast, others are unitary (e.g., concerns about the impact of PV on human health, etc.). The decision-makers are aware of the existing interferences/barriers, and the proposed administrative, legal, and technical solutions marginally mitigate barriers. System solutions are recommended, allowing an easier way to find a suitable location for a PV system.