Abstract. We investigate the application of a solar-powered bus route to a
small-scale transportation system, as such of a university campus. In
particular, we explore the prospect of replacing conventional fossil fuel
buses by electric buses powered by solar energy and electricity provided by
the central grid. To this end, we employ GIS mapping technology to estimate
the solar radiation at the university campus and, accordingly, we
investigate three different scenarios for harnessing the available solar
power: (1) solar panels installed on the roof of bus stop shelters, (2) solar panels installed at an unused open space in the university, and (3) solar
roads, i.e. roads constructed by photovoltaic (PV) materials. For each of
the three scenarios, we investigate the optimal technical configuration, the
resulting energy generation, as well as the capital cost for application in
the case of NTUA campus in Athens (Greece). The preliminary feasibility
analysis showcases that all three scenarios contribute to satisfying
transportation demand, proportionately to their size, with scenario (2) presenting the lowest capital cost in relation to energy generation.
Therefore, we further explore this scenario by simulating its daily
operation including the actions of buying and selling energy to the central
grid, when there is energy deficit or surplus, respectively. A sensitivity
analysis is carried out in order to ascertain the optimal size of the solar
panel installation in relation to profit and reliability. Overall, results
indicate that, albeit the high capital costs, solar-powered
transportation schemes present a viable alternative for replacing
conventional buses at the studied location, especially considering
conventional PV panels. We note that present results heavily depend on the
choice of capacity factors of PV materials, which differ among technologies.
Yet, as capacity factors of PV panels are currently increasing, the studied
schemes might be more promising in the future.