Abstract
This research introduces a two-stage optimization framework to address the electricity mismatch. The proposed framework optimizes the orientation and number of photovoltaic (PV) panels to align production with the demand profile of a neighborhood. Based on the PV system design, the framework also optimizes the battery energy storage system's (BESS) size, particularly the number of batteries used, to increase the PV system's self-sufficiency and self-consumption and reduce the import/export with the grid and the payback period. This study establishes a framework that defines the required number of batteries based on two criteria: (1) the power capacity of the batteries to charge the hourly PV surplus and discharge the hourly demand, and (2) the daily distribution of required batteries over the course of a year. In this framework, the optimal number of batteries is determined daily throughout the year. This approach contrasts with other studies, which usually determine the storage system's total capacity as a percentage of the maximum storage capacity required to cover the highest annual PV production peak. A residential neighborhood is used as a case study to evaluate the performance of the proposed optimization framework. The results showed the proposed framework's ability to increase the correlation between the aggregate demand and PV electricity production profiles and the economic value and energy yield of photovoltaic BESSs (PV-BESSs). This study provides evidence that the decision on the PV-BESS varies significantly based on the objectives, underscoring the significant value of such a framework in the early urban design decision-making process.