Working Model to Calculate Annual MTCO₂e Offset by a 1 MWp Solar Energy System in Thailand

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Working Model to Calculate Annual MTCO₂e Offset by a 1 MWp Solar Energy System in Nakhon Phanom Province, Thailand

1. Introduction

The purpose of this model is to calculate the annual metric tons of CO₂ equivalent (MTCO₂e) offset by a 1 MWp solar energy system in Nakhon Phanom Province, Thailand, which produces 1,533,175 kWh annually. This calculation is based on the amount of CO₂ emissions that would have been produced if the same amount of electricity were generated using the regional grid mix.

2. Calculation Steps

Step 1: Determine the Annual Solar Electricity Production

Step 2: Obtain the Grid Emission Factor

The grid emission factor represents the amount of CO₂e emissions per unit of electricity generated from the grid. For Thailand, the emission factor can vary based on the energy mix. According to the Thailand Greenhouse Gas Management Organization (TGO), the Combined Margin (CM) emission factor for Thailand is:

Reference: Thailand Greenhouse Gas Management Organization (Public Organization), “Emission Factors for Thailand,” 2022.

Step 3: Calculate the Total CO₂e Emissions Avoided

Multiply the annual solar electricity production by the grid emission factor:

Step 4: Convert Kilograms to Metric Tons

Since 1 metric ton equals 1,000 kilograms:

r

3. Conclusion

By producing 1,533,175 kWh annually, a 1 MWp solar energy system in Nakhon Phanom Province, Thailand, offsets approximately 868.24 metric tons of CO₂ equivalent per year.

4. Assumptions and References

  • Emission Factor Source: The emission factor of 0.5663 kg CO₂e/kWh is based on the Combined Margin (CM) provided by the Thailand Greenhouse Gas Management Organization (TGO).Reference:
  • Thailand Greenhouse Gas Management Organization (Public Organization). (2022). Grid Emission Factor for Thailand. Retrieved from TGO Official Website
  • Uniform Grid Factor: It is assumed that the grid emission factor is uniform across Thailand, including Nakhon Phanom Province.
  • Solar Performance: The solar system’s performance is assumed to be consistent annually without significant degradation.

5. Additional Notes

  • Variability in Emission Factors: Emission factors can change over time due to shifts in the energy mix. For the most accurate and up-to-date emission factors, consult the latest reports from the TGO or the Ministry of Energy in Thailand.
  • Regional Differences: If regional emission factors are available, they should be used for more precise calculations, as local energy mixes can vary.

By following this model, stakeholders can estimate the environmental benefits of solar energy projects in terms of CO₂e emissions offset, aiding in sustainability planning and reporting.

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