Should solar PV projects be aligned with the PPA?

should be aligned with the PPA. Solar PV power plant projects generate revenue by selling power. How power is sold to the end users or an intermediary depends mainly on the power sector structure (vertically integrated or deregulated) and the regulatory framework that governs PV projects.

What are the different types of contracts for solar PV power plants?

Engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contracts are the most common form of contract for the construction of solar PV power plants.

What is a power purchase agreement (PPA)?

A Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) refers to a contractual agreement between two parties, typically a power producer and a customer. The producer usually arranges the design, gains the necessary permissions and manages the installation of a solar PV system on the customer’s property at little to no cost.

What is a PPA for a large-scale PV project?

This section looks at the key elements of the typical PPA for large-scale PV projects, and describes how small solar power plants (distributed generation) can utilize similar contractual arrangements. PPAs are legally binding agreements between a power seller and power purchaser (off-taker).

Do solar projects need an EPC contract?

In our experience, most utility-scale solar projects use an EPC Contract. An operation and maintenance agreement: This is usually a medium- to long-term Operating and Maintenance Agreement (O&M Agreement) with an Operator. The term of the O&M Agreement will vary from project to project.

Are solar PV projects suited to project financing?

Solar PV projects have historically been well suited to project financing because many sell power at a fixed tariff (as opposed to a fluctuating price on a merchant market) and often on a “take-or-pay” basis whereby the off-taker purchases whatever volume of power is produced, thus mitigating both price and volume risk.