Repowering PV Systems Demystified: Terms, Motives, Economics and Impacts

Repowering photovoltaic (PV) systems is often perceived as an economically driven process, yet our research reveals a more complex reality. Through expert interviews and case studies, we demystify the motives behind repowering, showing that currently actions are driven by repairs or system unreliability rather than financial considerations. We clarify repowering definitions and provide real-world insights. Using economic analyses with the System Advisor Model (SAM), we evaluate the net present value (NPV) and payback time of repowering scenarios, with further analyses into mass, energy, and other impacts, highlighting key barriers and benefits. By clarifying definitions and providing real-world insights, this work lays a foundation for understanding how to make repowering decisions effectively.