Assesing the Impact of the Malta Development Control Design Policy (DC15) on Solar Photovoltaic Systems in Malta

Abstract

This dissertation has specifically studied the policy that does not allow the height of the photovoltaic modules to exceed that of the security parapet walls. This means that the walls will produce shadows on the modules that will reduce the energy produced by them. After carrying out experimental analyses and simulations in the PVSyst software, results have been obtained that reflect annual energy losses of up to 40%. The results obtained throughout this dissertation clearly reflect how compliance with DC15 policies can be a challenge for the progress and advancement of photovoltaic systems in Malta. It is important to find a balance between maintaining urban aesthetics and energy efficiency. One suggestion for updating this policy is to apply the same rule of eye of sight for determining the setback of penthouses from facades to PV module installations. This would simply mean that the PV modules can now be placed optimally on the roof with no shading, but they would be set back from the facade in order not to create aesthetic issues.