Methodology and definition of solar photovoltaic planning regions

Abstract

There are in use at the present time at least 10 differently defined sets of energy planning regions for the United States. This paper identifies and describes the existing energy planning regions and discusses their intended function. It then presents an argument for development of a set of solar regions within the United States and discusses the criterion (climate, economics and energy supply/demand) which are required for definition of such a set of regions. The final two sections of the paper discuss a methodology two stage factor analysis, for the definition of solar planning regions and the application of that methodology to the definition of a set of seven planning regions for the United States. Those regions so defined are: the Northeast (south as far as Virginia); the south (west as far as Oklahoma and Kansas); the southwest (including California and Nevada); the northwest (as far east as the Dakotas); the midwest (stretching from Minnesota to Ohio) and individually the state of Texas.