Economic Assessment оf the Ecological Benefits from Rooftop Photovoltaics in Bulgaria

Abstract

Alternative energy sources, due to their ecological orientation and benefits for society, have the potential possibility to lead to an environment friendly development of humankind. Most studies on the topic cover only the financial dimensions, whereas others focus mainly on the ecological benefits. This paper puts an emphasis on the inclusion of the ecological benefits in the economic evaluation. Thus, a realistic economic accounting is achieved of the impact on the environment. The first part of the article suggests a methodology carrying out a multi-criteria analysis of rooftop photovoltaic power systems. The second part addresses the monetisation of the amounts of СО2 emissions saved and their inclusion in the economic evaluation of the ecological benefits from the rooftop photovoltaics. In the third part, some possible perspectives for development of the rooftop photovoltaics in Bulgaria are presented. The end of the article outlines the expectations and effects of the future development of the rooftop photovoltaic power stations in Bulgaria.