Electricity Supply in the Garment Industry through Photovoltaic Plants: Performance and Cost Analysis

By Meri NUHAJ, Angjelin SHTJEFNI

Abstract
This paper presents a sustainable solution for meeting the energy needs of a garment factory through the installation of a photovoltaic (solar) plant. In the context of unstable electricity supply, rising energy costs, and the need to reduce environmental impact, solar energy emerges as a strategic and beneficial alternative, especially for manufacturing businesses. Due to the factory’s continuous energy consumption from intensive production processes, a detailed analysis of its daily, monthly, and annual energy use was conducted to ensure the accurate sizing of the photovoltaic system. The study covers all main components, including solar panels, inverters, mounting structures, protective devices, and their integration with the existing grid. Technical options were carefully evaluated, focusing on efficiency, durability, and cost-effectiveness.
Special attention is given to practical installation aspects, such as optimal panel positioning based on geographic orientation and the use of simulation software for energy production and performance analysis. The economic evaluation includes installation, maintenance, and depreciation costs, while also highlighting the project’s positive environmental impact in alignment with global sustainability goals. The study focuses on a garment factory located in Lezhë, Albania, providing a real-case application of photovoltaic system implementation in an industrial context. The results confirm that investing in a photovoltaic plant significantly reduces grid dependency, lowers operational costs, and enhances the factory’s environmental profile. This project serves as a replicable model for other industries aiming to adopt clean energy and support sustainable development.

Key words: photovoltaic systems; on-grid systems; hybrid systems; energy efficiency; industrial energy; Albania.

https://doi.org/10.58944/tawn9944