Energy Policy, Vol.23, No.9, 755-763, 1995
ECONOMIC-ANALYSIS OF FLAT-PLATE COLLECTORS OF SOLAR-ENERGY
Although solar energy potential in Turkey is far more than its total annual energy consumption, because of technical, economic and efficiency problems it cannot be harnessed to its fullest extent, Solar energy collecting systems have an initial cost two to five times higher than alternatives using electricity, LPG, fuel or other solid energy sources, However, their annual repair and maintenance costs are much lower than alternatives due to high energy prices, Solar systems with inflated annual costs have a minimum present value of US$867.19. Solar energy systems can be recommended for the countries that want a dependable and environmentally sound energy source, However, investment in R&D activities is necessary to reduce total cost of the system through improved efficiency and better production technology.