The default setting is a business as usual scenario, which uses the current generation mix, and considers the implications of a 2 percent demand growth under the current state regulations. Other solar production scenarios have also been pre-programmed into the tool, including the three optimum locations selected by the Bureau of Land Management.

Users can specify a real carbon price tax (2010$/metric ton), and amend or extend the Alternative Solar Investment Tax Credit.

Power Plant options include type (Photovoltaic or CSP) and cooling system.

Az SMART also allows a solar developer to state the unique characteristics of their own technology, prior to running a scenario.

Az SMART utilizes a graphically-based click and draw map query tool, capable of multi-layered “on-the-fly” analysis.

The GIS screen also demonstrates how the relaxation of some filters can significantly increase the emergence of additional solar-feasible areas.

This uses an integrated version of PowerWorld, which maps the entire western region transmission system to 69 kV level.

Reflecting upon valuable transmission line constraints provided by APS, SRP and TEP, this screen graphically portrays the implication of transmission grid enhancements upon solar generating capacity.

The top chart illustrates the levelized cost of delivery per MWh for 17 energy sources, including any policy options or custom solar technology previously specified on screen 2.

The bottom chart is a through-time levelized cost estimate for 11 types of renewable and non-renewable energy.

The amount of carbon dioxide emitted per MWh (in metric tonnes) for 17 energy sources is shown, along with the through-time carbon dioxide savings.

Additional environmental impacts, such as sulfur dioxide and nitrous oxide emissions, will be added shortly.

An option to divide the consumption of solar electricity generated during a particular scenario between in-state and out-of-state customers has also been incorporated into Az SMART.