Design and Modeling of Solar Photovoltaic Systems and Renewable Energy Communities Using Open Source GIS: A Case Study in Liguria

The world needs to switch to renewable and distributed energy systems as soon as possible since climate change and energy security issues become increasingly urgent. Solar photovoltaic technology, especially rooftop PV systems, is vital for this energy shift. Because it is flexibility, low emission, and adaptability to urban environments. At the same time, renewable energy communities (RECs) serve as a decentralized way to regulate energy. They give people opportunities to work together to produce, exchange, and manage local renewable energy. This study focuses on the Liguria region of Italy, exploring how rooftop solar photovoltaic systems can be effectively integrated into Renewable Energy Communities to enhance energy autonomy, economic efficiency, and environmental sustainability. The study uses open-source geographic information systems (QGIS, ArcGIS Pro) to assess the regional rooftop PV potential, by using high-resolution spatial data and solar radiation simulation techniques. By overlaying building types, roof orientations, and household electricity demand, the study identifies the self-consumption and the sale of surplus electricity. Building on resource-demand matching analysis, this study further assesses the integration potential of PV systems within RECs, employing a series of energy performance metrics and economic indicators for quantitative analysis. And also evaluating the environmental benefits of PV systems in terms of carbon emissions reduction. Finally, the study proposes policy recommendations for the advancement of RECs. The study provides local governments and urban planners with dual technical and policy support pathways.