Techno-economic analysis of a stand-alone photovoltaic-diesel-battery system: a case study in Nothern Nigeria

Abstract

For many years, the application of renewable energy systems have significantly increased due to the negative impact realised in using fossil fuel and how it seriously affect the environment. The renewable energy source are always available for free, this have contributed to the increased in its application every day. Photovoltaic system have been considered as one of the best source of energy due to many factors, these factors include clean environment, less noise, little maintenance and clean energy. This project work examine the configuration of photovoltaic and diesel stand-alone off-grid system where the PV system alternatively generate electrical energy during the day time while the battery supply electrical power to the load from the energy it reserved during night hours or when there is no enough energy from the PV modules. The generator set is acting on standby mode as it only supply the load essentially on priority bases or during maintenance services which require complete isolation of the entire PV system. The modelling is divided into two parts; technical analysis is perform using Matlab/Simulink where the behaviour and characteristics of the system is obtained. The second part is the economic and environmental analysis performed by Homer simulation software which compare different energy system configuration and focused on initial capital cost, Net present cost (NPC), operating cost, Cost of energy and reduction in carbon emission (CO2). The Homer select the overall winning sizes from different energy configuration, based on that sensitivity analysis was perform. Lastly, the hybrid system will served as an alternative solution that will supply electrical power to the healthcare centre in northern Nigeria which require little amount of electricity to improve their medical.