Techno-economic optimization and sensitivity analysis of off-grid hybrid renewable energy systems: A case study for sustainable energy solutions in rural India

Abstract

In the twenty-first century, global energy consumption is rapidly increasing, particularly in emerging nations, hastening the depletion of fossil fuel reserves and emphasizing the vital need for sustainable and renewable energy sources. This study aims to analyze hybrid renewable energy systems (HRESs) that use solid waste to generate power, focusing on difficulties linked to intermittent renewable sources using a techno-economic framework. Employing the HOMER Pro software, prefeasibility analysis is performed to meet the energy needs of an Indian community. System architecture optimization depends on factors like minimizing net present cost (NPC), achieving the lowest cost of energy (COE), and maximizing renewable source utilization. This study evaluates the technical, economic, and environmental feasibility of a hybrid renewable energy system (HRES) comprising a 400-kW solar photovoltaic (PV) array, a 100-kW wind turbine (WT), a 100-kW electrolyzer, 918 number of 12V batteries, a 200-kW converter, a 200-kW reformer, and a 15-kg hydrogen tank (H-tank). This optimal configuration has the lowest NPC of $26.8 million and COE of $4.32 per kilowatt-hour, and a Renewable Fraction (RF) of 100 %. It can provide a dependable power supply and satisfy 94 % of the daily onsite load demand, which is 1080 kilowatt-hours per day. The required electricity is sourced to load demand entirely from renewable energy at the given location. Additionally, the study highlights the benefits of HRES in solid waste management, considering technological advancements and regulatory frameworks. Furthermore, sensitivity analysis is conducted to measure economic factors that influence HRES, accounting for fluctuations in load demand, project lifespan, diesel fuel costs and interest rates. Installing an HRES custom-made to the local environmental conditions would provide a long-lasting, reliable, and cost-effective energy source. The results show that the optimal HRES system performs well and is a viable option for sustainable electrification in rural communities.