Techno-economic and environmental analysis of an off-grid hybrid system using solar panels, wind turbine, diesel generator, and batteries for a rural health clinic considering

• Published in: International journal of low carbon technologies 2024-09, Vol.19, p.2195-2209
• Main Authors: Hai, Tao, Shami, Hayder Oleiwi, Ahmed, Mohsen, Agarwal, Diwakar, Rajab, Husam, Mohammed, Adil Ismaeel, Hussein, Abbas Hameed Abdul, Hasan, Dheyaa Flayih, Mushtaq, Hiba, Singh, Narinderjit Singh Sawaran
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 1748-1325; 1748-1325
• DOI: 10.1093/ijlct/ctae170

Middle East has significant potential for independent solar and wind power generation due to its vast land area and dispersed settlements. Enhancing the standard of living in remote areas and meeting the increasing demand for healthcare services worldwide are crucial objectives. Finding the most reliable and affordable method of supplying energy and clean water to rural healthcare institutions is the main goal of the research. The aim of this research is to evaluate the financial and environmental impacts of employing a hybrid energy system to supply power to a clinic in Rijal Almaa, Saudi Arabia. Utilizing the HOMER software, the investigation determined that the most efficient hybrid configuration includes 360 batteries, a 25 kW DG, a 2 kW wind turbine, 33.3 kW of solar panels, and an 18.4 kW converter. The NPC (Net Present Cost) associated with this optimized system amounts to $109 307, while its COE is 0.103 $/kWh. It was found that this efficient system necessitates an initial capital outlay of $72 281, coupled with an annual operational expense of $2361. The renewable fraction (RF) of 84.7%, excess electricity generation of 8.81%, and fuel consumption of 4135 L/yr are notable features of the system. The system also exhibits the lowest annual CO2 emissions at 10825 kg/yr, indicating a positive environmental impact. The findings can be applied globally, particularly in hot, arid regions. The analysis suggests that reducing the costs of hybrid solar panels, DG, wind turbine, and battery systems could significantly reduce overall costs, making them a feasible solution for developing nations.