Techno-economic configuration of an optimized resident microgrid: A case study for Afghanistan

The escalating demand for electricity and the imperative to reconstruct underprivileged areas in Afghanistan necessitates a resilient energy supply system. This study advocates for the implementation of a cost-effective and high-performing microgrid in a region situated in the northern of Kandahar City, Afghanistan. Utilizing a mix of diesel engines, batteries, wind, and solar energy sources, the microgrid aims to provide a sustainable and ecofriendly solution to meet the electricity requirements. Employing the HOMER software for comprehensive analysis, the proposed microgrid configuration comprises a 3.69 kW PV, a 1.50 kW diesel generator, and 27 units of 1 kWh LA batteries. The study investigates six different configurations to identify the optimal solution based on community-specific criteria. Factors such as energy generation, cost, and system performance are rigorously evaluated by the software, culminating in the selection of components that constitute the hybrid system. The optimal configuration includes a capital cost of 5962 $, a net present cost (NPC) of 10108$, operating and maintenance (O&M) costs amounting to 320.69$, and a cost of energy (COE) at 0.190$/kWh. These results show the viability and economic feasibility of the proposed microgrid as a sustainable energy solution for the studied community in Afghanistan.