Optimal design of a hybrid energy system considering techno-economic factors for off-grid electrification in remote areas

Somalia encounters several concerns involving widespread power outages and high reliance on imported fossil fuels. Nonetheless, renewable energy can viably meet the escalating energy demand in Somalia. This study investigates the techno-economic feasibility and optimal design of hybrid solar photovoltaic (PV), diesel generator (DG), and battery energy storage systems (BESS) in the remote areas of the Lower Shabelle region in Somalia. A dependable, sustainable, and inexpensive electricity source with low environmental pollution emissions was determined. The technical formation and economic feasibility of the constructed power system were developed using HOMER Pro (R) software. Three hybrid energy systems in the analysis were compared, including PV, DG, and BESS. The system performance and economic feasibility depended on numerous parameters, such as load fulfillment, net present cost (NPC), levelized cost of energy (LCOE), excess electricity, operation and maintenance costs, renewable fraction, fuel cost, payback time, and CO2 emissions. A comparison analysis demonstrated that the PV/DG/BESS hybrid system was more dependable, economically viable, and suitable for rural electrification than other investigated configurations (PV/BESS and DG/PV systems). The PV/DG/BESS hybrid system resulted in an NPC of $129,679 and an LCOE of $0.180/kWh. The payback period, return on investment, and internal rate of return were 1.8 years, 65%, and 66.6%, respectively. Approximately 2.27% of excess electricity and 12,413 kg/year of environmental pollutant emissions were recorded. Consequently, this sustainable system could be utilized in isolated regions worldwide. The outcome of this study paralleled the global strategic targets outlined in Sustainable Development Goal 7 (SDG7), "Affordable and Clean Energy", of the United Nations.