Design of an Off-grid Rooftop Solar Pv System for Younus Khan Scholars Garden-2, Daffodil Internation University

Abstract

Development of Renewable Energy in Bangladesh is an alternative solution for an increasing of fuel-based energy demand problem. Higher educational institutes may contribute to reducing the energy consumption by implementing green campus policies which include creating a medium-scale solar power installation. This work presents the feasibility analysis of photovoltaic power generation plants development in a Younus khan scholars garden-02 Daffodil International University hostel. In this paper, different off-grid solar rooftop systems were considered in one of the campuses located in rural area. The methodology applied provides a useful and simple approach for sizing and analyzing the hybrid systems using HOMER, an optimization model for renewable energies. This study assesses the potential of a solar system to electrify a Hostel in Daffodil International University. The solar Optimization of Multiple Electric Renewables model is used to assess primary data, develop a load profile and identify the optimal least cost system option for the Hostel. A sensitivity analysis was performed to determine the effect of variations in solar radiation, diesel price on optimal system configurations. The results show that a PV system with a combination of photovoltaic array, converter, battery and diesel generator is the best option from an economic point of view. To meet the Younus khan scholars garden-02 Daffodil International University daily peak demand of 151.60 kW, energy generation cost is estimated at 32.21 BDT ($0.380) per kilowatt hour and net present cost at $1.4M. The optimal system allows for a reduction of 298,450 kg/yr of carbon dioxide emissions per year compared with diesel-only electricity generation. The technical viability of the proposed solar energy system is analyzed using HOMER software. The economic aspects of the plant are analyzed based on standard parameters, the NPC (Net Present Cost) and IRR (Internal Rate of Return) methods. The simulation studies are carried out to identify technical and cost-effective configuration. Feasibility study of the Photovoltaic energy generation was conducted by revealing their potential contributions and applicability’s. This study gives emphasis to the techno-economic analysis of renovating the energy supply system of an off grid-connected Daffodil International University hostel building through a Renewable Energy System. Finally, results of the research can be used as reference for the relevant stakeholders and policymakers in developing the off-grid- solar PV systems for power generation in Bangladesh.