A design consideration for solar PV-diesel remote electricity network: Australia perspective

Abstract

Diesel generators are typically used in remote Australian electricity networks to generate power for its consumers. Solar PV systems are one of the most common renewable resources due to their gradual technical advancement, decreasing cost and wide application. This study aims to design and model a PV-Diesel power system for a generic remote town in Australia. The electricity generation philosophy using a centralised PV system along with the existing Diesel capacity is modelled and simulated in Hybrid Optimization of Multiple Energy Resources (HOMER) software. The study considers higher levels of PV penetration and conducts a techno-economic analysis of different network configurations to propose a comprehensive electricity network design and generation philosophy, based on the cost of energy (AU$/kWh), the quantity of excess electricity, fuel savings potential and environmental impacts for a remote Australian town.