Feasibility of microgrid optimization and grid extension for rural electrification

Abstract

Approximately 18% of the global population lacks access to electricity, and demand for electricity in rural and underdeveloped areas has increased drastically. Today, electricity is considered a necessity by many, and has had positive impacts on poverty reduction, public health, and education around the globe. This work seeks to determine the feasibility of localized power production and storage in microgrids for numerous diverse locations using HOMER as the optimization tool. Multiple schemes are constructed based on different community sizes with relative demand and load profiles. Optimization techniques are used to value both traditional generation options (diesel generation), their renewable counterparts (solar and wind), as well as energy storage such as batteries. Each investigation is based on geographically distinct irradiance, wind speeds, and fuel prices. Economics remain in the foreground, as a community's capacity to buy the power is a highlight of this entire investigation. The primary investigation into the economic viability of electrification for the proposed communities is to determine whether a grid tie-in or standalone microgrid solution is the better choice.