Design and economic analysis of a stand-alone hybrid photovoltaic energy system for remote healthcare centre

Abstract

This paper presents design of a stand-alone hybrid photovoltaic (PV) energy system according to the daily electrical load demand of remote healthcare centre located in Madhya Pradesh, India. It employs an optimal design and sizing of hybrid PV energy system (PV generator, battery, inverter and diesel generator) according to load demand. An economic analysis has been presented for selection of an optimum hybrid PV energy system using a hybrid optimisation model for electric renewable (HOMER) software. Paper also presents comparison of environmental aspects of hybrid PV energy system with conventional system. The initial costs of PV–diesel–battery and diesel–battery systems are $2,418 and $879, respectively. Net present cost of PV system is $13,523 and diesel system is $20,515. Results show that hybrid PV–diesel–battery energy system is more economical and environmentally friendly energy system for remote healthcare centre. Hence, it can be concluded that the renewable energy systems is a better option for healthcare centre in remote areas. Abbreviation: PV: Photovoltaic; HOMER: Hybrid optimization model for electric renewable; IEA: International energy agency; RES: Renewable energy system; HES: Hybrid energy systems; BTS: Base transceiver station; NPC: Net present cost; COE: Cost of energy; OC: Operating cost; LCC: Life cycle cost; ALCC: Annualized life cycle cost; GHG: Greenhouse gases; DG: Diesel generator; NOCT: Nominal operating cell temperature; SOC: State of charge; CC: Capital cost; RC: Replacement cost; OM: Operation & management cost; BOS: Balance of system; CGE: Cost of generated electricity; DOD: Depth of discharge