A Comparative Analysis of Life Cycle Costs and Emissions in Mae Sariang's Microgrid Energy Scenarios

Bancha Yathip (), Parnuwat Usapein (), Chakphed Madtharad () and Sirichai Jirawongnusorn ()
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Bancha Yathip: Rattanakosin College for Sustainable Energy and Environment, Rajamangala University of Technology Rattanakosin, Thailand
Parnuwat Usapein: Rattanakosin College for Sustainable Energy and Environment, Rajamangala University of Technology Rattanakosin, Thailand
Chakphed Madtharad: Department of System Planning, Provincial Electricity Authority, Bangkok, Thailand
Sirichai Jirawongnusorn: Rattanakosin College for Sustainable Energy and Environment, Rajamangala University of Technology Rattanakosin, Thailand

International Journal of Energy Economics and Policy, 2025, vol. 15, issue 3, 328-333

Abstract: This study evaluates the life cycle costs, net present value (NPV), and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions of three energy scenarios for the Mae Sariang microgrid system to assess the economic and environmental impacts of different energy sources. The reliance on renewable energy has become increasingly vital in addressing energy sustainability and reducing carbon footprints. The analysis reveals that Scenario I, primarily utilizing solar energy, achieved the lowest life cycle cost per kilowatt-hour (kWh) at 6.18 and the highest NPV of 226,583,036 baht, while also producing the fewest GHG emissions at 21,239 kgCO?e/year. In contrast, Scenario II, dependent on grid electricity, incurred the highest costs and emissions at 25,180 kgCO?e/year, reflecting its reliance on higher-carbon sources. Scenario III, which incorporates diesel generation, demonstrated moderate emissions at 22,240 kgCO?e/year but resulted in a negative NPV of -2,690,330 baht due to high fuel expenses. The findings highlight that prioritizing renewable energy sources not only enhances financial viability but also minimizes environmental impact. Therefore, the study concludes that adopting a renewable-focused approach in microgrid systems offers substantial economic and ecological benefits. Policy recommendations include incentivizing renewable energy integration, promoting energy efficiency measures, and developing supportive frameworks to reduce reliance on high-carbon electricity, ultimately enhancing the feasibility and sustainability of energy systems.

Keywords: Life Cycle Cost; Microgrid; Renewable Energy; Net Present Value; Greenhouse Gas (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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DOI: 10.32479/ijeep.18895

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