Optimal Design and Operation of Hybrid Renewable Energy Systems for Oakland University

Edrees Yahya Alhawsawi (), Hanan Mikhael D. Habbi, Mansour Hawsawi and Mohamed A. Zohdy
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Edrees Yahya Alhawsawi: Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Oakland University, Rochester, MI 48309, USA
Hanan Mikhael D. Habbi: Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Oakland University, Rochester, MI 48309, USA
Mansour Hawsawi: Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Oakland University, Rochester, MI 48309, USA
Mohamed A. Zohdy: Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Oakland University, Rochester, MI 48309, USA

Energies, 2023, vol. 16, issue 15, 1-26

Abstract: This research paper presents a comprehensive study on the optimal planning and design of hybrid renewable energy systems for microgrid (MG) applications at Oakland University. The HOMER Pro platform analyzes the technical, economic, and environmental aspects of integrating renewable energy technologies. The research also focuses on the importance of addressing unmet load in the MG system design to ensure the university’s electricity demand is always met. By optimizing the integration of various renewable energy technologies, such as solar photovoltaic (PV), energy storage system (ESS), combined heat and power (CHP), and wind turbine energy (WT), the study aims to fulfill the energy requirements while reducing reliance on traditional grid sources and achieving significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. The proposed MG configurations are designed to be scalable and flexible, accommodating future expansions, load demands changes, and technological advancements without costly modifications or disruptions. By conducting a comprehensive analysis of technical, economic, and environmental factors and addressing unmet load, this research contributes to advancing renewable energy integration within MG systems. It offers a complete guide for Oakland University and other institutions to effectively plan, design, and implement hybrid renewable energy solutions, fostering a greener and more resilient campus environment. The findings demonstrate the potential for cost-effective and sustainable energy solutions, providing valuable guidance for Oakland University’s search for energy resilience and environmental surveillance, which has a total peak load of 9.958 MW. The HOMER simulation results indicate that utilizing all renewable resources, the estimated net present cost (NPC) is a minimum of USD 30 M, with a levelized energy cost (LCOE) of 0.00274 USD/kWh. In addition, the minimum desired load will be unmetered on some days in September.

Keywords: combined heat and power; energy storage; hybrid renewable energy; microgrid; solar PV; wind energy (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q Q0 Q4 Q40 Q41 Q42 Q43 Q47 Q48 Q49 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2023
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (6)

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