Innovative design of grid connected solar/diesel hybrid system using RETScreen software.

Abstract

Accessibility to dependable energy resource is vital to the emerging economy to function appropriately in this contemporary world for both residential and commercial purposes. Technological advancement has opened avenues for more sophisticated technologies to combine multiple energy sources to generate affordable electricity for residential and industrial purposes. The study, therefore aims at analyzing the fiscal benefits of hybrid Solar PV and Diesel Generator (DG) (PV-DG) grid-connected system using RETSceen software. The study focused on a specific location, J. A. Plant Pool Ghana Limited, warehouse Department. The study recommended and proposed an effective design of a hybrid PV-DG grid connected electricity supply for the warehouse Department. The economic viability of the project and the payback period obtained through computation were very attractive. Also, the total revenue of electricity exported to the grid annually and GHG emission reduction were within the standard benchmark. The study finally concurred that renewable energy sources such as solar when hybridized with any other energy systems, lead to a noticeable electrical cost reduction. Therefore, this system design provides multiple benefits, including; improved reliability, reduced emission and significant cost reduction.