Integrating PV-based energy production utilizing the existing infrastructure of MRT-6 at Dhaka, Bangladesh

Abstract

In a very dense urban landscape, incorporating renewables becomes challenging due to a lack of space, planning, and mindset. Utilization of already existing large infrastructures in combination with existing technology and necessary adaptation can create the right synergy for harnessing renewables like solar. This paper proposes the installation of a solar power plant in Dhaka, Bangladesh, using available space on Metro Rail Line 6 to meet the increasing demand for clean and renewable energy. The proposed system involves the selection of suitable space, and PV panels, the calculation of annual electricity generation, and performing financial and environmental analyses. The proposed on-grid/grid-tied system offers the advantage of reducing dependence on power supplied to the grid, resulting in lower energy costs, and promoting the use of green energy. The system has a payback period of 7.7 years and a return on investment of 45.7 %. It is estimated that the system saves 14,053.203 tons of CO2 emissions per year and 281,064.06 tons of CO2 emissions over its lifetime. Also, the grid life cycle emission is 584 gCO2/kWh, and the system life cycle emission is 39,119.4 tCO2, which further proves that it is a feasible solution to meeting energy demands while reducing the dependency on fossil fuels and promoting sustainable energy utilization. The results of simulations run using PVsyst and HOMER confirm the economic viability of the proposed solar power station, supporting its viability. The levelized energy cost (LCOE), as projected by PVsyst, is $0.09 per kWh, nearly matching HOMER's prediction of $0.0835. This convergence of results from several simulation tools supports the solar power plant's predicted cost-effectiveness, demonstrating its potential as a key player in the effort to create a greener and more affordable energy landscape.