Optimization of a grid-connected hybrid energy system: Techno-economic and environmental assessment

Abstract

This study aimed to provide sustainable, secure, and clean energy for Tuzla campus of National Defense University Turkish Naval Academy. Research problem was to find technically and economically optimized hybrid energy system consists all or some of solar, wind, biomass, and battery sources in addition to grid and diesel generator of the campus. Greenhouse gas emissions of the optimum solution were calculated for environmental effect analysis. Additionally, the effects of the variables such as solar radiation, wind speed, expected inflation, and electricity unit prices on system were analyzed. The study conducted via Homer software under two scenarios based on legal regulations. As a result, the optimum system in both scenarios is a grid-connected hybrid system consisting of photovoltaics and wind turbines. Results presented reduction in net present cost of energy by 86.2%–90%, unit cost of energy by 92.7%–95.8%, operation & maintenance costs by $862,093–$933,695, emissions by 79%–82%. According to both optimization results and sensitivity analysis, no biomass generator was discovered in optimum solutions. It was also observed that batteries could be in the optimum system depending on economic variables. It is believed that this study, in which solar, wind, and biomass as well as battery, grid, and diesel generator were evaluated together under legal based scenarios, can be a reference for further researches due to its diversity in system components and its scenarios consisting legal aspects. The study also can serve as an example and a guide for other public university campuses.