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Abstract

This paper presents a techno-economic analysis of a hybrid system powering a school in Misurata, Libya. Potential of renewable power system for school is evaluated. HOMER optimization model is used to evaluate the different possible configuration options for supplying the electrical load. Daily typical energy consumption profiles the four seasons, design based on a medium size school. Spring, summer and autumn weather conditions are not as extreme as winter, this decreases the load demand during these seasons. Winter weather conditions are used as the basis where peak energy demand is expected because lighting and heating loads dominate in the climate of Libya. Winter electrical load is found to be the maximum load. HOMER software tool was used to determine the optimum size and specifications of renewable power system. When Solar radiation and wind speed are at their maximum values of (7 kWh/m2/d, 5.50 m/s) and the fuel price is assumed as a minimum (0.10US$), the most feasible power system economically is (PV/Tur/Gen/Battery) with total net present cost (NPC) of 293961US$, cost of energy (COE) of US$0.191/kWh, and renewable fraction (RF) of 53%. When solar radiation, wind speed and fuel price are assumed at average values of (5.05 kWh/m2/d, 4.84 m/s, and 0.40US$) the optimal solution is also (PV/Tur/Gen/Battery) with (NPC) of 384181US$ and (COE) of US$ 0.25/kWh, and (RF) of 79%. When the solar radiation and wind speed are presumed at minimum values of (3 kWh/m2/d, 3.50 m/s) and the fuel price is assumed maximum (1.25US$), the most feasible economical system is still (PV/Tur/Gen/Battery) with (NPC) of 753505US$ and (COE) of US$ 0.489/kWh, and (RF) of 71%. The excess electricity from the hybrid power system during spring, summer and autumn can be sold to the utility (General Electrical Network) or used for other applications. This will enhance the economical feasibility of hybrid power systems in schools.