Techno-economic feasibility and performance analysis of an islanded hybrid renewable energy system with hydrogen storage in Morocco

Abstract

This study focuses on the conceptual design and viability assessment of a hybrid microgrid system for a settlement in Dakhla city. The system consists of a 600 kW wind turbine, 300 kW diesel generators for backup, a 300 kW fuel cell, and a 500 kW electrolyzer. A simulation model using TRNSYS software was developed to analyze the energy exchange and ensure system reliability. The study incorporates a power dispatch management strategy (PDMS) with load following mode (LFM) and cycle charging mode (CCM) approaches, aiming to enhance the understanding and management of stand-alone renewable energy systems with electrochemical storage. A techno-economic investigation is conducted for a settlement load profile using the hybrid wind/Fuel/DEGS configuration to evaluate its feasibility. The performance study reveals that the hybrid system achieves a significant renewable fraction of 44.57 %. From an economic perspective, the proposed hybrid system proves to be financially viable. The analysis shows an NPVCost of $2,650,843 and NPVProduction of 37,819,172 kWh, resulting in a levelized energy cost of $0.0701/kWh. Additionally, the system demonstrates the potential to reduce CO2 emissions by 70,529.80 tons over its 20-year lifespan, with a carbon reduction cost of approximately $37.5847 per t/CO2e. These findings highlight the substantial cost savings of approximately $2,656,754.51, equivalent to the creation of 5256.16 acres or 2125.7 ha of new green space and plants. The combination of economic viability and environmental benefits positions the proposed hybrid energy system as a promising alternative for meeting long-term energy needs while mitigating environmental impact. The study underscores the potential of the system to provide cost-effective electricity to remote communities, thereby contributing to addressing the energy crisis and fostering a sustainable future. The proposed hybrid energy system has significant potential to provide electricity to remote communities at low production costs, as well as to contribute to preventing, controlling, and overcoming the energy crisis for a sustainable future.