Tecno-econo-enviro-social assessment of clean electrification for a marine equipment manufacturing plant in Türkiye through hybrid renewable energy system with demand response

Abstract

Marine equipment manufacturing plants (MEMPs) are the backbone of the shipbuilding industry, producing equipment and machinery for the functioning of ships and marine transportation. This is achieved at the expense of substantial energy consumption, resulting in financial and environmental consequences that MEMPs are compelled to deal with. Hybrid renewable energy systems (HRESs) can assist MEMPs in reducing their energy costs and emissions through increased use of renewable energy and demand response with intelligent use of energy. This study develops and implements a comprehensive HRES design framework for an energy-intensive MEMP in Türkiye. The framework considers techno-economic, enviro-social assessments, and demand response participation. The environmental assessment was performed to minimise the life-cycle carbon footprint. Social benefits were evaluated based on job creation and external health cost reduction. The best HRES design was identified as a grid-connected system comprising a 329-kWp PV system and a 1.8-MW wind turbine. It offered a NPV of €294.236 and a cost-of-energy of −0.002 €/kWh, along with an initial investment of €2.095.846. The proposed demand response strategies of peak shaving and grid arbitrage were found to increase economic viability. Significant improvements in energy self-sufficiency, cost savings, carbon footprint reductions, and social benefits through HRES application were demonstrated.