Hybrid Optimization Model For Electric Renewable Research Articles

Assessment of solar-biomass hybrid power system for decarbonizing and sustainable energy transition for academic building

Solar-biomass hybrid power system is a feasible approach for decarbonizing and achieving a sustainable energy transition in an academic building. This cutting-edge technology generates clean, sustainable power by fusing the advantages of biomass and solar energy. The present research analyses and optimises a Hybrid Renewable Energy System (HRES) for the Department of Mechanical Engineering, Delhi Technological University (located at 28°44' N and 77°06' E). Hybrid optimization model for electric renewable (HOMER) software is employed for simulation, and analysis primarily focuses on the techno-environomic assessment of the system. HRES is designed to fulfil daily energy consumption of 588 kWh at a peak load of 65 kW. System generates 3,76,780 kWh of power every year. The cost of energy (COE) is ₹16.96 (US$ 0.207)/kWh and the gross net present cost (NPC) is ₹41,603,969.8 (US$ 5,07,737). Throughout lifetime (25 years), biomass gasifier and solar PV contribute 23.4 % and 76.6 % of the total energy production. Around 161 metric tons of CO2 is prevented from entering the atmosphere. Therefore, proposed HRES is technically consistent, dependable, economically viable, and environmentally sustainable.

An economic sustainability analysis of hybrid solar-biomass system for sugar industries in India

Renewable energy systems have been gaining more importance in developing countries not only due to the increase in concern towards environmental sustainability but also resolving the looming energy crisis that bewilders economic development. Till date, inadequate attention has been paid to the integration of Renewable Energy (RE) sources in the industrial sectors of TamilNadu, India. Since industries have been key drivers of electricity consumption in the past decade, this paper aims at the simulation and analysis of hybrid Biomass-Solar Photovoltaic system for electrification of the process industries, especially sugar industries. The main objective of the paper is to minimize the cost of energy and Green House Gas (GHG) emissions leading to sustainable development. The economic feasibility analysis is performed using Hybrid Optimization Model for Electric Renewables (HOMER) software and the sustainability analysis with the help of Clean Development Mechanism that can be adopted for the sugar industry. The simulation results support the effectiveness of the proposed grid connected solar-biomass hybrid system for the sugar industry with the net present cost of 16 million dollars (M$) combined with emission reductions of 6,266 tons/year.

A case study of a neighborhood in Douala examining the technical feasibility of a hybrid renewable energy system connected to the grid for energy and oxygen production in the fight against respiratory diseases

The world is increasingly focusing its attention on the rapid growth in electricity consumption, a concern shared by both industrialized and emerging nations. Meeting this escalating demand has become crucial, necessitating a shift towards sustainable energy use. Renewable energy sources have emerged as a popular choice for both off-grid and grid-connected installations as a means to bridge the efficiency gap. In this context, the present paper explores the potential of supplying electricity to a neighborhood in Cameroon comprising 100 homes through the integration of solar photovoltaic cells and electrolyzers. It is worth noting that Cameroon as a whole continues to grapple with severe social, economic, and physical challenges. Some regions within the country face significant obstacles in accessing quality healthcare, particularly for conditions like respiratory illnesses. This study employs an intelligent energy management method to design an optimal power flow control system, aimed at enhancing system stability during power outages and load fluctuations by effectively utilizing available storage capacity. The analysis was conducted using the Hybrid Optimization Model for Electric Renewable (HOMER) program. Our calculations reveal that a daily output of 0.123 kg mass of oxygen is produced, with renewable factor (RF) values indicating an 85.1 % integration of renewable sources, and the crucial parameter of Loss of Power Supply Probability (LPSP) reaching 0 %. These findings demonstrate that it is feasible for 100 homes to reliably generate and connect to the grid for electricity. Moreover, this research can serve as a solid foundation for the development of hybrid renewable energy systems to address the challenge of treating respiratory disorders such as COVID-19. These results underscore the significance of this study for various stakeholders, including decision-makers, policymakers, and investors in Cameroon and beyond. The ultimate goal is to promote national growth by improving socio-medical conditions.

Technical assessment of a stand-alone hybrid renewable system for energy and oxygen optimal production for fishes farming in a residential building using HOMER pro

Electricity holds both economic significance and strategic importance in many regions globally. Persistent challenges related to electricity generation, encompassing aspects like availability, quality, and cost, have impeded the progress of nations for an extended period. While conventional electrochemical storage systems have been the benchmark, they are plagued by issues such as high expenses, technical limitations in power output, and restricted storage capacity. Power generation facilities come with their own array of problems, including noise pollution, environmental impacts, and suboptimal performance, exacerbating the existing concerns of reliability and maintenance. To navigate the path of sustainable global development amidst a sharp upswing in energy consumption, it becomes imperative to foster innovative energy solutions. Independent renewable energy systems (RES) represent a promising avenue for reshaping the prevailing reliance on conventional power grids. The Hybrid Renewable Energy System (HRES) deserves careful calibration, particularly considering the considerable load fluctuations and the need for cost efficiency. The study considers a standalone HRES in a residential area on Manoka Island, where fish farming is a primary activity. This dwelling exhibits a daily electricity consumption averaging at 9.28 kWh, with peak demand hitting 0.88 kW. To evaluate the suitability of the Hybrid Optimization Model for Electric Renewable (HOMER) program, the study investigates the optimal energy generation mix for both sustaining the fish farming industry and fulfilling the energy requirements of the chosen building. The optimization process identifies four key parameters that undergo thorough assessment in this analysis. Delving into the specifics, the study attains an impressive renewable fraction (RF) of 92.5% and achieves a Deficit of Power Supply Probability (DPSP) of 0%. Furthermore, the production of 50 kg of O2 and the emission of 1.69 kg of carbon annually prove adequate for constructing a reliable and environmentally sound energy system. In a broader sense, this research serves as a compelling case study, elucidating the concept of hybrid energy systems within the framework of eco-friendly and sustainable power generation. The study not only underscores the substantial potential of RES for the country but also constitutes a significant stride for researchers active in this field.

Building Resilient communities: Techno-economic assessment of standalone off-grid PV powered net zero energy (NZE) villages

The use of renewable energy resources for off-grid electricity production has gained more importance in recent decades for meeting the energy needs of remote areas, even with limited resources. This research aims to provide an optimized and cost-effective approach for generating electricity in rural areas. By using current methodology, a stand alone energy source of PV is designed for development of NZE village. Solar irradiance of the selected location is 6.16 kWh/m2/day while the estimated electric load data for whole village is 64.259 kWh. Electric load and solar irradiance of the loaction is used in the Hybrid Optimization Model for Electric Renewable (HOMER) to design and analyze the techno-economic feasibility of the stand alone PV system to meet the load requirements. The study obtained the total Net Present Cost (NPC) of $0.511 M and the Cost Of Electricity (COE) is 2.26$/unit through the HOMER analysis, which is further refined by performing sensitivity analysis using parameters such as PV panel price, battery price, solar irradiance, variations in electric load and discount rates. According to the results, system is feasibile by annual electricity production of 30,078 kWh with initial capital investment of $0.434 M. This analysis compared the system performance and showed that it is economically and technically viable to meet the complete electricity needs of the village with a payback period of 7.2 years. Research can be utilized for policy making and implementation of NZE approach in remote areas by the government.

Techno-economic feasibility study for the use of photovoltaic energy on the south-east algerian farms

This works aims to study the technological feasibility and economic viability of standalone Photovoltaic system for the electrification of farms in the south-east of Algeria. The PV system power plant is sized to supply potato farm in Akfadou-El Oued. The standalone PV system was designed and simulated using the Hybrid Optimization Model for Electric Renewable (HOMER). Simulation results showed that a high capital cost is needed to install the PV system with a high cost of energy reaches 30 DA/kWh.

Dominicus Danardono Dwi Prija Tjahjana, Suyitno , Rendy Adhi Rachmanto, Wibawa Endra Juwana, Yudin Joko Prasojo, Singgih Dwi Prasetyo, Zainal Arifin

Electricity is fundamental to both urban and rural livelihoods. However, with the impending depletion of fossil fuels, an urgent transition towards sustainable and environmentally friendly renewable energy sources is necessary for electricity generation. The Hybrid Renewable Energy System (HRES), which amalgamates various renewable energy sources, offers a promising solution. This study investigates the economic viability of a photovoltaic (PV)-wind turbine hybrid microgrid system for off-grid electrification in five distinct cities in Papua, Indonesia. A simulation of the hybrid system was conducted using the Hybrid Optimization Model for Electric Renewable (HOMER) application, leveraging local solar and wind resource data. The simulation results indicated that Waropen city yielded the most optimal PV-wind turbine hybrid system, exhibiting the lowest Net Present Cost (NPC) of Rp397,591,000.00 and Cost of Energy (COE) of Rp 5,513.37/kWh. This system was capable of generating 9,098 kWh/year of electricity. Consequently, the proposed PV-wind turbine hybrid microgrid system emerges as an economically feasible solution for off-grid electrification in Papua, underscoring the potential of renewable energy sources in addressing the global energy crisis.

Islanded green energy system optimal analysis using PV, wind, biomass, and battery resources with various economic criteria

The main goal of this paper is to design an efficient renewable energy system that meets the required electricity demands. Consequently, it is essential to find the most cost-effective hybrid system that can reduce energy costs and provide access to the required electricity generation. An international school in New Administrative Capital in New Cairo, Egypt was chosen as a study area for the proposed system. Solar, wind, and biomass resources are abundant at the chosen location throughout the year. Using the HOMER (hybrid optimization model for electric renewables) software, eight distinct models of renewable energy hybrid systems were designed, simulated, and optimized to meet the required load in this study. For wind and solar resources, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) provided the input data; for biomass resources, real-time field data were used for the selected study site. In this study, lithium-ion and lead acid batteries were used to choose the most cost-effective option. The hybrid power system's PV, wind, and biomass generators were utilized to meet the load demand. The overabundance of energy requests was utilized to charge the battery banks as required when accessible to cover the load requirements during times of low energy production.

Techno-economic assessment on hybrid energy storage systems comprising hydrogen and batteries: A case study in Belgium

This paper introduces a Techno-Economic Assessment (TEA) on present and future scenarios of different energy storage technologies comprising hydrogen and batteries: Battery Energy Storage System (BESS), Hydrogen Energy Storage System (H2ESS), and Hybrid Energy Storage System (HESS). These three configurations were assessed for different time horizons: 2019, 2022 and 2030, under both on-grid and off-grid conditions. For 2030, a sensitivity analysis under different energy scenarios was performed, covering other trends in on-grid electric consumption and prices, CO2 taxation and the evolution of hydrogen technology prices from 2019 until 2030. The selected case study is the Research Park Zellik (RPZ), a CO2-neutral sustainable Local Energy Community (LEC) in Zellik, Belgium. The software HOMER (Hybrid Optimisation Model for Electric Renewable) has been selected to design, model and optimise the defined case study. The results showed that BESS was the most competitive when the electric grid was available among the three possible storage options. Additionally, HESS was overall more competitive than H2ESS-only, regardless of the grid connection mode. Finally, as per HESS, hydrogen was proved to play a complementary role when combined with batteries, enhancing the flexibility of the microgrid and enabling deeper decarbonisation by reducing the electricity bought from the grid, increasing renewable energy production and balancing toward an island operating mode.

Optimizing Integration of Fuel Cell Technology in Renewable Energy-Based Microgrids for Sustainable and Cost-Effective Energy

This article presents a cost-effective and reliable solution for meeting the energy demands of remote areas through the integration of multiple renewable energy sources. The proposed system aims to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and promote sustainable development by utilizing accessible energy resources in a self-contained microgrid. Using the Hybrid Optimization Model for Electric Renewable (HOMER) software, the study examined the optimal combination of energy sources and storage technologies for an integrated hybrid renewable energy system (IHRES) in the Patiala location of Punjab. The total life cycle cost (TLCC) is the main objective of this manuscript. The HOMER result is taken as a reference, and the results are compared with the optimization hybrid algorithm (PSORSA). From this, it is clear that the proposed algorithm has less TLCC as compared to others. Two combinations of energy sources and storage technologies were considered, namely solar photovoltaic (PV)/battery and solar PV/fuel cell (FC). The results showed that the solar PV/FC combination is more cost-effective, reliable, and efficient than the solar PV/battery combination. Additionally, the IHRES strategy was found to be more economically viable than the single energy source system, with lower total life cycle costs and greater reliability and efficiency. Overall, the proposed IHRES model offers a promising solution for meeting energy demands in remote areas while reducing dependence on fossil fuels and promoting sustainable development.

Optimal energy management and feasibility analysis of hybrid renewable energy sources with BESS and impact of electric vehicle load with demand response program

Microgrid hybrid renewable energy sources with green energy have become a need for the environment. Electric vehicle (EV) contribution is another revolution in clean energy. The Micro-grid with hybrid renewable energy (HREs) is a cost-effective, eco-friendly solution.The main contribution of the proposed work is; (i) to analyze the impact of the operating reserve power, battery energy storage system (BESS), renewable penetration percentage, and demand response program (DRP) for the EVs load with HREs integration. (ii) minimization of the net present cost (NPC) and Levelized cost of energy (LCOE) of the system with zero unmet HREs, (iii) obtaining the techno-economic analysis of the different combinations of hybrid energy sources as Photovoltaic/Wind-Turbin/Diesel Generator and BESS, with EV load growth. The annual energy purchased and sold from the grid has been reduced by 15.35% and increased by 42.98%, respectively, considering DRP. The NPC of the system has been reduced by 62.62%, considering the BESS. The Hybrid Optimization Model for Electric Renewable (HOMER) software with MATLAB R21a interface has been used for the analysis. This paper represents the feasibility of energy storage with the HREs management study for EV load considering techno-economic, cost-effective, and economic dispatch for feasibility analysis of Hawai Island, USA.

A Hybrid Photovoltaic/Diesel System for Off-Grid Applications in Lubumbashi, DR Congo: A HOMER Pro Modeling and Optimization Study

In Lubumbashi, the capital of Haut Katanga in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DR Congo), diesel power plants are a common source of electricity. The need to utilize local renewable energy sources in DR Congo has increased due to the unreliability of the state grid and the rising cost of running diesel generators. Solar photovoltaic (PV) panels and batteries, in particular, have recently recorded significant price drops. It is important for operators and suppliers to choose optimal generators together with a renewable energy system to lessen the energy deficit. Diesel generators are still widely used in DRC, but their efficiency pales in contrast to that of more recent power facilities. Consuming fossil fuels results in high expenses for upkeep and operation, in addition to severe environmental damage. This study assessed the feasibility of using local weather and technical data to evaluate the efficiency of a diesel power plant hybridized with a PV system. The Hybrid Optimization Model for Electric Renewable (HOMER) simulations suggest that the hybrid system schedule is preferable due to its many economic and environmental advantages for the local community and its inhabitants. The promotion of such a hybrid system may encourage the sustainable economic development of a stable source of electricity for the Congo Region.

A feasibility study and cost-benefit analysis of an off-grid hybrid system for a remote area electrification

Off-grid power production utilizing renewable sources of power has become more significant and viable to meet the limited demands of remote locations. The primary goal of this study is to develop an economic and optimal hybrid PV/Biogas configuration for power production for rural common facilities, including one Primary school, Junior school, and Panchayat Ghar buildings of Sarai Jairam village in Uttar Pradesh, India. Data on the electric load was gathered for two schools and Panchayat Ghar. The PV/biogas hybrid configuration was designed utilizing the Hybrid Optimization Model for Electric Renewable (HOMER), and techno-economic analysis is carried out to fulfill the load requirements. The available biomass potential and the data on solar irradiance of the study area were utilized in the HOMER software to carry out the analysis. The HOMER analysis produced a solution that included total net present cost (NPC) and cost of electricity (COE), and these results were then further improved using sensitivity analysis. The sensitivity analysis employed sensitivity parameters like biomass potential, biomass pricing, solar irradiance, and variation in loads. Based on the NPC and COE, this analysis evaluates the system performance and demonstrates that it is techno-economically feasible.

Techno-economic comparative analysis of hybrid renewable energy systems with and without battery energy storage system

ABSTRACT The hybrid optimization model for electric renewable (HOMER) program was used to explore a hybrid renewable energy system (HRES) (Version 3.14.0). Two combinations of HRES have been considered for the community load in Aruthra Nagar, Puducherry, India: i) Solar photovoltaic (PV)/wind/tidal/fuel-cell (with battery energy storage system (BESS)) and ii) PV/wind/tidal/fuel-cell(without BESS). When compared to other existing evolutionary approaches the proposed algorithm, Aquila optimizer (AQ), yields the best results. In addition, statistical analysis using MATLAB/SIMULINK yielded the results of the Friedman Ranking Test that demonstrated the proposed algorithm’s improved performance and robustness as AQ netted the first position in the test’s outcomes. Though the system in case 1 is more cost-effective with net present cost (NPC) (1,16,226.40$) and least levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) is (0.3017) as compared to case 2’s NPC (1,26,152$) and LCOE (0.3287), but case 1 is more efficient in terms of power quality as the total harmonic distortion (THD) (0.06%) as compared with case 2 THD (30.31%) which is unacceptable according to IEEE-519 standard, (THD<5%). Hence, case 1 HRES is more viable for producing clean energy with effective storage and better power quality mitigation in order to monitor the whole distribution network.

Energy, economic and environmental (3E) evaluation of a hybrid wind/biodiesel generator/tidal energy system using different energy storage devices for sustainable power supply to an Indian archipelago

This paper thoroughly analyses energy, economic and environmental (3E) performance of using different battery (BAT) energy storage system like lead acid battery (LAB), lithium-ion battery (LIB), vanadium redox flow (VRF) battery and mechanical energy storage (MES) like flywheel and pumped hydro storage (PHS) using three different dispatch strategies (DS) such as cycle charging (CC), load following (LF) and generator order (GO), respectively. Andaman and Nicobar(A&N) Island of India have no main grid. Hybrid Optimization Model for Electric Renewable (HOMER) Pro software is used to study feasibility of power generation using various sources. Study incorporating tidal plant with wind turbine and Bio-DG in micro grid is considered first time for an Indian scenario as per authors’ knowledge with application of various DS and energy storage technologies. The superiority of LIB over LAB and MES is proved in this study. Wind/Bio-DG /tidal/LIB have relatively least net present cost(NPC), cost of energy (COE) of $1.30M and $0.263, respectively among five energy storage devices using CC dispatch strategy compared to other two strategies. It is investigated that LIB uses only 250 units of batteries, which is 46% less than total utilized LAB units for catering same load. In terms of expected lifespan, energy losses, energy production and state of charge (SOC), performance of LIB are superior to LAB. SWOT and sensitivity analysis have been performed considering fuel price and wind speed. Different techno economic indicators like cost summary, cash flow, fuel summary, economics, electrical parameters, renewable fraction (RF), return of investment (ROI), lowest simple payback period, internal rate of return (IRR), pollutant emission are considered and compared with each other for LAB and LIB combinations.

Futuristic feasibility analysis and modelling of a solar-biomass on-grid hybrid system for Hattar Industrial Estate Phase (VII), Pakistan

Hybrid renewable energy systems (HRES) is a frequently discussed topic in the energy sector world due to the rising energy prices and crisis. The cost-effective and uninterrupted power supply is the major challenge of the energy sector which is to be dealt with in this assessment work. In this study, an assessment of a solar-biomass on-grid HRES is carried out for Hattar Industrial Zone phase-VII. Historical electricity demand for different industries in Hattar industrial estate is accounted to develop the year-round load curve. The peak demand of about 130,000 kW with a reserve margin of 30% is considered as the base for techno-economic analysis of the proposed hybrid system. The energy model of this hybrid system is developed in Hybrid Optimization Model for Electric Renewables (HOMER). The solar biomass on-grid hybrid system with different component sizes is analysed to get an optimal configuration having the least cost of energy (COE), net present cost (NPC) and initial capital investment (ICI). Moreover, the sensitivity analysis of the optimized configuration is carried out further against the input resource parameters like solar irradiance and biomass resource availability. Optimization and, sensitivity analysis resulted out that the 70,000 kW solar PV, 7000 kW biogas generator with the open-source grid is the most viable hybrid system option for the Hattar industrial zone phase-VII. This optimal system has the least COE, i.e., Rs 14.11/kWh ($0.092/kWh) amongst all the proposed configurations with a payback period of 4.6 years and there is a significant reduction in carbon emissions.

Feasibility and Techno-Economic Evaluation of Hybrid Photovoltaic System: A Rural Healthcare Center in Bangladesh

This study aimed to investigate a techno-economic evaluation of the photovoltaic system, along with a diesel generator as a backup supply, to ensure a continuous twenty-four hours power supply per day, no matter the status of the weather. Healthcare centers in Bangladesh play a vital role in the health issues of the residents of rural areas. In this regard, a healthcare center in Baliadangi—Lahiri Hat Rd, Baliadangi, Thakurgaon, Bangladesh, was selected to be electrically empowered. The simulation software Hybrid Optimisation Model for Electric Renewables (HOMER) and the HOMER Powering Health tool were used to analyze and optimize the renewable energy required by the healthcare center. It was found that the healthcare center required a 24.3 kW solar PV system with a net current cost of $28,705.2; the levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) was $0.02728 per kW-hours, where renewable energy would provide 98% of the system’s total power requirements. The generator would provide 1% and the grid would supply the remaining 1%. The load analysis revealed that the hybrid PV system might be superior to other power sources for providing electricity for both the normal function and the emergencies that arise in healthcare’s day-to-day life. The outcome of the study is expected to be beneficial for both government and other stakeholders in decision-making.

TECHO-ECONOMIC OPTIMIZATION OF HYBRID RENEWABLE ENERGY RESOURCES FOR ELECTRICAL POWER GENERATION: CONSIDERING JIBIA GENERAL HOSPITAL A CASE STUDY

Due to depletion of fossil energy supplies, climate change, absence of electric energy supply to remote locations, and high connection costs due to long distance, the embracing of Renewable Energy Systems (RES) has been recently accepted worldwide. Despite the problems described above, many countries are taking a long time to deploy renewable energy because of the high capital costs and uncertainty. Therefore, this work considered an optimized techno economic design of a standalone PV, Wind and Battery RES for power generation considering coordinate (13.0931◦N, 7.2248◦E) of Jibia Katsina state Nigeria, using Hybrid Optimization Model for Electric Renewables (HOMER) simulation software system. The simulation was carried out in three scenarios namely; PV and Battery, Wind and Battery, and PV, Wind and Battery. The Levelized Cost of Energy (LCOE) obtained from HOMER were found to be ₦44.14/kWhr, ₦29.63/kWhr and ₦29.48/kWhr respectively. The Loss of Power Supply Probability (LPSP) obtained from HOMER were found to be 0.0328%, 0.0021%, and 0.0137% respectively. The Excess Energy (ExE) produced from HOMER simulation were found to be 4,238kW, 7,710kW, and 3,523kW

Design and Optimization of a Backup Renewable Energy Station for Photovoltaic Hybrid System in the New Jeddah Industrial City

This study aims to design and optimize a backup renewable energy station and possibility of the grid-connected hybrid photovoltaic (PV) power system for firms in 2nd Jeddah industrial city workshops. Wind and solar energy potentials were examined, and data from a variety of sources were obtained as part of the study process. It is important to utilize the application hybrid optimization model for electric renewables (HOMER) to evaluate relevant data as well as the suggested hybrid power system’s economic feasibility. The system’s payback is solely based on monthly grid bill savings and increased profits due to the absence of a power shortage. The most cost-effective system design is measured in terms of the original cost, ongoing cost, cost per unit, and total system net present value. As a result, fulfilling the load demand with 220 kW wind turbines and 500 kW solar PV is both cost-effective and efficient. The simulation results for the second scenario with a wind turbine show that a combination of a 500 kW PV, 300 kWh battery capacity, 22 kW wind turbine, and 315 kW converter is the most feasible solution for this case study, with SAR 4,433,658 net present cost (NPC) and SAR 0.1741 LCOE.

A CASE STUDY ON COST ANALYSIS AND LOAD ESTIMATION OF HYBRID RENEWABLE ENERGY SYSTEM USING HOMER PRO

Pakistan is facing serious energy deficiency issues. Moreover, emission of polluted gases must be minimized to reduce the air pollution. The emission of harmful gases can be lessened by the implementation of renewable energy resources. Such issues can be curtailed through proper planning on national and gross root level. In this study, load estimation and cost analysis for the installation of optimized hybrid model of renewable energy resources in electrical engineering department of University of Azad Jammu &amp; Kashmir has been presented. In order to analyze load and estimate the cost, different scenarios are generated on Hybrid Optimization Model for Electric Renewables (HOMER) Pro software. On the basis of these scenarios, the system having less cost of energy and emission of polluted gases is proposed as the optimal system to power the department.