Technical, economic, and environmental evaluation of a grid-connected hybrid PV/biogas generator/battery microgrid system

Abstract

This study presents a techno-economic and environmental analysis of a grid-connected hybrid microgrid designed for a university campus in Douala, Cameroon, using HOMER Pro software. The proposed system, comprising a 107-kW photovoltaic (PV) array, a 500-kW biogas generator fed by human biomass, 8 battery units, and a 93-kW backup diesel generator, is designed to meet a daily load of 580.60 kWh/d. This hybrid configuration is compared to a conventional system (Grid/Diesel). The results show that the hybrid system is significantly more cost-effective, with a Levelized Cost of Energy (LCOE) of $0.07563/kWh compared to $0.1597/kWh for the conventional model. The Net Present Cost (NPC) is reduced from $437,605.20 to $300,661, with an initial investment of $84,603 and a payback period of 4.96 years. Environmentally, the hybrid system reduces CO 2 emissions by nearly 50 % by leveraging renewable sources, which contribute to 40 % (PV) and 25.3 % (biogas) of the total energy production. This study demonstrates the viability of using local biomass resources to enhance energy autonomy, reduce operational costs, and improve the environmental footprint of institutional facilities. • Innovative Hybrid Energy System : A hybrid system with PV, biogas, diesel, storage, and grid to reduce fossil fuel use. • Techno-Economic Comparison with Traditional Systems :The hybrid system is more cost-effective and greener than the traditional fossil model. • Utilization of Human Biomass for Energy Production : Human biomass is used for biogas, promoting circular waste management and clean energy. • Substantial Reduction in CO 2 Emissions : The system cuts CO2 by using renewables and limiting diesel, aiding green energy transition. • Practical Application for Energy-Dependent Communities : A flexible, replicable solution for energy-poor regions with waste and energy issues.