Techno-Economic Optimisation of a Hybrid Solar-Hydro-Diesel-Battery Microgrid for Rural Electrification in Nigeria

Abstract

Consistent electricity supply is still a big problem in many rural areas of developing countries where the socio economic development is constrained by limited grid availability and poor infrastructure. This work summarised techno-economic analysis of hybrid microgrid system designed to improve access to electricity for a rural community in Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. This system is based on solar photovoltaic (PV), micro hydro, diesel generation and battery energy storage system (BESS) to provide a steady and sustainable power supply. A comprehensive load analysis showed the peak demand to be about 7.5 MW, reflecting increasing residential and commercial activities within the community. The mathematical model of the hybrid system and the simulation were developed in MATLAB, and a genetic algorithm was used to determine the optimal sizes of the components and the operational schedule. The optimisation process aimed to enhance reliability, decrease operation cost and improve system performances. Results of simulation show the hybrid system can meet the demand of community load and work stably with the change of condition. The optimised system had a payback period of 0.65 years, an internal rate of return of 48 percent, and a positive net present value of ₦5,336,311, implying good financial viability. The combination of renewables and battery storage also significantly decreased reliance on diesel generation and bolstered the resilience of the system. The results of this study demonstrate the potential of hybrid renewable energy systems as a practical and sustainable solution for rural electrification in developing regions. The proposed framework provides valuable technical and economic insights for policy makers, energy planners and other stakeholders to scale up the generation of reliable electricity in remote areas.