Transition towards Energy sufficient University Campus through Microgrid: Optimization and Configuration Analysis

Abstract

To address the increasing electricity demand in developing countries, the use of microgrids equipped with Renewable Energy Sources (RES) has been proposed. While these microgrids can meet local energy demands, the surplus energy can be injected into the utility grid for distribution. As a case study, the paper focuses on the BR Ambedkar hostel at Jamia Millia Islamia to explore the optimization and implementation of sustainable microgrids in institutional settings. The analysis includes evaluating the "Cost of Energy (COE)", "Net Present Cost (NPC)", "Operating Cost (OC)", value of "Carbon emissions (CO2)", and the Renewable Fraction (RF). This study utilized the HOMER® simulation tool, wind speed data from Synergy Environmental Engineers, and irradiance data from NASA's solar satellite data to analyze the optimal solution for a 200kW PV solar and a 150kW inverter connected to the grid. The results showed a significant reduction in various factors compared to the current grid system, including a 46.50% reduction in the (COE), a 26.73% decrease in (NPC), a 62.42% reduction in (OC), and a 37% decrease in CO2 emissions, along with a contribution of 54% renewable fraction.