Optimal design and evaluation of a hybrid energy system for off-grid remote area

ABSTRACT

This paper discusses optimal solutions for supplying electricity to consumers in the Dibba area, which requires 27 MW of power. Data on wind speed and average monthly solar radiation were collected and projected seven-year power demand was assessed. According to HOMER software analyses, the best solution for Dibba according to the software would be a combination of wind, natural gas, and diesel. Pursuing such a hybrid energy solution would result in electricity produced for USD$ 0.0787/kWh. A solution incorporating multiple energy sources would require the lowest amount of fuel annually and would do the least damage to the environment due to a reduction in greenhouse gases emission. Using these hybrid systems for off-grid connections will definitely provide a safer power supply to Dibba while strengthening Oman’s existing power supply system.

KEYWORDS:

• Renewable energy
• natural gas
• homer
• Oman
• off grid connections

Conflict of interest

The authors declare that there is no conflict of interest regarding the publication of this article.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Sabah Abdul-Wahab

Sabah Abdul-Wahab is currently a Professor in the Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, Sultan Qaboos University in the Sultanate of Oman. She is a Chemical Engineer experienced in energy and environmental engineering, with an emphasis on environmental protection. She received her doctorate from Bath University, UK in 1999.

Kamala Mujezinovic

Kamala Mujezinovic has received her B.Sc. degree from the faculty of Electrical Engineering, Belgrade, Serbia, with an emphasis on Renewable Energy. Recently, she has received her M.Sc. degree from the same faculty and has started to build her professional career in Belgrade.

Abdul Majeed Al-Mahruqi

Abdul Majeed Al-Mahruqi has received his B.Sc. degree from the Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, Sultan Qaboos University in the Sultanate of Oman.