Solar Energy and Sustainable Development Journal

Performance Enhancement of Microgrid Systems Using Backstepping Control for Grid Side Converter and MPPT Optimization

Mustafa Aslan — 2024-12-07

Microgrid networks represent a crucial model in the field of power transmission and distribution, integrating renewable energy sources with modern control technologies. This research focuses on enhancing the performance of a microgrid system connected to the main grid through a three-phase converter controlled using Voltage Oriented Control (VOC). The microgrid comprises a storage element and a photovoltaic (PV) generation system. To improve system efficiency and power quality, backstepping (BS) controllers are implemented and compared with traditional control methods. Three control systems are evaluated: a conventional system using Perturb and Observe (P&O) algorithm for Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) and Proportional-Integral (PI) controllers for grid-side converter (GSC) control, a hybrid system with BS-modified P&O (BS-P&O) for MPPT and PI controllers for GSC, and an advanced system employing BS-P&O for MPPT and BS controllers for GSC. The research demonstrates that BS controllers exhibit superior dynamic performance, contributing to improved regulation of DC-link voltage, active and reactive powers. Additionally, they achieve lower Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) values and increase the overall efficiency of the PV system. The proposed advanced control strategy shows particular effectiveness in tracking speed, disturbance rejection, and power quality enhancement. This study underscores the potential of nonlinear control techniques in optimizing microgrid operations and facilitating the integration of renewable energy sources into the main grid.

Optimizing a Sustainable Power System with Green Hydrogen Energy Storage for Telecommunication Station Loads

Ahlem Zegueur — 2024-12-07

Telecommunication stations situated in rural areas often rely on diesel generators as their primary energy source to meet electricity demand, given the absence of a power grid. However, this heavy dependence on diesel generators leads to escalated operational and maintenance expenses, while exacerbating global warming through greenhouse gas emissions. This paper proposes a shift towards a 100% hybrid renewable energy system integrated with hydrogen energy storage as a sustainable alternative. The proposed system incorporates photovoltaic (PV) panels, wind turbines, an electrolyzer, a fuel cell, a hydrogen tank, and a converter. Using HOMER Pro software, the optimal sizing of the system was determined, resulting in a configuration with 12.3 kW PV capacity, two 10 kW wind turbines, a 10kW fuel cell, a 20 kW electrolyzer, a 5 kg hydrogen tank, and a 17.3 kW converter. This configuration achieved a net present cost (NPC) of $155,705 and a cost of energy (COE) of $0.388/kWh, offering substantial cost-effectiveness. Compared to the base case relying solely on diesel generators, the system could avoid approximately 31,081 kg of CO₂ emissions annually. Finally, a sensitivity analysis was conducted to assess the impact of meteorological variations on the system’s economic outputs. The findings of this comprehensive study demonstrate the proposed hybrid system's feasibility in terms of both environmental sustainability and economic viability, presenting a sustainable alternative for off-grid telecommunication stations.

Feasibility of a 40kWp Grid-Connected Solar Power Plant in Tiaret, Algeria:

Benameur Afif — 2024-11-16

This study evaluates the technical and economic feasibility of a 40kWp grid-connected solar power plant in Tiaret, Algeria. Utilizing comprehensive solar irradiance data and advanced PV system software, we designed and simulated the plant's performance under local conditions. Our analysis incorporates smart grid integration strategies and economic modeling. Results indicate an annual electricity generation of approximately 68,000 kWh, with a levelized cost of energy (LCOE) of 0.12 USD/kWh and an estimated payback period of 5 years. The plant demonstrates a performance ratio of 0.759, reflecting its efficiency under real-world conditions. These findings suggest that grid-connected solar power plants are not only technically viable but also economically attractive in Algeria. The study provides critical insights for policymakers, investors, and engineers, offering a replicable model for assessing and implementing solar projects in similar emerging markets across North Africa and beyond.

Feasibility Assessment of Hybrid Renewable Energy Based EV Charging Station in Libya

Abdullah Abodwair — 2024-11-13

This study presents an assessment of the feasibility of implementing a hybrid renewable energy-based electric vehicle (EV) charging station at a residential building in Tripoli, Libya. Utilizing the advanced capabilities of HOMER Grid software, the research evaluates multiple scenarios involving combinations of solar and wind energy sources integrated with energy storage and the utility grid. This analysis provides a novel approach to enhancing urban energy systems with renewable technologies in a region traditionally reliant on fossil fuels. Key contributions of this study include the demonstration of an innovative integration strategy that combines solar and wind power with battery storage to ensure a reliable and efficient energy supply for EV charging. Furthermore, the study addresses the practical implications for local energy policy, suggesting that such hybrid systems can significantly enhance energy security and support sustainable urban development. The authors studied five scenarios using HOMER. The results reveals that the annual total costs and payback periods are as follows: for Scenario 1 (wind/utility grid), the expenditure totals US$1,554,416 and payback period of 4.8/5.8 years; for Scenario 2 (solar/wind/Utility grid), the amount is US$1,554,506 and payback period of 4.8/5.8 years; and for Scenario 3(solar/wind/storage/utility grid), it escalates slightly to US$1,554,731, all predicated on the utility grid tariffs and payback period of 4.8/5.8 years. Furthermore, in Scenario 4 (solar/utility grid), the annual total cost is significantly reduced to US$30,589 and a payback period of 8.1/14.3 years, while Scenario 5 (solar/storage/utility grid) incurs an even lower expenditure of US$28,572, again based on the utility grid tariffs and a payback period of 14.0 years. The findings contribute valuable insights into the scalability and adaptability of renewable energy solutions, providing a robust framework for policymakers and planners considering similar implementations in other regions. Overall, the research underscores the potential of integrated renewable energy systems to transform urban energy infrastructures, promoting a sustainable and resilient energy future. The HOMER Grid analysis shows that configurations with energy storage are more cost-effective in the long run, even though they require higher initial costs. It also offers important insights into the economic viability and optimization of hybrid renewable energy systems for an EV charging station in Tripoli, Libya. These results highlight the significance of making calculated investments in renewable energy infrastructure and supporting policies for the development of sustainable energy.