Design of Standalone Photovoltaics (PV) / Biogas Hybrid Power System with Hydrogen Storage: Case of Northern Nigeria

Abstract

The need for more sustainable and efficient fuel applicable to different development sectors calls for different strategies in energy systems pattern. This paper is aimed at designing off-grid solar PV/biogas hybrid power system with hydrogen storage for Maiduguri in Northern Nigeria, using HOMER and Microsoft-Excel tools. This was based on physical component techno-economic modelling and optimization coupled with energy efficiency assessment and a supplementary economic benefit evaluation of system switch over. Potential impact assessment of the hydrogen production was also ensured. The optimization result for the system with the maximum hydrogen production showed energy generation of 3,014.66MWh, but was found to be 31% less in the energy efficiency (EE) adoption. The hydrogen production of the system being 2,768kg/yr. increased by 5%, with net present cost reduction by 39% and further greenhouse gas emissions reduction all in favour of the energy efficiency adoption to the system. The supplementary economic benefits showed a realisable payback period and other potential impacts from the saved cash in switching to the energy efficiency adoption from the based-case standalone system. The generated hydrogen revealed its sustainability impact in an analyses of transport sector. These in overall being a double-target approach could be of tremendous benefit in energy solutions. Keywords-Hybrid clean energy system; off-grid operations; energy efficiency assessment; hydrogen potential impact assessment; sustainability