Energy Audit and Feasibility of Solar PV Energy System: Case of a Commercial Building

Abstract

Energy situation in Malawi is continuing facing critical challenges to satisfy the existing demand. However, energy consumption and energy conservation studies have been neglected to help overcome this problem. In this paper, electric energy audit was conducted for a commercial building in Mchinji, Malawi, in order to identify energy-saving opportunities. The study employed a mixed method research which involved a series of surveys, observation, data collection, and analysis. The current energy consumption was determined and compared with the proposed energy consumption after replacing some equipment. The proposed system saved up to 33.46% of energy. The study also suggested behavior change towards energy saving. Additionally, an alternative energy system was also suggested. Thus, the HOMER software was employed to design, optimize, and analyze a solar-battery-grid-connected energy system. The proposed system has a simple payback period of 9.8 years. The system’s cost of energy was estimated as 0.0372 $/kWh, and the capital cost was $ 150,887.