A Technical and Economic Feasibility Study for on-Grid Solar PV in Libya

Abstract

In this research, the technical, economic and environmental feasibility of a gridconnected solar photovoltaic (PV) system for a single-family residential home in several Libyan cities with separate locations was studied. In Libya, the rate of electricity consumption is the largest in the domestic sector, with 60% of the total electricity consumption. Due to the frequent power outages in Libya, and the dependence of power generation mainly on traditional sources, pollution problems, and energy alternatives are an important priority. To overcome these problems, we propose maximizing the exploitation of renewable energy sources for energy production. In this paper, the HOMER Pro Renewable Energy Modeling Software was used to conduct a technical evaluation of a grid-connected solar PV system’s economic viability, where the design was proposed for a residential house for six Libyan cities. The size of the PV system for a residential home is estimated at 15 kW. The findings indicated that the suggested design could supply 85% of the household’s electrical requirements. AlKufra was the best location in terms of economics and the environment for a grid plus PV system, as the initial cost of the system was $9,570, the Cost of Energy (COE) was $0.0314, and the carbon dioxide emissions were 56,982 kg/year. Overall, lower prices for PV modules and PV components combined with long life, less maintenance needs, and minimum parity near the grid. The results show that PV systems connected to the residential grid are an effective energy management option in most Libyan cities.