Modelling and performance analysis of a stand-alone hybrid solar PV/Fuel Cell/Diesel Generator power system for university building

Abstract

Optimized design and performance of an off-grid solar PV/Fuel Cell/Diesel Generator power system for University building is presented in this study. The main objective is to design a power system with high renewable fraction; low greenhouse gas emissions, and low cost of energy. The goal is to switch from grid-tied fossil fuel power system to a renewable and cleaner power system. Hourly calculations were performed to test the power system performance and cost using optimization and control methodologies. The simulation and performance analysis showed that the proposed renewable energy system offers the best results: 73% of the total energy from the solar PV, 24% from the fuel cell and 3% from the Diesel generator. All the electrical load of the building is met without power shortage (<0.1%). The proposed stand-alone hybrid renewable power system has high renewable fraction (66.1%), is economically feasible (92 $/MWh) and environmentally friendly (24 kg CO2/MWh).