Techno-Environmental Analysis of a Microgrid Energy System in a University Office Complex

Abstract

The world is undergoing an irreversible shift towards clean energy. Microgrids are recognized as a key technology that holds significant potential to make a substantial difference in this regard. The paper provides a comprehensive overview of how microgrids work and their impact on climate. The research presented in this paper focuses on reducing carbon dioxide (CO2) in the main campus of Qassim University, Saudi Arabia, through the development and implementation of an engineering model that facilitates the installation of a microgrid system designed to meet the university’s sustainability goals. The study aims to explore possible solutions that can reduce emissions in the administrative building (A7) at Qassim University and meet the university environmental plan. Therefore, a comprehensive study is conducted to investigate the potential reduction in emissions associated with the installation of a microgrid system. This microgrid system operates in a grid-connected mode and comprises three main components: the load, a photovoltaic (PV) system, and batteries. The results of the study indicate that the microgrid reveals a notable transition in the primary sources of electricity. Moreover, the microgrid system proves its capability to meet a substantial portion of the daily energy requirements, highlighting its efficiency and effectiveness in addressing energy needs. The findings of this study highlight the significant potential of the proposed model in curbing carbon emissions, as it demonstrates a reduction from 615.8 to 147.4 Mt of CO2. This reduction aligns with the university’s commitment to sustainability and green initiatives. The computed decrease in carbon footprint emphasizes the possibility of the suggested model to encourage sustainable practices among the university community and mitigate the environmental consequences of energy usage.