Hybrid power microgrid optimization and assessment for an off-grid location in Nigeria

This study examined an existing isolated solar/battery microgrid, and the potential of optimum hybridization of energy resources to meet the rise in the load demand of the proposed solar/wind/diesel/battery microgrid of the remote community in Nigeria, chosen as a case study. The study deployed the Annualized System Cost to analyze the existing system's Cost of Energy (COE). Also, this study considered a lifespan of 25 years. Hypothetical mathematical models for modeling and simulation using MATLAB-based Particle Swarm Optimization were deployed to find the optimum configuration that satisfies the single-objective cost function (i.e., Annual System Cost). The study revealed that the proposed microgrid model could effectively assist engineers, investors, researchers, and policy and decision-makers in designing and accessing a microgrid’s reliability from an economic point of view for a particular location. Also, it is practically possible to develop a reliable and cost-effective microgrid for any community in any part of the world, considering the renewable energy potential, hence the proposed microgrid configuration is recommended.