Abstract:
The existing distribution system of Ethiopia has
encountered frequent power outages. During this outage, the
critical load of most firms in the country is supplied by diesel fuel.
This study examines the feasibility of integrating solar PV system
into an existing unreliable grid/diesel generator system for
supplying the critical load of Kombolcha Industry Park (11°5′0″ N,
39° 44′ 0″ E), Ethiopia. The work was begun by collecting the load
data, grid outage and meteorological data of the study site. Then,
optimal design, modeling and techno-economic analysis of grid
connected PV/diesel system has been carried out using HOMER
Pro optimization software by exploring three different scenarios.
Results showed that grid/PV/diesel systems are technically,
economically and environmentally feasible for the selected
location with the cost of energy 0.048 $/kWh. It is also found that
the emissions in the optimized grid/PV/diesel systems for the
locations decreased by 46%, compared to the existing grid/diesel
system. This study will provide a helpful awareness to the
concerned stakeholders and policy makers to implement grid connected PV systems in the north central part of Ethiopia.
