Optimized Off-grid Solar PV System with Energy Storage for Rural Residence: Techno-economic Analysis in San Francisco de Yojoa, Cortés. (#1406)
Read ArticleDate of Conference
July 17-19, 2024
Published In
"Sustainable Engineering for a Diverse, Equitable, and Inclusive Future at the Service of Education, Research, and Industry for a Society 5.0."
Location of Conference
Costa Rica
Authors
Hernández, Lisandro
Duke, Alicia
Abstract
Abstract— Honduras has one of the lowest electrification rates, standing at 86.6%. In contrast, the region boasts an electrification rate of 97.4%, according to OLADE reports in 2021. Currently, the rural areas of the country are the most affected by this issue, with an electricity coverage rate of 74.41%. The objective of this research is to evaluate an off-grid solar photovoltaic system, incorporating a technical-economic analysis that allowed for the optimization of the system and an assessment of the profitability of its installation in a rural house located in the municipality of San Francisco de Yojoa, Cortés. The results of the technical analysis, using the optimization tool HOMER Pro, indicate that the optimal power of the system, according to the energy demand, is 6.44 kWp, with an autonomy ranging between 16 and 12 hours. This presents a Levelized Cost of Energy (LCOE) of $0.179/kWh, which is lower than the cost of national electric energy at $0.23/kWh. Economically, the initial investment of $15,387.92 is recovered within a period of 8 years and 5 months.