Optimal Design and Techno-economic Analysis of Off-grid Hybrid Renewable Energy System for Remote Rural Electrification: A Case Study of Southwest China

Abstract

Demand for electricity in remote areas is a key bottleneck for development of these areas. Challenges of grid extension to remote areas have been identified, such as difficult terrain for construction and vast investment. Fast development of decentralized renewable energy production technologies provides opportunity for tackling the challenges. The study aims to demonstrate the techno-economic feasibility of off-grid hybrid renewable energy system for sustainable remote rural electrification via a case study of a village in Southwest China. In order to determine the most cost competitive configuration whilst ensuring a reliable power supply for residential, community and agricultural demand of the village, different combinations of PV panels, wind turbine and biogas generator are modelled and optimized in HOMER. Daily and seasonal characteristics of energy supply and demand sizes and patterns of remote rural areas are considered. Comparison of grid extension and an off-grid hybrid power system has been carried out. Results show that a hybrid power system comprising solar, wind and biomass is a reliable and cost-effective option for remote rural electrification whilst achieving environmental benefits.