Techno-economic analysis of a microgrid design for a commercial health facility in Ghana- Case study of Zipline Sefwi-Wiawso

Abstract

Most commercial entities depend on the availability, and reliability of electricity supply for their business ventures. Poor energy security, unreliability, and high cost of electricity characterize the utility grid of Ghana, forcing most of these facilities to resort to using diesel generators to supplement their energy needs. This study, therefore, proposes the development of a Microgrid (MG) to provide electricity to the Zipline facility in Sefwi-Wiawso, Ghana. The optimally designed MG is achieved using the HOMER software and consists of 94.8 kW Sunpower solar panels, 231 kWh Samsung M8068 Li-ion batteries, 56.31 kW ABB MGS inverter, 158 kW CAT-C7 diesel generator, and an infinite distribution grid. The proposed design with a lifespan of 25 years has an initial capital cost of US$ 45,929.17 and a nominal discounted payback period of 2.11yrs making a total savings of US$ 322,563.21.

Keywords

• PV
• Renewable energy
• Microgrid
• Off-grid
• Utility-Grid
• Techno-economics