Evaluation of Optimal Hybrid Distributed Generation Systems for an Isolated Rural Settlement in Masirah Island, Oman

Abstract

This paper summarizes the findings from a study that has been
conducted to evaluate the feasibility of using renewable energy sources
such as solar and wind in combination with the conventional power
system; diesel systems in an isolated island of Masirah in Oman. The
study has been conducted to determine the best sustainable generation
system to meet the electrical load requirements for a small community of
500 residential buildings. A series of a simulation analyses have carried
out to assess different distribution technologies including photovoltaics,
wind and diesel for electrical generation in combination with storage
batteries. It was found that the cost of energy could be reduced by as
much as 48% compared to the cost under the idealized design currently
used in the Masirah Island (i.e. Diesel Driven Generators). In particular,
it was found that wind turbines in combination with storage batteries
have a great impact in reducing the cost of generating electrical energy
for the residential community. Moreover, solar PV panels were found
unattractive at the current diesel price rates but could potentially become viable if the diesel prices increase. The paper outlines an optimal
design for generating electricity for the community at lowest cost while
minimizing carbon emissions. Other two options are also proposed to
ensure a neutral carbon emission community with a cost of energy
generation still more competitive than that of the currently used diesel
generation system.