Microgrids are becoming more popular in areas where there is still no
connectivity to the main grid largely due to their remote geographical
location. This paper focuses on the feasibility analysis, using the HOMER Pro
simulation program, of an islanded micro-grid for the Navajo community in
Tohatchi, New Mexico using different energy mixes of a Photovoltaics (PV)
system, a Wind Energy system, a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) and a
Diesel Generator.The Net Present Cost (NPC), and the
Levelized Cost of Electricity (LCOE), were the two crucial economic factors
considered. Through the analysis, the system with the PV, wind turbines,
battery, and a diesel generator was found to have the lowest LCOE and NPC.
There was a reduction of 75% in the costs of the combined system as compared to
the diesel-only base case. Also, this combined system provided the minimum
emission levels.The analysis suggests that the integration of
renewable energy using microgrids to help the access of energy for rural areas
was possible. The analysis could very well be extended to any other community by
considering the wind and solar resources present at that location.
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