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A Hybrid Photovoltaic/Diesel System for Off-Grid Applications in Lubumbashi, DR Congo: A HOMER Pro Modeling and Optimization Study

Author

Listed:
  • Ilunga Kajila Rice

    (School of Naval Architecture, Ocean and Energy Power Engineering, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan 430063, China)

  • Hanhua Zhu

    (School of Naval Architecture, Ocean and Energy Power Engineering, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan 430063, China)

  • Cunquan Zhang

    (School of Energy and Power Engineering, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan 430063, China)

  • Arnauld Robert Tapa

    (Institute for Advanced Study, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China)

Abstract

In Lubumbashi, the capital of Haut Katanga in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DR Congo), diesel power plants are a common source of electricity. The need to utilize local renewable energy sources in DR Congo has increased due to the unreliability of the state grid and the rising cost of running diesel generators. Solar photovoltaic (PV) panels and batteries, in particular, have recently recorded significant price drops. It is important for operators and suppliers to choose optimal generators together with a renewable energy system to lessen the energy deficit. Diesel generators are still widely used in DRC, but their efficiency pales in contrast to that of more recent power facilities. Consuming fossil fuels results in high expenses for upkeep and operation, in addition to severe environmental damage. This study assessed the feasibility of using local weather and technical data to evaluate the efficiency of a diesel power plant hybridized with a PV system. The Hybrid Optimization Model for Electric Renewable (HOMER) simulations suggest that the hybrid system schedule is preferable due to its many economic and environmental advantages for the local community and its inhabitants. The promotion of such a hybrid system may encourage the sustainable economic development of a stable source of electricity for the Congo Region.

Suggested Citation

  • Ilunga Kajila Rice & Hanhua Zhu & Cunquan Zhang & Arnauld Robert Tapa, 2023. "A Hybrid Photovoltaic/Diesel System for Off-Grid Applications in Lubumbashi, DR Congo: A HOMER Pro Modeling and Optimization Study," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 15(10), pages 1-15, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:15:y:2023:i:10:p:8162-:d:1149258
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