COMPARATIVE PERFORMANCE ANALYSIS OF HYBRID ENERGY STORAGE INTEGRATED MICROGRID

The growing global focus on reducing fossil fuel dependency and mitigating greenhouse gas emissions has driven research and development in renewable energy systems. Existing studies have explored various configurations of hybrid microgrids integrating solar photovoltaic systems with energy storage technologies. The primary goal of the research is to enhance energy reliability and reduce energy costs. This study addresses this gap by conducting a comparative performance analysis of a hybrid microgrid system in the Bangalore urban area. This study incorporates photovoltaic and multiple energy storage systems to optimize power generation and distribution. This research examines the integration of energy storage technologies, including batteries, to store surplus photovoltaic power for use during periods of high demand or low solar generation. The objective is to increase the proportion of renewable energy sources and reduce the levelized cost of energy. The study uses an optimization model developed in the system advisor model to assess the financial viability of hybrid photovoltaic systems over a 25-year project lifespan. Sensitivity analyses are performed on key financial metrics, including debt service coverage ratio and project internal rate of return, providing a comprehensive view of system performance under varying input conditions. Prevailing practices in India predominantly rely on grid-connected systems with limited renewable integration. This study proposes a shift towards hybrid microgrids, which not only reduces grid dependency but also contributes to substantial reductions in carbon emissions. The environmental impact is quantified by calculating annual CO2 reductions and the corresponding number of trees required to offset these emissions. This paper examines the environmental and financial implications of hybrid energy storage integrated microgrids. It provides important information on how these grids can be utilized on a large scale in cities to meet energy needs sustainably and cost-effectively, while mitigating climate change.