In the face of a significant power crisis, Bangladesh is turning towards renewable energy solutions, a move supported by the government’s initiatives. This article presents the findings of a study conducted in a residential area of Pabna, Bangladesh, using HOMER (Hybrid Optimization of Multiple Energy Resources) Pro software version 3.14.2. The study investigates the feasibility and efficiency of a grid-connected hybrid power system, combining photovoltaics (PV), a biomass generator, and wind energy. The simulation produced six competing solutions, each featuring a distinct combination of energy sources. Among the configurations analyzed, the grid-connected PV–biomass generator system emerged as the most cost-effective, exhibiting the lowest COE at USD 0.0232, a total net present cost (NPC) of USD 321,798.00, and an annual operating cost of USD 6060.59. The system presents a simple payback period of 9.25 years, highlighting its economic viability. Moreover, this hybrid model significantly reduces CO2 emissions to 78,721 kg/year, compared to the 257,093 kg/year emissions from a solely grid-connected system, highlighting its environmental benefits. Sensitivity analyses further reveal that the system’s performance is highly dependent on solar irradiance, indicating that slight variations in solar input can significantly impact the system’s output. This study underscores the potential of integrating multiple renewable energy sources to address the power crisis in Bangladesh, offering a sustainable and economically viable solution while also mitigating environmental impacts.
Rural communities in Bangladesh face persistent energy access challenges due to geographic isolation and inadequate infrastructure. This study investigates the design and optimization of off-grid hybrid renewable energy systems for five distinct rural locations, utilizing solar photovoltaic (PV), wind turbines (WT), and four types of battery energy storage systems (BESS): ZnBr Flow, Li-Ion NMC, Lead-Acid, and LiFePO4. Using HOMER Pro (version 3.14.2), simulations were performed based on real hourly load profiles and resource data (solar irradiance, wind speed, and temperature) from NASA. Each system configuration was assessed for economic feasibility, renewable energy penetration, and environmental impact. Results show that the PV-WT-ZnBr Flow battery configuration outperformed others at all sites, achieving the lowest Net Present Cost (NPC) of $171,720, Cost of Energy (COE) of $0.0688/kWh, and 100% Renewable Fraction (RF) with zero carbon emissions. ZnBr Flow batteries demonstrated high efficiency, long lifespan (30 years), and low maintenance requirements. Sensitivity analysis revealed the influence of resource variability, load profiles, and component costs. This study confirms that ZnBr-based hybrid microgrids offer a viable, cost-effective, and scalable solution for sustainable rural electrification in Bangladesh and other remote or underdeveloped regions worldwide.
This study develops a grid-connected solar PV–biogas microgrid for a five-story residential building in Rajshahi, Bangladesh, optimized using HOMER Pro. Among six configurations, the optimal configuration, integrating solar PV and a biogas generator, achieves a 59.4% renewable fraction, reducing CO₂ emissions by 46% and lowering the cost of energy to $0.0306/kWh. The system’s net present cost is $46,813, with an annual operating cost of $1,187. It generates 31,168 kWh/year from solar PV and 3,040 kWh/year from biogas, with grid purchases and sales of 21,951 kWh/year and 13,411 kWh/year, respectively. Predictive modeling (R² = 1.0) enhances power estimation accuracy. MATLAB-based stability analysis confirms seamless voltage and frequency integration. A demand response strategy achieves 2,730.44 kWh/year savings, reducing non-renewable reliance. Sensitivity analysis identifies solar irradiance as the dominant cost factor. The results establish a scalable, cost-effective model for residential renewable microgrid adoption globally.
This study addresses Bangladesh’s urgent power crisis by evaluating a grid‐connected PV‐Biomass hybrid system at the Pabna University of Science and Technology (PUST). Using the hybrid optimization of multiple energy resources (HOMER) software, the project showcases a cost‐effective and environmentally friendly solution. The system achieves a cost of energy (COE) of $0.0347/kWh and a net present cost (NPC) of $4,712,218, with annual operating costs of $95,679.09. It significantly reduces carbon dioxide emissions from 1,920,065 kg/yr to 839,600 kg/yr and offers a competitive payback period of 6.52 years. These results highlight the system’s economic viability and environmental advantages, proposing a scalable model for similar institutions in developing countries striving for sustainable energy solutions. This approach not only mitigates the current energy challenges but also aligns with global sustainability goals.