MSc. SET Theses and Dissertations

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Browsing MSc. SET Theses and Dissertations by Author "Mutekhele, D. N."

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    Modeling and optimization of renewable energy accessibility in underserved regions: a case of Mashuru area
    (Strathmore University, 2024) Mutekhele, D. N.
    Underserved regions have problems of inadequate access to energy. These regions are characterized by inadequate or no grid infrastructure, making it difficult to establish centralized energy systems. To address these challenges, various solutions have been undertaken such as the development of decentralized energy systems. Modeling tools are used to simulate energy systems. They, however, do not prioritize decentralized solutions. So far, less focus has been put on the evaluation of decentralized renewable energy modeling tools for promotion of access to energy in underserved regions. There is a demand for modeling tools to aid in the design of these solutions. The objective of this study is to develop, test and validate a renewable energy model that will optimize accessibility in underserved regions. To achieve the objectives of research, this work focused on Mashuru area in Kajiado County. This area has inadequate grid infrastructure and is characterized by a population with low income and poor purchasing power. This research project targeted small-scale farmers, who use diesel pumps to provide energy for irrigation. The study proposes an optimization model for renewable energy systems consisting of photovoltaics, batteries, supercapacitors, and a diesel generator which act as back up, to provide energy for powering pumping systems. Four technologies were considered; solar PV with battery backup, solar PV with super capacitor backup, standalone solar PV system and solar PV system with a generator set backup. It is based on the selection of an optimal PV system, battery, supercapacitor, and generator capacity while minimizing the LCOE. It employed a debt-versus-equity financial model to compute the WACC used for LCOE calculations. The study established that the total load was 1000 MWh. The optimal capacity requirements for various scenarios were; solar PV with battery backup (693.52kW), solar PV with super capacitor backup (679.71kW), standalone solar (668.45kW) and solar PV with genset backup (467.52kW). From the model results, the optimal LCOE was 8.95KES/kWh, 11.67KES/kWh, 14.47KES/kWh and 33.23KES/kWh for PV only, PV plus battery backup, PV plus supercapacitor back up and PV plus genset back up respectively. The model was validated using HOMER simulation tool to compare its performance and ascertain the correctness of the results.