MEAM Master’s Thesis Defense: “Modeling Off-Grid Photovoltaics Integrated with Micro-Cogeneration and Electrical Energy Storage”

Due to the elevated expenditure of fossil fuels and their adverse impacts on climate change resulting from greenhouse gas emissions, it is imperative to integrate clean energy sources alongside fossil fuels. This study presents the design, simulation, and optimization of an integrated system comprising solar photovoltaics, micro-cogeneration, and electrical energy storage to achieve energy self-sufficiency independently from external energy sources. Moreover, the study determines the maximum cost of the converter that can be economically added to the heating system, enabling it to generate both heat and electricity simultaneously. It also calculates the unit electricity cost for each combination. The modeled system is capable of meeting all required electricity and heat demands. Yet, the model presents a range of alternatives for configuring the capacity required for PV panels, batteries, and converter, each resulting in varied overall costs. It has been determined that when conversion efficiency increases, the costs associated with PV panels and batteries decrease, as do the overall cost. However, the maximum cost of the converter necessary for achieving cost-effectiveness is not constant, but rather changes according to its efficiency. Ultimately, the unit electricity cost varies, decreasing with increasing converter rated power until a certain value, then increasing.