Feasibility Study and Analysis of a Micro-Grid Scheme for Federal University of Technology, Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria

Abstract

The need for reliable, robust, clean and secure electrical energy has led to developments in distributed off-grid solutions. This work considers various distributed generation sources such as; hydro, solar and wind, within the specified environment. Its aim is to ascertain the most feasible micro-grid solution for the specified campus environment. The work evaluates various micro-grid models to ascertain the most suitable model for the campus environment. HOMER micro-grid optimization software was used to aid the analysis. The micro hydropower plant at Otamiri River was found to be a good source with the power output of 586kW, and cost of energy per kWh of $0.284. Consequently, the model of the micro-grid was further analyzed in MATLAB/Simulink to determine the behavior of the system. The effect of load variation and short circuit fault was observed, and it shows the performance of the system to be stable.