Technical Feasibility of Photovoltaic Microgrids for Rural Communities in Panama

This study evaluates the technical feasibility of implementing photovoltaic microgrids in isolated rural communities in Panama, integrating solar generation and energy storage to provide a stable and continuous power supply. Using MATLAB/Simulink, the microgrid was simulated, focusing on the photovoltaic array, the boost converter, the DC-to-AC conversion, and an LC filter for signal conditioning. A droop control-based strategy was implemented to ensure power stability, and the effectiveness of battery storage was validated to maintain the supply during periods of low solar irradiation. The results demonstrate that the microgrid can operate autonomously and efficiently, meeting the electrical demands of the rural community. This study contributes to the advancement of sustainable energy solutions in Panama, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs 7 and 10). Future work will focus on real-world validation, control optimization, and the exploration of emerging technologies to enhance system resilience.