Solar-Powered University Campus: A Blueprint for Sustainable Higher Education

This study explores the development of a renewable energy (RE)-based power system designed for educational institutions. Focusing on integrating solar photovoltaic (PV), the research conducts a comprehensive technical and economic analysis, e emphasizing the Ahsanullah University of Science and Technology (AUST) case study in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Bangladesh, aiming for 40% renewable energy production by 2041, presents a compelling case study. Through detailed examination and design considerations, the study showcases the viability and advantages of incorporating RE sources into the energy infrastructure of educational institutions. Here, a 256 kWp PV system, which is 21% of the total load, is designed, maintaining the standard guidelines for uptaking PV systems. This integration will lead to a noteworthy reduction in the levelized cost of energy (LCOE), BDT 2.39, and a consequent reduction of 4875 tons in CO<inf xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink">2</inf> emissions. The design incorporates the net energy metering concept, a system where excess solar energy is fed back into the grid for credit. Furthermore, this study not only incentivizes RE use but also reduces strain on the grid and lowers the university’s electricity expenses, maintaining all standard guidelines for eligibility for financing by financial institutions. Such a configuration promotes environmental sustainability and proves financially viable for providing electricity to an educational institution.