Design Optimization and Techno-Economic Analysis of Off-Grid Hybrid Energy Systems for Sustainable Rural Electrification in Bangladesh

This paper highlights the potential of hybrid energy system solutions to facilitate rural electrification in Bangladesh through a comprehensive technical and economic evaluation, identifying the most effective and environmentally sustainable options for remote locations without grid electricity. Given the challenges caused by the energy crisis in Bangladesh, such as frequent load shedding, the integration of fossil fuels with renewable energy sources presents a viable pathway for sustainable development. This paper uses HOMER Pro software to analyze energy demands, improve system performance, and assess the design and economic feasibility of off-grid hybrid energy systems in Char Amanullah, a remote area in Subarnachar upazila, Bangladesh, focusing on optimal resource utilization. The main findings from the comparative analysis and simulations indicate that the PV-Biomass-Battery system emerges as the most economically viable option, delivering the lowest Cost of Energy (COE) at $0.197/kWh and Net Present Cost (NPC) at $0.473 million. In contrast, the PV-Diesel-Biomass-Battery and PV-Wind-Biomass-Battery systems exhibit marginally higher costs, with COEs of $0.224 and $0.447 per kWh and NPCs of $0.583 and $1.07 million, respectively. Moreover, the study also evaluates the production, consumption, and environmental emissions of these three distinct hybrid energy models, offering a comprehensive overview of their implications for sustainable rural electrification in Bangladesh.