Assessing On-Grid Rooftop Solar as a Solution for Reducing CO₂ Emissions and Addressing Energy Crisis: A Case Study of Green University of Bangladesh

This research explores the viability of installing an on-grid rooftop solar photovoltaic system at the Green University of Bangladesh to mitigate the ongoing energy crisis and decrease reliance on inefficient diesel generators. The study analyzes a 78 kWp solar photovoltaic system intended for the J-block of the annex building of the university, using a thorough approach that encompasses energy demand calculation, resource potential evaluation, PVsyst modeling, and economic and environmental assessments. The findings indicate that the proposed system can produce 103,427 kWh per year, exceeding the energy requirements of the J-block. The system has a competitive Levelized Cost of Energy of $0.0763/kWh, yielding annual savings of $7,891.48 and a payback period of 7.53 years. It can counterbalance 27.12% of the existing energy production of the generator, substantially reducing fuel usage and maintenance expenses. The environmental advantages include a net reduction in carbon footprint of 74,467.44 kg CO<inf xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink">2</inf> annually, signifying an 8.48% decrease in CO<inf xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink">2</inf> emissions relative to the current generator. The research indicates that the on-grid rooftop solar photovoltaic system is both technically possible and economically viable, as well as ecologically advantageous, providing a sustainable alternative for educational institutions in Bangladesh with similar energy difficulties. This study provides significant insights into integrating renewable energy in developing nations, facilitating the establishment of more sustainable and resilient energy futures.