Optimizing renewable energy based hybrid microgrids for EV charging and hydrogen production in Rajshahi City, Bangladesh

This study presents a detailed simulation of a microgrid for Rajshahi city, Bangladesh, using HOMER Pro software to assess its ability to meet electricity and hydrogen demands from renewable energy sources. The microgrid includes solar PV, wind turbines (WT), a biogas generator (BioGen), an electrolyzer, and a hydrogen tank, designed to power a three-wheeler auto-rickshaw charging station and supply hydrogen for hydrogen-powered cars. Two scenarios were analyzed: Scenario-A, which integrates solar PV, WT, BioGen, an electrolyzer, and a hydrogen tank, and Scenario-B, which uses only solar PV, BioGen, an electrolyzer, and a hydrogen tank. The simulations show that Scenario-A outperforms Scenario-B in cost-effectiveness and energy production, with a lower Net Present Cost (NPC) of $5.11 million, a lower Cost of Energy (COE) of $0.174/kWh, annual operating costs of $183,763 and Levelized Cost of Hydrogen (LCOH) $2.09/kg. Scenario-A generates 12,204,848 kWh/year, providing 100 % of the energy demand, including 182,546 kg/year of hydrogen. Sensitivity analysis showed significant impacts from variations in wind speed and solar irradiation. The correlation matrix revealed strong interdependencies between solar, wind, and hydrogen production. The proposed microgrid achieves a remarkable 99.95 % reduction in CO2 emissions, demonstrating its effectiveness in promoting sustainable energy solutions. Scenario-A is a more sustainable and economically viable solution for Rajshahi city and could serve as a model for similar regions worldwide, supporting the global transition to clean energy. • Optimized PV–WT–biogas microgrid designed for EV charging and hydrogen production. • Scenario-A achieves 100 % renewable penetration with zero unmet load. • Minimum NPC of $5.11 M and COE of $0.174/kWh achieved. • Hydrogen produced at low LCOH of $2.09/kg. • CO₂ emissions reduced by 99.95 % compared to conventional systems.