Optimization of a grid‐connected <scp>HRES</scp> to achieve a net‐zero energy hospital covering the safe management module for infectious organic waste

Abstract This study presents an optimization analysis of a grid‐connected hybrid renewable energy system (HRES) for a major hospital complex in Iran using HOMER Pro software. Multiple configurations integrating photovoltaic (PV) panels, wind turbines and a biogas‐powered generator were assessed based on technical, economic and environmental criteria. The optimal configuration (scenario F) consisted of 6000 kW of PV capacity, 2400 kW of wind energy, and 1000 kW of bioenergy, supplying an annual electrical load of approximately 19.9 GWh. This scenario achieved net zero energy (NZE) status with a renewable energy fraction of 71.5%. The system demonstrated strong economic performance, with a net present cost (NPC) of 8.61 million USD and a levelized cost of energy (LCOE) of 0.0277 USD/kWh, while generating a negative annual operating cost of −26,235 USD through electricity export to the grid. From an environmental perspective, scenario F reduced annual CO 2 emissions by approximately 8157 tons, corresponding to more than a 50% reduction compared to the grid‐only baseline. Additionally, energy recovery from hospital organic waste through a two‐stage anaerobic digestion–incineration process provided a safe and sustainable solution for infectious waste management. The results confirm that a multi‐resource HRES tailored to local climatic and waste availability conditions can effectively transform large hospitals into net zero energy buildings while achieving substantial economic and environmental benefits.