Optimization of a hybrid energy system based on the ABC algorithm and HOMER software programming for Mustansiriyah University

Hybrid renewable energy systems (HRES) have the potential to reduce electricity costs and CO₂ emissions for large academic campuses located in regions with abundant solar and wind resources. This study presents the design and optimization of a grid-tied HRES for 10 engineering buildings at Al Mustansiriyah University (Baghdad, Iraq) using the artificial bee colony (ABC) algorithm, with validation performed in a hybrid optimization model for electric renewable (HOMER) Pro. The system configuration includes multiple photovoltaic (PV) panels, wind turbines, batteries, and a single diesel generator (DG) to meet a 500 kW peak load, based on hourly resource and demand data, a 20-year lifespan, and a 5% interest rate. The ABC algorithm yields a solution comprising 220 PV units, 364 wind turbines, 644 batteries, a 327 kW DG, and a 555.55 kW inverter, resulting in an annual system cost of $283,840 and a levelized cost of energy (LCOE) of $0.1137/kWh, compared to $0.1819/kWh obtained using HOMER.