Design and Modeling of Grid Connected Hybrid Microgrid with Photovoltaics, Fuel Cells, and Energy Storage for Rural Communities in South-South Nigeria

The design and modeling of a grid-connected hybrid micro grid with photovoltaics, fuel cells, and energy storage for rural communities in South-South Nigeria is presented in this study, with the aim of providing continuous and uninterrupted power supply to residential and industrial users. The methodology involved the theoretical design of all subsystems, followed by modeling and simulation using MATLAB software. The hybrid micro grid system comprises eight subsystems: the grid, photovoltaic (PV) array, DC-DC boost converter, battery storage, fuel cell system, high voltage DC bus, AC-DC inverter, and load. The simulation results demonstrate the efficiency of the proposed system, with the grid providing 6kW, the PV system delivering a maximum of 5kW, the fuel cell offers a maximum of 4.8kW, and the backup storage producing a maximum power of 5.1kW. These results confirm the system's capability to meet the power requirements of the rural community, irrespective of the available energy sources. The study emphasizes the importance of hybrid micro grids in reducing energy poverty and improving sustainability in rural electrification, aligning with previous research that recognizes the potential of renewable energy systems. This comprehensive approach to rural electrification considers both technical and economic factors, offering a localized solution that accounts for resource availability and community demands.