Design, Modeling, and Simulation of an Off-Grid Hybrid Energy System Integrating Solar Photovoltaics, Diesel Generators, and Batteries for Brack Al-Shatti Area, Libya

الملخص

The hybrid system was designed to fully meet the electricity needs of the Brack Al-Shatti area, assuming independent operation from the electrical grid. This study provides a technical evaluation of a hybrid system comprising photovoltaic (PV) panels, batteries (BT), and diesel generators (DG), developed to meet an annual electricity demand of approximately 590 GWh. The analysis examines the impact of different PV capacities (ranging from 0 to 1000 MW) and corresponding battery sizes on diesel fuel consumption, CO₂ emissions, and the levelized cost of energy (LCOE). Diesel consumption decreases significantly as PV capacity increases, from approximately 123 million kg per year at zero PV capacity to zero at 1000 MW. At the same time, battery capacities increase from initial values to 3747 MWh, supporting the storage of excess solar energy and meeting nighttime load requirements, thereby reducing dependence on diesel fuel. The average annual energy cost (LCOE) reflects a balance between technical and economic performance, reaching a minimum of approximately US$0.231077/kWh for PV capacities between 200 and 300 MW and battery capacities between 115 and 433 MWh. This configuration maintains operational stability while effectively reducing diesel consumption