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Document Type

Thesis - University Access Only

Award Date

2013

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department / School

Electrical Engineering and Computer Science

First Advisor

Reinaldo Tonkoski

Abstract

Electrification in remote settlements is generally done by forming local small scale grids powered by generators commonly known as microgrids. Due to depleting fossil fuel reserves and environmental concerns, a large number of microgrids are adopting renewable energy sources like photovoltaics to provide power generation. However, the fluctuating nature of photovoltaic output makes them unreliable. To solve this issue, energy storage can be used, but this can result in an increase in the cost of energy. To reduce required storage, microgrids can be formed using diesel generators in parallel with a photovoltaic system. The objective of this thesis was to analyze the power management for photovoltaic diesel hybrid microgrids using multiple generators and batteries. Four microgrids were simulated using computer software (HOMER). The simulations were run for one year of load data. A comparative study of four different topologies was done to evaluate the performance of multi generator microgrids with batteries. Experimental microgrids were built to validate the simulations. Long term economic analysis was performed using HOMER to determine the cost of energy and economic feasibility. Simulation and experimental studies suggested that the use of batteries can improve the use of solar energy as well as improve generator conversion efficiency. The addition of two different size generators with photovoltaics and batteries resulted in a 17% reduction in cost of energy. Operating multiple generators of different sizes with batteries improved generator and photovoltaic system efficiency which resulted in a reduction in the annual fuel consumption of 30% compared to single generator system and long term analysis of the system indicated that the expected life of batteries would increase by 30%.

Library of Congress Subject Headings

Photovoltaic power generation
Renewable energy sources
Energy consumption
Electric batteries
Electric generators
Microgrids (Smart power grids)

Description

Includes bibliographical references (pages 93-98)

Format

application/pdf

Number of Pages

116

Publisher

South Dakota State University

Rights

In Copyright - Educational Use Permitted
http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC-EDU/1.0/

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