Recent research published in the International Journal of Renewable Energy Development highlights a systematic approach to optimizing microgrid energy sources in rural Indonesia, specifically at the Baron Technopark. This study, led by Adinda Prawitasari from the Research Center for Energy Conversion and Conservation at Indonesia’s National Research and Innovation Agency, addresses the challenges faced by rural communities that rely heavily on diesel generators for electricity.
Microgrid systems are critical for providing reliable energy to areas lacking access to traditional power grids. However, the over-reliance on diesel generators poses economic and environmental challenges. Prawitasari’s research aims to shift this dependency by exploring configurations that incorporate renewable energy sources while still utilizing diesel generators in a more efficient manner.
The study utilized HOMER software for optimization, focusing on daily load variations and the operational patterns of the energy supply system. The findings revealed an optimal configuration that included 24 kilowatts of solar photovoltaic (PV) panels, a battery energy storage system (BESS) with a capacity of 288 kilowatt-hours, and a 25 kVA diesel generator. This setup not only generated 12% excess energy but also achieved a renewable fraction of 36%, significantly reducing carbon dioxide emissions by 13.25 tons annually.
From a commercial perspective, the research underscores the potential for improved economics in energy systems for rural areas. The proposed microgrid system demonstrated a levelized cost of energy (LCOE) of just $0.28 per kilowatt-hour and a net present cost (NPC) of $250,478. Additionally, it achieved a benefit-cost ratio of 0.89, indicating that the benefits nearly match the costs involved in implementation. Prawitasari noted, “The addition of diesel generators to microgrid systems in 3T areas was more optimal than using only PV and batteries,” emphasizing the importance of a balanced energy mix.
The study also pointed out that an effective operating schedule for diesel generators is crucial for enhancing the renewable fraction and reducing overall expenses. This insight opens up opportunities for energy companies and investors to develop tailored energy solutions that cater specifically to the needs of rural communities. Furthermore, exploring alternative energy storage devices that are less expensive than batteries could further improve the economic viability of microgrid systems.
Overall, this research not only contributes to the understanding of microgrid optimization in rural settings but also presents a pathway for sustainable energy development in Indonesia and similar regions, encouraging investment in renewable technologies and innovative energy solutions.
