Optimization of On-Grid Microgrid Systems for Rural Communities to Increase Energy Resilience

Abstract

Energy security in rural communities is a significant challenge due to limited access to the electricity grid and dependence on fossil fuels. This study aims to optimize an on-grid microgrid system based on renewable energy to improve reliability and cost efficiency. Using HOMER Pro software, various energy configurations were analyzed to find the optimal solution. The optimization results show that the best configuration consists of 200 kW solar panels, 100 kW wind turbines, and 500 kWh energy storage systems, with a 50 kW diesel generator as a backup. Implementing this system can reduce diesel fuel consumption by 70%, which impacts reducing the Levelized Cost of Energy (LCOE) from 0.25 USD/kWh to 0.12 USD/kWh. In addition, carbon emissions have been reduced by 150 tons of CO₂ per year, thus supporting environmental sustainability. Regarding reliability, adequate energy storage allows the system to continue operating stably even if there is a disruption to the primary grid. This study also highlights the importance of incentive policies and investment in renewable energy infrastructure to accelerate the adoption of microgrid systems in rural communities. The results of this study indicate that the optimized microgrid system not only improves energy resilience but also has a wide replication scale for areas with similar characteristics.