Optimal Planning and Design of Low-Scale Solar DC MGs in Centralized and Distributed Environment - A Comparative Analysis

In remote, non-electrically connected villages in developing countries, low-scale solar photovoltaic (PV) based DC microgrids (MGs) are increasingly popular due to their suitability for rural families with minimal energy demands and lower initial costs compared to the national utility grid. The financial viability and sustainability of these MGs hinge on careful planning and design, which includes optimizing the distribution architecture and accurately sizing solar panels, batteries, and conductors to minimize initial costs. This study presents a comprehensive optimization model for the planning and design of low-scale DC MGs, with a focus on cost minimization. Our analysis encompasses both distributed and centralized, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of each approach in terms of cost, reliability, and efficiency. Key constraints such as load demand, generation capacity, storage requirements, and conductor size are meticulously considered. Additionally, we utilize a variety of area-specific irradiance profiles to account for geographical variability and assess the impact of instantaneous fluctuations in irradiance on the sizing of PV systems and batteries. The results of our comparative analysis provide valuable insights into the optimized configurations for different environmental and socio-economic conditions, offering a robust framework for implementing cost-effective and efficient solar DC MGs. This research not only addresses the technical and economic challenges but also aims to support sustainable energy access initiatives in rural areas of developing countries.