Evaluation of optimal hybrid distributed generation systems for an isolated rural settlement in masirah island, Oman

This paper summarizes the findings from a study that has been conducted to evaluate the feasibility of using renewable energy sources such as solar and wind in combination with the conventional power system; diesel systems in an isolated island of Masirah in Oman. The study has been conducted to determine the best sustainable generation system to meet the electrical load requirements for a small community of 500 residential buildings. A series of a simulation analyses have carried out to assess different distribution technologies including photovoltaics, wind and diesel for electrical generation in combination with storage batteries. It was found that the cost of energy could be reduced by as much as 48% compared to the cost under the idealized design currently used in the Masirah Island (i.e. Diesel Driven Generators). In particular, it was found that wind turbines in combination with storage batteries have a great impact in reducing the cost of generating electrical energy for the residential community. Moreover, solar PV panels were found unattractive at the current diesel price rates but could potentially become viable if the diesel prices increase. The paper outlines an optimal design for generating electricity for the community at lowest cost while minimizing carbon emissions. Other two options are also proposed to ensure a neutral carbon emission community with a cost of energy generation still more competitive than that of the currently used diesel generation system.