Integrating Solar Energy Systems and Biomass Systems for Sustainable Energy Solution
Abstract
The growing demand for reliable and sustainable energy sources in Nigeria has intensified the need to explore renewable alternatives that can address the limitations of conventional fossil fuel-based systems. This study aimed to assess the feasibility, performance, and socio- environmental impacts of implementing a Hybrid Renewable Energy System that combines solar photovoltaic (PV) and biomass energy resources as an efficient and eco- friendly power generation option for Omoku Town. The research employed an integrated engineering and simulation-based approach using resource data such as global horizontal irradiance , biomass residue estimates, and load demand profiles. Monthly solar radiation data indicated an average GHI of 4.77 kWh/m2/day and a clearness index of 0.49, suggesting consistent solar availability throughout the year. Biomass resource assessment revealed an estimated 27,500 tons of biomass residues annually, comprising cassava peels, palm kernel shells, sawdust, and agricultural wastes, capable of generating approximately 28,380 MWh/year. Using the HOMER Pro software, the optimal hybrid configuration was determined to consist of a 40 MW solar PV array, a 25 MW biomass power plant, 100 MWh of battery storage, and a 10 MW grid backup system, generating a total of 157,760 MWh/year. The energy mix achieved a renewable fraction of 87.3%, with biomass and solar contributing 47.2% and 40.1% of the total supply, respectively. Economically, the HRES demonstrated a Net Present Cost of ₦780 million compared to ₦1.22 billion for the diesel-only system, while the Levelized Cost of Energy dropped significantly from ₦165/kWh ($0.11/kWh) for diesel to ₦92.5/kWh ($0.062/kWh) for the hybrid system. Furthermore, the Internal Rate of Return was 13.6%, with a payback period of 6.8 years, confirming the system’s strong economic viability. Environmentally, the hybrid system achieved remarkable emission reductions, with carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions declining by 80.3% from 145,000 tons/year in the diesel system to 28,500 tons/year while CH4, SOx, NOx, and PM2.5 emissions were reduced by 82.1%, 86.7%, 79.2%, and 81.3%, respectively. The Environmental Performance Index further indicated improvements in air quality (139%) and resource utilization efficiency (80%). From a socio-economic perspective, the implementation of the HRES reduced average household electricity costs by 52%, from ₦250/kWh to ₦120/kWh, increased local employment by 550% (from 40 to 260 jobs), and improved power access from 45% to 85% of the population. The study demonstrates that a solar–biomass hybrid system presents a technically feasible, economically viable, and environmentally sustainable energy solution. IJEMT
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