A Case Study on Off-grid Microgrid for Universal Electricity Access in the Eastern Cape of South Africa

Abstract

Microgrid is progressively an option for electricity access in unelectrified areas in developing nations. This study investigates the costs of microgrid solutions in comparison to grid extension to provide universal electricity access in Ntabankulu Local Municipality, Eastern Cape, South Africa. The Hybrid Optimization Model for Electric Renewable (HOMER) software was used to carry out simulation, optimization and sensitivity analyses. The results showed that a Wind/Diesel Generator/Battery-powered microgrid has the lowest cost with a breakeven grid extension distance of -45.38 km. The proposed microgrid could supply electricity at $0.320/kWh, with 0.0057 kg/kWh CO2 emissions and 90.5% renewable fraction, which are lower than grid extension. Therefore, a Renewable Energy Source (RES) hybrid microgrid solution can be a viable option for electrifying far-from-the-grid unelectrified areas of the Eastern Cape.