Techno-economic analysis of a hybrid mini-grid system for Fiji islands

The Pacific Island Countries constantly struggle with the challenges of high petroleum dependence for their electricity production and lack of adequate energy services. It is possible to alleviate the energy poverty by utilizing abundant renewable energy resources available in the region. The objective of this work is to investigate the feasibility of a wind/solar photovoltaic/diesel generator-based hybrid power system in a remote location in Fiji islands. We used the Hybrid Optimisation Model for Electric Renewables (HOMER) software to simulate the system and perform system optimisation analysis. The system characteristics were studied in terms of optimal configuration, net present cost and the cost of energy. An entirely renewable energy-based configuration is feasible if 10% annual capacity shortage is allowed, while for a scenario with no capacity shortage, addition of a diesel generator is necessary. The addition of renewable energy components results in greenhouse gas reduction which could be used for carbon trading.