10.57647/j.mjee.2025.17381

Optimal Sizing and Analysis of Budget-Constrained Solar PV-Grid Systems

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  • Joseph Y. Oricha1,
  • Shereefdeen O. Sanni*1,
  • Olumoroti Ikotun1,
  • Sikiru M. Abdullahi1,
  • Hillary U. Ezea1,
  1. Department of Electrical & Electronics Engineering, Federal University Oye Ekiti, Nigeria

Received: 2025-01-25

Revised: 2025-04-22

Accepted: 2025-05-09

Published in Issue 2025-08-25

Copyright (c) 2025 Joseph Y. Oricha, Shereefdeen O. Sanni, Olumoroti Ikotun, Sikiru M. Abdullahi, Hillary U. Ezea (Author)

Creative Commons License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.

How to Cite

Oricha, J. Y., Sanni, S. O., Ikotun, O., Abdullahi, S. M., & Ezea, H. U. (2025). Optimal Sizing and Analysis of Budget-Constrained Solar PV-Grid Systems. Majlesi Journal of Electrical Engineering. https://doi.org/10.57647/j.mjee.2025.17381
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Abstract

The global transition to sustainable energy has increased the adoption of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, but high initial costs remain a barrier in developing nations like Nigeria. This study evaluates the optimal sizing and feasibility of a budget-constrained solar PV system to supplement grid power for a suburban grocery store. Using HOMER software, six locations in Nigeria were simulated within a $1,600 budget. The optimal design included a 1.5 kW solar PV system, two 12V 200AH batteries, and a 2.5 kW inverter, costing $1,554. Ughelli achieved the lowest cost of energy (CoE) at $0.0712/kWh and a net present cost (NPC) of $4,039, while Talata Mafara recorded the highest CoE at $0.0731/kWh and an NPC of $4,414, underscoring the need for site-specific designs. Northern locations (Talata Mafara, Dikwa, Karu) showed higher solar contributions (32.3%, 32.1%, 30.4%), while southern sites (Ughelli, Ilaro, Amuzu) had lower contributions (26.5%, 27.4%, 28.6%). Despite optimization, unmet energy demand persisted, particularly in southern regions. Excess electricity generation highlights opportunities for improved energy management through enhanced battery storage and demand-side strategies.

Keywords

  • Energy Solutions,
  • Initial Capital,
  • Optimal Sizing,
  • Solar Photovoltaic,
  • Undersized Systems
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