Title: A multi-objective decision framework for the selection of feasible and viable hybrid renewable energy systems in energy-constrain communities

Authors: Zwalnan Selfa Johnson; Yousif Abdalla Abakar; S. Anandan Shanmugam; Andy Chan

Addresses: University of Nottingham Malaysia, Jalan Broga, Semenyih 43500, Selangor, Malaysia ' University of Nottingham Malaysia, Jalan Broga, Semenyih 43500, Selangor, Malaysia ' University of Nottingham Malaysia, Jalan Broga, Semenyih 43500, Selangor, Malaysia ' University of Nottingham Malaysia, Jalan Broga, Semenyih 43500, Selangor, Malaysia

Abstract: Choosing the appropriate system configuration that meets the multi-objective of profit-making and environmental protection is always a critical decision for both entrepreneurs and the government. The choice is complicated primarily if several possible alternatives exist. In this paper, a decision framework was developed to select from four configurations, the configuration that best fits decision-makers' multi-objective of profit-making and environmental protection. It was found that, overall, the grid-connected PV-battery hybrid configuration, for now, offers the best fit to the desired profitability and CO₂ mitigation effort with a similarity index of 96.10%. Whereas for now, the standalone PV-batt configuration is only about 29.93% close to this desired objective. It is inferred, therefore, that the complete exclusion of conventional energy from the concept of sustainable energy, for now, leads to an unequivocal increase in installation costs, preventing investments in green technology, particularly in developing countries.

Keywords: hybrid energy system; techno-economic; multi-objective; CO₂ emission.

DOI: 10.1504/IJRET.2023.127569

International Journal of Renewable Energy Technology, 2023 Vol.14 No.1, pp.92 - 113

Received: 03 Feb 2022
Accepted: 06 Jul 2022
Published online: 09 Dec 2022 *

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