Energy, economic and environmental (3E) analyses of Solar Photovoltaic and Fuel Cell based hybrid energy system in Pakistan /

Abstract

The present study aims to check the feasibility of the PV-Fuel cell hybrid system in Pakistan (Developing Country). Previous studies on Hybrid systems (unreliability, environmentally unfriendly) have convinced the researchers to look for a better, reliable, efficient, and environmentally friendly combination with PV and fuel cell, because it possesses required properties. Additionally, energy, economic and environmental (3E) system analysis has been done to check economic and environmental feasibility. The evaluation tool used in the present study is System Advisor Model (SAM), while matrix laboratory (MATLAB) is used for energy load design. The environmental analysis via expressed equations is based on system consumptions and emissions. The upshots show that from an energy, economic and environmental perspective, the PV-fuel cell system is a step towards contributing to the Sustainable Development Goal 7, 11, 12 and 13. The PV-FC system exhibits the levelized cost of electricity as 7.36 (C/kWh), which is 0.073$/kWh, while the net present value of the system is $1.86 million. Systems’ LCOE is less than the tariff rate of Pakistan i.e., according to IESCO (Islamabad Electric Supply Company), 0.078$/kWh for off-peak hours and 0.11$/kWh for on-peak hours. Environmental analysis showed that 1,927,200 kg/year of carbon dioxide emissions are being reduced due to Hybrid system. Results shows that PV-FC hybrid power production is cost-effective and environmentally beneficial. The research findings are imperative for stakeholders, policymakers, and investors to uphold low-carbon technologies.