Stand-alone Power System Design

April, 2022
The report outlines the design of a reliable and cost-effective stand-alone solar power system for a tourist lodge at Cape Otway, Victoria (-38.83°S, 143.512°E).

Duration

286 Days

Place of Work

UNSW Postgraduate

Project Type

Individual

Project Overlook

The report outlines the design of a reliable and cost-effective stand-alone solar power system for a tourist lodge at Cape Otway, Victoria (-38.83°S, 143.512°E).

The system aims to ensure continuous power supply throughout the year while minimizing the levelized cost of energy (LCOE). The design complies with Australian Standard AS/NZS4509.

Key Design Elements:

  1. Load Assessment
    • Energy consumption is analyzed for AC and DC loads in summer and winter.
    • Average daily load: 38.62 kWh/day.
  2. Battery Sizing and Selection
    • System voltage: 48V with autonomy for 4 days.
    • Greensun 200Ah 48V LiFePo4 battery chosen for cost-effectiveness and 6000 life cycles.
  3. Solar Panel Configuration
    • Panels: Trina Solar TSM-510DE18M (Efficiency: 20.7%).
    • Optimal tilt angle: 60° for maximizing insolation in July, the month with the least solar radiation.
  4. Hybrid Inverter Selection
    • Growatt SPF8KTHVM hybrid inverter chosen for its compatibility and high efficiency.
  5. DC/DC Converter Design
    • Helios Power DCW100-24FT-P9200 and DCW500-48-12FT converters used for 24V and 12V DC loads.
  6. System Safety and Surge Protection
    • Designed per AS/NZS4509 standards, with proper cabling, surge protection devices, and battery management systems to ensure safe and reliable operation.
  7. Cost Estimation
    • Component cost and labor were detailed with an estimated total project cost of AUD 115,793, including a 20% margin.
    • Installation to be completed within 21 days by a team of technicians and electricians.
  8. PV Performance Analysis
    • Annual energy yield: 36,055.22 kWh.
    • Performance ratio: 72.07%.
    • Specific yield: 1.01 kWh/kWp.
  9. Economic Analysis
    • Estimated payback period: 61.3 years.
    • Levelized Cost of Electricity (LCOE): AUD 0.25/kWh, comparable to grid electricity in remote areas.

Key Observations and Recommendations:

  1. Load Management:
    While the design effectively addresses energy requirements, reducing AC surge loads (e.g., through efficient appliances or load scheduling) could further optimize battery and inverter sizing.
  2. Battery Bank:
    The choice of LiFePO4 is excellent for longevity and efficiency. Consider future-proofing by designing for modular battery bank expansion.
  3. Economic Feasibility:
    The long payback period is typical for off-grid systems. Financial incentives, grants, or carbon credits could improve economic viability.
  4. Insolation Data Accuracy:
    Monthly and annual insolation data seem consistent with site conditions. A site-specific weather station could improve future performance monitoring.
  5. Environmental Impact:
    Consider including a life cycle assessment of the selected components to strengthen the report’s sustainability claims.
DISCLAIMER
All projects showcased on this website are academic projects completed as part of coursework, research, or personal learning. These are not commercial projects affiliated with any company or organization.

Softwares Used

MS Office Suite
Excel (Advanced)

Collaborators

Get a view of the Project Report