Techno-Economic Optimization of a Hybrid PV-Wind-Waste-to Energy System for the University of Maiduguri

• Hafsah A. ABDULRAHMAN

  Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Maiduguri, Maiduguri, Nigeria

  Author

• Muhammad M. HAMIDU

  Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Maiduguri, Maiduguri, Nigeria

  Author

The University of Maiduguri has struggled with power outages all the time because the national grid is unstable, diesel prices are high, and the amount of trash on campus is growing.  This study examines a hybrid solar photovoltaic-wind-waste-to-energy (WTE) system as a sustainable alternative that enhances energy security and mitigates waste disposal issues.  The main aim was to design and improve a reliable hybrid system that could meet the university's needs for electricity for academic, administrative, and residential purposes. HOMER Pro used hourly load profiles, solar radiation, wind speed, temperature data, and the amount of municipal solid waste available to create models. Then, it analyzed different system configurations based on Net Present Cost (NPC), Levelized Cost of Energy (LCOE), renewable fraction, and operational performance. The results show that the PV–wind–biogas–battery configuration provides the most cost-effective solution with a 100% renewable fraction. The optimal system has 16,812 kW of PV power, 2,434 kW of wind power, a 500-kW biogas generator, 17,972 kWh of lead-acid storage, and a 3,718-kW bidirectional converter. Solar PV contributes the highest annual energy output, supported by wind generation during low-irradiance months. The biogas unit, fuelled by an average of 26.5 tonnes of daily campus waste, provides stable power that keeps the system running during times when renewable energy is weak. With little unmet load and strong seasonal resilience, the total annual generation (44.65 GWh) greatly surpasses the campus load.  According to the study's findings, UNIMAID can achieve a reliable power supply while converting its waste stream into an energy resource by combining PV, wind, and WTE.  As future demand increases, it is advised that the university implement this configuration, enhance waste collection systems, and gradually expand the hybrid system.

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