Energy Optimization Map for Off-Grid Health Clinics in Nigeria

Abstract

A model for the development of energy optimization map for health clinics was presented. This model was used to study three hypothetical off-grid remote health clinics at various geographical locations in Nigeria. These locations include: Nembe (Bayelsa State) in the south, Abaji (Abuja, FCT) in the centre, and Guzamala (Borno State) in the north. These were chosen to reflect the various climatic conditions in Nigeria. Hybrid optimization model for electric renewables (HOMER) software was used to design an optimal hybrid power system based on comparative economic and environmental analysis. Four different combinations (three hybrid power system options and a mix of renewable system) of three energy resources (solar photovoltaic (SPV), wind turbine generator (WTG), and diesel generator (DG)) were simulated and compared for each of the three selected health clinic locations. Optimization was conducted on each of the case study sets of data and results were generated. The findings of the study were organized and presented using tables. The developed energy optimization map shows that there is no generalized least-cost option for powering health clinics at different locations as this depends on climatic conditions and available renewable energy resources.