Comprehensive multi-stage 3E feasibility and overall sensitivity analysis of PV-Diesel-BESS hybrid on/off grid system under various battery technologies, energy controls strategies, and solar tracking techniques

Accessible, affordable, and reliable energy is crucial for economic development and improved living standards, especially in rural areas. An alternative approach to meeting this need is through the implementation of hybrid energy systems (HES), which leverage renewable sources such as solar power. However, the inherent uncertainty and unpredictability of HES, comprised of various renewable sources, as well as advanced storage and backup devices, add complexity to system design and optimization. To achieve a technically feasible, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly energy supply, it is vital to determine the ideal configuration, select suitable battery storage, implement a proper control strategy, and enhance energy productivity. This paper addresses these objectives and performs a 3E (Energy, Economic, Environmental) optimization and performance analysis of a PVDiesel-Battery off-grid system for residential application. Unlike previous studies, a multi-stage optimization methodology is adopted, including the selection of the best battery among the two investigated technologies (Lead-Acid, Lithium-Ion). Next, four dispatch strategies for system control are analyzed and compared to determine the most appropriate strategy. Further extended analysis and comparison of the optimally identified off-grid system with grid extension and grid connection. Six different sun-tracking techniques are investigated to determine the most optimal method for productivity and performance enhancement. Finally, the study concludes with a comprehensive sensitivity analysis of all system variables. Based on the results of the comparison of two battery technologies and four DS, the optimized, cost-effective, and reliable hybrid system is achieved with the Li-ion battery and the CD control strategy. The system reports a capacity shortage of 0 %, a cost of energy (COE) of 0.180 $/kWh, a total net present cost (TNPC) of 9583 $, and a renewable fraction (RF) of 36.5 %, 12.3 % of excess energy, and 2395.41 kg of CO2 emissions. Furthermore, the system achieves various economic metrics, including a 36.5 % return on investment (ROI), a 42.5 % internal rate of return (IRR), and a 2.03 year simple payback period (PP). Regarding solar tracker integration, the VACA tracker is recommended as the optimal choice for both low 0 % and high 80 % renewable fraction constraints, ensuring low COE and TNPC while maximizing solar energy production. Finally, the sensitivity analysis revealed that, among the various addressed variables, component investment cost, solar irradiation intensity, battery state-of-charge, and RF exerted the most significant influence on the system's TNPC and COE. The methodology adopted in this work and its results serves as a reference for consumers, researchers, and investors in RE, and as a guide for countries that have adopted electrification policies, informing decisionmaking to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).