An integrated geospatial modelling framework of hybrid microgrid sizing for rural electrification planning

Area of Science:

• Energy Systems Engineering
• Geospatial Analysis
• Sustainable Development

Background:

• Rural electrification in developing countries faces challenges due to inadequate energy modeling tools.
• Existing tools often lack crucial geographical and socio-economic parameters relevant to specific rural contexts.
• Limited open-source tools are available for analyzing hybrid generation systems in developing rural areas.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present an integrated geospatial energy modeling framework for least-cost rural electrification.
• To introduce an extended open-source tool, GISEle (GIS for rural electrification), for optimal hybrid microgrid planning.
• To provide a universally applicable framework for analyzing decentralized hybrid generation systems in developing countries.

Main Methods:

• Developed an extended GISEle model incorporating advanced data collection for local specificities and future demand.
• Integrated the Remote-Areas Multi-energy systems load Profiles (RAMP) for improved load demand assessments.
• Linked the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) model for accurate hydropower sizing within the GISEle framework.

Main Results:

• The enhanced GISEle framework provides a robust approach to rural electrification planning.
• Improved load demand assessment considers the impact of electrification on future energy needs.
• Hydropower potential can be accurately sized, contributing to optimized hybrid system design.

Conclusions:

• The presented geospatial energy modeling framework effectively addresses the limitations of current tools for rural electrification.
• The extended GISEle model offers a practical, open-source solution for planning decentralized hybrid generation systems.
• This framework supports sustainable and cost-effective energy solutions for developing rural areas.