Design of a mini-grid solar photovoltaic electricity system for Mpahin, village in central region

Abstract

The aim of this research was to design a mini-grid solar photovoltaic electricity system for Mpahin village in the Central Region of Ghana. The researcher adopted the mixed method approach. The study is organized into two parts. In the first part of the study, a comprehensive interview was performed on respondents to know their economic conditions, their means of getting light and cooking, their preferred energy, their knowledge about solar energy and its impact on their lives as well as its sustainability. The researcher also made personal observations of the various facilities available in the community and the perception of the people with regard to solar energy. In the second part, a feasibility study to estimate the total space (area) required for the installation of the system and access the economics of the whole project. The study also identified various building roofs and car parks that can be used for the project based on a minimum roof area. Additionally, site analysis and meteorological analysis was undertaken to determine the energy usage capacity of Mpahin. Also solar PV information from various solar dealers both locally and internationally were contacted to determine the economic feasibility of the project. A survey was conducted to know the end-user appliances and power consumption to set an appropriate limit for the loads. The total energy consumption per day and the peak power demand was estimated and subsequently the system voltage determined. A mini grid system was designed for the community. PVbased mini-grid can contribute to increasing access to modern energy services for rural communities. This manual provides a step-by-step guide for the planning, the design, installation, operation and maintenance, testing and commissioning of PV-based minigrid systems. The manual also incorporated some safety issues as well as financial