Solar power can be added to existing small grids or mini-grids which are powered by diesel generators, and the amount of electricity that the diesel generators need to provide can be reduced.
Considerable savings in fuel costs can be achieved depending on factors such as solar irradiation levels and the load profile (when and how much electricity is used). Wear and tear on the generators and maintenance requirements can also be reduced.
This type of system is very suitable where power requirements are high during the day -when solar power is available- such as for industrial and agro-industrial applications.
Solar added to a generator diesel grid. Configuration and technical details vary considerably depending on the specific local circumstances.
To assess the economic feasibility of a project:
- A professional load profile survey is required
- Possible system sizes and configurations should be investigated
- A comparison of the levelised cost of the electricity (LCOE) a system will produce, both with solar and without solar, should be undertaken,
Software can be very useful when doing detailed cost analyses.