Technical, economic, and environmental assessment of a photovoltaic-wind system for rural electrification in Canta

Alvarado Vásquez E.J.; Laufi Ramos C.A.; Canziani Amico F. · Proceedings of the LACCEI international Multi-conference for Engineering, Education and Technology (2025) · DOI: 10.18687/laccei2025.1.1.1534

Resumen

Lack of access to electricity continues to be a global challenge affecting millions of people, especially in rural areas of developing countries. In Peru, approximately 14% of rural areas are not connected to the electricity grid. Power generation through renewable hybrid systems is presented as a sustainable option for decentralized electrification. This study aims to assess the technical, economic, and environmental feasibility of a hybrid photovoltaic-wind system to supply electricity to the Tambo Farm in Canta, an area that, due to its geographic location, is not connected to the electricity grid. Currently, the site relies on a home-grown system composed of solar panels for basic lighting and diesel generators to cover specific needs. However, this solution is inefficient and has a negative environmental impact due to the use of fossil fuels. Variables such as wind speed and direction, solar radiation, and the farm's electricity demand were analyzed to design an optimal configuration, considering technical, economic, and environmental criteria. The results show an average wind speed of 3.02 m/s and an average annual solar radiation of 5.42 kWh/m^2/day, demonstrating high solar power. Daily electricity demand is 31.32 kWh during the peak season (April-September) and 28.25 kWh during the mid-season (October-March). The Levelized Cost of Energy (LCOE) of the proposed system is US$0.350/kWh, assuming a projected 20-year lifespan. Furthermore, due to its emission-free operation and potential for replication, the proposed system is emerging as a sustainable alternative for rural areas without access to the electricity grid.

Instituciones: Universidad Peruana de Ciencias Aplicadas