Performance of a solar PV-diesel generator-battery mini-grid using actual data: a case of Kalangala power plant in Uganda

Abstract

Decentralized hybrid solar photovoltaic systems present a viable option for rural electrification, especially for regions where solar irradiance is high, but grid connectivity is not feasible. In this study, the performance of a 1.6 MW solar photovoltaic–Diesel generator hybrid Mini grid located at Bukuzindu village, Bugala island in Kalangala district, Uganda was assessed. The system’s monthly energy data for the period from July 2019 to June 2023 was collected and analysed. The findings showed that the average monthly electricity generated by the plant was 203.1 MWh, of which 174.1 MWh, 22.4 MWh, 0.96 MWh, and 5.4 MWh, respectively, were distributed to consumers, accounted for generation and transmission losses, consumed at the plant site, and used to charge the battery bank system. The solar PV performance ratio and capacity factor were found to be 65.6% and 13.4%, respectively. Meanwhile, the mini grid capacity factor and overall combined generation and transmission loss were 17.39% and 11.03%, respectively.