Techno-Economic Analysis of Hybrid Power Supply Scenarios for a Resort in Egypt

Numerous remote areas throughout the globe have obstacles in acquiring electric energy due to the challenging process of reaching the national grid. Consequently, energy customers in these regions have turned to a range of energy sources, including traditional ones like diesel generators (DGs), as well as renewable options like solar photovoltaic (PV), wind, or wave power, while waiting for a connection to the grid. This paper presents an analysis of seven power supply scenarios, examining their techno-economic feasibility, with the aim of selecting the most optimal energy solution for a resort located in Marsa Alam, Egypt. The examined scenarios include DG, PV, and grid connections, along with the potential inclusion of batteries, hydrogen electrolyzers, and fuel cells (FC). The Hybrid Optimization Model for Electrical Renewable (HOMER PRO) energy modeling and simulation software was used to assess the energy balance, economics, and environmental aspects of the different scenarios. The results derived from the simulations indicate that the grid connected system with solar energy and DGs is the most economically efficient option. However, it is worth noting that all the presented scenarios demonstrate technological feasibility and economic parity in the long run, although with distinct benefits and challenges.