Techno-Economic Comparison of Lithium-Ion, Lead-Acid, and Vanadium-Redox Flow Batteries for Grid-scale Applications: A Case Study of Renewable Energy Microgrid Planning with Battery Storage in Morocco

Nowadays, there is considerable interest in the integration of renewable energies called energy storage exploration. This study aims to assess the technical and economic feasibility of an on-grid (PV-battery) system to supply an industrial site located in Morocco. To this end, a techno-economic comparative analysis is conducted, encompassing three distinct storage technologies: lead-acid, lithium-ion, and vanadium-redox flow batteries. The study uses Offgridders, an open-source tool based on the Oemof (open energy modelling framework) library. The PV/lithium-ion battery configuration appears to be the most optimized solution for the studied site, ensuring a renewable energy share of up to 70%. The levelized cost of energy (LCOE) resulting from this configuration is calculated at around $0.1334/kWh. The corresponding photovoltaic capacity to be installed is at around 7014.37 kW and the battery capacity at around 13088.80 kWh. This study provides an in-depth analysis of the techno-economic implications associated with the deployment of the three mentioned storage technologies. The detailed results serve to guide decision-making processes in the search for efficient and sustainable energy solutions. As the global transition to sustainable energy intensifies, the knowledge gained from this study contributes to the strategic deployment of energy storage technologies in the planning contexts of renewable energy projects.