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A methodology for Energy Planning in Small Mediterranean Islands, the case of the Gozo Region
Abstract
Most of the Mediterranean islands are heavily dependent on imported fossil fuels and have to deal with specific problems such as small scale generation of electricity, high distribution costs and an underutilization of their Renewable Energy Source (RES) potential. These challenges result in high energy costs and elevated levels of CO2 emissions. In order to promote a shift towards cleaner energy systems, islands have to invest on RES and smart solutions for sustainable energy supply. The present study examines the feasibility of RES introduction in the Maltese energy system through the application of the methodology developed by PRISMI project to the island of Gozo. The research firstly assesses the island's RES potential, the environmental constraints and the energy consumption. Secondly it simulates energy scenarios in order to analyse the feasibility of increasing the RES penetration in the local energy grid. For the simulation of the energy system and feasibility study, HOMER and EnergyPLAN software have been used. The outcomes of the simulated energy scenarios presented in this paper, takes into account different energy mix layouts and the environmental and technical constraints. Lastly, the study analyses the possibility of achieving the ambitious target of 100% RES share.
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Energy systems with high degrees of renewable energy integration require on the one hand energy scenario making and energy system analyses for the optimal design of systems and pathways and on the other hand well-established criteria for decision-making and for characterisation of energy system suitability. This article has a threefold objective, it reviews the application of a given energy system simulation model - EnergyPLAN - analysing its application on geographic level as well as the types of simulations or scenario analyses performed on the model. Secondly, it reviews the types of performance indicators applied in said energy systems simulations and thirdly it reviews and details existing advanced energy system performance indicators and proposed additional indicators.
A large number of various sized islands are spread throughout the south-east Mediterranean Sea. Most of these small islands face serious infrastructure problems, like the insufficient power supply and the low quality of electricity available at very high production cost. In an attempt to improve the life quality of all these isolated communities, an investigation concerning the financial viability of an integrated electrification solution based on one or more photovoltaic generators and an appropriate energy storage system is described. The main target of a similar solution is to maximize the contribution of the photovoltaic generator and minimize the life-cycle electricity generation cost of the remote island networks investigated. In addition, special emphasis is given in order to select the most cost-efficient energy storage configuration available. According to the results obtained for high and medium–high solar potential regions, the proposed configuration is found to be more cost-effective than the existing thermal power stations. Several side benefits like the improved electrical network reliability and the minimization of the environmental and macroeconomic impacts resulting from the replacement of the imported oil should also be considered.
The oil-dependent electricity generation situation met in the Aegean Archipelago Islands is in great deal determined by increased rates of fuel consumption and analogous electricity production costs, this being also the case for other island autonomous electrical networks worldwide. Meanwhile, the contribution of renewable energy sources (RES) to the constant increase recorded in both the Aegean islands’ annual electricity generation and the corresponding peak load demand is very limited. To compensate the unfavorable situation encountered, the implementation of energy storage systems (ESS) that can both utilize the excess/rejected energy produced from RES plants and improve the operation of existing thermal power units is recommended. In the present study, a techno-economic comparison of various RES-ESS configurations supported by the supplementary or back-up use of existing thermal units is undertaken. From the results obtained, the shift of direction from the existing oil-dependent status to a RES-based alternative in collaboration with certain storage technologies entails – apart from the clear environmental benefits – financial advantages as well.
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