Techno-Economic and Performance Analysis of a Grid-Connected Hybrid Photovoltaic/Battery System for SELCO in Sabah, Malaysia

The implementation of grid-connected hybrid photovoltaic/battery (GCHPB) systems has gained significant attention in Sabah, Malaysia, particularly under the Self-Consumption (SELCO) program introduced by Energy Commission of Sabah (ECoS). This initiative encourages consumers to generate and utilize renewable energy locally without exporting excess electricity to the grid. Despite its potential benefits, no comprehensive study has been conducted to evaluate the techno-economic feasibility and real performance of such systems in Sabah. This study presents a detailed techno-economic analysis using mathematical modelling and PVsyst software, assessing key financial metrics such as levelized cost of energy (LCOE), return on investment (ROI), and payback period. Additionally, a 5-month post-installation performance evaluation of a grid-connected hybrid PV/battery system was conducted to analyze its efficiency, self-consumption ratio, and contribution to load demand. The results indicate that a 19.8 kWp PV system with a 45-kWh lithium-ion battery achieved an average of 50.7% in self-consumption against PV production, reducing grid dependency by 57% and lowering the average electricity costs by MYR 1,075.51 per month. The calculated LCOE was MYR 0.26/kWh, with an estimated payback period of 10.5 years. These findings provide valuable insights into the economic viability of SELCO program and offer policymakers and stakeholders data-driven recommendations to enhance adoption strategies.