Evaluating Hybrid Photovoltaic Biodiesel Battery Systems for Sustainability A Case Study in Kolkata West Bengal, India

To address the acute prerequisite for sustainable energy solutions in countryside India, this study proposes a novel hybrid renewable energy system (HRES) tailored for an old age home in West Bengal. Unlike earlier research that primarily focused on solar-wind-battery/diesel setups, this work integrates photovoltaic (PV), wind and biomass-derived biogas diesel generators (BDG) into a unified HRES, ensuring a more resilient and localized power supply. A detailed load profile for both residential and commercial demands was developed meticulously. Rigorous sensitivity analyses were conducted to assess the impact of solar radiation fluctuations, diesel price volatility, discount rates and load variations on the system's techno-economic performance. The incorporation of BDG alongside solar and wind energy significantly enhances the HRES's reliability and sustainability. Comparative simulations using Load Following (LF) and Cycle Charging (CC) control strategies demonstrated the superior performance of the CC approach. The CC strategy reduced CO₂ emissions by 13.8%, increased PV output, minimized BDG reliance and resulted in lower Net Present Cost (NPC) and Price of Energy (PEE). This study conclusively showcases the viability of a BDG-PV-wind HRES under a CC control strategy for rural electrification, offering a sustainable, cleaner and cost-effective energy solution for critical social infrastructure like old age homes.