Optimization of Hybrid Energy Management Systems with Solar-Load Balancing: A Case Study of Huye Campus in Rwanda
Abstract
Martin NDAYISHIMIYE, Jean Marie Vianney Bikorimana and Jean Pierre Mutuyimana
This research develops an advanced hybrid Energy Management System (EMS) that addresses the energy trilemma in academic institutions through integrated stochastic-robust optimization. The system, validated at the University of Rwanda’s Huye Campus, coordinates an 848 kWp achieves remarkable performance metrics: 87% monthly cost reduction (from 19.1M to 2.4M RWF), 91% daytime solar utilization exceeding design targets, and 4.2-hour outage resilience during peak loads. A MATLAB-based Decision Support Tool (DST) enables three key advances: identification of 600 kWh as cost-optimal storage capacity, quantification of non-linear PV degradation impacts (0.5% vs. observed 2% annual losses), and scenario planning for extreme weather events. The framework reduces grid dependence by 94% under optimal conditions while maintaining 20–95% state-of-charge safety margins. Policy analysis demonstrates that 30% capital subsidies could accelerate payback periods to 3.2 years, supporting Rwanda’s 2050 energy targets. With 5.5±1.65 kWh/meter square.
