Feasibility of Solar Energy and its Ability to Support Libyan Grid in Facing its Energy Crisis

Abstract

The escalating global energy demand, driven by population growth and industrial expansion, necessitates a shift towards clean, renewable energy sources. Presently, fossil fuels dominate global energy production, despite their adverse environmental impacts. Consequently, numerous countries are exploring renewable energy, with solar power leading the charge. Libya, grappling with energy challenges exacerbated by past conflicts, is focusing on enhancing its renewable energy sector, particularly solar and wind power. To this end, 2MW GCPV system was modelled using the MATLAB/SIMULINK software tool. The system was configured as a double-stage grid-connected system, comprising five PV arrays of 400kW each. The system underwent comprehensive evaluation from various perspectives. Initially, tests were conducted under diverse levels of irradiance and temperature, accompanied by FFT analysis. The findings reveal that solar irradiance exerts a more pronounced impact on the system's performance compared to temperature. The control strategy of the system demonstrated its efficacy on maintaining constant DC voltage, irrespective of changes in weather conditions. The FFT analysis further indicates that the LC filter effectively upheld the THD level for both voltage and current well below 5%, adhering to the acceptable threshold established by the IEEE 519 standard. Then the system underwent evaluation under Line to Ground (L-G) short circuit, and three phase Line to Ground (3L-G) short circuit faults. These faults were applied at varying distances from the Common Coupling Point (CCP). The study found that during L-G faults, the DC side of the system remained stable, maintaining constant output power and voltage. However, on the AC side, there were voltage dips and current surges during the fault period. Notably, the system swiftly returned to its normal operational state with a settling time of less than 0.2 ms after fault clearance. In the case of 3L-G faults, when the fault occurred near the CCP, significant fluctuations were observed on both sides of the system. Following fault clearance, the system remained in a transient state for approximately 3.5 seconds before returning to normal. Conversely, when faults were applied far from the CCP, the system maintained its stability with minor transients. Despite voltage sags and current surges, the system quickly recovered to its normal state in less than 0.2 ms after fault clearance. The system's performance was evaluated across nine locations in Libya, utilizing satellite data from NASA's database and measurements from the Libyan Centre for Solar Energy Research and Studies (CSESR). Assessment across nine Libyan locations highlighted significant solar energy potential, with Murzuqh City emerging as a key producer, Collectively, the nine sites produced approximately 33,180.84 MWh/year, meeting the energy demand of 4544 houses.