Feasibility Study of a Fuzzy Logic-Based Energy Management System for Solar, Wind, and Battery Hybrid Energy (A Case Study on Ziway/Dembel Lake Island)

Abstract

Lake Ziway, also called Dembel, is a large freshwater lake in Ethiopia's Oromia Region, located approximately 168 kilometers south of Addis Ababa. The islands within the lake are vital to the local inhabitants, presenting energy challenges distinct from those of mainland regions. Island areas often benefit from the enhanced utilization of renewable energy generation and storage technologies. This thesis investigates the feasibility of establishing an electricity supply system for the islands in Lake Ziway/Dembel using renewable energy resources, focusing on the integration of solar photovoltaic (PV) and wind energy in a stand-alone hybrid system. Power management is implemented through fuzzy logic control and the study also highlights the importance of sustainable energy sources and storage methods. Simulation results show that the FLC-based power management approach effectively meets the projected energy demands of Tulu Gudo Island under various scenarios. Optimization, conducted using HOMER software with inputs including resource availability, load, system size, and component costs, indicates that the total investment for the optimal hybrid system, including PV, wind turbines, battery storage, and converters, amounts to $472,720. The levelized cost of electricity (COE) is calculated to be $0.277 per kWh, demonstrating the economic viability of renewable energy solutions for Tulu Gudo Island.