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Techno-economical and environmental analysis of grid-connected microgrid with sensitivity analysis

Author : Dr Tousif Khan N

Year : 2026

Publisher : Elsevier Ltd

Source Title : e-Prime - Nexus of Electrical, Electronic, and Intelligent Engineering

Document Type :

Abstract

This study presents a comprehensive techno-economic and environmental assessment of a high-penetration, export-oriented, grid-connected microgrid designed for renewable-dominated power systems. The configuration features a 17.65 MW wind farm complemented by auxiliary renewable and conversion units, strategically sized to exceed local demand and prioritize grid exports. Over a typical year, the system achieves a remarkable wind penetration of 1,301%, generating 27.92 GWh and exporting 31.04 GWh to the grid while importing only 0.22 GWh. The resulting net annual export of 30.8 GWh positions the microgrid as a net producer and a reliable grid-support asset. The wind plant operates at a mean output of 3.19 MW with an 18.1% capacity factor across 6982 h. Economically, the project yields annual credits of approximately $1.53 million, payback periods of 6.7–8.8 years, and a levelized cost of $0.0382 kWh−1, demonstrating robust financial viability. Seasonal performance indicates strong resilience despite fluctuations. Spring provides peak exports of 4.6 GWh and the highest financial returns, whereas autumn shows up to 78% revenue reduction. The renewable fraction remains above 80% and grid dependence below 1% year-round, underscoring operational stability. A multi-dimensional sensitivity analysis reveals that financial parameters — particularly discount and inflation rates — exert dominant nonlinear impacts on cost, emissions, and net credit, while capital cost, grid price, and lifetime effects are comparatively moderate. Overall, the proposed export-oriented architecture demonstrates substantial energy surplus, economic strength, and low carbon footprint, offering a scalable blueprint for resilient, policy-aligned renewable microgrids supporting large-scale grid decarbonization.