Optimal Design of Hybrid Photovoltaic-Diesel-Battery Power System Model for Rural Electrification Using WHALE Optimization Algorithm; NJRER - Vol. 1, No. 5 - 2025:

Abstract

The electrification of remote rural areas remains a significant challenge in developing nations like Nigeria, where grid extension is often economically unviable. Hybrid renewable energy systems (HRES) present a sustainable solution, but their effectiveness hinges on optimal component sizing to balance cost and reliability. This study proposes a novel application of the Whale Optimization Algorithm (WOA) for the optimal design of a standalone hybrid PV-Diesel-Battery system for Agbokeke, rural community of Oyo State Nigeria. The multi-objective optimization model aims to minimize the Total Annualized Cost (TAC) and Total Annual Pollution (TAP). System components are modeled in MATLAB/Simulink, and the load and solar resource data are based on field surveys and national databases. The WOA-derived optimal configuration is compared against two baseline scenarios (Diesel-only and PV-Battery-only) and a standard tool (HOMER Pro). Results show that the WOA-optimized system (73 PV panels, 69 batteries, 50 kVA DG) achieved a TAC of ₦19,546,453 and a TAP of 35.73 Mg of CO₂, outperforming the HOMER Pro solution by 11.34% in cost and 9.8% in emissions reduction. The findings demonstrate that WOA is a superior, efficient tool for the techno-economic optimization of HRES, providing a viable pathway for cost-effective and environmentally friendly rural electrification.