Design and techno-economic validation of a university campus hybrid microgrid using HOMER Pro and DIgSILENT PowerFactory

Abstract The increasing deployment of microgrids is driven by their ability to integrate renewable energy sources, enhance power reliability, reduce carbon emissions, and improve energy self-sufficiency in institutional energy systems. However, microgrid planning remains complex because technical performance, economic feasibility, and environmental impacts must be evaluated simultaneously. This study proposes a comprehensive framework for the design and validation of a grid connected hybrid microgrid for a university campus using HOMER Pro and DIgSILENT PowerFactory. The system integrates solar photovoltaic generation, wind turbines, battery energy storage, power converters, and utility grid support to satisfy campus electricity demand. Four alternative configurations were evaluated using HOMER Pro, and the optimal configuration includes a 50 kW photovoltaic array, seventeen 3 kW wind turbines, and eight 12.8 V 100 Ah battery units. The optimized system achieves a Net Present Cost of USD 51,985 and a Cost of Energy of USD 0.0287 per kWh, while attaining a renewable energy fraction of 77.1 percent. Annual carbon dioxide emissions are reduced by approximately 43,008 kg, corresponding to a 69.1 percent reduction compared to a conventional grid supplied system. Sensitivity analysis and PowerFactory validation confirm reliable operation, voltage performance, and long-term system robustness.