

@mastersthesis {7122,
	title = {An optimization approach to hybrid power systems for remote area applications in {Egypt}},
	year = {2003},
	note = {0805129},
	school = {Colorado School of Mines},
	type = {phdPh.{D}.},
	address = {Ann Arbor},
	abstract = {Egypt has embarked on an ambitious desert land reclamation program in order to increase total food production and increase food security. Energy planners for these desert agriculture locations have chosen diesel generation as the key stand-alone power supply technology for large-scale off-grid farms with the objective of minimization of the initial capital cost of a power supply systems. This heavy reliance on diesel generation has negative effects on the surrounding environment including soil, groundwater, and air pollution. Although good solar and wind resource prospects exist for the use of cleaner hybrid power systems in certain desert locations, little research has been done to investigate the economic potential of such systems in Egypt{\textquoteright}s desert agriculture sector. Using an optimization software, the economics of hybrid power systems versus the present diesel generation technology in a remote agricultural development area is assessed. The assessment includes derivation of a load demand profile for a 100 acres off-grid farm in East Owienat, and the design of a hybrid power system that aims at minimization of net present cost. New variables are taken into consideration for the design of an optimum hybrid system including wind resources, diesel fuel subsidy, load profile, and capital cost for renewable energy technologies. The carbon emission reduction advantages of using hybrid systems are also considered. Interestingly enough, optimization results show that hybrid systems offer less net present cost and levelized cost of energy than diesel generation from a net present cost perspective even with the high diesel fuel price subsidies. Operational advantages imbedded in hybrids contributed to its increased efficiency. Sensitivity analysis conducted on wind speed, diesel fuel price, water storage tank capacity, and market price of wind turbines all led to various policy recommendations. Lack of awareness among local energy planners regarding hybrids technology and economics are the key contributors to nonexistence of hybrids in desert agriculture in Egypt.},
	keywords = {0501:Economics, 0539:Agricultural engineering, 0791:Energy, Agricultural engineering, Applied sciences, economics, Egypt, Energy, Hybrid power systems, Optimization, Power systems, Remote area, Social sciences},
	url = {http://search.proquest.com/docview/305338791?accountid=14270},
	author = {Kamel Mohamed, Sami Mostafa}
}
