Techno-Economic Feasibility Study of Rooftop Photovoltaic System for Soba Industrial Area, Khartoum State, Sudan

This study presents a detailed techno-economic assessment of a rooftop grid-connected photovoltaic system for Soba Industrial Area in Khartoum State, Sudan. Utilizing advanced modeling tools, namely the System Advisor Model and RETScreen Expert, critical technical parameters such as capacity factor, yield factor, and performance ratio, alongside key economic indicators including levelized cost of energy, payback period, and net present value are evaluated. The investigation also explores optimal panel orientation and conducts a sensitivity analysis of a two-axis tracking system, revealing its' potential for enhanced energy production. Findings indicate that the optimal tilt angle for the photovoltaic systems is 19 degrees, allowing for the generation of approximately 1.42 terawatt-hours (TWh) of clean energy annually when utilizing all available rooftop areas, covering a total of 3.39 km2. The systems exhibit a capacity factor of 22.3%, a yield factor of 1,965 kWh/kW, a performance ratio of 80%, and a levelized cost of energy of about 0.0335 USD/kWh, with a payback period of approximately 20 years. Notably, the implementation of this system could lead to a substantial reduction of 70% of CO2emissions per year if a thermal power plant runs on diesel is used to generate the same amount of electricity, underscoring the photovoltaic system environmental significance. The sensitivity analysis further demonstrates the economic viability of a tracking system, which, despite a 28% increase in energy production, results in nearly 50% increase in capital costs compared to a fixed system. This research highlights the potential of rooftop PV systems of industrial areas as a sustainable energy solution in Sudan, addressing both energy demands and environmental concerns.