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Assessing the Potential of a Hybrid Renewable Energy System: MSW Gasification and a PV Park in Lobito, Angola

Author

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  • Salomão Joaquim

    (Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, NOVA School of Science and Technology, NOVA University Lisbon, 2829-516 Caparica, Portugal)

  • Nuno Amaro

    (Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, NOVA School of Science and Technology, NOVA University Lisbon, 2829-516 Caparica, Portugal
    UNINOVA, NOVA School of Science and Technology, NOVA University Lisbon, 2829-516 Caparica, Portugal
    LASI, NOVA School of Science and Technology, NOVA University Lisbon, 2829-516 Caparica, Portugal)

  • Nuno Lapa

    (LAQV-REQUIMTE, Department of Chemistry, NOVA School of Science and Technology, NOVA University Lisbon, Departmental Building, 2829-516 Caparica, Portugal)

Abstract

This study investigates a hybrid renewable energy system combining the municipal solid waste (MSW) gasification and solar photovoltaic (PV) for electricity generation in Lobito, Angola. A fixed-bed downdraft gasifier was selected for MSW gasification, where the thermal decomposition of waste under controlled air flow produces syngas rich in CO and H 2 . The syngas is treated to remove contaminants before powering a combined cycle. The PV system was designed for optimal energy generation, considering local solar radiation and shading effects. Simulation tools, including Aspen Plus v11.0, PVsyst v8, and HOMER Pro software 3.16.2, were used for modeling and optimization. The hybrid system generates 62 GWh/year of electricity, with the gasifier contributing 42 GWh/year, and the PV system contributing 20 GWh/year. This total energy output, sufficient to power 1186 households, demonstrates an integration mechanism that mitigates the intermittency of solar energy through continuous MSW gasification. However, the system lacks surplus electricity for green hydrogen production, given the region’s energy deficit. Economically, the system achieves a Levelized Cost of Energy of 0.1792 USD/kWh and a payback period of 16 years. This extended payback period is mainly due to the hydrogen production system, which has a low production rate and is not economically viable. When excluding H 2 production, the payback period is reduced to 11 years, making the hybrid system more attractive. Environmental benefits include a reduction in CO 2 emissions of 42,000 t/year from MSW gasification and 395 t/year from PV production, while also addressing waste management challenges. This study highlights the mechanisms behind hybrid system operation, emphasizing its role in reducing energy poverty, improving public health, and promoting sustainable development in Angola.

Suggested Citation

  • Salomão Joaquim & Nuno Amaro & Nuno Lapa, 2025. "Assessing the Potential of a Hybrid Renewable Energy System: MSW Gasification and a PV Park in Lobito, Angola," Energies, MDPI, vol. 18(12), pages 1-29, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jeners:v:18:y:2025:i:12:p:3125-:d:1678776
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    References listed on IDEAS

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