Design, Sizing and Economic Analysis of Grid-Connected Solar PV (GCPV) System for An Electric Bus Depot in Malaysia

Shah Mohammad Mominul Islam, Arshad Adam Salema, Iftiab Ahammed Sarker, Runa Faria Tanima

Abstract


High maximum demand (MD) arising from electric bus charging results in increased operational costs and elevated carbon emissions. Therefore, this paper aims to design, size, and conduct an economic analysis of a grid-connected solar photovoltaic (GCPV) system for an electric bus depot in Malaysia, considering two key constraints: architectural and energy constraints. The architectural constraint is governed by the available installation area, while the energy constraint is based on the proportion of depot energy supplied by solar PV. Three solar energy contribution scenarios (25%, 50%, and 75%) and three PV module power ratings (low, medium, and high) were evaluated. Under the architectural constraint, a GCPV system with a capacity of 1,777 kWp demonstrated the most favourable economic performance, achieving the lowest payback period of approximately 8.7 years and net monthly savings of about MYR 68,153. This configuration requires approximately 3,774 PV modules rated at 470 Wp and seven inverters. In contrast, the energy constraint analysis revealed that a 1,588 kWp GCPV system supplying 75% of the depot’s total energy yielded a payback period of 9.1 years, with net monthly savings of approximately MYR 58,448. This design requires about 4,823 PV modules rated at 315 Wp, along with seven inverters. Overall, the architectural constraint approach was found to be more feasible for sizing GCPV systems in the present electric bus depot. This study offers valuable technical and economic insights for stakeholders, supporting informed decision-making for sustainable infrastructure development and demonstrating clear economic and environmental benefits.

Keywords


Solar energy; Electric bus; Maximum demand; Grid-connected PV; Malaysia

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References


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