Reducing Carbon Emissions and Costs of Electricity with Solar PV Systems in QUEST Nawabshah, Pakistan Administration Building

Abstract

The ongoing electricity crises in Pakistan have led to significant uncertainty and increased costs associated with fossil fuels. This circumstance substantially challenges the country in meeting its escalating electricity demands. This study focuses on the Techno-Economic Feasibility of implementing Solar Photovoltaic (PV) systems for the administrative building of Quaid-e-Awam University of Engineering, Science, and Technology (QUEST), Nawabshah in Pakistan. The primary objectives of this research include evaluating the design feasibility of solar PV systems, analysing the building's electricity consumption sourced from grid and diesel generators, and conducting a comprehensive cost-benefit analysis. The study calculates the levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) and introduces the concept of net metering to assess its potential benefits. Findings from this research indicate that the annual carbon emissions from the building due to grid electricity usage amount to 220,614 kg of CO₂. In contrast, adopting solar PV systems would result in zero carbon emissions. The LCOE for the solar PV system is determined to be 33.7 Rs/kWh, providing a fixed cost of solar-generated electricity over the lifespan of the solar plant. The analysis also highlights the effectiveness of net metering in promoting the adoption of solar PV systems by enabling surplus energy to be fed back into the grid, thereby offering financial incentives. Results of this study underscore the viability and benefits of investing in solar energy, particularly in the context of rising energy demands and environmental concerns. The findings advocate the transition to solar power as a sustainable and economically feasible solution for reducing reliance on fossil fuels and mitigating carbon emissions in university administrative buildings.