Renewable energy projects are becoming more common and attractive as the world shifts to cleaner and greener sources of power. However, they also pose various challenges and opportunities for energy engineers who need to plan, design, and implement them. In this article, you will learn how to approach renewable energy projects in a systematic and effective way.
The first step in any renewable energy project is to assess the site where you want to install the system. You need to consider the availability and quality of the renewable resource, such as solar, wind, hydro, or biomass. You also need to evaluate the environmental, social, and economic impacts of the project, such as land use, wildlife, community engagement, and cost-benefit analysis. You can use tools like GIS, remote sensing, and site surveys to gather and analyze the data.
Initial Site assessment is critical as the information derived often is applied when drawing up the project plan and also in during up work method statements. This is a critical input in budget preparation as well. It is important to have a checklist during site assessment to ensure critical information is not missed.
The price of electricity produced from renewable energy has reached economic prices and can compete with electricity from diesel generators. Power generation from renewable energy can be proposed to replace diesel generators, especially in remote areas far from coal plants.
The next step is to choose the most suitable technology for your renewable energy project. You need to compare the technical performance, reliability, and efficiency of different options, such as photovoltaic panels, wind turbines, hydroelectric generators, or biofuel plants. You also need to consider the compatibility and integration of the technology with the existing grid, storage, and distribution systems. You can use tools like simulation, modeling, and optimization to test and optimize the technology.
Besides the technical considerations at this stage it is important to evaluate the initial cost of the technology as well as the operations and maintenance cost. Lifetime consideration of the technology is evaluated as well. A good project must tick the technology and economics check boxes simultaneously
The third step is to design the system that will deliver the renewable energy to the end users. You need to consider the size, layout, and configuration of the system components, such as inverters, transformers, batteries, and cables. You also need to consider the safety, security, and quality standards and regulations that apply to the system. You can use tools like CAD, BIM, and FEA to design and evaluate the system.
Personally I do prefer exhausting financial modelling before detailed engineering. A financial model with preliminary designs I have to be adequate in pitching the project to various stakeholders. Detailed engineering is draining in terms of resources and commitment. Before expending these resources I want to be sure the project is financially viable and funding is available to execute the project. Once this is aligned the engineering resources can be deployed
The fourth step is to manage the project that will execute the renewable energy system. You need to consider the scope, schedule, budget, and quality of the project, as well as the risks, issues, and changes that may arise during the project lifecycle. You also need to consider the stakeholder expectations, communication, and collaboration that are essential for the project success. You can use tools like PMBOK, Agile, and Scrum to plan and manage the project.
The fifth step is to monitor and maintain the renewable energy system once it is operational. You need to consider the performance, efficiency, and availability of the system, as well as the feedback, satisfaction, and behavior of the end users. You also need to consider the maintenance, repair, and upgrade needs of the system, as well as the potential opportunities for improvement and innovation. You can use tools like sensors, meters, and analytics to monitor and maintain the system.
The sixth and final step is to learn and improve from the renewable energy project. You need to consider the lessons learned, best practices, and challenges faced during the project, as well as the outcomes, impacts, and benefits achieved by the project. You also need to consider the future trends, developments, and opportunities for renewable energy engineering, as well as your own professional growth and development. You can use tools like feedback, evaluation, and reflection to learn and improve from the project.