Designing a grid-connected solar photovoltaic system for a dialysis center based on an energy audit.

BACKGROUND

Hemodialysis centers are critical healthcare infrastructures with an essential need for a reliable electricity supply to ensure uninterrupted patient care. This study addresses the dual challenge of enhancing energy resilience and reducing operational costs for a hemodialysis center in Casablanca, Morocco, which has an annual energy consumption of 54 MWh.

METHODS

A grid-connected 40.1 kWp solar photovoltaic system was designed for the facility. The system's performance was simulated and optimized using response surface methodology to create a highly accurate predictive model (R² = 0.981) of energy generation under local climatic conditions. Financial viability was assessed based on payback period and annual savings.

RESULTS

The simulated solar photovoltaic system is projected to generate 51.2 MWh annually. This output can offset between 81% and 95% of the center's electricity demand, with the exact figure depending on the energy compensation policy (self-consumption or net metering). Financially, the project offers an attractive payback period of approximately 5.9 years and generates annual savings of around US$7680.

CONCLUSIONS

The proposed solar photovoltaic framework provides a technically and financially viable solution to significantly improve the energy resilience of critical healthcare facilities. This model is replicable for making hemodialysis centers more resilient to grid outages, reducing energy costs, supporting continuous patient care, and contributing to decarbonization goals.