Integration of Renewable Energy Sources for Low Emission Microgrids in Canadian Remote Communities

Abstract: In recent years, the electrification of Canadian Remote Communities (RCs) has received significant attention, as their current electric energy systems are not only expensive, but are also highly polluting due to the prevalence of diesel generators. In addition, RCs' inherent geographic characteristics impose a series of challenges that must be considered when planning their electricity supply. Thus, in this paper, an optimization model for the long-term planning of RC Microgrids (MGs) including Renewable Energy Sources (RESs) and Energy Storage Systems (ESSs) is proposed, with the objective of reducing costs and emissions. The proposed model considers lithium-ion batteries and hydrogen systems as part of ESSs technologies. The model is used to investigate the feasibility of integrating RESs and ESSs in an MG in Sanikiluaq, an RC in the Nunavut territory in Northern Canada. The results show that wind resources along with solar and storage technologies can play a key role in satisfying RC electricity demand, while significantly reducing costs and Greenhouse Gas Emissions (GHG). In addition, insights on sustainable and affordable policies for RC MGs are provided.