Open Access

ARTICLE

Solar Photovoltaic System as a Sustainable Solution for Electric Load Shortage in Baghdad: A Design and Economic Study

Fadhil M. Oleiwi¹, Jaber O. Dahloos², Amer Resen Kalash³, Hasanain A. Abdul Wahhab³, Miqdam T. Chaichan^1,4,*

1 Energy and Renewable Energies Technology Center, University of Technology, Baghdad, 10066, Iraq
2 Research of Environment and Renewable Energy, Karbala University, Baghdad, 10066, Iraq
3 Training and Workshop Center, University of Technology, Baghdad, 10066, Iraq
4 Faculty of Engineering, Sohar University, P.O. Box 44, Sohar, PCI 311, Oman

* Corresponding Author: Miqdam T. Chaichan. Email:

(This article belongs to the Special Issue: Advancements in Energy Resources and Their Processes, Systems, Materials and Policies for Affordable Energy Sustainability)

Energy Engineering 2026, 123(2), 14 https://doi.org/10.32604/ee.2025.073313

Received 15 September 2025; Accepted 18 November 2025; Issue published 27 January 2026

Abstract

In the present study, researchers examined a solar off-grid-connected photovoltaic system for a family house in the city of Baghdad. The design was created with the help of the “How to Design PV Program” and the “Renewable Energy Investment Calculator (REICAL)” software (Version 1.1). In Iraq, the national grid provides around 71% of the overall electricity demand, though this drops to nearly 50% during extremely hot and cold months, where the supply alternates between four hours on and four hours off. During the off periods, power is generated by local generators at high costs. To promote the adoption of photovoltaic solar systems among Iraqi citizens through loans, three options for meeting 100% of electricity needs have been proposed: an on-grid solution, a hybrid system that supplies 24 h, and an off-grid solution for a 24-h supply. The 12-h off-grid system (hybrid) is both economical and efficient for delivering electricity. Findings reveal that, over 20 years, the system’s output will amount to 141,176.71 kWh, with a payback period of 5.85 years and a performance ratio of 86.2%. Investment outcome data showed a net present value of $6445, and the profitability index was 6.16, indicating the project’s profitability. Additionally, the system could result in a net reduction of CO₂ emissions totaling 132,810.24 kg.

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Keywords

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