Assessment of Solar Radiation Potential for Photovoltaic Systems: A Case Study of Al-Khums Medical Center in Libya

Abstract

Alternative energy sources have become recently more necessary and essential due to several factors, including climate change, pollution, and the rapidly depleting of traditional fuels. Moreover, due to the frequent power outages and fluctuations in Libya's electricity supply, the urgent need for sustainable alternative energy sources is paramount, with solar energy being one of the most readily available renewable energy sources in the country.

This study assesses the solar radiation potential in the Al-Khums region, specifically at the Al-Khums Medical Center, located on Libya's Mediterranean coast, as a preliminary step towards the future deployment of photovoltaic (PV) solar energy systems. Data obtained from satellites using the Solar PVGIS Geographic Information System were analyzed for the period from 2013 to 2023, a relatively long and useful timeframe for the assessment. Monthly solar radiation values ​​for the study area were processed at the optimal tilt angle to determine monthly averages, annual radiation levels, and seasonal variations.

The results indicate consistently high solar radiation throughout the year and abundant solar energy resources at the study site, with the highest values ​​recorded during the summer months and the lowest levels in December. Despite seasonal fluctuations, the average annual irradiance remains high enough to support photovoltaic solar power generation. The monthly solar irradiance also indicates that clean energy can be provided, transforming medical units and laboratories into environmentally friendly facilities at a lower cost, with the potential for connection to the national grid.

This means the medical center in Al-Khums has significant potential for photovoltaic solar energy applications. Therefore, this assessment provides a fundamental resource profile to support the design of future systems, load analysis, and the integration of energy storage, contributing to improved energy reliability and sustainability in the healthcare sector.