Modelling and Optimisation of Hybrid Solar-Wind-Diesel Micro-Grid Systems for Electrification of Remote Communities in Zamfara State

Background: Remote communities in Zamfara State, North West Nigeria, remain unconnected to the national grid and rely on expensive, polluting diesel generators. Hybrid renewable micro-grids offer a technically superior and economically viable alternative, yet optimised system configurations for this specific climate and load context remain unstudied. Aim: This study modelled and optimised hybrid solar-wind-diesel micro-grid configurations for electrifying remote communities in Zamfara State. Methods: Meteorological data including solar irradiance and wind speed were sourced from NASA POWER for five representative sites. Community load profiles were developed from field surveys of 120 households and public institutions. HOMER Pro software was used to optimise system sizing and simulate 30-year techno-economic performance. Sensitivity analysis evaluated outcomes under fuel price and irradiance variability. Results: The optimal configuration comprised a 15 kWp PV array, 3 kW wind turbine, 50 kWh battery bank, and 10 kVA diesel generator. Cost of energy was NGN 48/kWh compared with NGN 142/kWh for diesel-only supply. Renewable energy fraction averaged 74%. Carbon emission reductions were 42 tonnes of CO2 per year per community. Conclusion: Hybrid micro-grids are substantially superior to diesel-only electrification in Zamfara State. The study provides actionable system specifications to guide rural electrification policy and investment decisions in North West Nigeria. Keywords: hybrid micro-grid, solar-wind-diesel, HOMER Pro, rural electrification, Zamfara State.