




































    

 Academic Journal of Science, Engineering and Technology 

Vol. 9, Issue 4; July-August 2024; 

ISSN: 2837-2964 

Impact Factor: 6.67 

1252 Columbia Rd NW, Washington DC, United States 

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1 | A c a d e m i c  J o u r n a l  o f  S c i e n c e ,  E n g i n e e r i n g  a n d  T e c h n o l o g y  

|  https://topjournals.org/index.php/AJSET 

IMPACT OF GRID INTERCONNECTIVITY ON SOLAR MINI-GRID 

POWER GENERATION: CASE STUDY OF FMWH MABUCHI, FCT, 

ABUJA, NIGERIA 
 

 

Jonathan Ndubuisi Okonkwo (Ph.D), Aliyu Musa Sule (Ph.D), and Clifford Ohikere   

Enugu State University of Science and Technology, (ESUT) Nigeria.  

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.13331287 

 

Abstract: Adopting solar mini-grid systems interconnected with the main grid is a promising approach to 

enhancing energy access and sustainability in urban areas of developing countries. In Nigeria, where electricity 

demand outstrips supply, particularly in peri-urban and rural regions, integrating mini-grid solar energy resources 

with existing grid infrastructure addresses the persistent energy deficit. This study investigated the effectiveness 

of such integration at the Federal Ministry of Works and Housing (FMWH) Mabuchi, Abuja. The project involved 

installing 3,968 photovoltaic panels, each with an average power rating of 383 watts, generating a total of 1.52 

MW. Additionally, 4,053 lithium-ion batteries, each with a capacity of 10 kWh, provided a total energy storage 

capacity of approximately 40.53 MWh. Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) technology optimized the solar 

panels' efficiency, resulting in an additional 152.07 kW of energy output. The enhanced reliability and stability 

of the energy supply, achieved through grid interconnectivity and MPPT, mitigate solar power intermittency, 

providing a stable and resilient energy system. Improved energy access fosters economic opportunities and 

enhances the quality of life, particularly in peri-urban and rural areas. The system can power approximately 5,000 

households, significantly impacting local communities. Furthermore, the project can create over 200 jobs during 

the installation phase and is expected to generate 50 permanent positions for ongoing operations and maintenance. 

Integrating mini-grid solar energy resources with the main grid at FMWH Mabuchi will significantly enhance 

power generation and improve energy access, underscoring the potential of such systems to drive sustainable 

energy development in urban areas of developing countries. Future research should focus on long-term 

performance assessment, maintenance strategies, and developing robust regulatory frameworks to support 

widespread adoption. 

Keywords: Generation, Interconnectivity, Mini-Grid, Power, Solar 

 

1.1 Introduction  

The adoption of solar mini-grid systems interconnected with the main grid represents a promising avenue for 

enhancing energy access and sustainability in urban areas of developing countries. In Nigeria, where the 

electricity demand continues to outpace supply, particularly in peri-urban and rural regions, the integration of 

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 Academic Journal of Science, Engineering and Technology 

Vol. 9, Issue 4; July-August 2024; 

ISSN: 2837-2964 

Impact Factor: 6.67 

1252 Columbia Rd NW, Washington DC, United States 

https://topjournals.org/index.php/AJSET/index; mail: topacademicjournals@gmail.com 

 
 

 

 

2 | A c a d e m i c  J o u r n a l  o f  S c i e n c e ,  E n g i n e e r i n g  a n d  T e c h n o l o g y  

|  https://topjournals.org/index.php/AJSET 

mini-grid solar energy resources into the existing grid infrastructure has emerged as a viable solution to address 

the persistent energy deficit (Adelekan et al., 2019; Bello, 2020). Grid interconnectivity, defined as the seamless 

integration of decentralized energy systems such as mini-grids with the centralized grid network, offers numerous 

benefits, including improved reliability, enhanced efficiency, and increased renewable energy penetration 

(Alawadhi et al., 2018; Aliyu et al., 2020). By leveraging the complementary strengths of both centralized and 

decentralized energy generation, grid interconnectivity can mitigate the intermittency of solar power and provide 

a more stable and resilient energy supply (Nwafor et al., 2017; Girei et al., 2020). The Federal Ministry of Works 

and Housing (FMWH) Mabuchi, located in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, Nigeria, serves as a 

pertinent case study for evaluating the impact of grid interconnectivity with mini-grid solar energy resources on 

power generation. As one of the rapidly growing urban centers in Nigeria, FMWH Mabuchi faces significant 

energy challenges, including unreliable electricity supply and high energy costs (Odigure et al., 2016; Anigbogu 

et al., 2019). 

This study aims at investigating the effectiveness of integrating mini-grid solar energy resources with the main 

grid in FMWH Mabuchi to improve power generation, reduce energy costs, and enhance energy access. Through 

a comprehensive analysis of the technical, economic, and social dimensions, this research seeks to provide 

valuable insights into the feasibility and potential impact of grid interconnectivity with mini-grid solar energy on 

sustainable energy development in urban areas of Nigeria. 

2.1       Review of Related Works 

The impact of grid interconnectivity on solar mini-grid power generation has stimulated numerous researches in 

recent times. These researches are recounted in this work for a more insightful understanding. Olawale et al (2019) 

found that grid-connected solar PV systems in rural Nigeria had a positive impact on energy access and reliability. 

They observed increased electricity availability and decreased reliance on traditional fuels. However, limited data 

on long-term performance and the need for more comprehensive studies to assess economic viability were 

limitations. Chikuni et al (2020) demonstrated the feasibility and effectiveness of solar mini-grids in rural 

electrification. They observed improved energy access and reliability in off-grid communities. Their limitations 

included challenges with system maintenance, limited scalability, and uncertainties in revenue collection models. 

Mutiso et al (2017) highlighted the potential benefits of integrating solar PV mini-grids with the national grid, 

including increased energy reliability and stability, observing reduced load shedding and improved economic 

opportunities. Technical challenges related to grid integration, such as voltage fluctuations and synchronization 

issues were noted as limitations. Kemausuor et al (2018) showed that grid interconnectivity enhanced the 

reliability and sustainability of solar mini-grids in Uganda. It facilitated surplus power sharing and improved 

energy access for communities. Limitations included limited data on the long-term impact and challenges in 

regulatory frameworks for grid integration. Sharma et al (2016) demonstrated the positive impact of grid-

connected solar mini-grids on rural electrification in India and observed increased energy reliability and economic 

benefits for local communities. Issues related to grid stability and intermittent power supply during peak demand 

periods were their limitations. Islam et al (2018) revealed the economic viability of grid-connected solar mini-

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 Academic Journal of Science, Engineering and Technology 

Vol. 9, Issue 4; July-August 2024; 

ISSN: 2837-2964 

Impact Factor: 6.67 

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3 | A c a d e m i c  J o u r n a l  o f  S c i e n c e ,  E n g i n e e r i n g  a n d  T e c h n o l o g y  

|  https://topjournals.org/index.php/AJSET 

grids in Bangladesh and found significant cost savings compared to diesel generators and grid extensions. They 

had limitations resulting from challenges with tariff structures and revenue collection mechanisms. Mohamed et 

al (2018) evaluated the techno-economic feasibility of hybrid mini-grids, combining solar PV with other 

renewable energy sources, observing improved reliability and cost-effectiveness compared to standalone systems. 

Limited availability of reliable data and uncertainties in long-term financing were limitations. Mubiru et al (2020) 

examined the socio-economic benefits of grid interconnectivity for solar mini-grids in Rwanda and observed 

increased access to electricity, improved healthcare services, and enhanced livelihood opportunities. Measuring 

indirect impacts and disparities in access among different demographic groups were challenges recorded as 

limitations. Guragain et al (2020) evaluated the environmental benefits of grid-connected solar mini-grids in 

Nepal and found reduced carbon emissions and environmental degradation compared to fossil fuel-based energy 

generation. Limited data on the environmental impact throughout the entire lifecycle of the systems was recorded 

as limitation. Aklin and Urpelainen, (2018) analyzed the regulatory frameworks governing grid integration of 

solar mini-grids in Ghana. They identified policy gaps and recommended strategies for enhancing regulatory 

compliance and market competitiveness. Limitations were challenges in enforcement and implementation due to 

institutional capacity constraints. All these were related works aimed at broadening the scope of the study with a 

view to widening the knowledge base for a better discourse.  

3.1        Materials and Method 

The materials used in implementing this work are as follows: 

Solar Panels     3,968 

Solar Panel Specifications: 

 Type: Photovoltaic (PV) Solar Panels 

 Average Power Rating: Approximately 383 watts per panel 

 Total Number of Panels: 3,968 panels 

 Expected Total Power Output: 1.52 megawatts (MW) or 1520 kilowatts (kW) 

Description: 

The solar panels selected for the Mabuchi project are photovoltaic (PV) panels with an average power rating of 

approximately 383 watts per panel. With a total of 3,968 panels installed, the expected total power output of the 

solar array is approximately 1.52 megawatts (MW) or 1520 kilowatts (kW). These panels are chosen to efficiently 

convert sunlight into electricity and meet the energy needs of the project site. 

Number of batteries      4053 

Lithium-ion Battery Specification: 

 Battery Type: Lithium-ion 

 Nominal Voltage: Approximately 400 volts (achieved by connecting approximately 111 cells in series) 

 Capacity: 10 kWh per battery 

 Total Number of Batteries: Approximately 4053 batteries 

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 Academic Journal of Science, Engineering and Technology 

Vol. 9, Issue 4; July-August 2024; 

ISSN: 2837-2964 

Impact Factor: 6.67 

1252 Columbia Rd NW, Washington DC, United States 

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4 | A c a d e m i c  J o u r n a l  o f  S c i e n c e ,  E n g i n e e r i n g  a n d  T e c h n o l o g y  

|  https://topjournals.org/index.php/AJSET 

Description: The lithium-ion batteries used in the study are configured to operate at a nominal voltage of 

approximately 400 volts. This voltage is achieved by connecting approximately 111 lithium-ion battery cells in 

series per battery. Each battery has a capacity of 10 kWh, providing a total energy storage capacity of 

approximately 40.53 MWh for the entire battery bank. The lithium-ion batteries are employed to store the 

electricity generated by the solar panels and ensure continuous power availability, particularly during periods of 

low solar energy production or when the main grid is unavailable. 

One-Line Diagram 

A one-line diagram appropriate for this work is shown in Figure 1. 

 
Figure 1: One-Line Diagram 

A one-line diagram is a simplified graphical representation of an electrical system or network, typically showing 

the connections between major components such as generators, transformers, switches, and loads, using single 

lines to represent conductors or buses. 

To find the capacity of each solar panel, we can divide the total electricity produced by the total number of solar 

panels used. 

Given: 

 Total electricity produced: 1.52 MW 

 Total number of solar panels: 3968 

We can use the formula: 

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 Academic Journal of Science, Engineering and Technology 

Vol. 9, Issue 4; July-August 2024; 

ISSN: 2837-2964 

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5 | A c a d e m i c  J o u r n a l  o f  S c i e n c e ,  E n g i n e e r i n g  a n d  T e c h n o l o g y  

|  https://topjournals.org/index.php/AJSET 

Capacity of each solar panel=Total electricity producedTotal number of solar panelsCapacity of each solar pane

l=Total number of solar panelsTotal electricity produced 

Substituting the given values: 

Capacity of each solar panel =  
1.52 MW

3968
 

Now, let's calculate: 

Capacity of each solar panel = 
1.52 MW

3968
   = 0.000383 MW 

To express this in more common units: 

0.000383 MW×1000=0.383 kW 

So, each solar panel has a capacity of 0.383 kW. 

To determine the number and capacity of batteries needed for storing the electricity produced by the solar panels, 

a few factors need to consider first: 

1. Required energy storage capacity: We need to calculate the total energy storage required to cover periods 

when solar energy production is low or when the grid is unavailable. 

2. Battery capacity: We need to select a suitable battery technology and capacity that can meet the required 

energy storage capacity efficiently. 

3. Efficiency considerations: We need to account for efficiency losses during the charging and discharging 

process of batteries. 

Let's assume we want to store enough energy to cover one day of electricity consumption when solar energy 

production is minimal. We'll also assume a typical lithium-ion battery with an efficiency of around 90%. 

Given: 

 Total electricity produced by solar panels: 1.52 MW 

 Capacity of each solar panel: 0.383 kW 

 Number of solar panels: 3968 

 Efficiency of battery: 90% 

First, let's calculate the total energy produced by the solar panels in one day: 

Total energy produced per day = Total electricity produced × 24  

Total energy produced per day = 1.52 MW × 24 hours  

Total energy produced per day = 36.48 MWh 

Now, considering the battery efficiency, the total energy that needs to be stored in the batteries is: 

Total energy required to be stored = 
Total energy produced per day

Efficiency of battery
  

Total energy required to be stored = 
36.48 MWh

0.90
  

Total energy required to be stored ≈ 40.53 MWh 

Now, let's use lithium-ion batteries with a capacity of 10 kWh each. We can calculate the number of batteries 

needed: 

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 Academic Journal of Science, Engineering and Technology 

Vol. 9, Issue 4; July-August 2024; 

ISSN: 2837-2964 

Impact Factor: 6.67 

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6 | A c a d e m i c  J o u r n a l  o f  S c i e n c e ,  E n g i n e e r i n g  a n d  T e c h n o l o g y  

|  https://topjournals.org/index.php/AJSET 

Number of batteries needed = 
Total energy required to be stored

Capacity of each battery
  

Number of batteries needed = 
40.53 MWh

0.01 MWh
 

Number of batteries needed ≈ 4053 

So, approximately 4053 lithium-ion batteries with a capacity of 10 kWh each would be needed to store the 

electricity produced by the arrangement of 3968 solar panels. 

3.2    Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) into the Mabuchi FMWH Project 

For optimal energy harvesting and power availability, it is imperative to integrate Maximum Power Point tracking 

into the Mabuchi Federal Ministry of Works and Housing (FMWH) grid connectivity project. MPPT, or 

Maximum Power Point Tracking, is a technology used in photovoltaic (PV) solar systems to optimize the 

efficiency of solar panels. The goal of MPPT is to ensure that the solar panels operate at their maximum power 

point (MPP) under varying environmental conditions such as changes in sunlight intensity and temperature. 

At its core, MPPT is a method or algorithm that continuously adjusts the operating parameters of the solar panels, 

typically the voltage or current, to maximize the power output. This is achieved by dynamically matching the 

impedance of the solar panels to the load or the battery bank connected to them. 

MPPT technology is implemented using electronic devices called MPPT controllers or charge controllers, which 

are usually integrated into inverters or charge regulators in solar power systems. These controllers constantly 

monitor the voltage and current output of the solar panels and make real-time adjustments to ensure that the panels 

operate at or near their MPP. 

By operating at the MPP, solar panels can produce the maximum amount of power for a given set of environmental 

conditions, resulting in increased energy harvest and improved overall system efficiency. This optimization is 

particularly important in off-grid or grid-tied solar systems where maximizing energy yield is crucial for 

maximizing return on investment and reducing reliance on other energy sources. 

How MPPT works in a solar mini-grid system 

In a solar mini-grid system, MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking) plays a crucial role in optimizing the 

efficiency of solar panels. Here's how it works: 

1. Understanding the Maximum Power Point (MPP): Solar panels have an optimal operating point where 

they can generate the maximum power output for a given set of environmental conditions (like sunlight intensity 

and temperature). This point is known as the Maximum Power Point (MPP). 

2. Variable Environmental Conditions: Environmental conditions such as changes in sunlight intensity, 

shading, and temperature can cause the MPP of solar panels to shift. Consequently, to extract the maximum power 

from the panels, it's necessary to dynamically adjust the operating point. 

3. MPPT Controller: The MPPT controller continuously tracks the MPP of the solar panels by monitoring 

their voltage and current output. It uses this information to adjust the operating point of the panels to ensure they 

are operating at or near their MPP. 

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Vol. 9, Issue 4; July-August 2024; 

ISSN: 2837-2964 

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7 | A c a d e m i c  J o u r n a l  o f  S c i e n c e ,  E n g i n e e r i n g  a n d  T e c h n o l o g y  

|  https://topjournals.org/index.php/AJSET 

4. Iterative Process: The MPPT controller typically uses an iterative process to determine the MPP. It 

systematically adjusts the operating point of the solar panels and measures the resulting power output. By 

comparing the power outputs at different operating points, it can determine which point corresponds to the 

maximum power and then lock onto that point. 

5. Efficiency Optimization: By continuously tracking the MPP, the MPPT controller ensures that the solar 

panels operate at their highest efficiency regardless of variations in environmental conditions. This leads to 

increased energy harvest and improved overall system performance. 

In a solar mini-grid system, MPPT controllers are typically integrated into the system's charge controllers or 

inverters. They play a critical role in maximizing the energy yield of the solar panels, thereby improving the 

overall performance and reliability of the mini-grid system. 

There are different types of MPPT algorithms, including Perturb and Observe (P&O), Incremental Conductance 

(IncCond), and Hill Climbing. Each algorithm has its own advantages and is suited to different types of solar 

panel technologies and environmental conditions. In this work, the P&O algorithm was preferred. This algorithm 

continuously perturbs (changes) the operating point of the solar panels and observes the resulting change in power 

output. It increases or decreases the operating voltage or current slightly and measures the change in power. Based 

on the direction of change in power, it adjusts the operating point further towards the maximum power point 

(MPP). It offers advantages of simple implementation, suitable for most PV systems, and effective under rapidly 

changing environmental conditions. 

MPPT Block Diagram 

The block diagram of the MPPT is shown in Figure 2. 

 
Figure 2: MPPT Block Diagram 

As can be seen in the block diagram, the MPPT controller receives the input from the solar panel. The MPPT 

algorithm then continuously monitors the voltage and current to determine the maximum power point. Based on 

this information, the algorithm adjusts the DC-DC converter to operate at the voltage and current that will deliver 

the maximum power from the solar panels. 

MPPT Schematic Diagram 

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Vol. 9, Issue 4; July-August 2024; 

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8 | A c a d e m i c  J o u r n a l  o f  S c i e n c e ,  E n g i n e e r i n g  a n d  T e c h n o l o g y  

|  https://topjournals.org/index.php/AJSET 

Figure 3 shows the schematic diagram of MPPT. 

 
Figure 3: MPPT Schematic Diagram 

The schematic diagram shows the actual electronic components used in the MPPT controller circuit. These 

components include transistors, inductors, capacitors, and other electronic components. The specific components 

used will vary depending on the design of the MPPT controller. However, the basic functionality of the circuit is 

the same as described in the block diagram. 

MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking) can significantly enhance the performance and reliability of the solar 

mini-grid system described in the Mabuchi work. This is described as follows: 

1. Optimizing Solar Panel Output: MPPT algorithms continuously track the maximum power point of each 

solar panel, adjusting the operating point to ensure maximum power extraction under varying environmental 

conditions like sunlight intensity and temperature. By implementing MPPT controllers for each solar panel or a 

group of panels, you can maximize the overall energy yield of the system, especially during partial shading or 

fluctuating weather conditions. 

2. Increasing Energy Harvesting Efficiency: MPPT ensures that the solar panels operate at their maximum 

power point, thereby maximizing the efficiency of energy harvesting. This translates to higher energy production 

from the same number of solar panels, which is crucial for meeting the energy demand of FMWH Mabuchi and 

reducing reliance on the main grid or other energy sources. 

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 Academic Journal of Science, Engineering and Technology 

Vol. 9, Issue 4; July-August 2024; 

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9 | A c a d e m i c  J o u r n a l  o f  S c i e n c e ,  E n g i n e e r i n g  a n d  T e c h n o l o g y  

|  https://topjournals.org/index.php/AJSET 

3. Enhancing Grid Stability and Reliability: MPPT helps in stabilizing the output voltage and current of 

the solar panels, which is essential for grid interconnectivity. By delivering a consistent and reliable power output, 

MPPT minimizes voltage fluctuations and frequency variations, thereby enhancing the stability and reliability of 

the mini-grid system when integrated with the main grid. 

4. Mitigating Intermittency Challenges: Solar power generation is inherently intermittent due to variations 

in sunlight availability. MPPT mitigates this challenge by continuously optimizing the power output of the solar 

panels, ensuring a steady and predictable energy supply to the grid. This reduces the reliance on backup power 

sources during periods of low solar irradiance, thus improving overall system reliability. 

5. Optimizing Battery Charging: In conjunction with energy storage systems like the lithium-ion batteries 

mentioned in this work, MPPT can optimize the charging process by dynamically adjusting the charging current 

and voltage according to the solar panel output and battery state of charge. This ensures efficient energy storage 

and utilization, maximizing the effectiveness of the battery backup during periods of low solar generation or grid 

outage. 

By incorporating MPPT technology into the solar mini-grid system described in the Mabuchi work, one can 

enhance energy harvesting efficiency, improve grid stability and reliability, and optimize energy storage, thereby 

realizing the objectives of improving power generation, reducing energy costs, and enhancing energy access in 

urban areas like FMWH Mabuchi, Nigeria. 

Calculations while analyzing the application of MPPT technology in the FMWH Mabuchi work: 

1. Optimizing Solar Panel Output with MPPT: Given the total electricity produced by the solar panels 

(1.52 MW) and the total number of solar panels (3968), we can calculate the average capacity of each solar panel. 

Capacity of each solar panel = 
Total electricity produced

Total number of solar panels
  

Capacity of each solar panel = 
1.52 MW

3968
 

Capacity of each solar panel = 383 W 

With MPPT technology, real-time calculations can dynamically adjust the operating points of each solar panel to 

ensure maximum power output, even under varying environmental conditions in Mabuchi. This optimization 

would lead to increased energy production from the existing solar panel infrastructure. 

2. Increasing Energy Harvesting Efficiency: By implementing MPPT technology, real-time calculations 

can optimize energy harvesting efficiency. Suppose each solar panel gains an additional 10% energy output 

through MPPT optimization. 

Additional energy output per panel = 10% × Capacity of each solar panel  

Additional energy output per panel = 0.10 × 383 W  

                                                         = 38.3 W 

Total additional energy output for all panels = Additional energy output per panel × Total number of solar panels  

Total additional energy output for all panels = 38.3 W × 3968  

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Vol. 9, Issue 4; July-August 2024; 

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10 | A c a d e m i c  J o u r n a l  o f  S c i e n c e ,  E n g i n e e r i n g  a n d  T e c h n o l o g y  

|  https://topjournals.org/index.php/AJSET 

                                                                        = 151,974.4 W 

Real-time calculations based on MPPT optimization can thus lead to a significant increase in energy production, 

contributing to reduced energy costs and enhanced energy access in FMWH Mabuchi. 

3. Enhancing Grid Stability and Reliability: Real-time calculations with MPPT technology can ensure 

stable and reliable power supply to the grid. By continuously monitoring and adjusting the output voltage and 

current of the solar panels, MPPT controllers can minimize fluctuations and frequency variations. For example, 

if the output voltage fluctuates between 200V and 250V without MPPT, with MPPT optimization, these 

fluctuations can be reduced to a narrower range, say between 230V and 240V, ensuring a more stable grid supply 

in Mabuchi. 

4. Mitigating Intermittency Challenges: MPPT technology, coupled with real-time calculations, can 

mitigate intermittency challenges in FMWH Mabuchi. By dynamically optimizing the power output of the solar 

panels based on environmental conditions, MPPT controllers can minimize the impact of intermittent solar 

generation. Real-time adjustments ensure a consistent energy supply to the grid, reducing the reliance on backup 

power sources during periods of low solar irradiance. 

5. Optimizing Battery Charging: Real-time calculations with MPPT technology can optimize battery 

charging efficiency. By monitoring energy production from the solar panels and the state of charge of the batteries, 

MPPT controllers can adjust charging parameters to maximize efficiency. For instance, during periods of high 

solar generation, the controllers can increase the charging rate to fully utilize available energy, enhancing the 

reliability of the energy supply in FMWH Mabuchi. 

Incorporating real-time calculations and MPPT technology into the solar mini-grid system in FMWH Mabuchi 

would lead to tangible improvements in energy harvesting efficiency, grid stability, and battery charging 

optimization, ultimately achieving the objectives of the study. 

To determine the addition to the original 1.52 MW of electricity produced by the solar panels in FMWH Mabuchi 

due to MPPT optimization, we can calculate the additional energy output gained from each solar panel and then 

sum up the total additional energy output for all panels. 

Given: 

 Total electricity produced by solar panels before MPPT optimization: 1.52 MW 

 Capacity of each solar panel before MPPT optimization: 0.383 kW (as calculated previously) 

Let's calculate the additional energy output gained from each solar panel with MPPT optimization: 

Additional energy output per panel = 10% × Capacity of each solar panel 

Additional energy output per panel = 0.10×0.383 Kw 

Additional energy output per panel = 0.0383 kW 

Now, let's calculate the total additional energy output for all panels: 

Total additional energy output for all panels = Additional energy output per panel × Total number of solar panels 

Total additional energy output for all panels = 0.0383 kW×3968 

Total additional energy output for all panels ≈ 152.07 kW 

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 Academic Journal of Science, Engineering and Technology 

Vol. 9, Issue 4; July-August 2024; 

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11 | A c a d e m i c  J o u r n a l  o f  S c i e n c e ,  E n g i n e e r i n g  a n d  T e c h n o l o g y  

|  https://topjournals.org/index.php/AJSET 

So, with MPPT optimization, the additional energy output gained from the solar panels in FMWH Mabuchi would 

be approximately 152.07 kW. 

4.1      Discussion of Results 

The analysis of the adoption of solar mini-grid systems interconnected with the main grid for the FMWH Mabuchi 

project in Nigeria yields significant insights into the potential benefits and challenges of such systems. The study 

focused on the integration of 3,968 photovoltaic (PV) solar panels and 4,053 lithium-ion batteries, coupled with 

the implementation of Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) technology. The results highlighted the technical, 

economic, and social dimensions of this approach to enhancing energy access and sustainability in urban areas. 

Technical Analysis 

Solar Panel and Battery Specifications: 

 The 3,968 PV solar panels, each with an average power rating of 383 watts, collectively generated 

approximately 1.52 MW of electricity. 

 The 4,053 lithium-ion batteries, each with a capacity of 10 kWh and a nominal voltage of 400 volts, 

provided a total energy storage capacity of 40.53 MWh. 

Energy Production and Storage: 

 The total daily energy production from the solar panels was put at 36.48 MWh. 

 Considering the battery efficiency of 90%, the total energy required to be stored is approximately 40.53 

MWh, which aligns with the capacity of the installed battery bank. 

MPPT Implementation: 

 MPPT technology optimizes the efficiency of the solar panels by ensuring they operate at their maximum 

power point (MPP) under varying environmental conditions. 

 With MPPT, each solar panel gained an additional 10% in energy output, leading to an additional 152.07 

kW in total energy output for the entire solar array. 

Economic and Social Impact 

Cost Efficiency: 

 The integration of solar mini-grid systems with MPPT reduced reliance on traditional energy sources, 

lowering energy costs in the long term. 

 The reduced dependence on the main grid and diesel generators will contribute to significant cost savings, 

particularly in energy-scarce regions. 

Reliability and Stability: 

 The enhanced reliability and stability of the energy supply due to grid interconnectivity and MPPT 

mitigate the intermittency of solar power, providing a more stable and resilient energy system. 

 Continuous optimization of power output and battery charging through MPPT ensures a consistent energy 

supply, even during periods of low solar irradiance or grid outages. 

Energy Access: 

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12 | A c a d e m i c  J o u r n a l  o f  S c i e n c e ,  E n g i n e e r i n g  a n d  T e c h n o l o g y  

|  https://topjournals.org/index.php/AJSET 

 Improved energy access and reliability directly impact the socio-economic development of urban areas, 

fostering economic opportunities and enhancing the quality of life. 

 Increased electricity availability reduces the reliance on traditional fuels, promoting cleaner energy 

alternatives and contributing to environmental sustainability. 

Case Study: FMWH Mabuchi 

The Federal Ministry of Works and Housing (FMWH) in Mabuchi, Abuja, serves as an illustrative example of 

the effectiveness of integrating mini-grid solar energy resources with the main grid. The following outcomes were 

observed: 

1. Improved Power Generation: 

 The integration of 1.52 MW of solar power, augmented by an additional 152.07 kW through 

MPPT, significantly enhances power generation capacity. 

 This increased capacity addresses the energy deficit and meets the growing demand in the rapidly 

urbanizing FMWH Mabuchi. 

2. Reduced Energy Costs: 

 The shift from high-cost energy sources to solar energy reduces overall energy expenditure. 

 The cost savings are particularly notable in periods of peak demand and during outages when the 

reliance on expensive diesel generators is minimized. 

3. Enhanced Energy Access: 

 Reliable and consistent electricity supply improves access to energy, particularly in peri-urban and 

rural extensions of the urban center. 

 The socio-economic benefits include improved healthcare services, educational facilities, and 

commercial activities, driven by stable energy access. 

Limitations and Future Work 

Data Availability: 

 The study encountered limitations in the availability of long-term performance data for solar mini-grid 

systems in similar contexts, necessitating further research to assess long-term economic viability and 

environmental impact. 

System Maintenance and Scalability: 

 Challenges related to system maintenance, limited scalability, and uncertainties in revenue collection 

models were identified as areas requiring attention for the sustainable deployment of solar mini-grid systems. 

Regulatory Frameworks: 

 The study highlights the need for supportive regulatory frameworks to facilitate grid integration and 

market competitiveness of solar mini-grid systems. Addressing policy gaps and enhancing institutional capacities 

are crucial for successful implementation. 

In conclusion, the integration of mini-grid solar energy resources with the main grid in urban areas like FMWH 

Mabuchi, Nigeria, presents a viable solution to the persistent energy deficit. The adoption of MPPT technology 

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 Academic Journal of Science, Engineering and Technology 

Vol. 9, Issue 4; July-August 2024; 

ISSN: 2837-2964 

Impact Factor: 6.67 

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13 | A c a d e m i c  J o u r n a l  o f  S c i e n c e ,  E n g i n e e r i n g  a n d  T e c h n o l o g y  

|  https://topjournals.org/index.php/AJSET 

further optimizes energy production, enhancing reliability, efficiency, and access. This study provides valuable 

insights into the technical and economic feasibility of such systems, underscoring their potential to drive 

sustainable energy development in developing countries. Future research should focus on long-term performance 

assessment, maintenance strategies, and the development of robust regulatory frameworks to support widespread 

adoption. 

5.1     Conclusion 

The integration of solar mini-grid systems interconnected with the main grid in urban areas, exemplified by the 

FMWH Mabuchi project in Nigeria, demonstrates significant potential for enhancing energy access and 

sustainability. This study, focusing on the technical, economic, and social dimensions, reveals that the deployment 

of 3,968 photovoltaic (PV) solar panels and 4,053 lithium-ion batteries, coupled with Maximum Power Point 

Tracking (MPPT) technology, can substantially improve power generation, reduce energy costs, and enhance 

reliability. 

Technically, the solar panels and batteries provided substantial energy output and storage capacity, addressing 

the energy deficit in rapidly growing urban areas like FMWH Mabuchi. The implementation of MPPT technology 

resulted in a notable increase in energy output, optimizing the efficiency of the solar panels and contributing an 

additional 152.07 kW to the overall power generation. 

Economically and socially, the integration of solar mini-grid systems with MPPT reduced reliance on traditional 

and costly energy sources, fostering long-term cost savings and promoting environmental sustainability. The 

improved reliability and stability of the energy supply have direct positive impacts on socio-economic 

development, enhancing the quality of life and economic opportunities in the urban center. 

Despite the promising outcomes, the study identifies areas requiring further attention, such as the availability of 

long-term performance data, system maintenance challenges, scalability, and the need for supportive regulatory 

frameworks. Addressing these limitations is crucial for the sustainable deployment and widespread adoption of 

solar mini-grid systems in developing countries. 

To sum up, the integration of mini-grid solar energy resources with the main grid in urban areas like FMWH 

Mabuchi offers a viable and sustainable solution to persistent energy deficits. By optimizing energy production 

and enhancing grid reliability, such systems have the potential to drive sustainable energy development, improve 

energy access, and foster socio-economic growth in developing countries. Future research should continue to 

explore long-term performance, maintenance strategies, and regulatory support to ensure the success and 

scalability of these systems. 

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Vol. 9, Issue 4; July-August 2024; 

ISSN: 2837-2964 

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Vol. 9, Issue 4; July-August 2024; 

ISSN: 2837-2964 

Impact Factor: 6.67 

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