Journal of sustainable Energy Systems

Journal of sustainable Energy Systems

Analysis and Simulation of Energy Consumption Patterns in University Buildings for Cost Optimization and Energy Savings (Case Study: Faculty of Management, University of Tehran)

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
1 Department of Industrial Management and Technology, Faculty of Management, University of Tehran
2 School of Energy Engineering and Sustainable Resources, College of Interdisciplinary Science and Technology, University of Tehran
10.22059/ses.2026.420898.1284
Abstract
Rising energy consumption in educational buildings has underscored the necessity of utilizing renewable resources and conducting economic evaluations of energy supply options. This study assessed the technical, economic, and environmental feasibility of implementing a grid-connected photovoltaic (PV) system—integrated with batteries and inverters—at the University of Tehran’s Faculty of Management. The analysis utilized HOMER Pro software (version 3.18.3, Pro Edition) and actual electricity consumption data spanning from January 2024 to January 2025.

The results indicated an annual electricity consumption of 2,402,343 kWh for the complex, with peak usage occurring during the warmer months. Under current economic conditions, a grid-only configuration proved to be the most economical option, with a Net Present Cost (NPC) of $566,353 and a Levelized Cost of Energy (LCOE) of $0.192/kWh. Integrating a PV system and battery storage raised the NPC to $1,243,538, primarily due to equipment investment costs and low grid electricity tariffs. In the optimal configuration, grid-purchased energy amounted to 2,402,343 kWh annually, with a renewable energy share of zero. For the hybrid scenario—combining the grid, PV, and battery storage—annual CO₂ emissions were estimated at 1,518,280 kg.

Sensitivity analysis revealed that increases in electricity tariffs or reductions in PV equipment costs would not alter the grid's economic superiority. While the PV system lacks sufficient financial viability under current conditions, changes in tariff structures and reduced equipment costs could pave the way for its future economic viability and development.
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Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 27 October 2026