Standalone Solar Photovoltaic Systems for Remote Area Applications: A Bibliometric and Feasibility Analysis

Standalone solar photovoltaic (PV) systems emerge as a highly promising solution to ensure continuous and reliable electricity access to remote villages due to the unavailability of grid connections due to geographical challenges. This paper presents the feasibility analysis of standalone solar photovoltaic systems for remote area applications. The study utilizes a comprehensive approach, including bibliometric analysis and a detailed feasibility study through a real-world case scenario. The bibliometric analysis involves a systematic review and analysis of existing literature, mapping the evolution of research trends, identifying key authors, institutions, and journals, and assessing knowledge diffusion and growth patterns. The feasibility analysis evaluates the practical viability of standalone solar PV systems, considering technical, economic, environmental, and social dimensions. Additionally, a case study is presented to assess the economic viability, performance, and sustainability of a standalone solar PV system in a remote area. The study provides insights into the financial implications, energy generation capabilities, operational challenges, long-term sustainability, and optimization criteria, including net present cost (NPC) and levelized cost of energy (LCOE) system prospects.