Estudio técnico de un sistema de respaldo energético basado en fuentes renovables para la Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud de la Universidad Católica de Santiago de Guayaquil.

Abstract

The continuity of the electrical power supply is essential for the proper operation of facilities dedicated to health sciences education, where power interruptions may affect academic activities and the operation of specialized equipment. In this context, this research aimed to develop a technical study for the sizing of a renewable energy-based backup power system for the Faculty of Health Sciences at the Catholic University of Santiago de Guayaquil. The research followed a quantitative approach with a non-experimental design, using documentary review, on-site data collection, electrical parameter measurements, energy demand analysis, and assessment of the available solar resource. The electrical system diagnosis identified a 31.40% load imbalance, which served as the basis for the technical design of the proposed system. The proposed solution consists of a hybrid photovoltaic system with an installed capacity of 177.14 kWp, comprising 241 photovoltaic modules, four hybrid inverters, and a lithium battery energy storage system with a nominal capacity of 816.14 kWh, providing approximately four hours of backup autonomy for the identified critical loads. The estimated annual energy production was 219.83 MWh. The economic evaluation estimated annual savings of USD 26,160, a 4.55-year payback period, a Net Present Value (NPV) of USD 118,550.37, and an Internal Rate of Return (IRR) of 21.84%, demonstrating the technical feasibility and economic viability of the proposed system.