Estudio de factibilidad de un sistema de respaldo de energía renovable para la Facultad de Especialidades Empresariales de la Universidad Católica de Santiago de Guayaquil.

Abstract

This research evaluates the technical, economic, and operational feasibility of implementing a grid-tied photovoltaic generation system, conceived as a backup and self-supply energy mechanism for the Faculty of Business Specialties at the Catholic University of Santiago de Guayaquil (UCSG). The proposal emerges as a strategic response to the energy crisis and electricity rationing that disrupted the normal conduct of academic and institutional activities during the 2023–2024 period. Based on a technical assessment of the existing infrastructure—which includes a power room with a 75 kVA transformer and a recorded peak demand of 160.50 kVA—a projected daily consumption of 1,328.94 kWh was determined. The building features a 2,400 m² accessible rooftop with zero shading (0%) due to its advantageous elevation, alongside an average global solar radiation of 4,78 kWh/m² for the Guayaquil area. Using these variables and stochastic simulations performed on the specialized PVsyst v7.2.6 platform, an optimized photovoltaic system was designed. It consists of 660 monocrystalline 550 Wp modules mounted on a metal substructure elevated 1.00 meter above the roof to avoid mechanical interference with HVAC systems. The inverter stage utilizes three parallel-connected 120 kW Growatt three-phase inverters, ensuring a symmetrical DC/AC ratio of 0.99. Energy modeling validated a Performance Ratio of 82.3%, equating to an annual net injection of 473.09 MWh into the building's internal grid. From a financial and regulatory perspective, and in accordance with Ecuadorian resolution ARCONEL-005/24, the economic assessment indicated high institutional profitability, with a Net Present Value (NPV) of USD 213,204.16, an Internal Rate of Return (IRR) of 13.48%, and a cumulative Return on Investment (ROI) of 180.7%. The initial capital expenditure (CAPEX), estimated at USD 264,279.20, is fully amortized over a period of 9 years and 1 month, providing the institution with nearly 16 years of free, emission-free electricity over the project's remaining useful life.