SYSTEM

The rising cost of grid electricity and the global push for sustainable energy solutions have heightened interest in renewable-based power systems. This project presents a comprehensive reliability assessment and techno-economic analysis of an islanded (standalone) Solar Photovoltaic (PV) and Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) designed to meet the entire electrical load of the Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering at the University of Benin. The study utilized HOMER Pro software to model, simulate, and optimize the system. A detailed load profile of the department was developed and used as the primary input, alongside solar irradiation data for the Benin City location. The system was designed to operate without any grid connection, making reliability the paramount design constraint. The optimization process aimed to find the most cost-effective system configuration that minimizes the Net Present Cost (NPC) while adhering to a strict maximum allowable capacity shortage of 1%. Using HOMER Pro software, an optimal system configuration was determined: a 180 kW solar PV array coupled with a 100 kWh Lead-acid battery bank. The system demonstrates high reliability, meeting 98.98% of the annual load demand while maintaining complete energy independence. Economic analysis shows the system achieves a Levelized Cost of Energy of ₦619.5/kWh, proving it to be a technically feasible and financially viable sustainable energy solution for the department. The study confirms that islanded PV-Battery systems can provide reliable power while offering long-term economic benefits compared to conventional alternati

This study examined the impact of digital payment systems on the growth of small businesses in Benin City, Nigeria. The research specifically focused on three major components of digital payment systems: Automated Teller Machines (ATMs), Point of Sale (POS) terminals, and online banking transactions. The study was motivated by the increasing global shift toward cashless transactions and the limited empirical research on how such technologies influence small business development in emerging economies like Nigeria. A survey research design was adopted, and data were collected from 100 small business owners and managers in Benin City using structured questionnaires. Descriptive and inferential statistical tools, including multiple regression analysis, were employed to analyze the data with the aid of the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). The findings revealed that ATMs, POS terminals, and online banking transactions have a significant positive impact on small business growth in Benin City. Specifically, ATMs facilitate quick access to cash, POS terminals enhance customer patronage and reduce cash-handling risks, while online banking improves financial management and business efficiency. However, challenges such as network instability, high transaction charges, ATM cash shortages, and cybersecurity concerns were identified as barriers to optimal utilization. The study concluded that digital payment systems play a crucial role in promoting the growth and sustainability of small businesses by improving operational efficiency, customer satisfaction, and profitability. It recommends that banks and telecommunication firms enhance network reliability, reduce transaction costs, and strengthen security frameworks. Additionally, financial institutions and government agencies should intensify awareness and provide training to small business owners to ensure wider adoption and effective utilization of digital payment systems.