Energy Self-Sufficiency and Resilience in the 21st century: A Research about the modernization of the energy infrastructure of the Holy Monastery of Docheiariou, Mount Athos

This diploma thesis examines the energy transition and infrastructure modernization of the Holy Monastery of Dochiariou on Mount Athos, aiming to achieve independence from diesel generators and energy autonomy. Considering the particularities of non-interconnected grids, as well as the strict religious and environmental constraints of the Statutory Charter of Mount Athos, the design of an advanced hybrid Renewable Energy Sources system is proposed. On a theoretical level, the technologies of solar energy, pumped hydro storage, and biomass utilization are investigated. The main focus of the thesis is centered on the technical and computational aspects. Based on data collected during a field trip to the Monastery, along with historical climatological data, a detailed sizing of the hybrid system was conducted with the objective of eliminating the annual energy deficit. The proposed solution synthesizes three main pillars: 1. Photovoltaics: The optimal installation of 292 modern photovoltaic panels was calculated to cover primary demand, utilizing existing mounting structures, achieving a reliability index of approximately 58%. 2. Pumped Hydro Storage: As the main storage unit, a reservoir with a usable capacity of 200 kWh was sized. This capacity emerged as the optimal design point, achieving a reliability index of 70% and avoiding the phenomenon of diminishing returns. 3. Biomass: A Combined Heat and Power (CHP) unit with a nominal electrical capacity of 50 kWel and a thermal capacity of 120 kWth was integrated. By shifting the system's priority from covering thermal needs to strategic electrical load shifting, the final reliability skyrocketed to 100%. In conclusion, the study highlights the technical superiority of pumped hydro storage over chemical batteries. The main scientific contribution of the thesis lies in the development of a flexible, scalable methodological framework that can be applied to the energy planning of other monasteries or isolated communities