Optimal Sizing and Design of Hybrid Power Systems

Climate change is a major concern of this generation, with energy use in various sectors of the economy remaining the main culprit. Various strategies are thus being developed to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, including schemes to improve energy efficiency and to maximize the use of renewable energy (RE). However, RE suffers from its inherent variability due to its dependence on weather and climatic conditions. Hybrid power systems (HPSs) are thus recommended to provide a solution for reducing GHG emissions while ensuring energy availability by using a mix of RE technologies and conventional energy sources. This work develops a mathematical model for optimal HPS design with detailed cost considerations. The model accounts for the variability of RE sources and power demands, and selection between different energy storage technologies, as well as power losses. Results for two case studies, which consider different sources of RE and different types of energy storage, illustrate the trade-offs between cost and RE utilization. Significant reductions in total cost can be achieved with the appropriate mix of outsourced electricity supply and proper sizing of RE generators and energy storage systems.