A Hybrid Power Generation System Utilizing Solar and Wind Energy on Highways

Abstract

Energy, as a basic human requirement, plays an important role in our daily lives. Renewable energy has seen an unprecedented interest as a sustainable energy source to meet ever-increasing energy demands. In addition to being a sustainable and clean energy source, renewable resources can be used indefinitely because they can never be depleted practically. The energy sources like wind and sunlight regenerate or replenish themselves on their own. Solar energy is widespread and freely available all over the world. Additionally, the global wind supply is sufficient to meet energy needs of mankind. The current study conceptualized and implemented a modified Savonius rotor design for vertical axis wind turbine (VAWT) with an integrated solar panel on top. The innovative design concept of the proposed prototype model allows it to be scaled up and mounted on highway medians to take advantage of airflow from both sides of the road. In essence, this hybrid power generation system combines two energy sources, namely wind turbine to harness wind energy and solar panel to addon further electrical energy, essentially providing energy throughout the day. This energy can be stored using battery banks and can be utilized for various applications including supply to remotely located areas. This article discusses the generation of energy from two distinct sources that are combined to produce electricity at a reasonable cost while ensuring environmental sustainability.