Chapter 19 - Insight into the potential of the energy production by hybrid systems: small hydropower and solar photovoltaics

Abstract

Hybrid power generation systems combine multiple sources that are connected into one complex hybrid technology system. Hybrid systems may include photovoltaic (PV) modules, a wind turbine, a hydro turbine, a diesel or gasoline generator, etc. These individual systems can generate and deliver electricity to a battery, which is energy storage, or the produced energy can be delivered directly to the electricity distribution network. Systems consisting of hydropower power plant and solar PV power plant are well known and applied for generating electricity in the world. Integrating solar PV system into hydropower generation, the hydropower reduces its output when solar output is high and increases hydropower output when solar output is low. In peak hours of solar output, the hydropower output is reduced, and solar PV output is fully absorbed and vice versa. Mentioned increases in total energy generation and improvement in the reliability of power output. Sizing of systems which includes small hydropower power plant-solar PV power plant has been analyzed and researched in the literature. This chapter will explain and highlight several of the most significant and representative papers with regard to the importance and comprehensiveness of the current situation in the field of research.