Critical assessment on application of software for designing hybrid energy systems

Abstract

HRES (hybrid renewable energy systems) are an amalgamation of traditional and renewable sources that strive to overcome the intermittent nature of renewable energy production sources. The paper aims to provide a critical analysis of the capabilities and limitations of various software to assess HRES. The analysis cycle from design to optimization is an extremely complex task due to the many parameters being considered and has to be done thoroughly. Thus, the use of correct software to obtain comprehensive analysis is critical as it leads to minimal limitations in terms of cost, implementation, and maintenance of the system. When compared to traditional systems, hybridization can reduce costs and emissions by an estimated 20%. The software reviewed are the most widely used and comprehensive for HRES. Yet, they all come with their limitations. For example, HOMER is incapable of conducting a thermal analysis while only HOMER and IHOGA can conduct hydro energy sources analysis. As such, the paper aims to provide an in-depth review of the capabilities and limitations of various software regarding HRES, so that users can decide which software (both individually and in combination with each other) would be most appropriate for their HRES.