Modelling and Implementation of a Hybrid Renewable Energy System for a Stand-Alone Application

Abstract

Rapidly developing modern energy systems incorporate significant contributions from renewable sources. The recent adoption of distributed generation sources and microgrids powered by renewable sources such as solar cells, tidal wind, and fuel cells is one of the primary causes of rising global energy demand. Integration of different energy sources into a hybrid system is envisioned as a viable solution for decentralized energy generation. Consequently, this study aims to integrate two energy sources with storage devices to construct a hybrid renewable energy system that will provide reliable electricity for remote and off-grid installations in the Sabon Gida Community of Kaduna State. This will contribute to the attainment of the seventh United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (Affordable and clean energy) (UN). This study utilized the Felicity PV panel. Its cell specifications are as follows: Peak power 175Wp, Open-circuit voltage (VOC) 21.6V, Maximum power current Imp 9.72A, Maximum power voltage Vmp 18V, short-circuits current Isc 10.2A, operating cell temperature Tc 250C, and Ideality factor Am 1.5. For the wind turbine, a model WT-400 with a rated power of 400W, 12V output voltage, and a wind controller with a standby current of 3.6mA, rated at 12/24V auto output voltage were utilized. The maximum power output of the PV energy model based on the specified weather variable was 620watts, whereas the maximum power output of the wind turbine energy model based on the selected wind speed was 301watts. Based on design calculations, the projected load demand for the location under consideration was 304 watts. The prototype was implemented, tested, and validated. The test results indicate that the output power was sufficient to fulfil the load requirements of the chosen location.