Optimal unit sizing of stand-alone renewable hybrid energy system using bees algorithm

Abstract

This paper focuses on unit sizing of stand-alone hybrid energy systems using bees algorithm. With different combination of renewable sources, two types of hybrid energy systems are taken as test systems. Apart from the non-conventional sources like wind turbines, solar panels along with micro hydro plant, the systems have been optimized with fuel cell, converters, electrolyzers and hydrogen tanks. Different performance parameters such as net present cost (NPC), cost of energy (COE) and generation cost (GC) of power production have been considered. Out of the two systems studied, it is seen that the combination of hydro-wind-fuel cell is the most feasible hybrid energy system in respect to their net present cost and cost of energy. Again it is seen that, the bees algorithm is quite efficient in providing a global solution and makes the choice more easier.