Simultaneity of wind and solar energy: A spatio-temporal analysis to delineate the plausible regions to harness

Abstract

The clean energy transition is catching attention across the globe since Glasgow climate summit. The hybridization can mitigate the barriers to grid integration of renewable energy projects. Prior to site selection, the hybridization necessitates simultaneity evaluation and feasibility analysis. Present study explores the simultaneity of wind-solar energy resources across India using 41 years ERA5 reanalysis data. For assimilating the effects of capacity factor and simultaneity, a novel Hybrid Power Exploitability index (HPEI) presenting suitability for the establishment of hybrid power plants for base load and peak load applications has been introduced. Further, the feasibility of hybridization of existing standalone power plants has been assessed by evaluating the possible increment in annual power generation. India's southwestern region and western coastal parts exhibit resource complementarity; whereas resource synergy is observed in the northwestern regions. The hybridization has been determined to be feasible in seven of the eight research locations of existing standalone power plants with up to 400 % boost in annual power generation. Hence, the hybridization of renewable energy can solve the need for clean energy and achieving net-zero emissions. The present study will benefit project developers in site selection for new power projects and assist in the hybridization of existing plants.