Optimizing hybrid renewable energy for off-grid communities

In a recent study published in the journal Scientific reportsresearchers presented a comprehensive analysis of different configurations of hybrid renewable energy systems (HRES) to power rural communities in Ethiopia. They used state-of-the-art optimization techniques to determine the optimal size and integration of photovoltaic (PV), wind and pumped storage (PHES) systems to ensure a cost-effective and reliable supply of electricity to the area. -grid area.

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Hybrid renewable energy systems: a promising solution

HRES have shown promise as a solution to address the energy challenges facing remote and underserved communities, especially in developing countries.

By integrating multiple renewable energy sources and storage technologies, HRES can leverage the complementary nature of these resources to ensure a reliable and sustainable energy supply.

In particular, incorporating PHES can increase system flexibility and resilience, mitigating the intermittency inherent in solar and wind generation.

Minimizing total life cycle cost and energy costs

The study authors developed an efficient and reliable HRES solution for Gaita Selassie, a rural village in Dangila District, Ethiopia. Their main goal was to minimize total life cycle cost (TLCC) and cost of energy (COE), while ensuring reliable power supply, as indicated by loss of power probability (LPSP).

Using a comprehensive approach covering technical and economic factors, the study used advanced optimization techniques to determine the optimal configuration of renewable energy sources and storage systems. In particular, they used two advanced optimization algorithms: Multi-Object Gray Wolf Optimization (MOGWO) and Multi-Object Grasshopper Optimization Algorithm (MOGOA).

These techniques were used to optimize the sizing of photovoltaic, wind and PHES components within HRES. Using these algorithms, researchers aimed to find the most appropriate configuration that balances technical efficiency and economic feasibility while meeting energy requirements.

This paper evaluates three HRES scenarios: PV-PHES, Wind-PHES and PV-Wind-PHES. Each scenario combines different renewable energy sources with PHES. For example, PV-PHES integrates photovoltaic panels and PHES, Wind-PHES integrates wind turbines with PHES, and PV-Wind-PHES includes photovoltaic panels, wind turbines and PHES.

The authors analyzed the technical and economic feasibility of each scenario, taking into account factors such as solar radiation, wind speed, load demand and component cost.

Optimization algorithms were used to determine the optimal size of each component, including the number of photovoltaic panels, wind turbines, and PHES system efficiency.

Findings

This paper presents the excellent performance of the MOGWO algorithm in optimizing the HRES configuration. In the PV-PHES scenario, the MOGWO algorithm determined the optimal system consisting of 13,889 solar panels, PHES power of 1.84 MW and an upper reservoir (UR) volume of 52,529 m³.

Moreover, the Wind-PHES scenario resulted in an optimal configuration of 15 wind turbines with a PHES capacity of 1.65 MW with a UR volume of 45,800 m3. For the PV-Wind-PHES scenario, the MOGWO algorithm recommended 2,141 solar panels, five wind turbines and a PHES power of 1.52 MW with a UR volume of 40,502.1 m3.

A comparative analysis of optimization techniques showed that the MOGWO algorithm outperformed the MOGOA algorithm in minimizing COE and TLCC while maintaining zero LPSP.

The PV-Wind-PHES scenario proved to be the most cost-effective solution, with a TLCC of EUR 6,897,300 and a COE of EUR 0.1261/kWh, representing a reduction of 38% and 18% respectively compared to the Wind-PHES and PV scenarios -PHES scenarios.

The authors showed that the PHES system played a key role in ensuring a reliable energy supply, especially during periods of low wind speed and solar radiation. The PHES system effectively stored excess energy generated during peak periods and released it during periods of high demand, ensuring a consistent and reliable supply of electricity.

Electrifying rural communities

The study results significantly impact the electrification of rural communities in Ethiopia and similar off-grid regions. Optimized HRES configurations can provide a reliable and cost-effective solution to the pressing energy needs of these underserved areas. By leveraging the abundant solar, wind and hydropower resources available in the region, the proposed system can provide a sustainable and uninterrupted energy supply, addressing the challenges of limited grid access and reliance on traditional energy sources.

Moreover, integrating PHES technology with HRES increases the reliability and flexibility of the system. This ensures that energy demand is covered even during variable periods of renewable energy production. This approach makes the system more resilient and adaptable to changing environmental conditions, effectively mitigating the intermittency inherent in solar and wind energy.

Application

Researchers highlighted various HRES configurations for rural electrification, with the PV-Wind-PHES installation proving to be the most effective solution. Its successful implementation could set the standard for sustainable energy initiatives around the world.

The study suggested integrating demand management strategies and advanced energy storage technologies to further improve system performance and resilience. They proposed incorporating environmental impact assessments and smart grid technologies to improve the sustainability and adaptability of the system.

Magazine reference

Agajie, E.F., Agajie, T.F., Amoussou, I. et al. Optimizing off-grid hybrid renewable energy systems for cost-effective and reliable power supply in Gaita Selassie, Ethiopia. Rep. Scientific 14, 10929 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-024-61783-z

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