Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews 50 (2015) 755–769

Contents lists available at ScienceDirect

Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews

journal homepage: www.elsevier.com/locate/rser

Review of recent trends in optimization techniques for solar

photovoltaic–wind based hybrid energy systems
Sunanda Sinha, S.S. Chandel n
Centre for Energy & Environmental Engineering, National Institute of Technology, Hamirpur 177005, Himachal Pradesh, India

art ic l e i nf o a b s t r a c t

Article history: An update literature review on trends in optimization techniques used for the design and development
Received 14 January 2015 of solar photovoltaic–wind based hybrid energy systems is presented. The main objective is to identify
Received in revised form latest promising techniques for the optimization of solar photovoltaic (PV)–wind based hybrid systems.
11 April 2015
Different techniques used by researchers for the optimization of renewable based hybrid energy systems
Accepted 12 May 2015
Available online 31 May 2015
are reviewed along with PV–wind based hybrid system sizing methodology, is presented. Optimization
studies during last 2.5 decades by researchers using traditional and new generation methods are
Keywords: analyzed and sixteen optimization methods including hybrid algorithms are presented. The trend shows
Hybrid energy systems that new generation artificial intelligence algorithms are mostly used during last decade as these require
Solar–wind based hybrid systems
less computation time and have better accuracy, good convergence in comparison to traditional
Solar photovoltaics
methods. The study suggests using hybridization of two or more algorithms to overcome the limitations
Wind turbine
Optimization techniques of a single algorithm. Additionally some other techniques are identified for follow up research in the
Hybrid algorithms design of PV–wind hybrid systems. This review will be useful for researchers to face complexity and
challenges in renewable energy based hybrid system research.
& 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Contents

1. Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 756
2. PV–wind hybrid system sizing methodologies. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 757
2.1. Requirements for PV–wind hybrid system optimization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 757
2.1.1. Meteorological data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 757
2.1.2. Load profile . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 757
2.1.3. System configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 757
2.1.4. Energy system model . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 757
2.1.5. Optimization results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 760
2.2. Criteria for PV–wind hybrid system optimization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 760
2.2.1. Reliability analysis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 760
2.2.2. Cost analysis. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 760
2.3. Modeling of hybrid system components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 760
2.3.1. Modeling of photovoltaic system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 761
2.3.2. Modeling of wind generator system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 761
2.3.3. Modeling of battery system. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 761
2.4. Conditions and steps for the execution of a hybrid optimization problem. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 761
3. Optimization techniques used in PV–wind based hybrid research . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 761
3.1. Traditional approach for optimization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 762
3.1.1. Graphical construction technique . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 762
3.1.2. Iterative techniques . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 762
3.1.3. Probabilistic approach . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 762

n
Corresponding author. Tel.: þ 91 1972 254748; fax: þ91 1972 223834.
E-mail addresses: sschandel2013@gmail.com, chandel_shyam@yahoo.com (S.S. Chandel).

http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.rser.2015.05.040
1364-0321/& 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
756 S. Sinha, S.S. Chandel / Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews 50 (2015) 755–769

3.1.4. Trade-off approach. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 762

3.1.5. Linear programming technique . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 762
3.2. New generation approach for optimization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 763
3.2.1. Genetic Algorithm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 763
3.2.2. Particle swarm optimization (PSO) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 764
3.2.3. Simulated annealing (SA) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 764
3.2.4. Other new generation approaches . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 764
3.2.5. Hybrid algorithm optimization techniques. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 765
4. Discussion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 766
5. Conclusion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 767
References . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 767

Nomenclature CRF ¼ capital recovery factor

Tc ¼ cell temperature
V ci cut-in wind speed ηc ¼ charge efficiency (depends on the SOC and the char-
V co cut out wind speed ging current and has a value between 0.65 and 0.85)
Ib direct normal solar radiations Cs ¼ cost of solar PV system
P f aliure load which cannot be served within a time period ηdis ¼ discharge efficiency (generally taken equal to 1)
Pw power output from wind turbine generator. σ ðtÞ ¼ hourly self-discharge rate depending on the battery
ηPV PV system efficiency state (taken constant at about 0.02%)
Pr rated power of a wind turbine i¼ interest rate
Vr rated speed of the wind turbine C bat ¼ nominal capacity of the battery (A h).
α power law exponent Pw ¼ power generated from wind turbine
P total total load T proj ¼ project life time
CB cost of battery bank APV ¼ PV system area
C other cost of other systems and accessories Tr ¼ reference temperature for cell efficiency
Cw cost of wind system C ann ¼ total annualized cost
Id diffuse solar radiations P load ¼ total load to be delivered or load demand
ηw efficiency of wind turbine generator and correspond- P total ¼ total power generated from resources
ing converter, COE cost of energy
Edef icit energy deficit within a certain time period (t) DOD depth of discharge,
P load load demand during a period LA level of autonomy
ηm module efficiency LCC life cycle cost
ηpc power conditioning equipment efficiency LLP/LOLP loss of load probability
T f ailure power failure time period LOLH loss of load hours
Ps power generated from solar PV system LOLR loss of load risk
IT solar radiation on a tilted surface LPSP loss of power supply probability
Rd tilt factor for the diffused solar radiation. NPC net present cost
Rr tilt factor for the reflected solar radiation. p cumulative probability of meteorological status which
H total total hours of operation corresponds to electrical energy generation
H LOL total number of hours during which loss of load q probability of failure
(LOL) occurs SOC state of charge
Aw total swept area SPL system performance level
C total total system cost UL unmet load
T total total working time V and V0 wind speeds at heights h and h0 (h0 is the reference
β¼ array efficiency temperature coefficient height).

1. Introduction resource availability at a particular location, but in the present

The fossil fuel resources are becoming scarce due to ever
increasing energy demand in commercial, industrial, agricultural
and domestic sector. In this context, alternative energy resources
like solar, wind, biomass, bio-fuel, hydro and geothermal etc. are
being utilized largely to generate power in recent years. A renew-
able energy based hybrid system offers a better option than a
single source based system in terms of cost, reliability and
efficiency. One or more energy sources can be utilized in renew-
able energy based hybrid systems (REHS) which can work as stand
alone or in a grid connected mode. Different types of hybrid
system combinations are feasible depending on the need and
study we have focused only on PV–wind based hybrid systems as
solar and wind are most promising power generating sources due
to their complementary nature advantage. Wind speeds are often
low in periods when the solar resource is at its best. On the other
hand, the wind is often stronger in seasons when there are less
solar resource. But these sources depend on climatic conditions
which are unpredictable thus making the design of a hybrid
system complex. In order to improve the reliability of a PV wind
hybrid system other sources like fuel cell, diesel generator can also
be integrated. Such a hybrid system can meet the basic power
requirements in a non-electrified remote area where grid power is
not available. Besides this our main research focus in the present
 S. Sinha, S.S. Chandel / Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews 50 (2015) 755–769
study is on PV wind based hybrid system applications in urban,
rural and remote regions. However, the techniques covered are
also useful for studying other types of hybrid systems.
A solar–wind hybrid system consists of PV array, wind turbine,
battery bank, inverter, controller, and other accessories. The
schematic is shown (Fig. 1).The generated power from solar and
wind energy charge the battery after meeting load demand but if
generated power is less than demand then battery will supply the
load as per storage capacity.
The steps to be followed for the efficient design and planning of
a PV–wind based hybrid system, are shown in Fig. 2.
There are some constraints in the formulation and solution of
the designing and optimization approach like resource availability,
technology, efficiency, mathematical models and many more. But
advancement in computational techniques has made it easy to
deal with optimization problems by using a number of optimiza-
tion and simulation techniques. A number of simulation tools
HOMER (Hybrid Optimization Model of Electric Renewable),
HYBRID2 (The Hybrid Power System Simulation Model), HOGA
(Hybrid Optimization using Genetic Algorithm) etc. are used for
optimizing, designing and performance evaluation of PV–wind
Fig. 1. Schematic of a solar–wind hybrid system.
Fig. 2. Basic steps for renewable energy based hybrid system design and planning.
757
hybrid systems as discussed in a comprehensive review by Sinha
and Chandel [1]. However, these softwares have some limitations
like black box coding, different working platforms, unavailability
of some of the softwares and are also not as flexible as optimiza-
tion techniques which can be used as per research criteria.
Sizing and optimization techniques must efficiently search for
an optimum combination of parameters like system cost, system
reliability, PV system size, tilt angle of PV panels, battery size, wind
turbine size with hub height because, over sizing causes higher
system costs and under sizing causes insufficient power supply. A
number of authors have carried out detailed reviews on sizing and
optimization techniques [2–10]. Summary highlights of these
studies are given in Table 1.
The paper is organized as follows: Section 2 provides an
overview of PV–wind hybrid system sizing methodologies;
Section 3 gives a literature survey on optimization techniques
used in PV–wind based hybrid system research; Section 4 deals
with discussion on the recent trends of optimization followed by
Conclusion in Section 5.
2. PV–wind hybrid system sizing methodologies
In this section sizing methodologies, requirements, criteria,
mathematical modeling, conditions and execution process for a
PV–wind based hybrid system are discussed.
2.1. Requirements for PV–wind hybrid system optimization
The input parameters required for a PV–wind hybrid system
optimization are as follows.
2.1.1. Meteorological data
Analysis of meteorological characteristics of the location has to be
made for optimization process. Measured solar and wind resource
data are the main inputs for PV wind hybrid based system optimiza-
tion. The time series measured minute wise, hourly or daily weather
data are preferable. In case measured data are not available for the
location then satellite based data or estimated data can also be used
for preliminary studies if accuracy is not the major consideration.
2.1.2. Load profile
Yearly electric load demand profile is one of the necessary steps
to design-planning and optimization of a hybrid system. It is
difficult to find out and also complicated to analyze real load
demand with all minute fluctuations, therefore hourly or daily
averages of load demand is generally used for design-optimization
purpose. But to have a real or nearest to real load variations for all
the seasons is really difficult task, if it fails then system designed
can be oversized or undersized.
2.1.3. System configuration
After the prefeasibility studies based on weather data (e.g. wind
speed, solar irradiation and temperature) and load demand the
selection of proper sizing of equipment can be made. But this sizing
process must be according to nature of PV and wind, e.g. if the study
location have good solar potential than wind then the hybrid system
must be configured with maximum share of PV system and minimum
share of wind system.
2.1.4. Energy system model
Energy system models are the mathematical models developed to
represent various energy-related problems reliably. These models are
used to identify and solve problems using various computing
systems. The accuracy of the developed models for PV/wind system
758 S. Sinha, S.S. Chandel / Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews 50 (2015) 755–769

Table 1
Summary highlights of review studies on sizing and optimization of renewable energy based hybrid systems.

Reference/ Systems studied Topics covered Highlights

year of
study

Zhou et al. Only standalone PV–wind hybrid systems  Criteria for optimizations and simulation  Artificial intelligence techniques are identified to
[2] modeling of photovoltaic system, wind energy be promising which requires to be further
system, battery storage system explored
 Software tools for hybrid solar–wind system
reviewed are
○ HOMER
○ HYBRID2
○ HOGA

 Sizing methods reviewed are

○ Graphic construction method
○ Probabilistic approach
○ Iterative technique
○ Artificial Intelligence method
○ Multi Objective optimization

Erdinc and Covers all types of renewable energy based  Software tools discussed are: HOMER, HYBRID2, Promising techniques identified are:
Uzunoglu hybrid systems. The General Algebraic Modeling System (GAMS),  Ant colony algorithm
[3] Optimization of Renewable Intermittent Energies  Artificial immune system algorithm
with Hydrogen for Autonomous Electrification  Tabu Search
(ORIENTE), OptQuest, LINDO, WDILOG2, Dividing  Honey Bee Mating Algorithm
Rectangles (DIRECT), Determining Optimum  Bacterial Foraging Algorithm
Integration of RES (DOIRES),Simulation of  Game Theory
Photovoltaic Energy Systems (SimPhoSys), Geo-
Spatial Planner for Energy Investment Strategies, Hybrid methodologies require to be improved
Grid-connected Renewable Hybrid Systems further
Optimization (GRHYSO), H2RES
 Optimization techniques discussed are:
○ Genetic algorithm
○ Particle swarm optimization
○ Simulated annealing
○ Linear programming
○ Simplex algorithm
○ Neural Networks
○ Evolutionary algorithm
○ Stochastic, iterative, probabilistic,
parametric and numerical approaches

Fadaee and Study covers PV–battery, PV–wind–battery  Optimization Techniques reviewed:  GA and PSO as most useful and promising multi
Radzi[4] and PV–wind–diesel–battery hybrid systems ○ Genetic Algorithm objective optimization methods in hybrid
○ Honey Bee mating Optimization system design
○ Particle Swarm Optimization
○ Evolutionary Algorithm
○ Artificial Intelligence
○ Pareto-based multi-objective optimization
and parallel processing

Luna-Rubio Study includes all types of renewable energy  Reviewed hybrid system performance indicators  Study suggests hybrid optimization
et al. [5] based hybrid systems (Loss of power supply probability (LPSP), methodologies are superior to other methods.
Levelized cost of energy (LCE))
○ Hybrid energy system sizing
methodologies reviewed are:
○ Probabilistic methods,
○ Iterative methods,
○ Hybrid methods (Genetic Algorithm,
Artificial Intelligence)
○ Analytical methods including commercial
software tools and/or numerical
approximations of system component)

Khatib et al. Study includes standalone and grid
[6] connected PV systems, PV–diesel generator
systems, PV–wind systems, PV–wind–diesel
generator systems
 Standalone PV systems size optimization  Artificial intelligence techniques have the
methods reviewed are: potential to improve the process of optimization.
○ Intuitive methods
○ Numerical methods
○ Analytical methods
○ Other methods (Artificial Intelligence)
 S. Sinha, S.S. Chandel / Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews 50 (2015) 755–769 759

Table 1 (continued )

Reference/ Systems studied Topics covered Highlights

year of
study

 Reviewed grid connected hybrid systems sizing

optimization methods:
○ Intuitive methods
○ Numerical methods
○ Artificial intelligence methods

Upadhyay Covers all types of renewable energy based  Discussed design parameters, evaluation criteria  Hybrid optimization methodologies are
and hybrid systems and control and energy management of hybrid recommended for hybrid system research to
Sharma energy systems avoid the limitation of one methodology
[7]  Software tools reviewed are:
○ HOMER
○ HOGA
○ RETScreen
○ HYBRIDS
○ TRNSYS

 Sizing methodologies reviewed are:

○ Graphic construction methods
○ Probabilistic methods
○ Analytical methods
○ Iterative methods
○ Artificial intelligence methods
○ Hybrid methods

Chauhan Covers all types of renewable energy based  Reviewed various types of integrated  Concludes artificial intelligence techniques as a
and Saini hybrid systems configurations (DC coupled, AC coupled, Hybrid better technique than other deterministic
[8] DC–AC coupled) and various options for energy methods
storage technologies with system control and  Genetic algorithm (GA), harmony search (HS),
management particle swarm optimization (PSO), biogeography
 Mathematical model for wind, Micro-hydro, based optimization (BBO) are the most promising
solar, biomass gasifier energy systems are studied Algorithms in future research
 Reviewed various sizing methodologies used in
hybrid system study
○ Artificial intelligence
○ Multi objective design
○ Iterative approach
○ Analytical method
○ Probabilistic approach
○ Graphical construction method

 Software tools reviewed are:

○ HOMER
○ HOGA
○ RET Screen
○ HYBRIDS
○ TRNSYS

Bourennani Focused on solar–wind–fuel cell based Multi-Objective Optimizations (MOO) for Hybrid Article concludes that hybrid energy system
et al. [9] hybrid systems Energy System Design requires more interaction between both energy and
MOO research
Bhandari Study covers PV–wind–diesel–battery hybrid  Reviewed energy scenario and various types of Study concludes that artificial intelligence may
et al. systems optimal design criteria provide good optimization of system without
[104]  Mathematical model for wind, solar, battery, extensive long term weather data
diesel generator systems are studied
 Reviewed various sizing methodologies used in
hybrid system study
○ Graphical construction method
○ Probabilistic approach
○ Iterative approach
○ Artificial intelligence

 Software based approach: HOMER

760 S. Sinha, S.S. Chandel / Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews 50 (2015) 755–769

components is important in optimizing. Therefore these models must
include all necessary variables which affect energy conversion. These
mathematical models should use simple concepts but in many cases
the complexity of a model increases or researcher may not include
some important factors which may lead to inaccuracy.
2.1.5. Optimization results
Optimization results must be accurate enough to avoid excess
or deficit power and it is only possible if above four steps are
followed. Although power generation from PV–wind system is
location dependant process, yet generalization of optimization
results for nearby location is also important.
2.2. Criteria for PV–wind hybrid system optimization
2.2.1. Reliability analysis
The dependency on nature and unpredictability of solar and
wind resources have a great impact on energy production which
leads to unreliable power supply during cloudy or non windy days.
A system is reliable if it is able to supply required power to the
electrical load within a specific time period. A power reliability
analysis is essential for system design and optimization process.
There are several methods in literature to calculate the reliability
of a hybrid energy system which are summarized in Table 2.
2.2.2. Cost analysis
Cost analysis of a hybrid system is important for optimization so as
to deliver energy at minimum cost. There are several methods used to
calculate cost of a hybrid energy system like net present cost, life cycle
cost and cost of energy which are summarized in Table 3.

A PV–wind hybrid system has to be optimally designed to deliver 2.3. Modeling of hybrid system components
power for a particular load demand reliably. The optimum hybrid
system configuration must satisfy and compromise between two main The performance of a hybrid solar–wind system is dependent
objectives: power reliability and system cost. on its components. The mathematical modeling equations of a PV

Table 2
Methods to determine reliability of hybrid energy systems.

Sl. Reliability criteria/method Definition and representation Reference

no.

1 Loss of power supply Most widely used method in which probability of insufficient power supply to load demand is taken into account while [11]
probability (LPSP) designing the hybrid system. LPSP is the ratio of power supply deficits to the electric load demand during a certain period
Pn
Edef icit
LPSP ¼ t P
¼ 1
n
P load
t ¼ 1

2 Loss of load probability Defined as the power failure time period divided by the total working time of the hybrid system [11]
(LLP/LOLP)
3 Unmet load (UL) The load which cannot be served divided by the total load of a time period (normally one year) [11]
Pn
P f ailure
UL ¼ t P
¼ 1
n
P total
t ¼ 1

4 System performance level
(SPL)
5 Loss of load hours (LOLH)
6 Loss of load risk (LOLR)
7 Level of autonomy (LA)
SPL is defined as the probability of unsatisfied load [12]
LOLH is the summation of loss of load expectation in hours over a specified time (usually one year) that the power system [13]
is unable to meet load requirements due to lack of power at an instant excluding the effects of component breakdown or
maintenance time
LOLR is defined as the probability of the generating system failure to meet the daily electrical energy demand due to [14]
deficient energy of the renewable energy sources used
LOLR can be can be represent as
LOLR ¼ 1  p Or LOLR ¼ q
LA deals with two main parameters namely the total number of hours in which loss of load (LOL) occurs and the total [5]
hours of operation. If autonomy increases system will be more reliable but same time cost will be higher
LA ¼ 1  HHtotal
LOL

Table 3
Cost analysis methods of hybrid energy system.

Sl. Cost analysis Definition and representation Reference

no. method

1 Net present cost NPC reflects cost of energy for a particular system and is defined as the ratio of the total annualized cost of the system to the annual [2]
electricity delivered by the system. NPC is total present value of cash flows including initial cost of system components, replacement
cost of any component within project lifetime, and cost of maintenance, i.e. investment costs plus the discounted present values of
all future costs during system’s lifetime
C ann
NPC ¼ CRFði;T proj Þ

2 Life cycle cost LCC deals with sum of all recurring and one-time (non-recurring) costs over the full life span or a specified period of a good, service, [2]
structure, or system
Includes purchase price, installation cost, operating costs, maintenance and upgrade costs, and remaining (residual or salvage)
value at the end of ownership or its useful life
3 Cost of energy COE reflects the cost of energy or electricity generation and as the ratio of total annualized cost of the system to the annual [2]
electricity delivered by the system. Total annualized cost includes all the costs over the system’s lifetime from initial investment and
capital costs, to operations and maintenance (e.g. fuel) and financing costs
COE¼ total cost/energy produced
 S. Sinha, S.S. Chandel / Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews 50 (2015) 755–769 761

system, wind system and battery system are described in this During charging process
section.
SOCðt þ 1Þ ¼ SOCðtÞ:½1  σ ðtÞ þ½I bat ðtÞ:Δt:ηc ðtÞ=C bat  ð9Þ
During discharging process
2.3.1. Modeling of photovoltaic system
The power output from PV system with area Apv (m2) is given SOCðt þ 1Þ ¼ SOCðtÞ:½1  σ ðtÞ ½I bat ðtÞ:Δt=ηdis ðtÞ=C bat ð10Þ
by:
With ð1  DODÞ rSOCðtÞ r1
P ¼ I T APV ηPV ð1Þ
where IT is expressed as 2.4. Conditions and steps for the execution of a hybrid optimization
problem
I T ¼ I b Rb þ I d Rd þ ðI b þI d ÞR ð2Þ
The PV system efficiency is expressed as The two main conditions to be fulfilled for a good designed
hybrid system are maximum power reliability and minimum cost.
ηPV ¼ ηm ηpc ½1  βðT c  T r Þ ð3Þ
Total energy generated by wind and PV systems can be
expressed as
2.3.2. Modeling of wind generator system P total ¼ P w þ P s ð11Þ
Power output of wind turbines for a location depends on wind
The total energy generated may or may not satisfy the load
speed at hub height which can be calculated using power-law
demand and three different situations may arise depending upon
equation given below
the load demand and total power generated which are shown as:
 α
V h
¼ ð4Þ i. P total ¼ P load
V0 h0
Total energy generated matches the load demand, so there is
Total power available from wind turbine is given by: no excess and deficiency in power.
P ¼ P w Aw ηw ð5Þ ii. P total o P load
Total energy generated is less than the load demand, so there
Different wind turbines have different power output and perfor-
will be a deficiency in power and battery will have to supply
mance curves. Therefore, the modeling equation of a wind system is
the load.
strongly influenced by the power curve of the wind turbine used.
iii. P total 4 P load
Fig. 3 shows a typical wind turbine power curve characteristics and
using this curve power output Pw (kW/m2) from wind generator can
Total energy generated is greater than the load demand, so
be calculated as follows
8 excess power is generated and battery will be charged.
>
< 0; if V o V ci and V 4V co The optimum combination of a solar–wind hybrid system can
Pw ¼ aV 3  bP r ; if V ci oV o V r ð6Þ make the best compromise with system cost. The economical
>
:P ;
r if V r oV o V co approach is composed of minimization of the costs of individual
components like PV, battery, wind system etc. This cost includes
where a and b are the co-efficients are given as capital, maintenance and replacement cost of various components
Pr of the system.
a¼  ð7Þ The total cost can be expressed as
V 3r  V ci
C total ¼ fC s þ C w þ C B þ C other gmin ð12Þ
V 3ci The optimization process is shown in flow chart (Fig. 4).The
b¼   ð8Þ
V r  V 3ci
3 first step of the optimal sizing methodology consists of providing
meteorological data–electric load demand and system input data.
The second step consists of mathematical equations with relia-
2.3.3. Modeling of battery system bility and cost conditions. The next step is using optimization
Battery is used to store surplus generated energy, to regulate methods fulfilling the criteria of system configuration.
system voltage and to supply load in case of insufficient power
generation occurs from the hybrid system. Battery sizing depends
3. Optimization techniques used in PV–wind based hybrid
on maximum depth of discharge (DOD), temperature and battery
research
life. A battery’s state of charge (SOC) is expressed as follows:

The power supplied by solar and wind resources mainly depends

Fig. 3. Wind turbine power curve.
on meteorological conditions so it is necessary to maximize the power
during sunny or windy days with properly optimally sized design.
There is a continuously increasing interest in the development of
hybrid energy systems using various optimal sizing techniques. The
classification of optimization algorithm can be carried out in a number
of ways but in this paper the algorithms are divided into two simplest
categories namely traditional approaches and new generation
approaches. A traditional approach follows a rigorous procedure for
example linear programming, iterative techniques etc. whereas new
generation approaches are genetic algorithm, particle swarm
optimization etc.
In this section an overview of various optimization techniques
used in PV–wind hybrid systems are described.
762 S. Sinha, S.S. Chandel / Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews 50 (2015) 755–769
Fig. 4. General execution process followed in optimal sizing of hybrid systems.
3.1. Traditional approach for optimization
A number of studies have been carried out using like graphical
construction method, iterative techniques etc which are
discussed below.
3.1.1. Graphical construction technique
Borowy and Salameh [15] presented a graphical construction
technique for finding optimum combination of a stand-alone PV–
wind hybrid system based on long-term meteorological data. For a
typical load consumption of a house in Massachusetts and a desired
LPSP, the optimum configuration of battery bank and PV array was
calculated based on the minimum cost of the system. Markvart [16]
used graphical technique to optimally design a solar–wind hybrid
power generation system using monthly-average solar and wind
energy values. This is a basic and easily understandable method with
no complexity, but this technique is not used currently as it is not
flexible and is based on various approximations.
3.1.2. Iterative techniques
An iterative method is a mathematical procedure that generates
approximate solutions for problems. This is a recursive process which
stops when the best configuration is reached as per specifications. In
hybrid renewable energy research, iterative approach is used from
beginning to design and optimize. Yang et al. [17] proposed a Hybrid
Solar–Wind System Optimization (HSWSO) model, using iterative
optimization technique. For power reliability and system cost, authors
considered LPSP and Levelized Cost of Energy model with parameters
like capacity of PV system, rated power of wind system, and capacity
of the battery bank. An iterative optimization method was used by
Kellogg et al. [18,19] to optimize the wind turbine size and number of
PV modules. Diaf et al. [20] used a methodology to perform optimal
sizing of an autonomous hybrid PV–wind system among a set of
systems components, which meets the desired system reliability
requirements and lowest levelized cost of energy.
Prasad and Natarajan [21] used an iterative technique to determine
the optimum size of solar panels, wind turbines and capacity of
batteries of a hybrid system based on deficiency of power supply
probability (DPSP), relative excess power generated (REPG), unutilized
energy probability (UEP), life cycle cost (LEC), levelized energy cost
(LEC) and life cycle unit cost (LUC) of power generation with battery
bank. Borowy and Salameh [22] determined optimum size of a battery
bank and PV array for a stand-alone hybrid wind–PV system and
concluded that the optimum mix depends on the particular site, load
profile, and the desired reliability of the hybrid system. Ashok [23]
proposed an iterative method where an optimal hybrid system was
obtained among different renewable energy combinations including
PV and wind technology ensuring system’s reliability and minimum
life cycle cost which is applicable to renewable power generation in
any rural village.
Iterative optimization method requires more computational
efforts and usually two main parameters PV module tilt angle
and wind turbine tower height are not optimized in most of the
reported studies.
3.1.3. Probabilistic approach
A probabilistic model is that where there are multiple possible
outcomes, with varying degrees of certainty or uncertainty of
occurrence. Probabilistic approach considers the effect of random
variability of parameters. Probabilistic approaches enable variation
and uncertainty to be quantified, mainly by using distributions
instead of fixed values. This technique is also used by some
researchers to solve hybrid system sizing problem. However, the
probabilistic approach cannot represent the dynamic changing
performance of the hybrid system which is main disadvantage of
this method.
Bagul et al. [24] used probabilistic approach to determine the
relation between number of photovoltaic arrays and batteries to
meet a given reliability if wind turbine rated capacity and load
demand are known. Karaki et al. [25] used a probabilistic treat-
ment of an autonomous solar–wind energy conversion system
delivering a load. The methodology used fix an upper limit on
required storage batteries and predicts the expected energy not
supplied (EENS) to the hybrid system considering charging/dis-
charging cycles of the batteries. Combination of the two separate
PV and wind models were obtained and convolution theory was
used. Tina et al. [26] used probabilistic approach for the long-term
performance assessment of a solar–wind hybrid system for stand-
alone and grid-linked applications and developed an analytical
model. The authors modified the model developed by Karaki et al.
[25] using energy index of reliability (EIR). The validity of the
developed probabilistic model is shown and results are compared
with those obtained from time-series simulation.
3.1.4. Trade-off approach
This approach is not widely used in hybrid system sizing and
not much literature is available on this method. Chedid et al. [27]
used trade-off/risk method and presented a decision support
technique to study the design of a hybrid solar–wind power
system for grid-connected applications based on simultaneous
maximization of reliability and minimization of cost. Gavanidou
and Bakirtzis [28] applied the method in the design of a standa-
lone system. The outcome of the method is not a unique “optimal”
design, but a small set of robust designs and the final decision is
left to the decision makers. The main disadvantage of this
approach is that emission control, which has a major influence
on the final trade-off curve, is not taken into account.
3.1.5. Linear programming technique
The linear programming method was first developed by Leonid
Kantorovich in 1939 and is a widely used technique for sizing and
optimization of renewable systems. Chedid and Rehman [29]
proposed an optimal design of wind–solar hybrid system using this
technique to minimize the cost of electricity while meeting the load
requirements in a reliable manner along with considering
 S. Sinha, S.S. Chandel / Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews 50 (2015) 755–769 763

environmental factors. Huneke et al. [30] used linear programming
to obtain optimal configuration for a solar–wind–battery–diesel
based power generator combination for two real off-grid energy
systems in India and Colombia. The optimization results for both
studies show the feasible combination of PV–battery and diesel
generator. Nogueira et al. [31] used the methodology for sizing and
simulation of a PV–wind–battery hybrid energy system and linear
programming with minimum cost and high reliability. Lee et al. [32]
formulated a Linear programming based new optimization model
for hybrid power systems considering various power losses and
studied three case studies. The main focus was not on minimizing
the total cost of the system but on minimizing the outsourced
electricity supply and electricity storage capacity. Saif et al. [33]
formulated a problem of a PV–wind–diesel–battery hybrid power
system as a Linear Programming model with two objectives:
minimizing total cost and minimizing total CO2 emissions, while
capping the Expected Unserved Energy (EUE). Nagabhushana et al.
[34] used LP to calculate the sizes of the components of a PV–wind
hybrid renewable energy system for three locations in Karnataka.
Among all the techniques discussed above, linear programming
technique is found to be best than other approaches as it improves the
quality of decision. Also linear programming technique is more flexible
than other methods and a wide range of problems can be solved easily.
Comparison of various traditional hybrid system optimization
techniques are summarized in Table 4.
3.2. New generation approach for optimization
This approach is widely used now-a-days in renewable energy
research to solve optimization and design problems. These are not
restricted to local optimum configuration but also to determine
global optimum system configuration with relative computational
simplicity as compared to traditional optimization methods.
3.2.1. Genetic Algorithm
Genetic Algorithm (GA) is a search process that mimics the
process of natural selection and was developed by John Holland in
1960–1970 period [35,36].GA generates solutions to optimization
problems using techniques inspired by natural evolution such as
inheritance, mutation, selection, and crossover. GA has several
advantages: it can solve problems with multiple solutions, easy to
understand and can easily be transferred to existing simulations
and models etc. It has some limitations like a tendency to converge
towards local optima or even arbitrary points rather than the
global optimum of the problem, cannot assure constant optimiza-
tion response times etc. A number of researches have used the
application of GA for the optimal design and operation of PV–wind
based hybrid energy systems.
An optimal sizing of standalone PV–wind systems is proposed
by Koutroulis et al. [37] using GA to select the optimal number of
units with minimum cost, subject to load demand fulfillment. In
another study Koutroulis et al. [38] presented a GA based optimal
sizing of desalination systems by PV–wind generators as a power-
supplied unit. Yang et al. [39–40] used GA to optimize the
configurations of hybrid solar–wind–battery bank system where
the decision variables are the number of PV modules, wind
turbines and batteries, the PV slope angle and wind turbine tower
height. This method was proposed for a hybrid system which
supplies power for a telecommunication relay station. Bilal et al.
[41] proposed an optimized sizing of a hybrid solar–wind–battery
system through multi-objective genetic algorithm satisfying two
principle aims of annualized cost minimization and minimization
of the loss of power supply probability (LPSP). Nafeh [42] used GA
to yield optimum PV wind, and battery ratings with minimum cost
and power reliability. Abdullrahman and Addoweesh [43] pro-
posed a methodology of optimum sizing of a PV–wind–diesel–
battery hybrid system using GA including the effect of wind
turbine parameters such as rated speed and rated power. The
decision variables included in the optimization process are the PV
array capacity, wind turbine number, battery bank number and
diesel generator rated power. Atia and Yamada [44] adopted a two
layer (main and secondary) genetic algorithm coupled with a local
optimizer known as a Hybrid Genetic Algorithm (HGA) and used in
designing and controlling of PV–wind–diesel systems. Authors
also found that the HGA is more powerful algorithm than the
conventional GA. Merei et al. [45] used GA to optimize PV–wind–
diesel–battery hybrid system with three different battery technol-
ogies. A controlled elitist genetic algorithm has been applied by
Abbes et al. [46] to perform a multi-objective design of PV–wind–
battery hybrid system in order to find the best compromise
between three objectives: life cycle cost (LCC), system embodied
energy (EE) and loss of power supply probability (LPSP). Shi et al.
[47] used multi-objective genetic algorithm to study techno-
economical performance of the PV–wind hybrid energy system
and optimized three objectives e.g. total system cost, autonomy
level, and wasted energy rate with the PV array peak power, the
wind generator rated power and the rated capacitor of the battery
as decisive variables. Mostofi and Shayeghi [48] used GA to solve
the optimization problem of a PV–wind–hydro–fuel cell hybrid

Table 4
Comparison of various traditional approaches used for PV–wind based hybrid system optimization.

Technique Highlights Strength Weakness Reference

Graphical Presents graphical solution of
construction optimization problem
technique
Iterative approach It is a recursive process which stops
when the best configuration is
reached as per design specifications
Probabilistic Based on the effects of random
approach variability of upon the performance
of an system
Trade-off method Based on a situation that involves
losing one quality or aspect of
something in return for gaining
another quality or aspect
Linear programming Based on a mathematical model
represented by linear relationships
Easy to understand and use
Easy to understand; Tracks defects at early
stages
Easy to understand and use
Easy to understand
Best suitable for solving complex problems;
simple to use; more flexible than any other
methods; a wide range of problems can be
solved easily
Some important factors (like tilt angle of PV, [15–16]
wind turbine hub height) are completely
neglected in this technique
Each phase of iteration is rigid with no overlaps [17–23]
It cannot represent the dynamic changing [24–26]
performance of the hybrid system
Not much used in renewable energy [27–28]
applications
Linearity in relation of variables; assumptions [29–34]
of linear programming are also unrealistic:
there is a change in relation between input,
output gain, loss etc.
764 S. Sinha, S.S. Chandel / Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews 50 (2015) 755–769
system and compared results with HOMER software and con-
cluded that GA has better accuracy than HOMER. Shadmand and
Balog [49] presented Multi-Objective Genetic Algorithm (MOGA)
to determine the PV–wind hybrid system design, optimized by
considering multiple criteria including size, cost, and availability.
Tégani et al. [50] used GA for optimal sizing of PV–wind hybrid
system with a lifespan of 20 years. Multi-Objectives Genetic
Algorithm approach is also used by Bilal et al. [51] to design and
optimize a stand-alone hybrid PV/wind/diesel/battery system
minimizing the LCE and the CO2 emission for Senegal.
3.2.2. Particle swarm optimization (PSO)
Particle swarm optimization was developed by Kennedy and
Eberhart [52,53] based on the research of bird and fish movement
behavior. The advantages of PSO are: speed of the researching is
very fast; calculation in PSO is simple as compared to other
methods and can be completed easily. Limitations of this optimi-
zation algorithm are that it cannot work out the problems of non-
coordinate system, easily suffers from the partial optimism etc.
The use of the method in the PV–wind hybrid system is just
beginning and few literatures are reported till now.
Basir and Sadeh [54] have taken a combination of wind,
photovoltaic and tidal energy with battery source and used PSO
to determine the capacity of hybrid system. The Equivalent Loss
Factor (ELF) has been used as an index to evaluate the system
reliability level. The paper also compared hybrid wind, solar and
battery combination with wind, solar, tidal and battery combina-
tion and found the second combination as more economical. Lee
and Chen [55] used an evolutionary PSO algorithm to solve wind–
photovoltaic capacity coordination with the aim of maximizing the
benefit–cost ratio. Kaviani et al. [56] optimized a hybrid wind–
photovoltaic–fuel cell generation system over its 20 years of
operation with PSO. The aim was to minimize the annual cost of
the hybrid system subject to reliable supply to meet load demand.
Bansal et al. [57] used Meta Particle Swarm Optimization (MPSO)
to solve the PV–wind–battery hybrid system optimization pro-
blem. Using this improved PSO technique local minimum trap can
be avoided thus proving it as an effective technique. Sharafi and
ELMekkawy [58] studied PSO simulation based approach to tackle
the multi-objective optimization problem for a hybrid system
consisting of wind turbine, photovoltaic panels, diesel generator,
batteries, fuel cell, electrolyzer and hydrogen tank. Pirhaghshe-
nasvali and Asaei [59] proposed a standalone PV–wind–diesel–
battery based hybrid system for Kerman, Iran and used PSO to
obtain the optimal sizes for wind turbine, PV system, battery
banks and the diesel generator. Borhanazad et al. [60] used Multi-
Objective Particle Swarm Optimization (MOPSO) in order to obtain
the best configuration of the PV–wind–diesel–battery based
hybrid system for three stations in Iran namely Nahavand, Raf-
sanjan, and Khash. Maleki and Askarzadeh [61] used four heuristic
algorithms namely, particle swarm optimization (PSO), tabu search
(TS), simulated annealing (SA), and harmony search (HS) for
optimum sizing of a cost-effective PV–wind–fuel cell and PV–
wind–battery based hybrid systems. The results show that PSO is
more robust and promising than other three algorithms used by
authors. A study to determine the optimum dimensions of hybrid
photovoltaic systems, wind power, and storage battery bank has
been carried out by Maleki et al. [62] in the remote regions of the
South, North-West and North-East of Iran. Authors studied the
performance of five different PSO variants and three more algo-
rithms namely tabu search, simulated annealing and harmony
search (HS). PSO, modified PSO (MPSO), PSO based on repulsion
factor (PSO-RF), PSO with constriction factor (PSO-CF), and PSO
with adaptive inertia weight (PSO-W) these are the variants used
in the study. It has been concluded by the authors that PSO-CF is
more favorable than the other PSO variants and PV–battery based
hybrid systems are suitable for most areas of the country due to
the good solar radiation availability and low windy nature.
3.2.3. Simulated annealing (SA)
Simulated annealing, which mimics material annealing proces-
sing, was developed by Kirkpatrick, Gelatt and Vecchi in 1983 [63].
It is a trajectory based random search technique for global
optimization. The main advantage of simulated annealing is its
ability to avoid being trapped in local minima. Simulated anneal-
ing is a robust and versatile technique which can deal with highly
nonlinear models, chaotic and noisy data and many constraints.
The main weakness of SA is that the quality of the outcome may be
poor. Till now little literature has been reported using SA in this
field. Ekren and Ekren [64] used simulated annealing (SA) algo-
rithm for optimizing size of a PV–wind–battery hybrid energy
system to minimize total cost. The decision variables are PV size,
wind turbine rotor swept area and the battery capacity used by the
authors and found that SA algorithm gives better result than the
Response Surface Methodology (RSM).
3.2.4. Other new generation approaches
Several artificial intelligence based/metaheuristic/heuristic/
nature inspired clever algorithms are formulated and used in
recent years. Some of the techniques which are used in PV–wind
hybrid system studies are discussed in this sub section.
Ant colony algorithms [65–66] were initially proposed by
Marco Dorigo in 1992 in his PhD thesis. The algorithm was aiming
to search for an optimal path in a graph, based on the behavior of
ants seeking a path between their colony and a source of food.
A small renewable hydroelectric, wind and solar resources
based on hybrid hydrogen storage in the northwestern region of
Iran (Ardebil Province) is studied by Menshsari et al. [67]. In this
paper ant colony algorithm is used by authors for improving the
technical and economic performance of the hybrid system. Xu
et al. [68] proposed a specific graph-based ant system to minimize
the total capital cost, subject to the constraint of the LPSP for sizing
of standalone hybrid wind/PV power systems.
Bacterial Foraging Algorithm (BFO) [69] is inspired by the group
foraging behavior of bacteria such as Escherichia coli and Myx-
ococcus xanthus. It is the chemo taxis behavior of bacteria that will
perceive chemical gradients in the environment and move toward
or away from specific signals. Bazyar [70] used Bacterial Foraging
Algorithm (BFA) for an optimal design of integrated wind–PV–
diesel–battery system for supply of power demand in remote and
rural areas of Ardebil, Iran. Result shows that hybrid wind–PV–
diesel–battery is suitable from economical point of view.
Artificial bee colony algorithm (ABC) is an optimization algo-
rithm based on the intelligent foraging behavior of honey bee
swarm, proposed by Karaboga and Basturk [71,72]. In ABC, the
position of a food source represents a possible solution to the
optimization problem and the nectar amount of a food source
corresponds to the quality (fitness) of the associated solution.
Nasiraghdam and Jadid [73] presented a novel multi-objective
artificial bee colony algorithm to solve the distribution system
reconfiguration and hybrid (photovoltaic–wind turbine–fuel cell)
energy system sizing. This article also found total power loss, the
total electrical energy cost, and the total emission produced by hybrid
energy system and grid minimization and the voltage stability index
(VSI) of distribution system maximization. To optimally size a hybrid
energy system based on PV–wind–fuel cell for Rafsanjan, Iran, an
efficient artificial bee swarm optimization (ABSO) algorithm is pro-
posed by Maleki and Askarzadeh [74]. Simulation results shows that
PV–wind–fuel cell is the most cost-effective hybrid system and wind–
fuel cell and PV–fuel cell systems are in the other ranks. Tudu et al.
 S. Sinha, S.S. Chandel / Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews 50 (2015) 755–769
[75] studied the optimal sizing combinations of solar–wind–hydro–
fuel cell based hybrid systems for catering the load of a remote village
of Kerala, India using bee algorithm. Results show that the combina-
tion of hydro–wind–fuel cell is the most feasible hybrid energy system
in relation to the net present cost for the study location. Maleki and
Pourfayaz [76] evaluated the performance of different evolutionary
algorithms for optimum sizing of a PV–wind–battery based hybrid
system which can continuously satisfy a particular load demand with
minimal total annual cost. Total seven heuristic algorithms, namely,
particle swarm optimization, tabu search, simulated annealing,
improved particle swarm optimization (IPSO), improved harmony
search (IHS), improved harmony search-based simulated annealing
(IHSBSA), and artificial bee swarm optimization (ABSO), are applied to
the proposed system and the results are compared in terms of total
annual cost. Authors found that ABSO shows more promising results
than other six algorithm used.
Bio-geography is the science of studying the behavior of species
in nature against time and space and species immigration and
emigration between habitats, which is a probable solution of the
problem. Biogeography-based optimization (BBO) [77] optimizes a
problem by maintaining a population of candidate solutions, and
creating new candidate solutions by combining existing ones
according to a simple formula. BBO belongs to the class of
metaheuristics since it includes many variations, and since it does
not make any assumptions about the problem and can therefore
be applied to a wide class of problems. Kumar et al. [78] used BBO
algorithm to solve the sizing problem of the hybrid PV–wind–
diesel–battery system by considering economical and reliability
constraints of the system to supply in the area of Jaipur, Rajasthan
(India). Authors also made a comparison between HOMER soft-
ware, BBO, GA, PSO, comprehensive learning particle swarm
optimization (CLPSO) [79] and ensemble of mutation and cross-
over strategies and parameters in DE (EPSDE) algorithm [80] and
shown that BBO algorithm is more rapid and give minimum cost
as compared to others. Optimal design of a PV–wind–diesel–
battery system is accomplished through BBO for Jaipur, India by
Gupta et al [81]. For wind speed and solar radiation forecasting
Back propagation trained Artificial Neural Network (BPANN) based
time-series forecasting methods are implemented by authors and
concluded that use of forecast data has high influence on optimal
sizing algorithm performance.
Geem et al. [82] proposed Harmony Search (HS) algorithm,
which is inspired by the improvisation process of jazz musicians.
Optimal sizing of different generation systems (PV–wind–diesel–
battery, wind–diesel–battery, PV–diesel–battery, and diesel alone)
are studied by Maleki and Askarzadeh [83] and found that wind–
diesel–battery is the most cost-effective system for the study area
Rafsanjani, Iran. Authors used discrete version of harmony search
(DHS) and discrete simulated annealing (DSA) for the analysis, and
found that DHS performs better than DSA.
Rashedi et al. [84,85] proposed gravitational search algorithm
(GSA) based on Newton’s law of gravitation and the second law of
motion and superior than the traditional intelligent optimization
algorithms according to optimization precision and convergence
speed. Wu et al. [86] proposed an enhanced gravitational search
algorithm (EGSA) to optimize the unit output and cost for large-
scale wind–PV–battery storage power generation in Zhangbei,
China. Also to demonstrate the superiority of the proposed
algorithm, a comparative analysis among EGSA, ANN and PSO
were applied which shows that the unit cost of power generation
obtained using EGSA is lower than the unit cost of power
generation obtained using PSO and ANN.
Imperialist Competitive Algorithm (ICA) is mainly inspired by
imperialistic competition which is developed in 2007 by Atashpaz-
Gargari and Lucas [87]. ICA starts with an initial population.
Population individuals called countries are divided into two types:
765
colonies and imperialists that all together form some empires.
Imperialistic competition among these empires forms the basis of
ICA. During this competition, weak empires collapse and powerful
ones take possession of their colonies.
Gharavi et al. [88] determines the optimal sizes of autonomous
and non-autonomous PV–wind–electrolyzer–fuel cell based hybrid
system with considerations for economics, reliability indices, and
environmental emissions. Authors used fuzzy logic for multi-
objective problem solving and ICA for optimization purposes. Ranjbar
and Kouhi [89] used GA, PSO and ICA to minimize total cost of PV–
wind–fuel cell based hybrid system and also studied impact of tariff
change on the optimal cost of operation for Kerman province, Iran.
The study deals with three different cases where thermal and
electrical loads are used. Results show that hybrid systems with
multiple source units perform better than single source unit and the
entire algorithms have nearly same results.
Tabu Search [90] originally proposed by Glover, which is an
iterative procedure that starts from a random initial solution and tries
to find a better solution escaping local optima. TS used in PV–wind
hybrid system studies which is discussed in this paper [61–62,76,91].
3.2.5. Hybrid algorithm optimization techniques
The hybrid algorithms are developed using advantages and
disadvantages of two or more optimization methods. The research
in this area has dramatically grown up recently.
Katsigiannis et al. [91] used simulated annealing (SA) and Tabu
Search (TS), for the solution of autonomous hybrid power system’s
optimal sizing problem. In the study minimization of cost of energy is
the main aim and the design variables are: wind turbines size,
photovoltaic system size, diesel generator size, biodiesel generator
size, fuel cells size, batteries size, converter size, and dispatch strategy.
Authors suggested that in compared to the solutions provided by
individual SA or TS methods, hybrid SA-TS improved the obtained
solutions, in terms of quality and convergence.
Askarzadeh [92] presented an optimum design to determine
the number of PV panels, wind turbines and batteries so that the
total annual cost of the hybrid system subject to some constraints
is minimized. Three algorithms are merged namely: chaotic search
(CS), harmony search (HS) and SA to develop a novel discrete
chaotic harmony search-based simulated annealing algorithm
(DCHSSA). Tutkun [93] investigated a power management for
off-grid PV–wind hybrid system using GA and SVM (Support
Vector Machine). In this article binary coded genetic algorithm is
used to minimize the operation cost of this hybrid system and for
power scheduling the SVM regression method. Khatib et al. [94]
studied an optimization of hybrid PV–wind system based on loss
of load probability (LLP) and system cost using hybrid iterative/
genetic algorithm. Authors used the algorithm in two parts firstly a
set of possible configurations for the proposed system is deter-
mined by using the iterative part, while in second part the genetic
algorithm is applied to find the optimum configuration. Dehghan
et al. [95] hybridized PSO and HS algorithm to find optimal sizing
of a hybrid PV–wind plant which can supply the electric load
demand in a reliable manner and minimum costs. Zhou and Sun
[96] proposed an improved Simulated Annealing Particle Swarm
Optimization (SAPSO) algorithm to optimize a wind–solar–bat-
tery–super capacitor based hybrid system. Basic objective of this
work is to minimize one-time investment and operation costs
where the constraints are utilization rate and reliability of power
supply. Authors also compared the proposed SAPSO algorithm
with traditional PSO algorithm and the result shows that new
algorithm is faster than the traditional one and effectiveness of the
new hybrid algorithm is shown. Abdelhak et al. [97] proposed an
optimum sizing methodology for PV–wind–battery hybrid system
by using Fuzzy-Adaptive Genetic Algorithm. This Algorithm is used
766 S. Sinha, S.S. Chandel / Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews 50 (2015) 755–769

Table 5
Comparison of new generation optimization techniques for PV–wind hybrid systems.

Technique Highlights Strength Weakness Reference

Genetic Mimics process of natural evolution, like Can solve problems with multiple solutions; Convergence speed is slower than other [35–51]
Algorithm inheritance, mutation, selection, and easily transferable to existing simulations and stochastic algorithms; cannot assure
crossover models constant optimization response times etc.
Solve problems with multiple solutions;
available in MATLAB toolbox
Particle swarm Mimics bird and fish movement behavior Cannot work out the problems of non-
Speed of the researching is fast; calculation in [52–62],
optimization PSO is simple in comparison to other coordinate system; easily suffers from the [76]
methods; can be completed easily partial optimism etc.
Simulated Mimics an analogy between the way in Can deal with highly nonlinear models, There is a clear tradeoff between the quality [61–
annealing which a metal cools and freezes into a chaotic and noisy data and many constraints; of the solutions and the time required to 64,76]
minimum energy crystalline structure (the robust and general technique; flexible with compute; tailoring work is required to
annealing process) ability to approach global optimality; quite account for different classes of constraints
Fine-tuning of parameters of the algorithm
versatile as it does not rely on any restrictive
properties of the model can be rather delicate; significant effect
upon the quality of the outcome
Ant algorithms Inspired by the pheromone-based strategy of Algorithm has the strength in both local and Random initialization; algorithm has several [65–68]
ants foraging in nature; foraging behavior of global searches; implemented with several parameters; parameters need to be tuned;
ants is based on finding the shortest path optimization problems probabilistic approach in the local search
between source and their nests
Bee-inspired Based on the intelligent foraging behavior of Algorithm has local search and global search Random initialization; algorithm has several [69–81],
algorithms honey bee ability; implemented with several parameters
optimization problems; easy to use; available
for hybridization combination with other
algorithms
Harmony Based on improvisation process of jazz Does not require differential gradients, thus it Complex solving process [61–62],
search musicians can consider discontinuous functions as well [76,82–
as continuous functions; can handle discrete 83]
variables as well as continuous variables;
does not require initial value setting for the
variables; free from divergence; ability to
perform global and local search
Biogeography- Biogeography is the science of studying the Fast computation time; good convergence Poor in exploiting the solutions; no provision [77–81],
based behavior of species in nature against time accuracy for selecting the best members from each
optimization and space and species immigration and generation; sometimes many infeasible
(BBO) emigration between habitats, which is a solutions are generated
probable solution of the problem
Gravitational Based on Newton’s law of gravitation and the Good calculation accuracy; fast convergence Suffering from premature convergence [84–86]
search second law of motion speed problem sometime
algorithm GSA obtains
the optimal solution when particles attract
one another and bond
together to become a large entity
Imperialist The ICA based on a socio-politically inspired High convergence accuracy, appropriate for Complex process [87–89]
competition optimization strategy optimization of nonlinear hybrid power
algorithm generation system problems with high
dimensions
Tabu search Tabu search is a metaheuristic search Enhances the performance of local search; [61–
method employing local search methods fast computation 62,76,90–
used for mathematical optimization 91]
Hybrid Developed by using two or more algorithms Better accuracy in results; takes less Increased complexity; difficult to code [91–99]
optimization computational time (in some cases); much
techniques more competitive than any individual
method

to obtain the optimal number of photovoltaic panels, wind
turbines and storages units ensuring the minimum cost and full
availability of energy to meet load requirements. Authors con-
cludes that fuzzy-adaptive GA is better than standard GA after
comparing results of analysis using these two techniques. Mukh-
taruddin et al. [98] used a hybrid Iterative-Pareto-Fuzzy (IPF)
technique to obtain the best compromised solution between PV–
wind–battery hybrid system that yields minimum cost and max-
imum reliability in a study location of Kuala Terengganu, Malaysia.
Multi Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) optimization approach, a
procedure based on both Multi Objective Genetic Algorithm
(MOGA) and Multi Criteria Decision Making (MCDM) is proposed
by Alsayed et al. [99] for optimal design of grid connected
photovoltaic–wind hybrid system.
Among all the discussed new generation algorithms in this section,
GA is found to be mostly used in PV–wind hybrid system sizing
although it suffers from some shortcomings. Table 5 shows a
summary of the discussed new generation optimization techniques.
4. Discussion
Concise sizing methodologies for PV–wind based hybrid sys-
tems including various requirements, criteria conditions and
execution process with mathematical models of PV system, wind
generator and battery bank are presented in this review. Various
optimization techniques have been utilized by researchers to
design hybrid renewable energy systems which are also included
in this study. Optimization problems of sustainable energy systems
become more and more complex, especially when more number of
renewable sources, are integrated together.
 S. Sinha, S.S. Chandel / Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews 50 (2015) 755–769 767

Table 6
Various techniques used in PV–wind based hybrid system studies during 1996–
2015.

Techniques Number of published studies Year

Graphic construction technique 2 1996

Iterative approach
Probabilistic method
Trade off approach
Linear Programming
Genetic algorithm
Particle swarm optimization
Simulated annealing
Bee based algorithms
Ant based algorithms
Bio geography based optimization
Gravitational search algorithm
Tabu search
Harmony search
Imperialist competition algorithm
Hybrid algorithms
7 1996–
2007
3 1996–
2006
2 1992–1998
6 1997–2014
15 2006–
2015
11 2007–2015
4 2010–2015
4 2011–2015
Fig. 5. Trend in the use of hybrid algorithms in PV–wind based hybrid system
2 2006–
2013 research 2009–2015.
2 2013–2015
1 2015
4 2014–2015 with other nature inspired techniques which are used in different
4 2014–2015 optimization studies, also seem promising to enrich the future
2 2015
research in renewable energy based hybrid energy system opti-
9 2009–
2015 mization studies [104,105].

In this study optimization methods are divided into two 5. Conclusion

categories e.g. traditional and new generation methods. Tradi-
tional approaches follows a rigorous procedure and also have
some drawbacks like rigid iterations, less flexibility, slow conver-
gence speed, needs more computation time, cannot deal with
dynamic changing etc. On the other hand new generation
approaches are faster, flexible than traditional approaches with
good convergence speed and efficient global search solutions. Both
types of optimization methods are explained with their strengths-
weaknesses in tabular form for better understanding.
The trend shows that new generation algorithms (evolution-
ary-heuristic–met heuristic) are much more widely accepted and
used in literature during last five years. The trend of number of
papers published using various techniques during period 1996–
2015 are shown in Table 6.
Table 6 shows that old techniques like graphical construction
method, iterative method, probabilistic method and trade off
approach were used almost a decade ago. Now-a-days these
techniques are almost not used by researchers due to their draw-
backs. However, in recent years, researchers are mostly using
artificial intelligence (AI) based, nature inspired heuristic–met
heuristic algorithms like TS, GA, SA, HS, BBO, ACO, GCA, ICA etc.
for PV–wind based hybrid system optimization studies. Out of
these GA is mostly used AI technique than others.
For several complex problems a simple new generation algo-
rithm might not be good enough to find the desired solution and
could fail to obtain a convenient solution. This clearly shows the
need for hybridization of two or more algorithms efficiently.
Hybrid algorithms are found to be more reliable to use for better
accuracy. The use of hybrid techniques results in improving the
speed of convergence along with quality of the solutions obtained.
During the period 2009–2015 various combinations of hybrid
algorithms like SA-TS, GA-SVM, and SA-PSO etc. are being used
in most of the studies. Although hybrid algorithms are more
complex than single algorithm yet the trend in the use of hybrid
algorithms in PV–wind based hybrid system research is growing as
shown in Fig. 5. Further exploration of hybrid algorithms is an
important future research area to face complexity and challenges
of hybrid system integration and design.
Some more algorithms like Cuckoo search [100], Bat algorithm
[101], Firefly algorithm [102], Chaotic Ant swarm optimization
[103], Cultural Algorithm [104], Memetic Algorithm [104] along
This article presents an update literature review of sixteen
types of optimization techniques including hybrid algorithms used
in PV–wind based hybrid energy system research and develop-
ment along with PV–wind based hybrid system sizing methodol-
ogy. It is found that different optimization methods used have
different convergence speed, accuracy level; performance effi-
ciency and computation speed so selection of suitable approach
may change with user requirements, type of applications etc. None
of the individual methods could perform better than all the other
methods on all kinds of problems. However, new generation
optimization approaches like artificial intelligence based, heuristic
approaches are found to be more acceptable than traditional
approaches because of their ability to search local and global
optima, good calculation accuracy and fast convergence speed. The
hybrid optimization techniques (using two or more optimization
techniques together) are found best than single optimization
methods. The nature inspired optimization techniques and hybrid
optimization techniques will be important for further exploration
in future research to face complexity and challenges of PV–wind
based hybrid systems.
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