SIZING OF A HYBRID PV-WIND ENERGY SYSTEM

Stand-alone photovoltaic (PV) and wind energy system are proven technology for
electricity supply in isolated far from the distribution network. If designed well,
they provide a reliable service and, free from the need for fuel supply, can even
operate unattended for extended periods of time. Unlike conventional generators,
however, these systems are fluctuating and finite energy resources, and this
feature must be reflected in the system design.

An important aspect of design is sizing. Correct sizing of stand-alone PV and

Wind energy system has been recognized as being crucial if the system is to
provide a satisfactory power supply at an optimum cost. Sophisticated sizing
procedures now exist that allow the determination of the sizes of the PV array
and battery for a desired reliability of power supply by the PV system but
understanding of hybrid system is less complete.

The potential benefits of this approach became apparent from the examination of
typical seasonal pattern of the available solar and wind energy in temperature
climates. to supply a reasonably flat load profile either generator operating need
would need to be sized for the minimum of the corresponding energy supply.
In either case a considerable amount of surplus energy supply generated during
the rest of the year would be wasted. this mismatch between the energy supply
and demand contributes to the excessive cost of these renewable systems and
can be largely overcome by installing a hybrid generator.