DESIGNING A SOLAR-WIND POWERED SYSTEM FOR A HEALTH CENTER IN

BALICASAG ISLAND, BOHOL

TECHNICAL FIELD
5
This research aims to design and implement a balanced solar-wind powered system
for a health center in Balicasag Island, Bohol. It focuses on efficiently integrating
renewable energy sources to ensure a reliable and sustainable power supply for the
health center's facilities.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

10
The endeavor to design a solar-wind powered system for the health center in
Balicasag Island, Bohol, is prompted by the need for sustainable energy solutions in
remote and off-grid regions.

15 To address this issue, our research employs simulation tools, specifically HOMER
Pro and SAM (System Advisor Model), as a methodological approach. HOMER Pro
enables the simulation and optimization of hybrid power systems by modeling the
integration of solar and wind resources, alongside battery storage and backup
generators. SAM, on the other hand, facilitates a thorough evaluation of the
technical and economic feasibility of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems.

20 By leveraging the capabilities of HOMER Pro and SAM, our research seeks to
conduct a detailed analysis of the local energy landscape, climate conditions, and
resource availability on Balicasag Island. These simulations provide crucial insights
into the optimal design parameters for a solar-wind powered system, ensuring that it
aligns with the energy needs and environmental conditions of the health center.

25 The simulation approach allows us to predict the performance, efficiency, and

economic viability of the proposed renewable energy system. It aids in the fine-
tuning of the system design, considering factors such as energy production
variability and storage requirements. Through the integration of HOMER Pro and
SAM methodologies, our research aims to contribute not only to the development of
a renewable energy solution for the health center in Balicasag Island but also to
advance the understanding and application of simulation tools in optimizing
sustainable energy projects in remote and underserved areas.
30 The problem with the above-mentioned prior art is that current renewable energy
systems for healthcare lies in managing the intermittent nature of solar and wind
sources, especially in remote areas like Balicasag Island. An innovative approach is
needed to ensure a consistent and reliable power supply for critical healthcare
operations.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

5 The present invention pertains to the design of an integrated solar-wind powered

system specifically for efficient and sustainable energy provision to a health center
located on Balicasag Island, Bohol. This design represents an approach to
harnessing renewable energy in remote and off-grid locations, focusing on
optimized energy generation, storage capacity, and economic feasibility.

10 In its fundamental embodiment, the invention encompasses a comprehensive

system design integrating an array of photovoltaic (PV) panels and wind turbines.
The design specifies the number of PV panels and wind turbines, their respective
storage capacities, the total system size in terms of watts, operational efficiency,
and the Levelized Cost of Energy (LCOE). The system is characterized by its unique
configuration that maximizes energy harvest from both solar and wind resources,
ensuring a continuous and reliable power supply to the health center.

15 The design methodology employs advanced simulation tools, namely HOMER Pro
for determining the optimal number of panels, storage capacity, system size, and
efficiency, and the System Advisor Model (SAM) for a detailed analysis of LCOE.
This dual-simulation approach allows for a precise and tailored design, addressing
the specific energy needs of the health center while ensuring economic viability and
environmental sustainability.

Key features of the invention include:

20 Integrated Solar-Wind System: A hybrid design that leverages the complementary

nature of solar and wind energy, providing a more consistent and reliable power
output compared to single-source systems.

Optimized System Design: Utilization of HOMER Pro and SAM for calculating the
ideal configuration of PV panels and wind turbines, storage requirements, and
overall system efficiency to meet the specific energy demands of the health center.

Economic Efficiency: Detailed LCOE analysis via SAM to ensure the financial
viability of the system over its operational lifespan, making it a cost-effective solution
for energy provision in remote settings.

25 Sustainability and Reliability: The system is designed with a focus on sustainability,

 offering a green energy solution that reduces carbon footprint and dependence on
fossil fuels, while ensuring reliable energy access for critical healthcare services.

30 This invention addresses a critical need for sustainable and reliable energy
solutions in remote healthcare facilities, offering a scalable and economically viable
model that can be adapted to similar settings worldwide. By harnessing advanced
simulation tools for precise system design, this invention sets a new standard in
renewable energy integration for critical infrastructure.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES IN THE DRAWINGS

Figure 1 shows the proposed design of the solar wind energy setup for Balicasag Health Center

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

5 Setting up a solar-wind hybrid energy system Figure 1 for Balicasag Health Center
involves integrating several components to efficiently harness renewable energy.
Initially, solar PV panels 2 with a capacity of 11.6 kW are installed either on the
rooftop or in an open area with optimal sunlight 10 exposure. These panels contain
photovoltaic cells 2 that directly convert

10 sunlight into electricity through the photovoltaic effect. Additionally, a generic 3 kW

wind turbine 1 is strategically placed in an area with consistent wind flow, typically at
an elevated height to capture maximum wind 15 speed. This turbine comprises
blades, a rotor, a generator, and a tower. As the wind blows, it rotates the blades,
driving the rotor connected to a generator, thus producing electricity. The 2.62 kW
converter 3, also

15 known as an inverter 3, is a critical component that converts the DC electricity

generated by the solar panels 2 and wind turbine 1 into AC electricity suitable for
powering the health center's electrical appliances. Moreover, it regulates the voltage
and frequency to match the grid or the load requirements. A generic 1 kWh battery 4
is

20 employed to 20 store excess energy generated during periods of high generation for
later use, especially during low sunlight or wind conditions. During the day, the solar
panels generate electricity, and any surplus is stored in the battery 4 for later use.

25 Simultaneously, the wind turbine 1 contributes to 25 overall energy generation when

there is sufficient wind. The converter 3 ensures compatibility with the health
center's electrical system and grid connection if applicable. At night or during low
 generation periods, stored energy from the battery powers the health center,
ensuring uninterrupted operation.

CLAIMS

1. A hybrid solar-wind energy system for remote health centers, comprising:

 Solar photovoltaic (PV) panels [2] with a capacity of 11.6 kW, positioned to

maximize sunlight exposure.

 A 3-kW wind turbine [1] installed to capture wind flow and generate

electricity.

 A 2.62-kW converter (inverter) [3] to efficiently convert DC electricity

generated by the solar panels [2] and wind turbine [1] into AC electricity

suitable for powering electrical appliances.

 A 1 kWh battery [4] for storing excess energy during periods of high

generation, ensuring uninterrupted power supply during low sunlight or wind

conditions.

10

2. The hybrid energy system of claim 1, wherein the solar PV panels [1] are installed

on the rooftop or in an open area with optimal sunlight exposure, utilizing the

photovoltaic effect to directly convert sunlight into electricity.

15

3. The hybrid energy system of claim 1, wherein the wind turbine [1] comprises blades,

a rotor, a generator, and a tower, positioned in an area where wind flow can be

harnessed to generate electricity through rotational motion.

20
 4. The hybrid energy system of claim 1, wherein the converter [3] regulates the voltage

and frequency of the electricity to match the grid or the load requirements, ensuring

compatibility with the health center's electrical system.

25

5. The hybrid energy system of claim 1, wherein the battery [4] stores excess energy

generated by the solar panels [2] and wind turbine [1] during periods of high

generation, providing backup power for uninterrupted operation during low

generation periods.

30

6. A method for providing reliable and sustainable power to remote health centers

using the hybrid solar-wind energy system of claim 1, comprising:

 Harnessing solar and wind energy [ Figure 1] efficiently to generate

electricity.

 Converting DC electricity into AC electricity suitable for powering electrical

appliances.

 Storing excess energy in the battery [4] for backup power during low

generation periods.

 Monitoring and maintaining system performance to ensure uninterrupted

operation and longevity.

DESIGNING A SOLAR-WIND POWERED SYSTEM FOR A HEALTH CENTER IN

BALICASAG ISLAND, BOHOL

ABSTRACT OF THE DISCLOSURE

5 This thesis presents the design and simulation of a sustainable energy system for a
health center located on Balicasag Island, Bohol, utilizing tools such as Homer Pro
and System Advisor Model (SAM). The challenges posed by the remote and island-
based nature of the health center necessitate a reliable and independent power
source to ensure continuous healthcare services.
10 The proposed system integrates solar and wind energy technologies, leveraging the
abundant natural resources available on the island. Through the use of Homer Pro,
the design involves meticulous selection and optimization of solar panels and wind
turbines based on local climate conditions and the energy requirements of the
health center.

15 The simulation using SAM allows for a detailed analysis of the system's
performance, taking into account various factors such as solar irradiance, wind
speeds, and energy demand patterns. A hybrid energy storage system is
incorporated into the design to store excess energy during peak production periods,
ensuring a stable and continuous power supply even in periods of low renewable
energy generation.

20 Economic and environmental aspects are integral to the evaluation of the proposed
system, emphasizing potential cost savings and a reduced carbon footprint
compared to traditional fossil fuel-based alternatives. The study also explores the
scalability of the system for broader applications in the region.

25 This interdisciplinary approach not only addresses the energy accessibility

challenges faced by remote island communities but also contributes to
environmental conservation and enhances healthcare delivery. By utilizing
application like Homer Pro and SAM, this research ensures an optimized design that
can serve as a model for similar projects in other island communities, promoting the
widespread adoption of sustainable energy solutions tailored to specific needs
Figure 1 shows the proposed design of the solar wind energy setup for Balicasag Health Center

BOHOL ISLAND STATE UNIVERSITY

Applicant
By:
DR. ANTHONY M. PENASO
University President