Model for optimum design of standalone hybrid renewable energy microgrids

Abstract

An optimization model for the design of a hybrid renewable energy microgrid supplying an isolated load has been developed. This is achieved in two steps. The first step developed a linear programming model that uses the average pattern of demand, wind, and solar energy to determine the optimal configuration. The second step used a clustering algorithm to investigate the methods of improving the reliability of the system. These include increasing the storage capacity and increasing the rated power of the wind energy conversion system (WECS) or solar energy conversion system (SECS). The results have shown that increasing the capacity of storage is the most economical way of improving the reliability of the system. The model has been verified through applications to a test microgrid of common size. The results have shown a 70% reduction in gas emissions and an 80% reduction in energy costs.

Keywords: Wind, solar, storage, diesel generator, optimization