Assessment of Technical Parameters of Renewable Energy System : An Overview

Abstract

This paper discusses different components of hybrid renewable energy system on basis of technical parameters, sizing issues, power converter architecture and challenges faced by each of them. Since optimal operating point of whole hybrid system is required, it is necessary that not only each component operate at its own optimal operating point, but it should also complement operating point of other components. Main challenge with PV system is associated with partial shading and local maximum power point, which affects maximum power extraction from system. In case of Wind system, sizing of turbines, power fluctuation which can affect grid frequency is major issue. Battery energy storage system suffers from battery aging issues. Technical limitations of individual components can somewhat be addressed by complimentary advantage of other component and power flow fluctuation can addressed by suitable design of energy storage system. Cost of energy storage system be reduced too if extra power can be injected to the grid as in the case of grid connected system. Some hybrid system provides possibility of better resource utilization potential, while other can provide better dynamic and/or steady state performance depending on requirements. Hybrid system can also address shortcoming of one energy resource by providing complimentary parameter which can make up for such shortcoming. Factors which determine what hybrid system to choose for depends purely on requirements.