Modelling autonomous hybrid photovoltaic-wind energy systems under a new reliability approach

Hybrid photovoltaic-wind energy systems are being designed and implemented as stand-alone or grid connected generation systems, due to the need to use local, environmental friendly and low cost energy sources. In this study, a novel methodology to optimize the size of an autonomous hybrid photovoltaic-wind power system with battery storage is presented. A multi-objective optimization problem is considered with two objective functions, the total net present cost and a new reliability indicator called maximum expected energy not supplied, which is calculated using a probabilistic approach. The non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm-II was utilized to find the model solution. The results obtained with the presented methodology were compared with those from traditional methodologies, with the proposed methodology generating a set of feasible solutions, with respect to the system economy and reliability, which maximizes the use of renewable sources and reduces the size of the system backup.