Operational analysis of hybrid solar/wind microgrids using measured data

• Hybrid solar/wind microgrid operation is analyzed using minutely-sampled data.
• Statistical analyses show wide range of load, and wind and solar energy production.
• Time series analyses show interaction of controllers and use of corrective measures.
• Duration and onset of absorption stage are useful microgrid diagnostics.
• Efficiency is 67% and is related to the energy exchanged with the battery.

Microgrids offer a pathway for electricity access to communities located far from the existing grid. Although the simulated operation of microgrids is well-reported in the literature, there is a dearth of analyses based on post-installation high-resolution measured data. This article examines the operation of hybrid solar/wind microgrids using measured data from a 5 kW system in Muhuru Bay, Kenya. The system was outfitted with data acquisition and broadcast equipment that samples battery voltage, current from the solar panels and wind turbines and other quantities on a minutely basis. Considering 14 months of data, this article provides statistical and time-series analyses and interpretation of hybrid solar/wind microgrid operation. The microgrid's energy supply and efficiency are analyzed and data-driven system diagnostic methods are presented. It is shown how microgrid controller set-points influence the prioritization of energy sources, favoring wind over solar energy, and that the long-term efficiency of the microgrid is 67%. Perspectives on how operational data can be used to improve utilization and prevent pre-mature failure are provided.