Optimal energy management of a grid-connected micro-hydrokinetic with pumped hydro storage system

- The model maximizes the renewable energy usage to yield the grid cost savings.
- 86% grid cost savings was achieved through the optimally managed MHK-PHS system.
- Saturday lead to the least operational hours of the turbine-generator unit.
- All power flow paths are operational on Saturday.
- Sunday lead to the maximal operational hours of the motor-pump unit.

Renewable energy sources are the key alternatives to mitigate the issue of greenhouse gases (GHGs) and to meet the ever increasing electricity demand. In South Africa, most energy is consumed by the industrial sectors when discretely compared to other sectors. Industrial consumers can reduce their electricity costs by creating an optimally managed onsite renewable energy system. Hydrokinetic is a promising renewable technology that has proved to offer a cost-effective electrification solution in areas with flowing water resources when compared to solar and wind technologies.