Electric grid dependence on the configuration of a small-scale wind and solar power hybrid system

Results are presented from the modeling of a small-scale distributed power system containing power demands, photovoltaic arrays, small-scale wind turbines and an electric grid connection. Detailed models of the photovoltaic array and the wind turbine are briefly explained in addition to the solar and wind recourse models. A subunit is defined to consist of a power demand together with power contributors. It is shown how the grid dependency (or renewable energy contribution) is affected by the connection of subunits and according to the relationship between the power demand patterns and renewable resource patterns. The outcome from several case studies is presented using simulated power demands and renewable resources. In a scenario with subunit power demands characteristic for a large household and a small factory, it is shown that the coupling of subunits reduces annual grid power transfers by more than 10% and increases the renewable power contribution to the demand by almost 7%.

► Modelling of a small-scale distributed renewable power system with a grid connection.
► Renewable electric supply comes from wind and solar hybrid power system.
► We show when and why a configuration of distributed power cells reduces grid dependency.
► Relationships between power demand and renewable resource patterns are decisive.