ISSN : 2663-2187

Hybrid Renewable Energy Systems for Off-Grid Agricultural Applications: Design and Performance Evaluation

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M. Venkatesh
ยป doi: 10.33472/AFJBS.6.10.2024.4517-4527

Abstract

This study investigates the design and performance evaluation of a hybrid renewable energy system (HRES) for off-grid agricultural applications. The system integrates solar photovoltaic (PV) panels, wind turbines, and battery storage to meet the energy demands of a small-scale farm. Over a 12-month period, the solar PV system produced 15,330 kWh of electricity, while the wind turbines generated 7,200 kWh, resulting in a combined annual energy production of 22,530 kWh. This exceeds the farm's annual energy requirement of 21,900 kWh, providing a surplus that enhances system reliability. The battery storage system demonstrated a round-trip efficiency of 96%, effectively balancing supply and demand with an average daily discharge of 22.5 kWh. The system exhibited high reliability with a reliability index of 1.029 and an availability rate of 98.63%, experiencing only five days of energy shortage throughout the year. Cost analysis revealed a levelized cost of energy (LCOE) of $0.164/kWh, indicating the system's economic viability. Moreover, the HRES achieved a significant environmental benefit by reducing carbon emissions by approximately 30,000 kg CO2 annually compared to conventional diesel generators. The study concludes that the HRES is a reliable, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly solution for off-grid agricultural energy needs. Future research should focus on optimizing system components, integrating additional renewable energy sources, and conducting long-term performance monitoring to further enhance the system's feasibility and efficiency.

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