2286 Virtual Optimization of a Wireless, Solar PV/Wind Hybrid System Controller for Street-Lighting Applications based on Environmental Conditions in Greater Toronto Area.

In this study, HOMER software has been used to perform simulations of hybrid (solar PV/wind) systems for street-lighting applications. HOMER allows the designer to compare many different design options based on their technical and economic merits. Statistical analysis of the collected high resolution (10 minutes) data for CEI and monthly averaged Environment Canada data of Toronto Int'l Airport (TIA) was also performed. In all, 32 different hybrid PV/wind system scenarios were simulated to estimate the cost and determine the feasibility of a system design using CEI and TIA datasets. Moreover, system sensitivity analyses were performed using sensitivity variables such as wind turbine hub height and annual capacity shortage. In summary, the 10-min solar/wind resolution data has an impact on the hybrid solar/wind system design. As a result of the analysis of simulation results the following recommendations may be made: (i) It is necessary to compare the computer simulations to long term performance measurements of an actual operating hybrid PV/wind system for street lighting, to corroborate the simulation results. (ii) Since only two well-known micro-wind turbines were studied, it would be beneficial to study other emerging micro wind turbine options with higher performance in the 1-4 m/s range and simulate their performance using HOMER software, as well as in physical testing. This is in order to determine if such technologies are able to provide distinct advantages over solar-only configurations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]