Optimal Operational Strategy of Hybrid Renewable Energy System for Rural Electrification of a Remote Algeria.

Abstract: Algeria has embarked on an ambitious renewable energy program in order to increase total food production. Energy planners for these remote locations have chosen diesel generation power technology because minimization of the initial capital cost of a power supply system is their top priority. This paper proposes the use a PV-wind diesel generator hybrid system in order to determine the optimal configuration of renewable energy in Algeria and to compare the production cost of solar and wind power with its annual yield relevant to different regions in Algeria Djelfa, Ghardaïa, Adrar, tindouf and Tamanrasset on the best components and sizing with appropriate operating strategy to provide a cheap, efficient, reliable and cost-effective system. The Simulations were carried out using the HOMER program based on data obtained from the Algerian Meteorological Centre. For this approach, the energetic resources of sites where are implanted telecommunications systems and their consumption are supposed know. Results show that, for Algeria, a PV diesel generator hybrid system is the most suitable solution in terms of economic performance and pollution. However, the cost of production of solar and wind energy proved to be cheaper and more environmentally friendly than the energy produced from diesel generators. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]