Simulation and Optimization of Wind Turbine, Solar PV, Storage Battery and Diesel Generator Hybrid Power System for a Cluster of Micro and Small Enterprises Working on Wood and Metal Products at Welenchity Site

Terefe Jima

Author:

Terefe Jima

Published in

Journal of Science Technology and Research

( Volume , Issue )

Page No: 28-45

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Abstract

This thesis presents the design of a hybrid electric power generation system utilizing both wind and solar energy for supplying a cluster of three micro and small enterprises (MSEs) working on wood and metal products at the Welenchity site. The work was begun by investigating wind and solar energy potentials of the desired site, compiling data from different sources and analyzing themusingsoftware. The wind speed and solar irradiation data for the site understudy are collected from the National Metrological Agency (NMA) and analyzed using the software tool HOMER. The results related to wind energy potential are given in terms of the monthly average wind speed, the wind speed PDF, the wind speed CDF, the wind speed DC, and power density plot for the site. Whereas the solar energy potential, has been given in the form of solar radiation plots for the site. According to the results obtained through the analysis, the site has abundant solar energy potential and the wind energy potential is unquestionably high enough to be exploited for generating electric energy using wind turbines with low cut-in wind speed. The design of a standalone PV-wind hybrid power generating system has proceeded based on the promising findings of these two renewable energy resource potentials, wind and solar. The simulations and design has been carried out using the HOMER software. By running the software the simulation results which are lists of power supply systems have been generated and arranged in ascending order according to their net present cost (NPC). Sensitivity variables, such as range of wind speed, solar radiation and diesel price have been defined as inputs into the software and the optimization process has been carried out repeatedly for the sensitivity variables and the results have been refined accordingly

Keywords

PV-wind hybrid, HOMER, cluster of micro and small enterprises, simulation

References

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ABSTRACT:

This research focuses on the simulation and optimization of wind turbine and solar PV systems to power small businesses in Welenchity. These businesses work with wood and metal but lack grid electricity. We collected wind and solar data from the National Meteorological Agency. Using HOMER software, we analyzed the data and found high renewable energy potential in the area. Solar radiation levels and wind speed statistics confirm this. Based on these results, we designed a hybrid power system. It includes solar panels, wind turbines, batteries, and a diesel backup. We used Net Present Cost (NPC) to compare different system setups. Additionally, we tested how fuel price, wind, and solar changes affect performance. The best system offered reliable and low-cost electricity. It reduces fuel use and supports clean energy adoption. This project shows how hybrid systems can improve energy access in rural Ethiopia.

INTRODUCTION:

In Ethiopia, over 80% of the population lacks access to usable electricity, especially in rural communities like Welenchity. Traditional grid-based power systems are economically unviable in such areas due to low population density and geographical challenges. This thesis addresses these issues by designing a hybrid system through the simulation and optimization of wind turbine and solar PV technologies. The objective is to deliver a reliable and sustainable power supply to micro and small enterprises (MSEs) involved in wood and metal production. These businesses currently operate without a central diesel plant or electricity from the grid. By utilizing abundant local wind and solar resources, this research explores an optimized, standalone hybrid solution. The system design includes selecting suitable PV modules, wind turbines, and batteries, and evaluating economic feasibility through Net Present Cost analysis. The study ultimately identifies the most cost-effective renewable energy mix to support local enterprise development and rural electrification.

Solar PV, Storage Battery and Diesel Generator Hybrid Power System for a Cluster of Micro and Small Enterprises Working on Wood and Metal Products at Welenchity Site