Research Article
Hybrid energy systems for rural communities in Zimbabwe
@INPROCEEDINGS{10.4108/eai.20-6-2017.2270759, author={H Tazvinga and Oliver Dzobo}, title={Hybrid energy systems for rural communities in Zimbabwe}, proceedings={EAI International Conference for Research, Innovation and Development for Africa}, publisher={EAI}, proceedings_a={ACRID}, year={2018}, month={4}, keywords={sustainable distributed generation fossil based energy access}, doi={10.4108/eai.20-6-2017.2270759} }- H Tazvinga
Oliver Dzobo
Year: 2018
Hybrid energy systems for rural communities in Zimbabwe
ACRID
EAI
DOI: 10.4108/eai.20-6-2017.2270759
Abstract
Renewable energy sources such as solar photovoltaic (PV) systems have been widely utilized as alternative energy sources to fossil fuels in residential areas in many countries. The PV cell output varies according to many factors including weather conditions, time of day, season and location. Therefore, such systems cannot meet demand at all times necessitating incorporation of backup systems to smoothen the output and to meet electricity demand. This paper presents the modeling and operational strategy of a hybrid system consisting of a PV, diesel generator and battery. If the PV output is not enough to meet the load the generator and/or battery system compensates the power imbalance. The behavior of the proposed hybrid system is verified by simulation using HOMER Software. The simulation results indicate that hybrid systems would be feasible options for distributed generation of electric power for remote locations or areas not connected to the electricity grid.