Simulation and evaluation of a hybrid concentrating-solar and wind power plant for energy autonomy on islands

Renewable energy sources can offer isolated communities the opportunity to regulate their energy use in a manner that best suits their needs. This paper presents the simulation and thermodynamic evaluation of a stand-alone hybrid power plant exclusively using renewable energy sources and storage technologies for the energy autonomy of a Mediterranean island. The study assumes stand-alone dynamic operation and investigates the sustainable and robust energy independence of the community under consideration, a remote area not connected to a centralized electrical grid. The analysis shows that the evaluated hybrid concentrating solar-wind power plant is a reliable alternative for satisfying the fluctuating electricity demand of the island. The plant achieves stable and controlled autonomous performance using the complementary character of solar and wind energy, combined with energy storage. (C) 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.