Comparative assessment of solar photovoltaic-wind hybrid energy systems: A case for Philippine off-grid islands

• Published in: Renewable energy 2021-12, Vol.179, p.1589-1607
• Main Authors: Pascasio, Jethro Daniel A., Esparcia, Eugene A., Castro, Michael T., Ocon, Joey D.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Decarbonization; Energy access; Hybrid energy system; Off-grid; Renewable energy
• ISSN: 0960-1481; 1879-0682
• DOI: 10.1016/j.renene.2021.07.093

Geographic isolation limits energy access in remote Philippine islands. Among the few islands electrified, most are powered by diesel, a costly and unsustainable electricity source. Efforts on energy access should therefore consider affordable and sustainable renewable energy (RE) technologies. In this study, we simulated solar photovoltaic (PV) and wind power integration in 147 diesel-powered Philippine off-grid areas. Different configurations of solar PV, wind turbines, lithium-ion batteries, and diesel generators were evaluated based on levelized electricity costs and RE shares. The simulations show that solar PV should be utilized in all areas considered and wind power in 132 areas to guarantee reliable and continuous energy access with minimal costs. The hybrid energy systems have an average electricity cost of USD 0.227/kWh, an average RE share of 58.58 %, and a total annual savings of 108 million USD. The sensitivity analysis also shows that dependence on solar and wind power in Philippine off-grid islands is robust against uncertainties in component costs and electricity demand. With the promising off-grid solar PV and wind power potential in the country, policies that support RE-based hybrid grids should be implemented to address the trilemma of energy security, equity, and sustainability. •Solar power is feasible in 147 grids studied and wind power feasible in 132 grids.•Up to USD 108.02 M/y is saved when solar and wind power with storage are used.•Wind generates 43 % of the energy, allowing for a 59 % renewable energy share.•Even if a component cost is tripled, hybrid energy is less-costly than diesel.•Hybrid energy allows increased demands while keeping costs low.