Efficient integration of photo voltaic and hydro energy technologies for sustainable power generation in rural areas: A case study

This research aims to provide an efficient and cost-effective renewable energy supply. It assesses the potential for photovoltaic (PV) and hydro energy in Pirthala, Haryana, India, using HOMER Pro® v3.14.2. A Hybrid renewable energy system (HRES) can continuously power 855 homes. The optimal HRES configuration comprises well-optimized PV modules, hydro turbines, converters, and batteries. The top four configurations were selected based on criteria such as net present cost (NPC) and cost of energy production (COE). The most effective HRES configuration involves a 3461-kW solar array, a 98.1 kW hydro turbine, 304 lithium-ion batteries of 100 kWh, and a 2785-kW converter, achieving a 100 % integration of renewable energy. This ideal HRES was thoroughly assessed regarding economic, technical, and renewable energy considerations. The results and the optimized HRES configuration can serve as a valuable reference for similar initiatives in rural areas, contributing to adopting renewable energy sources and enhancing energy access and reliability.