10kW Wind Solar Hybrid System

Description

According to numerous renewable energy experts, combining wind and solar technologies into a small “hybrid” electric system provides several advantages over utilizing a single system. In many locations, wind speeds are at their lowest during the summer months, when the sun shines brightest and longest. Conversely, the wind tends to be strongest in the winter months when sunlight is less available. Hybrid systems, which produce energy during different times of the day and year due to the varied peak operating times of wind and solar systems, are more likely to generate power when needed.

The hybrid electric system includes several key components:

1. PV Array: A series and/or parallel connection of PV panels generating a DC output from the incident irradiance. Optimal panel orientation and tilt, as well as protection from surrounding obstructions, are vital design parameters.
2. Wind turbine: Mounted atop a tall tower, the wind turbine gathers kinetic energy from the wind and converts it into electricity compatible with a home’s electrical system.
3. Hybrid controller: Maintains safe and reasonable charge and discharge of the battery bank.
4. Battery bank: Comprising either a single battery or multiple batteries connected to create one large battery with the required voltage and amp-hour capacity. The battery configuration and capacity are critical electrical power decisions that can ensure a consistent power supply and an easy-to-use and maintain system.
5. Inverter: A power converter that transforms the DC power generated by the panels into AC power.

6. Loads: Refers to the network-connected appliances in the building powered by the inverter (AC loads) or the battery bank (DC loads).