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U.S. Department of Energy
Office of Scientific and Technical Information

Photovoltaic/diesel hybrid systems: The design process

Conference ·
OSTI ID:6560273
A photovoltaic/storage system by itself may be uneconomical for stand-alone applications with large energy demands. However, by combining the PV system with a back-up energy source, such as a diesel, gasoline, or propane/thermoelectric generator, system economics can be improved. Such PV/fossil hybrid systems are being used, but their design has required detailed modeling to determine the ''optimal'' mix of photovoltaics and back-up energy. Recent data on diesel field reliability and a new design technique for stand-alone systems have overcome this problem. The approach provides the means for sizing the photovoltaic system to obtain a near optimal hybrid system, with about a 90% savings in back-up fuel costs. System economics are determined by comparing PV capital cost to the present value of the displaced diesel operation and maintenance costs.
Research Organization:
Sandia National Labs., Albuquerque, NM (USA)
DOE Contract Number:
AC04-76DP00789
OSTI ID:
6560273
Report Number(s):
SAND-87-1203C; CONF-870528-7; ON: DE87009052
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English