Comparative Analysis of Hybrid Renewable Energy Systems Simulation Tools
Abstract
The forthcoming depletion of fossil fuel reserves, currently dominating the global energy fuel mix, along with the continuous growth of electrical demand, have urged the "quest" for alternative energy resources, such as solar and wind energy, to satisfy the current electricity needs, in both urban and remote areas. The aforementioned technologies are considered capital intensive, underpinning the necessity for extensive research on that field in order to reduce costs. On the other hand, Hybrid Renewable Energy Systems (HRES), if properly sized, are considered a proven solution for achieving high economic efficiency, especially for stand-alone applications. Currently, many simulators have been developed aiming to facilitate the HRES stakeholders on planning and on designing better investments, as well as on research activities. Their thorough analysis, although complex, is strongly related to the efficient utilization of renewable energy potential and the careful design of relevant projects. This work assesses the sensitivity of two (2) commercial software packages by examining nine (9) scenarios, based on different combinations of solar and wind energy potential. The results are compared with the ESA (Energy Systems Analysis) Microgrid Simulator, developed by the Soft Energy Applications and Environmental Protection Laboratory (SEALAB) of the University of West Attica. The appraisal of the results provided a detailed assessment of the discrepancies between the selected software.