Optimal load dispatch strategies for a hybrid system using renewable energy sources

Recently, the idea of hybrid power systems (HES) has attracted interest for the electrification of isolated or energy efficient areas. This document examines the modelling and optimal dimensions of a hybrid microgrid using different dispatch strategies. The sizing of the HES components such as Photovoltaic panels, Batteries, Inverter, a Diesel generator has been optimized by three strategies: (i) load tracking, (ii) cycle load, and (iii) combined dispatch. The location of the case study is in a rural community in Ecuador whose load profile is 17 kW. By utilizing HOMER software, optimization for the HES was achieved with the Combined Dispatch strategy (CD) which presented the minimum levels in the net annual cost (NPC), initial capital, levelized cost of energy (LCOE) of $ 90,073.10, $ 21,208 and $ 0.2016 / kWh, respectively. The conclusions offer a guide to consider the resources and generation combination essential for the optimal operation of an island microgrid with different dispatch scenarios.