HYVRID WIND SOLAR POWER SYSTEM
Abstract
ABSTRACT
This project focuses on the design, construction, and performance evaluation of a 2000W Hybrid Wind-Solar Power System at the Electrical/Electronic Maintenance and Repairs Laboratory, Ramat Polytechnic, Maiduguri. The study addresses the challenge of energy insecurity and the "epileptic" power supply in Nigeria by harnessing complementary renewable resources—solar and wind—to provide a reliable, low-carbon alternative to fossil fuel generators.
The system integrates several key components: six monocrystalline solar panels for daytime photovoltaic generation and an aluminum-blade wind turbine for atmospheric kinetic energy conversion. These energy sources are managed by a Hybrid Charge Controller and stored in a battery bank consisting of four deep-cycle tubular lead-acid batteries. A 2kVA pure sine wave inverter is utilized to convert the stored Direct Current (DC) into a stable 220V Alternating Current (AC) at 50Hz.
Methodologically, the project employed resource assessment and system simulation using HOMER software to optimize the configuration, alongside physical construction and floor-mounting installation. Testing results indicated that the hybrid approach significantly improves power availability compared to standalone systems, as wind energy often compensates for solar intermittency during nighttime or cloudy conditions. The findings conclude that while the initial capital investment is higher than that of a petrol generator, the long-term benefits include zero fuel costs, minimal maintenance, and an environmentally friendly, noiseless operation. The study recommends the adoption of such hybrid systems for remote rural industries and academic laboratories to ensure sustainable energy autonomy.
Keywords: Hybrid Power System, Renewable Energy, Solar Photovoltaic, Wind Turbine, Inverter, Maiduguri.
Full-Text Access Notice
In accordance with the NERD Policy on promoting peer-reviewed publication, public access to the full text of a project, thesis or dissertation is restricted for three years, allowing the author and supervisors sufficient time to pursue peer-reviewed publication.
During this period, researchers with legitimate academic or research purposes may request authorisation directly from the author to enable NERD to release the indexed full texts of the work using the form below.