Optimization and Economic Analysis of an Hybrid Fuel Cell, PhotoVoltaic and Battery Electric Power Generation System

Abstract

This paper presents a technical and economical study of a hybrid—fuel cell, photovoltaic, and battery—electric generation system. The system is installed on five different remote sites. These sites are family houses located in different regions in France beyond the reach of electrical power lines. The optimum system configuration is not often easily found and a lot of calculations and/or simulations are required in order to decide which combination gives the best technical and financial benefit. The aim of this study is to design each component of the remote generation system in order to get the best technical and financial combination. In this paper, a method is suggested to find the optimum combination for a hybrid power system dedicated to off-grid electricity users. Indeed, this project permits to save up to 25% of the initial cost.