ABSTRACT
The transition to renewable energy (RE) sources has become a must; otherwise, the fossil fuels will be gone, greenhouse gas emissions will be higher, and energy security will be a concern. Still, the unpredictable nature of RE sources such as solar and wind makes it hard to produce a constant supply of energy. This issue can be solved by hybrid renewable energy systems (HRES), where different resources are combined (such as wind, solar, and biomass), making the system more sustainable, effective, and reliable. This chapter covers the different hybrid renewable energy technologies, their configuration, use, and economic potential. Moreover, it reviews different combination types like solar-wind, solar-biomass, wind-hydrogen systems, etc., and mentions the pros and cons of such configurations. In hybrid systems, energy storage devices, smart grid systems, and other cutting-edge technologies are merged for heightened efficiency. Additionally, modeling and simulation software like HOMER and TRNSYS make it easier to optimize system design and conduct performance evaluation. The case studies provided from various regions show the potential and advantages of hybrid energy systems in the areas of rural electrification and sustainable development. According to case studies, hybridization methods lead to improved access to power, reduced fossil fuel consumption, and lower Levelized Cost of Electricity (LCOE). Economic analysis points out that hybrid systems, while demanding higher capital investment initially, are profitable and environmentally friendly over the long term. The aim of the current chapter is to reveal the potential of hybrid renewable energy systems to researchers and decision-makers in the environmental sector.
