ENS4152 Project Development

Proposal and Risk Assessment Report
Designing an Integrated Solar and Wind Farm
for varying Climatic Conditions
Dorji Dema
Student # 10611637
28 Mar 2025
Supervisor: Mr Hemlal Bhattarai
Ethics Declaration Checklist (to be completed by student)
Does this project involve the use of:
(a) Human participants,
(b) Previously collected confidential data,
YES/NO
NO
(c) Animals for scientific purposes?
NO
NO
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Abstract
This project designs a hybrid energy system using solar and wind power. Solar panels work in
the daytime. Wind turbines generate power when there is wind. Both sources have limits. Solar
does not work at night. Wind speed changes often. The project combines both sources to ensure
a steady energy supply. It also tests battery storage to save extra power. The overall goal is to
make renewable energy more reliable. This research supports clean energy and reduces fossil
fuel use. It helps create a better energy system for the future.
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Table of Contents
1. Introduction ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 4
1.1 Background Research ……………………………………………………………………………………………. 4
1.2 Motivation …………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 4
1.3 Objectives ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 5
1.4 Significance ………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 6
2. Proposed Approach ……………………………………………………………………………………………………. 6
2.1 Site Selection Criteria…………………………………………………………………………………………….. 6
2.2 System Design ………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 6
2.3 Energy Management and Grid Integration……………………………………………………………….. 7
2.4 Simulation and Performance Testing ………………………………………………………………………. 7
3. Timeline ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 7
4. Risk Assessment …………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 8
5. Progress to Date ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 8
6. Conclusion…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 9
Appendix …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 11

1. Introduction
1.1 Background Research
The global energy sector is going through a big transformation. Fossil fuels, which currently
supply about 80% of the world’s energy [1], are being phased out due to their environmental
impact. Renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind, are now at the forefront of this
transition. Over the past ten years, solar energy capacity has increased by 22% yearly. Wind
energy capacity has grown by 14% annually during the same period [2]. Even with this progress,
both solar and wind energy face a big problem: they don’t produce power consistently. Solar
energy relies on sunlight, which changes with the weather and time of day. Wind energy
depends on wind speed, which can vary a lot. In places where the weather is hard to predict,
depending on just one of these energy sources can lead to an unsteady supply.
Solar panels don’t produce any energy at night. On cloudy days, their output drops by 10-25%
[3]. Wind turbines need wind speeds of at least 3-4 meters per second (m/s) to work. Even in
that case, if the wind gets above 25 m/s—the output drops big [4]. These problems make it
tough to keep up with energy needs in areas where the weather shifts often.
One way to solve this is by using hybrid renewable energy systems (HRES), which combine solar
and wind power. These systems work well because the strengths of one source can make up for
the weaknesses of the other. For example, solar energy is usually highest during the day, while
wind energy can pick up at night or during stormy weather. Research shows that hybrid systems
can cut energy inconsistency by 30-50% compared to using only one source [5]. This teamwork
between solar and wind helps create a steadier energy supply and lowers the need for extra
backup plans or storage. Still, building and running hybrid systems isn’t easy. They need
advanced storage options, like lithium-ion batteries, to save extra energy for times when
production is low. The batteries are expensive, costs around $139 per kWh in 2021 [6]. On top
of that, hybrid systems need smart grid technology to match energy supply with demand. To
make hybrid systems affordable and practical on a larger scale, the issues must be addressed.
1.2 Motivation
This research is motivated by the pressing need to address climate change through the
advancement of energy storage technologies. Enhancing energy storage systems ensures a
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reliable and continuous power supply, enabling greater integration of renewable energy
sources. By improving storage efficiency and capacity, the project contributes to reducing
carbon emissions and promoting sustainable energy solutions. The Intergovernmental Panel on
Climate Change (IPCC) states that global temperatures may rise by 1.5°C above pre-industrial
levels by 2030 if greenhouse gas emissions do not decrease significantly [7]. Fossil fuels are the
primary source of these emissions, making up 73% of the global total in 2020 [1]. This situation
highlights why renewable energy is essential.
Solar and wind energy are important renewable sources. However, they have limitations
because their output depends on weather conditions. Solar power stops at night and decreases
during cloudy weather [3]. Wind power needs specific wind speeds to work effectively, and it
drops when winds are too weak or too strong [4]. These issues make it hard to depend on either
source alone, especially in areas with unstable weather. Hybrid renewable energy systems
(HRES) offer a solution. It works with both solar and wind power. It balances their weaknesses.
Research from India shows that hybrid systems reduced energy inconsistency by 40% and
increased total energy production by 25% compared to using only one source [8]. These are
useful where weather patterns largely vary. This study also aims to improve energy access in
remote areas. The IEA reports that 770 million people worldwide lack electricity [1]. Hybrid
systems can provide steady power to these places. For example, a project in Kenya used a solar
wind system to increase electricity access by 60% and lower costs by 30% in a rural village [9]. It
shows their potential to support development. Reducing fossil fuel use is another primary goal.
Apart from climate change, fossil fuels create air pollution, which leads to 7 million early deaths
each year [10]. Hybrid systems on the other hand cuts emissions and improves air quality. This
research seeks to explore how hybrid systems can address climate change, energy access, and
public health challenges effectively.
1.3 Objectives
The main goal of this project is to create a hybrid energy system that uses solar panels and wind
turbines together. The idea is to increase energy output and keep the supply steady.
Another focus is improving how energy is stored and shared. The project will investigate
advanced storage options, like lithium-ion batteries and pumped hydro storage, to manage
deviation in energy production. It will also study how smart grid technology can help match
energy supply with what people need. The study will examine the costs and environmental
effects too. It will consider the initial investment, the costs to run it, and how much could be
saved compared to regular energy setups. On the environmental side, it will check how much
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the system cuts greenhouse gas emissions. For instance, a hybrid solar-wind system in Germany
lowered CO2 emissions by 1.2 million tons each year [11].
1.4 Significance
This project is important because it supports the worldwide move to renewable energy. Hybrid
systems solve the issue of energy inconsistency, makes renewable sources more dependable
and easier to use. This is especially valuable in areas with unpredictable weather, where relying
on just solar or wind often doesn’t meet energy needs. The environmental impact of hybrid
systems is considerable. They reduce fossil fuel use, which lowers greenhouse gas emissions. A
hybrid solar-wind system in the United States reduced CO2 emissions by 800,000 tons each year
[3]. This helps with global efforts to fight climate change and meet the targets of the Paris
Agreement. From an economic view, hybrid systems can save money over time. The starting
costs are high but running them is much cheaper than fossil fuel systems. Research shows the
levelized cost of energy (LCOE) for hybrid systems is $50–70 per MWh, while coal-fired plants
cost $100–150 per MWh [2]. Hybrid systems could work well for both rich and developing
nations. On the social side, hybrid systems can bring power to remote and less-developed places.
A steady energy supply boosts local economies and improves daily life. In rural India a hybrid
solar-wind system raised electricity access by 50% and cut energy costs by 20% [8]. It shows the
real difference these systems can make.
2. Proposed Approach
2.1 Site Selection Criteria
The first step in designing the hybrid solar-wind farm is site selection. The site meets specific
criteria to ensure optimal energy generation. Geographical factors are critical. Solar radiation
levels must be high. Wind patterns must be consistent. The terrain must be suitable for
installation. For example, flat or gently sloping land is ideal for solar panels. Wind turbines
require areas with minimal obstructions [2]. Environmental impact assessment is important. The
site must minimize harm to local ecosystems. Land use considerations include avoiding
protected areas. Proximity to power grids and energy consumers is another factor. The site
should be close to existing infrastructure. This reduces transmission losses and costs [3].
2.2 System Design
The system design will focus on selecting the right components. Solar panels will be chosen
based on efficiency and cost. Monocrystalline panels are more efficient but costly.
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Polycrystalline panels are cheaper but less efficient. The choice will depend on the site’s solar
radiation levels [6]. Wind turbines will be selected based on wind conditions. Horizontal-axis
turbines are common and efficient. Vertical-axis turbines are better for areas with turbulent
winds. The choice will depend on the site’s wind patterns [4]. Energy storage is a main
component. The system will use hybrid storage solutions. Lithium-ion batteries are efficient and
scalable. Pumped hydro storage is cost-effective for large-scale systems. Hydrogen storage is an
emerging option for long-term storage [11].
2.3 Energy Management and Grid Integration
Energy management is crucial for stable power supply. Load balancing strategies will be used.
These strategies ensure energy supply matches’ demand. Predictive analytics will adjust energy
generation dynamically. It uses and reduces waste [12]. Smart inverters will be used for grid
integration. These inverters convert DC power from solar panels and wind turbines to AC power.
They also stabilize the grid. Microgrid compatibility will ensure the system can operate
independently if needed. This improves reliability [8].
2.4 Simulation and Performance Testing
Simulation tools will used to model the system’s performance. Platforms such as HOMER and
MATLAB will assist in optimizing the system’s design, simulating energy generation and storage,
and analysing solar energy production. These tools make sure the system meets performance
metrics [3] Performance metrics include energy efficiency, cost analysis, and environmental
impact. Energy efficiency measures how much energy is generated versus consumed. Cost
analysis evaluates the system’s economic viability. Environmental impact assesses the system’s
carbon footprint [2]. Testing will be conducted under simulated climatic conditions. This
evaluates the system’s adaptability. The system will be tested in various weather scenarios. This
ensures reliability in real-world conditions [7].
3. Timeline
A detailed Gantt chart is provided in Appendix A, which shows a visual representation of the
project timeline while maintaining clarity through selective information presentation. It
effectively highlights completed tasks and outlines upcoming activities for each week, ensuring
a well-structured progress report and timely project completion.
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4. Risk Assessment
A detailed risk management matrix is provided in Appendix B. Since the project does not involve
human safety concerns or harm to animals, all identified risks are categorized as low, resulting
in an overall low project risk. Additionally, as the project primarily focuses on raw data
collection, the chances of data loss are minimal. However, budget overruns are considered a
medium risk due to the potential financial fluctuations.
The risk evaluation framework assigns likelihood and consequence scores on a scale from 1(low)
to 5(high), with ranking indicating priority (1 being the highest risk). After implementing
appropriate risk mitigating measures, all residual risks are effectively reduced to a low level.
5. Progress to Date
So far, the project topic has been selected, and the objectives have been clearly defined. A
thorough literature review has been conducted to understand existing research and
technological advancements related to the topic. The motivation behind the project has been
established, and a structured approach has been outlined to guide the report development.
Additionally, the necessary software tools for simulations and analysis have been identified. The
next steps involve collecting relevant data, performing simulations using the chosen software,
analysing the results, and integrating all findings to compile the final report and prepare a poster
presentation.
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6. Conclusion
This research highlights the critical role of hybrid renewable energy systems (HRES) in addressing
global energy challenges, particularly the need for reliable, sustainable power in areas with
unpredictable weather. By combining solar and wind energy, these systems can offset the
intermittent nature of each energy source, offering a more stable and continuous energy supply.
The integration of advanced storage solutions and smart grid technologies will be key in
optimizing energy management, ensuring a balance between supply and demand, and
minimizing wastage.
The findings emphasize the potential of HRES to mitigate climate change by reducing
greenhouse gas emissions, enhancing energy access in remote regions, and providing a cost
effective alternative to fossil fuels. With the continued development of energy storage
technologies and smart grids, hybrid systems can become even more efficient, contributing
significantly to global sustainability goals. The proposed system design, including carefully
selected components, energy management strategies, and robust simulation tools, offers a
pathway to achieving practical, large-scale deployment of these systems.
In conclusion, this research not only supports the transition to renewable energy but also
contributes to the wider objective of achieving a sustainable, low-carbon future. By advancing
hybrid systems, we can make substantial progress toward reducing fossil fuel dependency,
curbing climate change, and improving the quality of life in remote and rural communities.
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References
[1] International Energy Agency (IEA). (n.d.). SDG7: Data and projections: Access to electricity.
Retrieved March 26, 2025, from https://www.iea.org/reports/sdg7-data-and
projections/access-to-electricity
[2] IRENA. (2021). Renewable Energy Statistics 2021. International Renewable Energy Agency.
[3] National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL). (2019). Hybrid Renewable Energy Systems:
Optimization and Performance. NREL/TP-6A20-73581.
[4] GWEC. (2021). Global Wind Report 2021. Global Wind Energy Council.
[5] Kaabeche, A., Belhamel, M., & Ibtiouen, R. (2011). Sizing optimization of grid-independent
hybrid photovoltaic/wind power generation system. Energy, 36(2), 1214-1222.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.energy.2010.11.022
[6] BloombergNEF. (n.d.). Lithium-ion battery pack prices hit record low of $139/kWh.
Retrieved March 26, 2025, from https://about.bnef.com/blog/lithium-ion-battery-pack-prices
hit-record-low-of-139-kwh/
[7] IPCC. (2021). Climate Change 2021: The Physical Science Basis. Contribution of Working
Group I to the Sixth Assessment Report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change.
Cambridge University Press.
[8] Singh, R., & Baredar, P. (2016). Techno-economic assessment of a solar PV, fuel cell, and
biomass
gasifier
hybrid
energy
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.egyr.2016.10.001
system.
Energy
Reports,
2,
254-260.
[9] Khan, M. J., & Iqbal, M. T. (2009). Pre-feasibility study of stand-alone hybrid energy systems
for
applications
in
Newfoundland.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.renene.2008.04.033
Renewable
Energy,
34(3),
833-845.
[10] World Health Organization. (2014, March 25). 7 million premature deaths annually linked
to air pollution. Retrieved March 26, 2025, from https://www.who.int/news/item/25-03-2014
7-million-premature-deaths-annually-linked-to-air-pollution
[11] Bhandari, B., Lee, K. T., Lee, G. Y., Cho, Y. M., & Ahn, S. H. (2015). Optimization of hybrid
renewable energy power systems: A review. International Journal of Precision Engineering and
Manufacturing-Green Technology, 2(1), 99-112. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40684-015-0013-z
[12] Eltamaly, A. M., & Mohamed, M. A. (2015). A novel design and optimization software for
autonomous PV/wind/battery hybrid power systems. Mathematical Problems in Engineering,
2015, 1-16. https://doi.org/10.1155/2015/637678
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Appendix
Attachment 1 – Timeline Chart
Description Week 1 Week 2 Week 3 Week 4 Week 5 Week 6 Week 7 Week 8 Week 9 Week 10 Week 11 Week 12 Week 13
Project Topic
Registration

Detail Project
discussion with
Supervisor
(Face-to
face/online)

Research on
Topic (Literature
Review)

Submission the
Theory base
Report

Progress
Report
submissio
n

Data Collection

Simulation setup
& model
development

Running the
Simulation

Result Analysis
and
Optimization

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Poster
Presentation
and report
submission
Poster
Presentation
&
submission
of progress
report
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Attachment 2 – Risk Assessment Matrix
Risk
Reference
Risk Consequences Current Risk
Treatment
Current level of Risk Additional Risk
Treatment
Residual level of Risk
Likelih
ood
Conse
quenc
e Risk
level
Rankin
g
Likelih
ood
Conse
quenc
e Risk
level
Rankin
g
1 Equipment failure during
operation
System downtime,
data loss, repair costs
Regular
maintenance,
quality
components
2 2 L 3 Install backup
systems, extended
warranties
1 2 L 5
2 Data corruption or loss Loss of research
results, time delays
Automated
backups, cloud
storage
2 2 L 1 Implement
redundant storage
systems
1 2 L 5
3 Software compatibility issues Delays in analysis,
incorrect results
Standardized
software versions
2 2 L 4 Test all software
combinations
beforehand
1 2 L 7
4 Budget overruns Project delays, scope
reduction
Detailed cost
estimation
3 3 M 2 Secure
contingency
funding (10%)
2 2 L 4
5 Participant recruitment issues Insufficient sample
size
Multiple
recruitment
channels
2 2 L 5 Expand eligibility
criteria, incentives
1 1 L 8
6 Power outages Equipment shutdown,
data loss
UPS systems 1 2 L 6 Backup generator
access
1 1 L 10

Activity Overall Risk Rating LOW
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