Hybrid

A hybrid renewable energy system consists of more than one type of generator. They are particularly suited to operation in rural areas where connection to the main grid may be difficult or unreliable. Scotland lends itself to the development of hybrid renewable energy systems in two ways. Firstly it has a number of rural communities, both on mainland Scotland and the islands who would benefit from hybrid renewable systems. Secondly, it has huge potential renewable energy resources, in particular in the more rural areas where wave, tidal, wind and hydro power have the potential to be exploited and electrical power can be generated close to the load.

Generation of power close to the load brings many advantages, not least as it reduces losses associated with transmission and distribution. A hybrid system may also increase the reliability of electricity supply to a rural community.

The control systems and power electronics surrounding the generation of power and interface between the different components of the hybrid system, and if appropriate the main grid, need to be developed to increase the reliability and efficiency of these systems.

RenewNet offers an opportunity to SMEs to engage with academics and university researchers with a background in control of electrical machines and power electronics to develop efficient hybrid systems.