A Hybrid Photovoltaic-Wind Electricity Generation for Street Lighting

Abstract

Electricity has become essential need of human being. The generation of electricity is primarily based on electromechanical energy conversion that so far uses fossil-based resources. The increase demand of electricity forces extensive exploration of fossil fuels causing significant reduction of fuel deposit. Another effect of burning a lot of fossil fuels for electricity generation is environmental problem in the form of pollution. It is therefore necessary to substitute electricity generation using renewable energy resources. Renewable energy is extensively available and has not been intensively utilized for electricity generation. Electricity generation using renewable energy resources is still in the beginning stage and has not taken dominant part on electricity supply. However, the quality of electricity generated using renewable energy resources may not be fully acceptable for grid connection. Therefore, for some cases, they are operated as stand-alone unit to supply a specific load. This paper presents a small-scale hybrid photovoltaic-wind power generation to supply a LED lamp for street lighting. A 50 WP solar panel is combined with a wind driven modified synchronous generator to supply a battery. A controller is utilized to assure that power flows charging the battery and blocks power flowing back or circulating current. This combination enables to light up a 10 Watt LED lamp along the night. Compared with the only wind driven generator, this combination enables supply the light longer. This prototype may be extensively used for street lighting and its massive using is expected to reduce electricity demand in a regional level.