A review of hybrid power generation: Modelling-simulation, control strategy and future trend development

Hybrid power generation is one of the most discussed topics in power engineering society nowadays. It is due to the characteristics of participated power sources are different including the variable input parameters and fluctuation of load demand. Therefore, the main challenges in hybrid system are to find the optimal performance, sizing and configuration for the target of minimum operational cost, maximum efficiency and reliability and reduction of carbon gas emission within the pre-determined constrains. This paper attempts to reveal the typical modelling and simulation procedures, control strategy and future trend development of hybrid power generation. The study yields that the utilization of Hybrid Optimization Model for Electric Renewable (HOMER) software dominates the simulation procedure to obtain the optimum technical, socio-economic and environmental performance of hybrid systems. In this respect, there have been ambitious plans to maximize the potential solar energy with other back-up energy sources to supply the electricity energy demand worldwide. In addition, the variety of control strategy has been implemented to take the advantages utilization of hybrid power generation. In the end, the future trend development is mainly focused on the increase the optimal performance of hybrid system based solar thermal power or other thermal engine systems combined with different types of generating systems.