Research issues on stand-alone pv/hybrid systems: state-of-art and future technology perspectives for the integration of μgrid topologies on local island grids

Abstract

A review of the state-of-art on stand-alone PV/hybrid is presented in this paper. Gathered data on operational experiences of autonomous power stations on Hellenic islands show that energy production costs using conventional power supply sources is high and PV systems is a sustainable solution for electrification of distant areas. Emphasis is put on muGrid systems as these topologies have certain technical and economical advantages. The main characteristics of the muGrid facility on the island of Kythnos are analysed and new marketing concepts such are the value of PV electricity and the provision of ancillary services by renewables are reviewed. Research issues for stand-alone systems technology to be addressed on the short to medium term and medium to long term timescales are listed. These research priorities have been identified due to the existing knowledge of on-going research projects and the work under way by the expert groups of two European Technology Platforms