WATSUN-PV 4.0 modifications to include wind turbine generator, AC load shedding, and operation with zero-capacity diesel generator

The source code for the WATSUN-PV 4.0 hybrid energy model was modified to incorporate models for a wind turbine generator (WTG) and a simple form of AC load shedding as well as allowing operation without a diesel generator. Five sets of revisions of the model were required during its development. Tests of the final computer model used weather data for Edmonton, Toronto, and Vancouver, diesel generators of different output capacities, a 400 W WTG, and 100 W (DC) and 200 W (AC) continuous loads. The WTG operating wind speeds were 2.5 m/s (cut-in), 5.0 m/s (rated), and 12.5 m/s (cut-out). When the diesel generator capacity was varied, AC load shedding and zero-capacity generator operation were demonstrated. The greatest reductions in annual diesel fuel consumption were noted for Toronto (over 54.8%) and the smallest for Vancouver (41.5%). The model was also tested for all three locations using the same system data, but a 160 W AC load (active 6 hours per day) and a 180 W DC load (active 10 hours per day). The largest reductions in diesel fuel consumption were noted for Toronto and the smallest for Vancouver.