Optimal combination of photovoltaic systems and wind generators in the power network

The current energy transition has affected the design and operation of power networks, which need to incorporate Renewable Energy Sources (RES) to reduce their environmental footprint. More specifically, depending on the region, power networks need to meet certain target values related to RES penetration. In this context, Photovoltaic (PV) systems and Wind Generators (WG) seem to be two of the most widespread solutions. Nevertheless, their production is stochastic, which often leads to a mismatch with the demand resulting in either the need for storage systems or curtailments. The purpose of this research is to present an algorithm for the selection of the optimal combination of PV systems and WGs in power networks to meet the renewable energy targets and avoid or minimize the need for storage or curtailments. The core of the algorithm is a Nonlinear Programming (NLP) optimizer. The algorithm is applied on a power network in Slovenia and showcases the optimal combination of PVs and WGs to achieve 40% RES penetration (i.e., the European Union target for 2030), which is equal to 12.44 MW and 16.78 MW of installed power, respectively.