An Intelligent Energy Management System Solution for Multiple Renewable Energy Sources

Abstract

This paper proposes an intelligent energy management system based on multiple renewable energy sources. The intelligent energy management system is defined as a flexible energy management system built by integrating multiple renewable energy sources and facilities for energy storage. The general objective of this paper is to propose a solution to increase the use of energy potential from renewable sources by embedding small-sized energy sources to behave as a higher-power energy source. The proposed system includes solar, wind, and hydro as renewable sources. As the system is not connected to the primary distribution grid, two alternatives for energy storage are also included: batteries and a water basin used for hydro energy. The system includes a diesel generator as a reserve. The system can be adjusted depending on the consumers it serves and the location where it is implemented (i.e., the potential of electricity, wind, and hydro). The main contribution of this paper is the use of an energy storage concept in the form of a “natural” battery system composed of a water storage basin into which water is pumped when we have a surplus of energy from renewable generators.