Energy analysis of a Hybrid Wind-Wave Solution for Remote Islands

The energy needs of most Aegean islands are covered by the operation of autonomous/local power stations (APS/LPS) using imported oil. The costly operation of the APS/LPS combined with the resulting environmental problems, set the issue of a sustainable and rational energy solution mainly for the remote islands, showing respect to the sensitive island ecosystems and the acceptance of local communities. In this context, high wind speeds as well as the remarkable wave potential of the Aegean Archipelagos could be the driving force for a sustainable energy supply solution for these islands by exploiting combined energy sources along with an appropriate energy storage system, comprising a modern hybrid renewable based station. Moreover, the exploitation of wave energy is one of the future priorities of the European Union (Blue Growth) in an effort to support the installation of wave energy converters, which are in the final stage of technological development. The proposed analysis examines the combined exploitation of the wave and wind potential for a representative medium sized island of the Aegean Archipelagos in order to cover its electrical needs. The results show that the installation of a hybrid power station contributes to a higher integration of RES into an autonomous micro-grid and that the stochastic production of wind turbines can be counterbalanced due to the smoother (time-dependent) production of wave systems. In addition, the ability to store excess renewable energy enhances the energy supply security of an island micro-grid providing a clean energy solution for the remote Aegean island communities and thus reducing their oil dependence.