LET'S VOLT IN: A SOLAR-WIND HYBRID GENERATOR FOR COST-EFFECTIVE AND CLEAN ELECTRICITY

Abstract

The rising cost of electricity generated from fossil fuels, along with limited power availability in rural areas of the Philippines, has driven consumers to seek more cost-effective and accessible energy sources. The country’s reliance on imported non-gas fossil fuels contributes to higher electricity costs, making access to power less feasible for rural communities. Renewable energy systems, which are capable of producing pollution-free electricity, offer significant advantages in remote areas where households lack reliable power. This study focused on developing a hybrid renewable energy system that combines solar panels and wind turbines to generate affordable and environmentally friendly electricity. This study employed a true experimental research design to examine the relationships between key variables affecting system performance. Data were collected over a specified period, with time allocated to testing different system setups. The generator was evaluated based on battery charging time and the duration for which the charged battery could power various appliances before reaching its maximum discharge voltage. The results indicated that the efficiency of the renewable energy generator was strongly influenced by environmental conditions, with peak performance achieved under favorable settings. The solar–wind hybrid generator demonstrated effective battery charging capability. Once fully charged, the battery was able to power various appliances for different durations, highlighting the system’s potential for sustainable energy production. The findings suggest that appropriate location and favorable weather conditions significantly enhance the efficiency of the solar–wind hybrid generator, ensuring more reliable power output and supporting the practicality of renewable energy systems. Further design enhancements are recommended to improve energy generation capacity and extend battery life.