Design and Study of Aerodynamics of Wind-Solar Hybrid System for Domestic Application by Using Balsa Wood

Abstract

Increasing levels of modernization in different countries worldwide have lead to an exponential growth in national energy demand. India with its huge population base had a total grid connected electric power close to 285 GW during 2015 with annual generation of 1106 TWh accounting to a per-capita energy consumption of 746 kWh. The Government of India under its ambitious plan “Power for all” envisages 24 × 7 power supply for the entire domestic and Industrial loads by the year 2022. This power sector initiative also promises the generation through green path by targeting reduction in carbon footprint. The plan has sanctioned funds for production of 190 GW power based on go green initiative of United Nations Organization and a step forward to create a better environment for future generations. The proposed work aims at design of wind-solar hybrid system for light load decentralized applications. The computational tools were used to model and analyze wind turbine (WT) blade structure for low power applications to suit decentralized power generation based on renewable energy. The comparative studies of test aerofoil with standard NACA 0018 aerofoil indicated conformance of the test aerofoil as a profile for WT blades. The test aerofoil has the feature of easier manufacturability as against standard NACA 0018 profile adopted in commercial WT blades. The studies conformed suitability of test profile at specified angle of attack with WT blade structure and hub construction using balsa wood. The choice of balsa wood was based on properties of lighter weight and adequate strength that was supported on the designed tower of tripod type. The designed WT system was for a rated power output of 75 W while operating at an average wind speed of 4.5 m/s. The system developed will be a feasible option for powering households in rural India.