A MILP Optimization Model for Sizing a Hybrid Concentrated Solar Power-Wind System Considering Energy Allocation

This paper develops a mixed integer linear programming model for the optimal sizing of a hybrid concentrated solar power-wind system. The proposed model simultaneously allocates the energy generation among the system’s components and determines the optimal system configuration. The hybrid system is compared with a pure wind system with batteries and a pure concentrated solar power system with thermal energy storage. The obtained results of the three systems are validated by benchmarking against other systems in the literature to highlight the novelty of the proposed model. A case study in a residential area at King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals, Saudi Arabia, demonstrates the utility and practicality of the developed model. The optimal configuration of the hybrid system comprises a solar field area of 26,257 square meters and 51 wind turbines with an energy cost of 0.172 $/kWh. However, the pure wind system with battery system and the pure concentrated solar power system with thermal energy storage have a cost of energy of 0.534 $/kWh and 0.194 $/kWh, respectively. Additionally, the hybrid system shows significant environmental benefits by reducing CO₂ emissions by more than 90% compared to the grid.