Recent research published in IEEE Access has introduced a promising operational strategy for a hybrid energy system designed to power a remote residential home, integrating renewable energy sources with a geothermal system. The study, led by Hiba Abdulkareem Khamis from the Department of Electrical Engineering at Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz in Iran, focuses on optimizing energy costs and reducing carbon emissions through a combination of photovoltaic panels, wind turbines, battery energy storage systems, and diesel generators.
The hybrid system aims to leverage the unique advantages of each energy source. The geothermal system plays a crucial role by providing a stable energy supply, which can significantly minimize reliance on the diesel generator. This is particularly important in regions like Iraq, where energy access can be inconsistent. Khamis’s team utilized a thermodynamic module to assess how much electrical energy could be conserved by using geothermal energy, taking into account daily temperature fluctuations.
The findings indicate that during certain hours of the day, the geothermal system can substantially reduce the energy drawn from the diesel generator, which not only lowers operational costs but also decreases carbon emissions associated with energy generation. “Our model shows that integrating a geothermal system can lead to significant savings and a cleaner energy profile for residential homes,” Khamis noted.
The implications of this research extend beyond individual households. For commercial sectors, particularly in renewable energy and sustainability, there are substantial opportunities to develop and implement hybrid systems that combine various energy sources. Companies involved in solar, wind, and geothermal technologies stand to benefit from the insights gained in this study, as it highlights an effective approach to energy management that can be scaled to meet the needs of larger communities.
As the world increasingly prioritizes sustainable energy solutions, the operational strategies explored in Khamis’s research could serve as a blueprint for future developments in hybrid energy systems. This study not only addresses the immediate needs of remote residential homes but also aligns with broader environmental goals, making it a significant contribution to the field of energy management.
