Hybrid Energy Systems Research

Design Methods and Tools

NREL is developing robust open-source modelling tools capable of simulating and optimizing a range of hybrid energy systems. The Hybrid Optimization and Performance Platform (HOPP) is a software tool (part of the NREL suite of systems engineering tools) that enables detailed analysis and optimization of hybrid power plants down to the component level. It has the capability to assess and optimize projects that contain combinations of wind (onshore and offshore), solar, storage, geothermal, and hydro.

The HOPP platform aims to answer the crucial question "When and where do hybrid plants make sense, and how can we design them optimally?" HOPP leverages other NREL-developed tools—ReOpt, SAM, WISDEM—to size, analyze, and design the hybrid power plants of the future, allowing for detailed output on a myriad of design conditions, from number and type of turbine to the overall layout and topology of assets within the system.

Resource Characterization, Forecasting, and Maps

To identify the best locations for hybrid plant development, NREL has created high-resolution wind and solar maps using a national database called the WIND Toolkit for wind integration and forecasting, as well as National Solar Radiation Database data. NREL researchers are also advancing the science of wind measurements and observations through numerous industry partnerships. This data enables a full understanding of the complementarity of resource, a crucial piece in determining the optimal deployment of hybrid plants.

Controls

Researchers at the National Wind Technology Center research, design, and validate advanced wind and solar power plant control systems to maximize energy production in hybrid scenarios.

Utility Grid Integration

NREL's grid system integration analysts work with the U.S. Department of Energy, university researchers, independent system operators, and regional transmission organizations to provide system characterization data and models that empower electric power system operators to more efficiently manage grid integration and maximize the benefits of hybrid plant operation.

Energy and Economic Analysis

Land-based wind energy analysis capabilities include tracking historical technology trends and costs, evaluating and assessing future innovation opportunities, and analyzing opportunities for wind power within the electric sector of today and out to 2050. Learn more about NREL's cross-cutting analysis capabilities.