Mono-objective optimization of PV-CSP system using PSO algorithm

Abstract

Due to the intermittent criterion and fluctuation of renewable resources, the combination of different renewable energy systems with energy storage system can improve the production quality and meet the load demand. This study focuses on a hybrid PV-CSP systems coupled with a thermal storage system (TES) to feed a baseload demand. A Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) technique is implemented to minimize the levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) considering as a constraint the effectiveness of system and to determine the optimal size of PV-CSP plant by determining the PV capacity, the CSP capacity, storage size and solar multiple. The results show that the inclusion of effectiveness of system as a constraint has a significant impact on the minimum cost and optimal decision variables. This study is investigated in Oarazazate (Morocco) and can be applied to all other locations in the world.