OPTIMIZATION OF HYBRID SOLAR-WIND ENERGY SYSTEMS FOR RURAL ELECTRIFICATION

Abstract

Access to electricity remains a major barrier to development in Papua, where many rural communities lack reliable power infrastructure. This study aims to design and evaluate a hybrid solar-wind renewable energy system tailored for off-grid electrification in Keerom Regency, serving as a replicable model for similar contexts. The primary objective is to ensure energy access for 72 households while balancing technical feasibility and economic viability. Methodologically, the study uses sequential load estimation, solar and wind potential analysis, component sizing, techno-economic modeling, and an optimization of the solar-to-wind ratio (ranging from 100:0 to 60:40) to identify the most cost-effective and reliable configuration. Results show that a 90:10 solar-to-wind ratio—with 29 PV panels, 11 wind turbines, 19 LiFePO₄ batteries, and one 30 kW inverter—provides optimal performance at a total CAPEX of Rp 1.37 billion. A detailed OPEX and revenue analysis using both subsidized (Rp 605/kWh) and unsubsidized (Rp 1,352/kWh) tariffs demonstrates financial feasibility. The study concludes that decentralized hybrid systems—when optimized for local conditions—offer a scalable, sustainable solution to rural energy poverty. The findings support broader energy equity goals and recommend future consideration of other renewables such as micro-hydro and biomass for regional integration.