STUDY ON THE DESIGN OF A HYBRID SOLAR–HYDRO TURBINE POWER GENERATION SYSTEM FOR REMOTE MOUNTAIN REGIONS

Abstract

Providing stable electricity to mountainous regions remains a major challenge due to limited grid infrastructure and high investment costs, meanwhile, the potential integration of solar and hydropower resources in Vietnam has not yet been fully exploited. This paper presents the design and evaluation of a hybrid power system comprising a 50 kWp photovoltaic array and a 30 kW mini-hydro turbine, applied in Van Chan district, Yên Bái province. The system leverages the complementary characteristics of the two energy sources (seasonal and diurnal balancing), combined with dual storage (battery and pumped-hydro) and a smart controller to ensure a reliable power supply for 46 households. The results indicate high technical feasibility, reasonable investment costs, and a short payback period, while also demonstrating socio-economic benefits and contributing to the promotion of renewable energy development in remote communities