Preliminary Techno–Environment–Economic Evaluation of an Innovative Hybrid Renewable Energy Harvester System for Residential Application

• Main Authors: Wang, Xiao Hang, Chong, Wen Tong, Wong, Kok Hoe, Lai, Sai Hin, Saw, Lip Huat, Xiang, Xianbo, Wang, Chin Tsan
• Format: Article
• Published: MDPI 2019
• Subjects: TA Engineering (General). Civil engineering (General); TJ Mechanical engineering and machinery
• Online Access: http://eprints.um.edu.my/23181/; https://doi.org/10.3390/en12081496

A technical, environmental, and economic feasibility study for a patented hybrid renewable energy harvester system for residential application is conducted in this paper. This system can be mounted on top of an existing residential building to provide electricity from renewable sources. The system is characterized by its V-shaped roof guide vane (VRGV) that directs and augments airflow into the wind turbine, to enhance the rotational and power generation performance of the wind turbines in low wind speed areas. Furthermore, the VRGV increases the installation area for the solar photovoltaic panels and expand the rainwater collection area for the building, and facilitates natural ventilation and prevents excessive solar radiation into the room. The environment-economic evaluation of the system is conducted based on the life-cycle cost (LCC) in terms of low carbon and economic cost-effectiveness. The evaluation of the system with dimensions of 15 m (L) × 16 m (W) × 17.05 m (H) showed that the annual energy generated is 21.130 MWh. Annual low-carbon benefit of the system is estimated to be 11.894 t. The cumulative net present value (NPV) of the system in the life cycle time (20 years) is $52,207.247, with the consideration of a discount rate of 8%; also, the cash flow breakeven occurs in the 11th year. It is important to note that the carbon payback period (CPP) of the system is five years. © 2019 by the authors.