Efficiency Assessment of Renewable Energy Sources

Melentiev Energy Systems Institute of Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Irkutsk, Russia

marchenko@isem.irk.ru

Abstract

A review of the methods and models used at the ESI SB RAS to assess the effectiveness of renewable energy sources (RES) was carried out. Criteria were formulated and calculation formulas were given for a preliminary assessment of the competitiveness of renewable energy sources as compared to alternative energy supply options. A mathematical model of the world energy system was considered, where renewable energy sources were described by averaged indicators. The model allows for different scenarios of external conditions to explore the prospects for the development of energy technologies, including renewable energy sources. For the analysis of autonomous energy systems with RES, a simulation model was developed so as to treat the processes of production, consumption, and energy storage in their dynamics. The optimization version of the mathematical model eliminates the need for a pre-assignment of the energy flow control algorithm. In this case, it is possible to study systems with the simultaneous presence of several units of energy storage of various types. For the study of renewable energy sources under market conditions, a model was developed so as to take into account the presence of various decision-making hubs, as well as the impact of governmental regulatory bodies in the market. It was shown that the most efficient mechanism for encouraging the development of renewable energy sources is the creation of a market for "green certificates", with the least efficient renewable energy sources to be subsidized.