Hybrid renewable energy sources (HRES) are increasingly being utilized to meet global energy demands, particularly in rural areas that rely on diesel generators and are disconnected from the utility grid, due to their environmental and human health benefits. This study investigates the performance of an off-grid, hybrid PV/diesel generator/battery system for a decentralized power plant in Kuakata, Bangladesh, meeting a load demand of 3000 kWh/day with a 501.61 kW peak load demand. HOMER Pro (hybrid optimization model for electric renewable) software (version 3.11) was used to simulate and optimize system operations utilizing real-time solar radiation and load profile data from that location. This study also includes a sensitivity analysis of the off-grid HRES system under different electrical load demands, project longevity, and derating variables. The results reveal that CO₂ emissions have potentially decreased by more than 30% and over 10 tons per year, respectively, when compared to traditional power plants. The optimized system’s net present cost (NPC) was determined to be around USD 5.19 million, with a cost of energy (COE) of USD 0.367 per kWh per unit with a 100% renewable component. Furthermore, the current study’s findings are compared to previous research that has resulted in an economical hybrid renewable energy system with an affordable COE. The hybrid energy system under consideration might also be applicable to other parts of the world with comparable climate conditions.

In this paper, the performance of an efficient solar dryer was experimentally investigated and tested. The dryer was configured for harvesting maximum rate of solar radiation by having a longer drying period. The three axial flow fans provide the air inlet which can accelerate the drying rate. An electrical backup was also used for continuous drying process. Final moisture content and cabinet temperature (CT) were recorded and compared to the open sun drying and oven drying process. White oyster mushroom was dried at 50°C to 60°C and the desired moisture content of 7.97% has been achieved without affecting the product color. Activation energy, product output rate (POR), evaporation rate have been calculated. Shrinkage of drying mushroom was analyzed at different temperatures. The important climatic variables such as solar radiation, temperature and relative humidity are the main factors that affect the drying rate constant (k). Final output indicates that the quality of dried product in solar powered air dryer was competitive with the branded products available in the market. This drying system can be used for a wide range of agricultural products.

Since rising worldwide energy consumption is anticipated with increasing rapid industrialization and urbanization, green energy sources have become the ineluctable choice among energy engineers, power engineers, and researchers for carbon-free and sustainable electric power generation. By integrating several energy sources, a hybrid renewable and sustainable power supply system (HRSPSS) has been created to solve the global warming problem. HRSPSS aims to develop contemporary electricity grids that benefit society, the environment, and the economy. However, there is a need for thorough assessment of these complex HRSPSSs for making the most use of renewable energy potential and carefully crafting suitable solutions. This paper provides a thorough investigation of the most effective methods for sizing, optimizing, controlling, and managing energy, as well as how to combine different renewable energy sources to create a hybrid sustainable power supply system. Information on several software simulation tools and optimization methods that have been used to support HRSPSS development, research, and planning is presented in this study. Additionally, this study covers energy management and control strategies that have been used to ensure efficient and optimal operation of HRSPSS. Furthermore, this article presents an extensive comparison among various strategies utilized in each area (sizing, optimizing, controlling, and managing energy) to provide conclusive remarks on the suitable strategies for respective applications. The outcome of this study will help various stakeholders in the energy sector to make appropriate decisions during the design, development, and implementation phases of a hybrid sustainable power supply system.