Principles of an Integrated Approach to Determining the Efficiency of Stand-Alone Wind/Diesel Power Systems1

The paper presents the authors’ method for evaluating the efficiency of and selecting equipment and operating conditions for renewable and conventional power systems located in the Arctic region of Russia. The use of renewable energy sources and the creation of wind/diesel power systems may be an effective solution for reducing fuel consumption and electricity generation by diesel power plants. This would improve the energy and environmental security of consumers, especially in zones of high wind power potential. The method allows energy and economic optimization of renewable power systems in the extreme climatic conditions of the Arctic region of Russia.