The 10 years operation of a PV-micro-hydro hybrid system in Taratak, Indonesia

A 48–71.1 kWp photovoltaic-micro-hydro system has been installed at Taratak, Indonesia since June 10, 1989. The system is being developed in Indonesia to obtain optimal result by combining the advantages of both energy conversion systems. The photovoltaic works as a dominant part in this hybrid system. However, the micro-hydro sub-system works to compensate the inconvenience found in the photovoltaic. It will anticipate the weather uncertainty and fulfill the need during the peak load. In this paper we analyze and evaluate the performance of a PV-micro-hydro (PV-MH) system in Taratak. We find the difference between the initial design and the actual system operation. Results of the evaluation show that the performance of PV-MH system operation is still optimal.