The PV Horizon workshop on PV-Hybrid Systems took place in Montréal on September 10th, 2001.

Organized by the CANMET Energy Diversification Research Laboratory, Canada’s PV research centre, in collaboration with IEA  PVPS Task 3 (stand-alone and hybrid systems) and IEA  PVPS Task 9 (cooperation for development), the workshop was attended by over 65 participants from Canada, the US, Europe, Japan and Australia. The meeting focused on identifying R&D priorities for PV-Hybrids, with a view towards establishing a roadmap of the critical technical advances required to accelerate developments in this important field. Panel members and participants discussed issues on current applications and market potential, international experience with hybrid systems, and R&D opportunities to advance the state of the art.

The workshop heard that there are many applications of PV-Hybrid Systems all over the world that have been established as the least cost option for providing basic electricity supply. Proper system design to match user requirements is the most important factor to consider in planning such projects, although proper selection of proven and tested components is equally important and regular maintenance of the system and components is a must.

The participants noted that for successful PV Hybrid implementation systems should be used for small loads, typically < 15 000 kWh/a. Community Power, Village power, Multi-user Solar Grids and RESCOs (Rural Energy Service Companies) all need extensive consultation with users / stakeholders during planning, and proper management of operations is vital to ensure meaningful cooperation and positive results. It was also noted that successful projects are often headed by a local 'Champion' who knows the technology and all associated issues and can sell his project to decision makers.

Proceedings summarizing the workshop presentations and discussions will be available shortly.

Contact:

• Farah Seriff, CANMET-EDRL
  E-mail: farah.sheriff@nrcan.gc.ca
  Web: http://cedrl.mets.nrcan.gc.ca

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