Simulating reservoir storage for a wind-hydro hydrid system

A wind-hydro hybrid system is proposed to improve Brazil's use of its renewable energy portfolio. In this scheme, winds from local or remote locations supply extra generation, so that the hydroelectric outflow can be reduced accordingly to wind production. The water savings, in turn, lead to a significant improvement of the reservoir's storage. A simple model is developed and applied to the Itumbiara hydroelectric reservoir of midwest Brazil. Scenarios for different wind contributions are compared to historical observations from 1994 to 2011. Results suggest that, if implemented, the hybrid system should improve the country's energy security. Hydroelectric reservoirs might be able to confront interannual climate variability without risks to the energy supply. A positive impact on the multiple use of reservoirs is expected for fish-farming, irrigation, recreation, navigation and water supply.