After accepting a honorable invitation by Prof. Massimiliano Lo Faro, our lab submits a contribution to the fortcoming book entitled "Hybrid technologies for power generation". The book is sceduled to be published at June 2021.

Title: SUSTAINABLE OFF-GRID POWER SUPPLY FOR SMALL SETTLEMENTS  

Authors: Evangelos Tsiaras, Demetrios N. Papadopoulos, Constantinos N. Antonopoulos, Vagelis G. Papadakis & Frank A. Coutelieris

Abstract: Autonomous electricity production based on Renewable Energy Systems (RES) seems to be a sufficient option to cover low to moderate loads that are located in isolated areas. The majority of relative research is focused on the implementation of such production systems without paying the necessary attention to the identification of the proper location for the installation of such a system. This chapter attempts to examine whether the use of RES-based electricity production systems in small villages worldwide is sustainable. A multi-criteria methodology for identifying the most appropriate location(s) for installing low-scale RES-based hybrid electricity production systems to cover local energy demands without grid connection, is presented here. The selection is initially based on geographical, geospatial and demographical data, while the optimal combination of meteorological data (solar and wind potential), with available resources (in terms of free space and investment costs) and the desired loads are also taken into account. On top of that, optimization in both size and operation of the hybrid system is also performed. Finally, the use of Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) helps the reduction of the use of raw materials and corresponds to lower pollution of the environment.  In conclusion, this chapter could serve not only as a policy tool for promoting and generating off-grid electricity at national level, but also as an application of autonomous energy production from renewable energy systems for small off-grid settlements, which is deemed viable based on the presented methodology.