Wind-Solar Hybrid vs Standalone Solar vs Standalone Wind
Comparing Wind-Solar Hybrid, Solar Farms, and Wind Farms in India
| Wind Solar Hybrid | Standalone Solar | Standalone Wind | |
|---|---|---|---|
 DEFINITION |
A combination of wind and solar power generation units designed to optimize energy output. | A system that relies exclusively on solar power as the primary energy source. | A system that depends solely on wind energy for electricity generation. |
 POWER GENERATION TIME |
Delivers round-the-clock energy throughout the year by leveraging the complementary nature of wind and solar. | Generates power only during daylight hours, with peak production between 11 AM and 4 PM on sunny days. | Peaks during late-night and early morning hours, with maximum output from May to September. |
 VARIABILITY |
Reduces daily and seasonal fluctuations through the synergy of wind and solar energy. | Performance drops on cloudy days and during shorter daylight hours, particularly in monsoons. | Higher generation in the rainy season, even when electricity demand is lower. |
 ENERGY REQUIREMENT FULFILLMENT |
Meets approximately 75-80% of energy needs despite Time-of-Day (TOD) adjustments. | Can address only 50-55% of energy needs due to TOD constraints on wheeling and banking. | Typically meets 50-55% of energy requirements, depending on wind patterns and banking regulations. |
|
ENERGY SETTLEMENT COMPLIANCE |
Covers up to 60% of energy needs despite 15-minute settlement restrictions. | Restricted to 20-30% fulfillment under 15-minute settlement constraints. | Also limited to 20-30% due to settlement timing restrictions. |
 GENERATION CURVE |
Can be designed for 24/7 power generation, aligning with a consumer’s base load requirements. | Follows the sun’s movement, varying with time of day and year. | Generation fluctuates with wind availability and seasonal variations. |
 YEARLY UNITS GENERATED |
5 MW WSH ~ 22 million units | 5 MW Solar ~ 7. 8 million units | 5 MW Wind ~ 16.2 million units |
 CAPACITY UTILIZATION FACTOR |
45% to 50% | ~16% to 18% | ~30% to 35% |
 SAVINGS POTENTIAL |
Highest savings. | Moderate savings, contingent on state-specific wheeling and banking regulations. | Moderate savings, also dependent on regulatory conditions. |
 OPERATION & MAINTENANCE (O&M) |
More cost-effective due to shared infrastructure for wind and solar at the same location. | Requires independent maintenance at a remote solar plant. | Demands separate maintenance for wind farms, often in remote areas. |
|
Resource Optimization |
Cost savings arise from shared land use, power evacuation systems, infrastructure, components, and operational manpower. | Dedicated infrastructure only for solar energy. | Exclusively built for wind power generation. |
Time-of-Day Based Power Generation Curve Comparison*
*The information provided above is intended solely for informational purposes. All data and figures are approximate, based on third-party sources, industry research, or practical insights. Green Wattage does not claim responsibility for the accuracy or completeness of the information presented.
