Optimizing off-grid PV/wind systems with battery and water storage for rural energy and water access

This study presents a multi-objective optimization framework for improving affordability, reliability, and water access in standalone off-grid energy systems integrating photovoltaic (PV) panels, wind turbines (WT), battery storage, and water reservoirs. The system is designed to meet both residential load demand and water needs. A mathematical model and a tailored Energy Management System (EMS) algorithm optimize power generation, energy storage, and water pumping. The EMS prioritizes residential electricity supply, ensuring battery charging for nighttime and low-irradiation periods, while excess power is used for water storage. Main performance parameters including Loss of Power Supply Probability (LPSP), Water Shortage Probability (WSP), and Capital Expenditure (CapEx) are optimized using a genetic algorithm (GA)-based multi-objective technique in order to enhance reliability, water availability, and cost efficiency of the system. A detailed financial model and reliability analysis evaluate system performance, with a case study in a remote island in Quebec demonstrating the feasibility of an autonomous, off-grid energy solution. The results show that the optimized system could effectively supply residential electricity while utilizing surplus power for water pumping—thus, reducing reliance on diesel generators (DG) or grid electricity. The proposed solutions showed a payback period of 8 to 12 years with LCOE in the range of 16.3 ¢/kWh to 23.4 ¢/kWh. • Tailored EMS optimizes off-grid PV/WT systems with battery and water storage for rural needs. • Multi-objective GA minimizes LPSP, WSP, and CAPEX for reliable, cost-effective solutions. • Case study in Îles-de-la-Madeleine, Quebec shows PV/WT complementarity enhances seasonal reliability. • Optimized system achievable with LPSP = 5 %, WSP = 10 %, and LCOE of 23.3 ¢/kWh. • Economic analysis shows payback period within 9–12 years.