Feasibility assessment of using Wavestar energy converter in a grid-connected hybrid renewable energy system (a case study)

• The main goal is to find the optimal hybrid energy system from the economical, technical and environmental point of view. • The optimal structure in Anzali and Chabahar is composed of PV/wind turbine/Wavastar/diesel generator/battery. • In both Anzali and Chabahar counties, wind speed has had the greatest impact on the range of COE, RF. • As a result, changes in the price of Wavestar converter have had no effect on the optimal scenario. • The results of the limitation of fuel supply to diesel generators led to an increase in the use of renewable sources. Renewable energies, as a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels, confront a twofold challenge characterized by intermittency and the imperative to enhance reliability. Hybrid energy systems (HES) emerge as a pragmatic solution with the potential to mitigate carbon emissions and foster self-sufficiency within local communities. This investigation primarily seeks to ascertain the optimal configuration of a HES integrated with Wavestar wave energy converter, considering economic, technical, and environmental factors, tailored to meet the electricity demands of two cities in Iran including Chabahar and Anzali alongside of the Caspian sea and Oman sea, respectively. For this purpose, HOMER software is used for modeling and optimization the energy systems. In both locations, the optimal system includes photovoltaic (PV), wind turbine (WT), Wavestar wave energy converter (WEC), diesel generator (DG), and batteries which results in cost of energy (COE) of 0.136 and 0.109 in Chabahar and Anzali, respectively. Sensitivity analysis reveals that wind speed significantly impacts COE and reliability, also grid electricity purchases play a vital role. Economic uncertainty highlights varying importance between capital costs for PV and WT in Anzali and Chabahar. Furthermore, this study delves into the limitations posed by the fuel dependency of diesel generators. Finally, by conducting a thorough assessment of solar energy potential by GIS software, the research identifies a favorable location for the establishment of a solar power plant, contributing to the overall feasibility of the proposed hybrid energy systems.