Smart Integrated Renewable Energy Systems (SIRES): A Novel Approach for Sustainable Development

Technical and economic aspects of the viability of SIRES (Smart Integrated Renewable Energy Systems) for sustainable development of remote and rural areas of the world are discussed. The hallmark of the proposed SIRES is the smart utilization of several renewable resources in an integrated fashion and matching of resources and needs a priori with the ultimate goal of energization, not just electrification. Historical background leading to this approach is succinctly presented along with a comprehensive schematic diagram. Modeling of various components and their collective use in optimizing SIRES with the aid of genetic algorithm are presented using a typical hypothetical example. SIRES is also compared with various approaches for rural development based on Annualized Cost of System (ACS) and installation costs. Implementation of SIRES will lead to overall sustainable development of rural communities.