Cost-effective hardware solutions for experimental validation in renewable energy emulation and storage systems

Abstract

Experimental validation is essential in renewable energy emulators and energy storage systems to ensure reliability, accuracy, and practical implementation. However, the high cost of AC/DC converters, measurement circuits, and microcontroller-based control platforms limits access to experimental validation, particularly in developing regions. This paper proposes cost-effective hardware and software solutions for validating renewable energy systems and storage management. The proposed approach is based on affordable power converters, low-cost voltage and current measurement circuits, data acquisition tools, and open-source control platforms. The methodology includes the design, implementation, and experimental testing of these low-cost solutions under different operating conditions. The obtained results demonstrate satisfactory measurement accuracy, stable behavior, and acceptable error margins, confirming the feasibility of the proposed setup for experimental validation. These solutions provide a scalable and accessible alternative to expensive laboratory platforms, enabling researchers and institutions with limited resources to perform reliable experimental studies and contribute to the advancement of sustainable energy technologies.