Model of application of distributed generation in Colombia rural zones

This work analyzes the impact produced by the incorporation of renewable energies generation in a hybrid model in rural residential areas in Colombia. It also proposes a simple approach that allows the selection of generators of the most convenient size, based on the weather conditions of the region. An example of application is presented and the results show that an efficient contribution of renewable generation depends on variables like sun radiation and wind, which are neither constant nor easy to determine. The analysis indicates that in different zones of Colombia the wind and solar capabilities are not similar to the conditions of the northern coastal region, and therefore the power decrease, and so, it must be designed with rated powers greater than the average generated values. This situation produces high initial investment costs and the subsequent operational and maintenance costs. Finally, some drawbacks for the use of renewable energies in Colombia are shown, like the need of better regulation on the equipment, to avoid non-justifiable investments due to the bad quality of materials or unsuitable designs.