A combined simulation and experimental study of the dynamics of a rooftop hybrid stand - alone system with grid integration and battery storage in a hot arid climate

The growing demand for renewable energy in arid regions, characterised by high solar potential but harsh environmental conditions, necessitates advanced and efficient energy management solutions. This study investigates the performance and feasibility of a hybrid rooftop photovoltaic (PV) system integrated with battery storage and grid connection under arid climatic conditions. The main contribution lies in providing a comprehensive performance and economic assessment that combines experimental data and PVsyst simulations to evaluate energy yield, system losses, and cost metrics. This integrated approach enhances the reliability of the analysis and supports sustainable energy planning in similar environments. The methodology includes detailed evaluation of energy production, performance ratio (PR), yield indicators, and the levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) over a complete operating cycle. Experimental and simulated data were compared to validate model accuracy and assess the system’s response to variable irradiance and temperature conditions. Results show that the average monthly energy output of the PV array is 3002.2 kWh, while the corresponding load demand is 2804.7 kWh. The average monthly array and system losses are 3.070 kWh/kWp/day and 0.255 kWh/kWp/day, respectively. The system achieved an average array yield of 3.88 kWh/kWp/day, a final yield of 3.62 kWh/kWp/day, and a performance ratio of 52%. The estimated LCOE is 0.31 €/kWh, confirming the system’s economic viability.the results demonstrate that hybrid PV–battery–grid systems can ensure reliable energy supply, improved performance stability, and favourable economics in arid climates, offering valuable insights for optimising future rooftop solar installations.