The rapid depletion of fossil fuels and the growing concern over climate change have propelled the world towards a critical juncture in energy transition. Amidst this paradigm shift, hybrid renewable energy systems (HRES), particularly those incorporating solar and wind power technologies, have emerged as prominent solutions to address the challenges of energy sustainability the remarkable evolution of global renewable energy adaptation from 2010 to 2020, highlighting the pivotal role that renewables have played in reshaping the energy mix, as sourced from the Energy Information Administration (EIA) []. The growth in renewable energy capacity over these years show 1240 TW h in 2010, the capacity steadily rises, reaching 2960 TW h in 2020. This remarkable increase reflects the global shift towards cleaner and more sustainable energy sources, driven by factors such as technological advancements, environmental concerns, and supportive policies.
However, such systems mitigate the intermittency issues inherent to individual renewable sources, enhancing the overall reliability and stability of energy generation. Solar power exhibits peak output during daylight hours, while wind power can be harnessed even during periods of reduced solar availability [4]. By integrating these sources, the energy supply becomes more consistent, reducing the risk of power shortages during adverse weather conditions. Additionally, energy storage technologies integrated into hybrid systems facilitate surplus energy storage during peak production periods, thereby enabling its use during low production phases, thus increasing overall system efficiency and reducing wastage [5]. Moreover, HRES have the potential to significantly contribute to grid stability. The intermittent nature of standalone renewable sources can strain existing power grids, causing frequency and voltage fluctuations [6]. By incorporating hybrid systems with energy storage capabilities, these fluctuations can be better managed, and surplus energy can be injected into the grid during peak demand periods. This not only enhances grid stability but also reduces grid congestion, enabling a smoother integration of renewable energy into existing energy infrastructures.
While HRES offer promising solutions, their deployment does not come without challenges [7,8]. Technical complexities, such as optimizing the integration of different sources and managing energy storage, require careful consideration. Economic viability, including initial setup costs and ongoing maintenance expenses, needs to be evaluated in the context of long-term benefits. Moreover, policy frameworks and regulations should be formulated to incentivize the adoption of hybrid systems and ensure a seamless transition towards cleaner energy. The integration of solar and wind power in HRES holds immense potential to reshape the global energy landscape. This review delves into the challenges, opportunities, and policy implications associated with these integrated systems, shedding light on their transformative capabilities.