Wind Power-Hybrid Clean Energy-Microgrid Feasibility Study for Roadside Assets for VDOT

Abstract: This study investigates the feasibility of implementing wind power, solar photovoltaics (PV), and hybrid energy systems, including battery storage, to enhance the energy resilience and sustainability of Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) roadside assets. As transportation agencies increasingly seek renewable energy solutions to reduce operational costs and improve reliability, this research provides valuable insights into deploying small-scale, distributed clean energy systems for VDOT’s roadside infrastructure.

Type A assets, such as digital message signs (DMS), road weather information systems (RWIS), and cameras, are semi-permanent installations typically powered by stand-alone PV/battery systems and are located along Virginia roadways. Geospatial analyses using ArcGIS were conducted to evaluate the wind energy potential at these sites, considering factors such as wind speed classes, setbacks, proximity to state parks, agricultural areas, wildlife zones, and land cover classifications. The study identifies suitable Type A assets for small wind turbines based on wind speed classification and geospatial analysis. Additionally, solar PV systems were integrated with wind energy systems to illustrate their complementarity. By combining wind and solar power, energy output can be stabilized, particularly during periods when one source is less available.

Type B assets refer to temporary deployable roadside units powered by either solar PV and batteries or gas-powered generators. These include portable signs, cameras, vehicle counters, and communication systems. In remote or hard-to-access locations, these assets often face power interruptions due to limited fuel supplies or insufficient energy generation. This study proposes integrating small wind turbines with solar PV and battery storage to improve power reliability. Off-the-shelf portable power trailers, which combine these technologies, were evaluated for their ability to meet the energy demands of Type B assets. These hybrid trailers provide a robust power supply, ensuring continuous operation during outages or extreme weather conditions, thereby reducing reliance on fuel-based generators.

Using the System Advisory Model (SAM) developed by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), the potential energy output of hybrid systems was calculated for different wind classes and geographic locations across Virginia. The results indicate that wind-solar hybrid systems could significantly reduce operational disruptions for both Type A and Type B assets. Although economic analyses show that the payback periods for small wind turbines often exceed their operational lifetimes, these systems offer critical operational benefits, including enhanced resilience and reduced carbon emissions.

In conclusion, this study demonstrates that hybrid wind-solar energy systems can enhance the reliability and sustainability of VDOT’s Type A and Type B roadside assets. By addressing power supply challenges and leveraging renewable energy technologies, these systems can improve infrastructure resilience and contribute to the Commonwealth’s clean energy goals.