Evaluating the Performance of Hybrid Solar-Wind Energy Systems in Maiduguri, Borno State

Hybrid renewable energy systems combining solar photovoltaic and wind power offer enhanced reliability compared to single-source installations by compensating for the intermittency of each resource. This study evaluates the technical performance of hybrid solar-wind energy systems designed for household and small commercial use in Maiduguri, Borno State, North East Nigeria. System performance data were collected over six months from three installed hybrid mini-grids operated by humanitarian organisations and a private energy company serving displaced persons' camps and host communities. Key performance indicators including capacity factor, system availability, battery cycling efficiency, and specific energy cost were computed from logged generation and consumption data. Solar and wind resource data from meteorological stations were correlated with generation output to identify performance losses attributable to environmental and operational factors. The study also applies HOMER Pro simulation software to optimise component sizing for a representative community load profile. Results show that the hybrid configuration achieves 94 percent system availability compared to 76 percent for equivalent solar-only systems during harmattan periods with persistent dust and reduced irradiance. Battery degradation is identified as the principal cost driver, accounting for 38 percent of ten-year life cycle cost. The study recommends procurement standards and preventive maintenance protocols to extend battery service life in arid operating environments. Keywords: hybrid energy system, solar-wind, Maiduguri, system performance, HOMER simulation.