HOMER
Description
HOMER Pro® microgrid software, developed and distributed by UL Solutions, is the industry standard for optimizing microgrid design across various sectors. Originally created at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, HOMER combines engineering and economic tools to deliver comprehensive microgrid solutions.
The software utilizes a simulation model, allowing users to assess the viability of different equipment combinations. HOMER can simulate numerous systems, ranging from hundreds to thousands, considering time steps from one minute to one hour. It examines all potential system types in a single run and ranks them based on the chosen optimization variable.
HOMER Pro introduces the HOMER Optimizer™, a proprietary optimization algorithm designed specifically for the software. This algorithm simplifies the design process by identifying the most cost-effective options for microgrids and distributed generation electrical power systems.
Sensitivity analysis is a key feature of HOMER, enabling users to explore different scenarios and evaluate the impact of uncontrollable variables such as wind speed and fuel costs. The software allows for easy comparison of thousands of possibilities in a single run, providing insights into how the optimal system changes with variations in these variables.
HOMER Pro offers up to nine individual modules that can be customized to meet specific modeling needs. These modules include Biomass, Hydro, Combined Heat & Power, Advanced Load, Advanced Grid, Hydrogen, Advanced Storage, Multi-Year.
Overall, HOMER Pro is a powerful and versatile tool that integrates simulation, optimization, and sensitivity analysis to facilitate the design and optimization of microgrids and distributed energy systems across a range of applications and industries.
Gallery
Classifications
Scale of implementation
HOMER software can be implemented at various scales, from small-scale village power systems to larger grid-connected campuses, military bases, and industrial sites. It can be applied to both off-grid and grid-connected scenarios.
Type
HOMER Pro® microgrid software is a computer software program designed for designing, optimizing, and analyzing microgrid systems.
Phase of solution
HOMER software is typically used in the early design and planning phases of microgrid projects. It helps users evaluate different system configurations, analyze the techno-economic feasibility of various options, and optimize the design for cost-effectiveness and performance.
Target audience
The target audience of HOMER software includes engineers, researchers, consultants, and professionals in the energy sector involved in the design, analysis, and optimization of microgrid systems. It is used by individuals and organizations working on microgrid projects across various sectors, including RES developers, utilities, agencies, academic institutions., etc.
Key features-functionality
Key features and functionality of HOMER Pro® microgrid software include:
- Simulation: HOMER is a powerful simulation model that evaluates the performance of hybrid microgrid systems. It considers different combinations of equipment and simulates their operation for an entire year, with time steps ranging from one minute to one hour. HOMER examines multiple system types in a single run and ranks them based on the chosen optimization variable.
- Optimization: HOMER Pro features the HOMER Optimizer™, an advanced optimization algorithm that simplifies the design process by identifying the most cost-effective options for microgrids and distributed generation electrical power systems. It helps users find the least-cost solutions based on their specified objectives, such as minimizing costs or maximizing renewable energy integration.
- Sensitivity Analysis: HOMER allows for extensive sensitivity analysis, enabling users to explore "What if?" scenarios by varying system parameters and input variables. It helps assess the impact of uncontrollable factors such as fuel costs, wind speed, or load demand variations on the optimal system configuration. This analysis provides valuable insights into the robustness and flexibility of the microgrid design.
- Customizable Modules: HOMER Pro offers up to nine individual modules that can be customized to meet specific modeling needs. Users can choose and configure the relevant modules to accurately represent the components and characteristics of their microgrid systems.
- Comprehensive Analysis: HOMER Pro provides information on system performance, energy production, costs, and other relevant metrics. The software offers visualization tools and reports to help users evaluate and compare different system designs, making it easier to understand the trade-offs and make informed decisions.