12 Years of Residential ‘Off-Grid’ PV Hybrid System Operation and Evolution in Nemiah Valley, Canada

Eleven residential off-grid photovoltaic (PV) hybrid power systems have been deployed and operated since 2006 in the First Nation community of Xeni Gwet’in located in Nemiah Valley, Canada. This paper reviews the operation and evolution of three system designs. Notable experiences, lessons learned and challenges with respect to reliable hybrid system operation are discussed. Finally, an example illustrating an observed reduction in winter battery capacity is presented, discussed in detail and the concept of closed loop charging control is introduced.