Hybrid energy systems are a combination of two or more renewable energy sources such as PV (photovoltaic), wind, micro-hydro, storage batteries and fuel powered Gen-sets to provide a reliable off-grid (a source of energy not connected to a grid) supply.

Currently, there are two pilot hybrid systems in the Eastern Cape at the Hluleka nature reserve on the Wild Coast and at the neighbouring Lucingweni community.

• The Hluleka hybrid mini-grid system consists of two proven 2.5 kW wind generators and three Shell Solar PV module arrays fitted with 56 100-watt PV modules wired in series (total 10.6kW).
  An integrated design approach, which resulted in a joint energy, water purification and telecommunication system was followed. The energy system makes use of renewable energy (wind and solar), solar water heaters and LPG (Liquid Petroleum Gas)
  One diesel generator is retained for back-up supply. The Hluleka system has been in operation since June 2002.
• The Lucingweni hybrid system consists of 50kW solar PV panels and 36kW wind generators serving 220 dwellings (four lights per dwelling, radio, television, cell phone charger, street lighting, telecommunications and water pumping).

Data and information on the two pilot hybrid systems is being gathered to analyse their viability and whether they can be replicated throughout South Africa.