Tumwesigye Balyesiima Emma2025-05-122025-05-122025-04-26https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.12311/2636UndergraduateThis research investigates the technical and economic feasibility of a hybrid renewable energy system merging a 200W solar PV array with a Savonius vertical-axis wind turbine to address energy poverty in rural Kyenjojo, found in Uganda. Against a background of electrification limitation (12 to 18% in rural areas) as well as a dependence on polluting, cost-inefficient diesel generators as well as a limited grid connection in some areas, the study evaluates the potential for complementarity of solar and wind resources in Uganda’s Western Rift Valley. Through resource assessment, wind tunnel testing of a VAWT prototype, computational modeling using Python and cost analysis, the hybrid system exhibits robust performance in energy output annually. It also demonstrates reliability and a cheaper Levelized Cost of Energy than diesel alternatives. Key discoveries include the power coefficient of the VAWT at 4m/s wind speeds, strong diurnal and seasonal complementary behavior between solar and wind generation, and a payback period of 4 years. The modular design of the system, its benefits environmentally and its alignment with the renewable energy policies of Uganda show its viability for decentralized electrification. This study gives actionable insights for stakeholder and policymakers, which promotes hybrid systems as a transformative solution to energy poverty in sub-Saharan Africa.enThesis