Energy balance analysis of combined photovoltaic–diesel powered telecommunication stations

During the last years photovoltaic (PV) generators comprise a promising option for satisfying the electrification needs of both grid connected and isolated systems worldwide. At the same time, the mobile telecommunication (T/C) sector presents a vast growth that leads to the expansion of the respective networks even at the most remote of areas. In this context, there are numerous T/C stations that cannot appreciate connection to an electricity grid and thus cover their energy needs usually on the basis of oil-consuming diesel generators. On the other hand, replacement of the oil-based generation with PV-battery stand-alone configurations implies system over-sizing so as to obtain zero load rejections throughout the year. In an attempt to both reduce the amounts of oil consumed and downsize the PV-battery system, a hybrid PV-based stand-alone system, employing also a diesel engine and a battery bank, is currently proposed. System sizing is first undertaken for various scenarios of annual fuel consumption and panel tilt angle under the restriction of zero load rejection, while following, the main directions for obtaining optimum solutions are given. Finally, an extensive energy balance analysis of typical configurations also provided reflects the fact that such hybrid systems may support better utilization of the PV energy production and also reduce considerably the annual amounts of oil required for the diesel-only solution.

► Remote T/C stations normally cover their energy needs using diesel-generators.
► Adoption of a PV-battery system usually implies oversizing of main components.
► Instead, a hybrid stand-alone PV-diesel solution is currently proposed.
► An extensive energy balance analysis of typical configurations is carried out.
► Considerable reduction of fuel consumption and downsizing are both achieved.