Optimum hybrid photovoltaic-based solution for remote telecommunication stations

The vast growth of the mobile telecommunication (TIC) sector during the recent years has led to the extension of the respective networks even to the most remote areas. Many of these areas, however, often lack electricity grid supply and as a result installation of energy autonomous T/C stations, usually based on diesel-oil electricity generation, is essential. On the other hand, technological developments and considerable procurement cost reduction of photovoltaics (PVs) encourage also the use of PV stand-alone configurations, as an alternative energy solution for the operation of these remote TIC stations. Instead of using PV-battery configurations alone, contribution of a diesel engine in terms of moderate fuel consumption may downsize the system and improve its economic performance. In this context, an optimum sizing methodology currently developed is used to determine the dimensions of such an autonomous hybrid system, based on the criterion of minimum initial cost. The developed methodology is accordingly applied to a representative Greek area of high solar potential under different scenarios of fuel consumption and panels' tilt angle. From the results obtained, the proposed hybrid power station appears to be one of the most attractive energy solutions for the support of remote T/C stations, providing increased levels of reliability and presenting low maintenance needs. (c) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.