Using Renewables

Renewable energy is attractive from a cost perspective and also the positive ‘Green’ benefit or simply reducing the CO2 in the network. The industry expects more legislation mandating the need for renewable energy within the network.

The challenge is to dimension solar, wind or a combination to meet the energy requirements of a site; total power autonomy requires over dimensioning (high capital & space) to take account of extreme conditions. The most economic solution is to use renewable energy sources as a complement to existing power sources.

Solar price levels have fallen over the last three years making them increasingly cost effective as part of a site power solution.  Wind offers potential in some locations, but PowerOasis’ own testing has shown that many turbines on the market will fail within one year of operation, so the correct turbine selection for the site is vital.

It is critical that predicted renewable energy contribution is modeled using meterological software tools and that the solution is controlled & managed so it combines effectively with the other power sources on site. Introducing solar or wind solutions in an uncontrolled way will not reduce power consumption and may affect the performance of the batteries.