Running a farm, mine site, construction site or other isolated operation presents its own set of challenges, which may not be faced by businesses operating within the confines of towns and cities. Access to reliable electricity is one of the largest.
The difficulty, cost or lack of ability to connect a remote site to the electricity grid can be a problem. Where there is a connection, the supply may not always be suitable for equipment that requires long duration of use.
This indicates that the power system needs to be designed to fit the site. What amount of electricity is needed, how long the facility will operate and the weather conditions and the future growth will all have an impact on the best solution.
First calculate the actual power requirement.
It is essential to know what equipment is to be powered before deciding on equipment.
A remote worksite can include lighting, pumps, tools, computers, refrigeration facilities, communication equipment and heavy machinery. Some machines are used around the clock, and some machines may be used for a couple hours a day only.
The peak demand can also be generated when multiple machines are turned on simultaneously.
These factors should be considered to prevent an undersized system. Meanwhile, it is not advantageous to pay for more capacity than is likely to be needed.
This planning is particularly crucial for off grid power where the power grid may not be available to supplement a deficiency.
Use a combination of different energy sources
Diesel generators have been the critical link to remote sites for a long time. Generators are still helpful for situations when they can be used to back-up the electrical distribution system during times of high fuel availability.
PV cells and other renewables can be integrated into a single power system.
The solar panels can provide electricity directly to the site during sunny periods. Any excess electricity can then be stored instead, in any suitable manner. Stored energy or a generator can replace sunlight when it’s low or at high demand.
This is a hybrid system that provides operators with options. The components are not always required to operate from a single power source, but rather can vary their operation based on conditions.
Save Energy for Use when You Need It
Generating electricity is just a part of the solution. When that electricity is available, remote operations also require means of managing it.
A BESS (Battery Energy Storage System) is one of the methods to store electrical energy for later use. For instance, energy generated by the solar panels during the day can be stored to be utilised at night or during peak demand at the site.
Battery storage can also be used to handle some high demand periods. Stored energy can assist the system, rather than starting additional equipment when the electrical load increases.
A BESS can be integrated into a hybrid system for some sites, along with solar panels and generators. The specific configuration will be dependent on the power demand and use of the site.
Think About Site Conditions
The remote equipment can be expected to be subject to dust, heat, rain and exposure to long periods of continuous use.
Accessibility is a factor as well. A minor problem with the equipment can escalate into a bigger issue if the closest service centre is several hours away.
It is thus essential that power systems be designed with practical servicing in mind. Equipment requires adequate ventilation, environmental protection and room for inspection and maintenance.
An off grid power system should also be able to adjust to variations in demand. This small operation may develop in the future with the addition of accommodation, pumps, and/or other electrical equipment such as machinery. Upgrade planning is easier if there is a plan for reasonable growth in the future.
Well-planned activities make the difference in providing reliable power.
No one energy system will suit all remote operations.
At some sites, the primary generator system may be the most important part of the power supply. Others might use more renewable energy, battery storage, and solar equipment. In many situations a hybrid use of different technologies is a viable solution to maintain power and minimize unneeded running time of the generators.
The key is to design the system to the actual operating conditions, not just pick up a piece of equipment individually.
Able Power is a supplier of power equipment and energy solutions across a broad spectrum of applications in Australia. It is able to offer businesses renewable energy, such as solar energy, hybrid energy systems, and energy storage and peak-power solutions like BESS.
