Assessing the Effect of Remote Monitoring and Management of a Solar-Diesel Hybrid System for Telecommunication Towers

Abstract

Telecommunication Networks have changed the way people live, work and play. The challenge to provide reliable and cost-effective power solutions to these expanding networks is indispensable for telecom operators. Power supply has to be on at all times to ensure high service levels. Diesel generators with backup batteries are used for powering these sites which is still a challenge. The growing number of mobile communications towers in the country and the evolution of the 5G technology has led to higher demand for clean and energy-efficient electric power sources such as solar. However, there is a challenge of low service levels in Remote Monitoring as such leading to energy wastage and lower efficiency in operation on top of the unreliable grid supply. Nonetheless, remote monitoring on these sites has still been challenging in influencing energy usage leading to energy wastage and less energy efficiency. The solution to this problem is to do an impact assessment on remote monitoring and management for cell sites through designing a robust energy management solution with a focus on energy usage, utilization and efficiency such that tower operators can effectively manage their sites in response to the growing energy demands. This is done using PVsyst simulation software to model the energy system, analyze the KPIs regarding energy utilization, and test the performance of energy assets. The Key Results obtained include the performance of energy assets, solar energy usage which reflects renewable energy utilization, fuel usage for Gensets, and energy storage performance such as battery state of charge. These are analyzed and obtained from the Zon Max Software. Recommendations made include deploying more renewable energy sources (Solar) on sites to further limit reliance on Diesel, and deployment of more smart battery banks which can be remotely monitored.