Photovoltaics and cycling diesels produce reliable efficient power

Field results show that single or dual cycling diesel-electric generator sets combined with photovoltaics can realize up to 70% savings in fuel costs and 40% savings in maintenance costs over a conventional prime power diesel system. Targeted for remote power applications in the range of 200 to 50000 watt (average) load, this power concept takes advantage of the large peak-to-average load demand ratios encountered in these sites. This hybrid power system can be retrofit to existing power plants, providing an extremely cost effective solution to rising fuel and maintenance costs. Two system architectures, for DC and AC loads, are presented along with photovoltaics/diesel sizing considerations, battery sizing, component selection issues and the data on load vs cycle performance. Future trends in the remote power industry are outlined.<>