A high-latitude modular autonomous power, control, and communication system for application to high-frequency surface current mapping radars

High-frequency shore-based radars (HFR) collect hourly, real-time surface current data over broad areas of the coastal ocean and yield insights on the time-varying circulation, predict oil spill trajectories, evaluate circulation models, and in case of a spill, provide responders with real-time data on spill evolution. HFR requires 7.5 Kilowatt-hours/day of power but the lack of power availability inhibits HFR use in Alaska. We developed a modular, autonomous remote power module (RPM) for arctic environments (Figure 1). The RPM is designed to reduce operating costs through a reliance on renewable (wind and solar) energy. Fossil fuel based generators are costly due to frequent maintenance requirements, limited life expectancies and ongoing logistics logistics and fuel costs. The RPM consists of commercial off-the-shelf components tested to ensure low electromagnetic interference and supplies the power requirements of a typical CODAR Ocean Sensors Seasonde?, a high-speed satellite communications link, a small meteorological station and power monitoring and control equipment. The total power requirements of the electronics are approximately 10 Kilowatt-hours per day.