Selection of the most suitable low voltage power system for a telecommunication station based on availability analyses

The electrical system for the new RAI telecommunication station in Grottarossa (Rome) is a complex system that has to meet very high standards of performance. An approach to the design of such a system is proposed, based on reliability analysis applied to different scheme choices. Analysis results are compared with cost and other parameters of each solution, such as ease of maintenance and operation, flexibility, and availability, in order to find the one that best suits the telecommunication station requirements. The design approach was based on dividing the loads into three main categories, namely nonessential, essential, and uninterruptible loads, and selecting the appropriate solution for each category. The completed telecommunications station, now under construction, will comprise 10 buildings and cover 55000 m²