Power for data buoys and other remote stations

To meet the requirements of a wide range of electrical loads, the NOAA Data Buoy Office has developed and operated reliable power systems. Diesel electric generators and battery-powered systems, including hybrid batteries, have been de ployed from the Tropics to the Arctic. The performance of these power systems is presented in narrative form. Other power systems that are being developed or tested are described. Solar cells have been tested at sea and show promise as a replacement for the batteries. A fuel cell with a calcium hydride hydrogen source is under development and sea water batteries are undergoing test and evaluation. Considerations in the use of wind-powered generators, a wave-activated turbine generator, and radioactive power generator units are discussed.