A Critical Performance Analysis of the Red Sea Microwave Link Photovoltaic Power Supply, 1980-1982

A line-of-sight microwave link spanning the Red Sea was installed by Telettra in early 1980.¹ ARCO Solar photovoltaic modules were used as the prime source of power, with diesel generators to be used as an emergency backup. The photovoltaic system has provided all the required energy for the installation since it was commissioned more than two years ago. No unscheduled interventions by either the backup diesel generator or maintenance personnel have been necessary for the continued operation of the radio link. Much useful data have been provided during these two years, particularly as related to verification of initial performance and reliability estimates. The performance history provided by these and other photovoltaic power systems all over the world should provide a solid basis for increased confidence in this technology within the telecommunications industry. Additionally, substantial yearly cost reduction and innovative design methodologies have greatly broadened the areas of cost effective application of photovoltaic technology to telecommunications.