Autonomous Multi-Source Power Systems for Telecommunications

The use of diesel powered generating sets continues to be the prime source of power for remote telecommunications applications. However, the utilisation of natural resources in the generation of power has become of widespread interest. Because of the relative unreliability of the conversion equipment and because of the lack of long term experience with it under operational conditions, the development of power supply systems that will provide the highest degree of reliability is one which uses both the available natural resources and a diesel set in complimentary modes. This paper discusses the options currently actively investigated and utilised. It also introduces applications for a low power high efficiency thermomechanical generator.