Off-Grid Power
Wind resource assessment is a key step in determining the viability of a potential wind farm. One of the most effective tools for this purpose is a lidar (Light Detection and Ranging) unit, capable of providing accurate wind data at multiple heights. In this blog post, we’ll explore the setup and maintenance of a lidar system, focusing particularly on the remote power system technology that makes it possible to operate in isolated, off-grid environments. Arriving on Site: Preparing for Setup
The site for lidar deployment often has challenging characteristics, such as remote locations with uneven terrain, harsh weather conditions, or limited infrastructure. The chosen lidar setup included a power supply trailer equipped with a small wind turbine and solar panels to ensure continuous power.
Upon arriving at the deployment site, the first task is to assess the surroundings. In this particular setup, the lidar was mounted on a platform that had been exposed to harsh weather conditions. Initial inspection revealed minor damages: cracks on the leveling bubble, scratches on the window, and broken screws on the mounting pad. A sturdy platform and stable alignment are critical to ensure the reliability of the measurements. Powering the Lidar in Remote Locations
The lidar unit at this site was powered by a combination of a solar photovoltaic (PV) array and a small wind turbine. Such hybrid systems are ideal for lidar deployments in remote locations, as they maximize power availability. Unfortunately, this site also had a few issues: the wind turbine had suffered damage, with its rotor dislodged and found several meters from the tower. The setup relied on backup solar power, but due to the seasonal variability in sunlight, a continuous reliable power source is essential. Maintenance included replacing the turbine and improving the platform’s stability to mitigate future risk.
These challenges underline the importance of carefully selecting power system components. A small wind turbine or PV system alone may not suffice, especially in off-grid environments where environmental conditions can be unpredictable. Hybrid systems, while effective, require regular maintenance and robust design to prevent equipment damage or failure. Maintenance Tasks: Keeping the System Running Smoothly
On-site maintenance of a lidar system includes a series of critical tasks, such as inspecting electrical insulation, preventing rodent damage, and maintaining proper alignment. Rodent activity was a notable issue at this particular site, with signs of nesting found throughout the trailer and even inside the lidar’s wiring. This can create potential risks of short-circuits and operational downtimes. To address this, duct seal compounds and caulking were applied to seal cable conduits and electrical boxes more effectively.
Another significant maintenance task was leveling and securing the lidar unit. The lidar’s proper functioning depends on it being perfectly leveled. The leveling bubble had been damaged, but its readings still fell within acceptable limits. During this visit, the lidar platform was rebuilt using pressure-treated wood to ensure it would withstand environmental wear and tear.
The communication equipment also required some attention. The modem, which facilitates data transmission from this remote location, was found hanging loosely by its connecting cables. It was permanently mounted to ensure reliable operation and to protect it from damage. Ensuring Data Integrity and Continuous Operation
Once the physical setup and maintenance tasks were complete, the lidar system was powered up and its interface accessed to check the status. The power button was pressed, and the blue power ring illuminated, indicating that the system was operational. All data transmission and network access settings were verified, ensuring that the unit could connect via both the local LAN and the cellular network.
Regular maintenance and continuous monitoring are crucial to ensure data integrity. Any misalignment, power fluctuation, or equipment malfunction can lead to data gaps or inaccuracies, significantly affecting the quality of wind assessments. To ensure that wind resource assessments are reliable, addressing issues such as those caused by rodents, environmental conditions, or damage from wind turbine components is critical. Conclusion: Setting Up for Success
Lidar systems are powerful tools for collecting wind data, especially when paired with a reliable off-grid power system. However, their success depends not only on advanced technology but also on thorough setup, proper maintenance, and addressing the unique challenges posed by remote locations.
By ensuring a hybrid power source is stable, environmental protection measures are in place, and data transmission systems are properly secured, you can achieve a robust, long-term wind monitoring setup that delivers reliable data for wind resource assessments.