Renewable energy-focused hybrid supply system for optimal powering the cellular base station

Abstract

With the enhancement of wireless communication and their higher data demand, telecom network operators are continuously deploying the cellular base stations (BSs). This enormous growth of cellular BSs receiving a huge amount of energy and creating immense pressure on the fossil fuel reservation by releasing the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The main objective of this work to build a cost-effective and environment-friendly cellular network powered by the locally available renewable energy sources such as solar photovoltaic (PV), wind turbine (WT), and biomass generator (BG). This article addresses the key challenges of developing a green mobile communication to minimize the net present cost and GHG by maximum utilization of renewable energy. For ensuring the guaranteed continuity of power supply, an adequate battery bank is connected with the hybrid supply system. The technical criteria, optimal component size, and energy issues of the hybrid solar PV/WT/BG powered cellular BSs are critically evaluated using HOMER optimization software considering the dynamic fluctuation of the users and renewable energy sources. Simulation results illustrate that the hybrid solar PV/WT/BG system can satisfy the BS energy demand with the lowest value of net present cost. Moreover, the battery bank can support the cellular network for 162 hours during the emergency hours, which is sufficient time for fixing the renewable energy sources. In summary, the hybrid solar PV/WT/BG system along with sufficient energy storage devices is an effective solution for developing green cellular communication considering the geographical location.