MASSIVE solar and wind power generation projects have a totally different was of drawing, storing and distributing power. The future of power will rely on a combination of computer, engineering, telco and most especially Cloud technologies to optimize efficiency, monitoring, and management.
Constructioneering is a Cloud-based software service, introduced by digital engineering company Bentley Systems. The construction workflows designed to increase efficiency and productivity with enhanced integration can create designs for solar and wind projects.
Moreover, primary Cloud technologies are used to store and process vast amounts of data collected from solar farms. Cloud platforms provide scalable and cost-effective solutions for data storage, analysis, and management. Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud Platform are some examples of cloud service providers used in the renewable energy sector.
SCADA or Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition systems are used to monitor and control the solar power plants remotely. They collect real-time data from various sensors and devices, allowing operators to optimize the performance of the solar arrays, track energy generation, and identify potential issues. For example, the Ivanpah Solar Power Facility in California uses SCADA systems for efficient operation and maintenance.
Geographic Information System or GIS technology is employed to analyze geographic data and assist in the site selection process for solar projects. It helps identify suitable locations with high solar irradiance, taking into account factors like topography, land use, and environmental considerations.
Drones and satellite imagery are used for site surveys, assessing solar potential, and monitoring the performance of solar installations. These technologies provide valuable data on the efficiency and health of the solar panels and can help detect any anomalies that may require attention.
A lot of IoT devices are deployed to collect data from various components of solar power plants, such as inverters, sensors, and weather stations. These devices transmit real-time data to the cloud for analysis and optimization. For instance, large-scale solar projects often use IoT-enabled inverters to monitor and control energy production.
Solar and wind power generation projects generate significant amounts of data, and will require Big Data Analytics, which can be leveraged to optimize performance, predict maintenance needs, and improve overall efficiency. Big data analytics tools help process this data to derive actionable insights. For instance, predictive analytics can be used to forecast energy production based on weather patterns and historical data.
Reliable telecommunication networks are crucial for seamless communication between various components of a solar power plant and the central monitoring system. These networks ensure that data is transmitted in real-time and enable efficient control and response to any issues that may arise. Cellular networks, satellite communication, and microwave links are common examples of telco technologies used in solar projects.
Energy storage technologies or battery storage systems, are not strictly a computer or telco technology, energy storage systems play a significant role in large-scale solar projects. Battery storage solutions, such as lithium-ion batteries, allow excess energy to be stored for use during periods of low solar irradiance or high energy demand.
