Performance analysis for remote power systems in rural Alaska

Abstract

Due to the logistical difficulties involved in maintaining a rural Alaskan power generation facility, it is extremely important that the system function as efficiently as possible. Presently, many rural generation systems are not equipped with automated monitoring that enables knowledgeable personnel to view the performance of the system from a distant location. Consequently, system deficiencies resulting in increased fuel consumption and operating expense often go unnoticed as do potential system improvements. This thesis describes the design and implementation of a sophisticated monitoring system that consists of measurement sensors connected to an internet enabled data recorder. The monitoring system was used to continuously record the various forms of energy entering and leaving a diesel generator operating on the UAF campus. While in operation, the monitoring system was instrumental in identifying several measures that could be taken to improve the operating efficiency of the generator and also provided sufficient means to examine the economic feasibility of their implementation. The measures that were examined included heat recovery, conditioning of output power, and improvement of operating techniques.