Simulation-Based Design and Optimization of a Stand-Alone Power and Energy System for the High Arctic

A thermal and electrical co-simulation was developed to evaluate and assess power and energy (P&E) systems for remote applications. A stand-alone hybrid system comprised of a solar array, a direct methanol fuel cell and a battery storage system housed in separate insulated enclosures was found to be a suitable option to autonomously operate a data-logging system year-long in the High Arctic. Parametric studies were conducted to optimize the insulation levels of the enclosures as well as the size of the power generation system and the control strategy used for thermal management. The versatile hybrid co-simulation model is able to capture the crucial interactions and trade-offs between thermal and electrical demands. A first version of the system was deployed in the High Arctic during the mid-summer season and successfully operated autonomously for four months - providing proof of concept and model validation for the hybrid P&E system. Subsequent simulations and parametric studies were run to determine and evaluate additional strategies to extend the autonomous operation of the system. Reducing the power consumption of selected components, increasing the renewable energy generation by installing cold-climate wind turbines, and scaling up the storage capacity by redesigning a new battery pack were found to be effective means of achieving extended operation. Simulation results indicated that the data-logging system could be powered for up to 8 and 12 hours daily during the winter and summer months, respectively, compared to just 30 minutes for the first version of the system with similar fuel consumption. Future work will focus on the simulation-based design of an improved system capable of continuous year-long operation and its validation.