The telecom solution based on Nedap's PowerRouter
High overall system efficiency

The PowerRouter is a new and unique solution that has all requirements regarding inverters, battery chargers and logging equipment in an all-in-one enclosure, which results in a better management and control of the energy supply of an installation. Compared to current solar solutions and systems that use diesel generators, the PowerRouter’s solution will save money, time and space, and hereby reduce the OPerational EXpenditures (OPEX) of the entire site.

The PowerRouter for telecommunication stations

Nedap offers the PowerRouter for telecommunication stations in both on grid and off grid environments. The PowerRouter’s solution combines the use of renewable energy sources with an integrated battery charger, in order to maximize uptime. This solution is suitable for simultaneously charging -48 Vdc or even +24 Vdc batteries and powering 230 Vac loads. Using the PowerRouter and renewable energy sources allows (rural) areas to become less dependent from the grid or a diesel generator.

Direct connection of AC loads - The PowerRouter converts solar energy directly into electricity for the connected AC load (e.g. lighting or a HVAC system). For times when solar energy is not sufficient, the stored energy in the batteries will be used. When the grid is available on a temporary basis only, energy from the grid will be automatically used to charge the battery or supply the AC load. In the case of an unreliable and unstable grid, the PowerRouter optimizes the charging of the batteries. In addition, by choice, the PowerRouter is able to prevent energy to flow to the grid while charging the batteries with both solar and grid power.

Direct connection of DC loads - DC loads can be connected directly to the batteries. By measuring the amount of energy used and charged, the battery can always be charged to the optimal level. This will ensure that the loads will always be powered, which expands the lifetime of the batteries.

Intelligent battery manager - The battery manager is suitable for charging -48 Vdc or even +24 Vdc batteries. Optional voltage compensation, temperature compensation, shunt, a 3-stage with maintenance protocol or float charge protocol may be set for optimum charge conditions of your wet, gel, or any other usual battery type. This will result in a better battery management and therefore extends the lifespan of your batteries.

Two independent solar inputs - The solar inverter has 2 independent MPPT-inputs with a wide input voltage range, suitable for most types of solar panels. This enables an installation to optimize two separate solar arrays with a full-size string length for higher solar efficiency.

Wind energy input* - The optional wind input allows a wide range of small wind turbines that suit your application. The optional brake and/or measurement module ensures that the turbine is operated safely and its performance and conditions are monitored. In combination with the solar input, the wind turbine option provides a full hybrid energy solution.

* Available from 2012

Diesel generator control - The AC input can take energy from the grid or a diesel generator in order to power the loads. In times when there is no renewable energy or grid available, the PowerRouter will auto-start the diesel generator when the batteries’ state of charge become lower than the chosen setting. The generator will only charge the batteries and power the AC load by means of the PowerRouter until there is a sufficient supply of renewable energy. This will allow the generator to perform with a minimum operating time, which results in lower fuel consumption, little maintenance and significant cost reduction.

Remote monitoring and management

Through the PowerRouter web portal, myPowerRouter.com, every individual installation or a set of installations that are connected to internet, can be monitored and managed. The portal collects detailed system information, such as revenue, energy balance and solar yield, and is accessible from any Internet connected computer or mobile device. The portal’s utility goes beyond monitoring and management. It is possible to remotely install new firmware and perform system updates, so that the number of service visits can be reduced to a minimum.