Integrated Hybrid Power And Satellite Communication Systems For Continuous Arctic Asset Monitoring
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Authors
Yousefi Damavandi, Kiarash
Date
2025-06-27
Type
thesis
Language
eng
Keyword
Hybrid renewable energy systems , Satellite constellation , Particle swarm optimization , Walker-Star constellation , Low-Earth orbit satellite
Alternative Title
Abstract
This thesis explores the development of a hybrid renewable energy system (HRES) and a satellite communication system for remote Arctic locations, exploring the challenges imposed by extreme environmental conditions such as cold temperatures and low solar irradiance. These factors complicate power generation and communication reliability in high-latitude regions.
We integrate photovoltaic (PV) panels, wind turbines, and battery storage, with a particular focus on incorporating heating requirements into the system to ensure battery performance. We employed Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) to size (find the optimum combination of) the HRES components, by introducing a trade-off between computational efficiency and accuracy. The results were compared to a baseline that was developed using exhaustive search method. Environmental datasets, including solar irradiance, wind speed, and temperature, were used in the model. The heating demand was included in the optimization to ensure uninterrupted power delivery.
On the communication side, satellite links were modeled with a focus on rain attenuation effect, which is especially significant in high-frequency bands. The thesis applied both empirical data and International Telecommunication Union (ITU) recommendations to evaluate the link availability of the Starlink Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite constellation. To enhance coverage, a custom Walker-Star constellation was designed for a location of study in Arctics. This approach achieved full visibility over a three-months period using fewer satellites than conventional designs.
We confirmed the system’s performance using experimental results from a physical prototype. This study addresses both sides of the problem, by taking the latitude, longitude and the characteristics of the components. We try to answer whether or not a load can be sustained and monitored with certain components at a given location and also, what it takes to have a continuous load support and monitoring in an off-grid location with only satellite access. This study surpasses prior Starlink visibility, raising it from 92.2\% in early 2024 to 96.67\%, and ultimately 100\% using fewer satellites.
By site-specific environmental modeling with optimization of power and satellite systems, we propose, and explore a framework for assessing and designing Arctic asset monitoring.
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Queen's University's Thesis/Dissertation Non-Exclusive License for Deposit to QSpace and Library and Archives Canada
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Copying and Preserving Your Thesis
This publication is made available by the authority of the copyright owner solely for the purpose of private study and research and may not be copied or reproduced except as permitted by the copyright laws without written authority from the copyright owner.
Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International
Intellectual Property Guidelines at Queen's University
Copying and Preserving Your Thesis
This publication is made available by the authority of the copyright owner solely for the purpose of private study and research and may not be copied or reproduced except as permitted by the copyright laws without written authority from the copyright owner.
Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International