Optimization of power system for UAV ground control station in Natuna Island

The Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) is controlled remotely by the operator at the Ground Control Station (GCS) during the mission. Reliable electrical energy is needed to supply energy needs in GCS, such as radio communications, workstations, weather stations, HVAC systems, and lamps when the UAV is operating. GCS is located in Ranai City, Natuna Islands. The UAV mission in Ranai can assist the military in monitoring border surveillance, disaster management, and mapping the area. GCS power source in the initial design, using a diesel generator as the main power source with a power of 12 kW for 192.3 kWh per day energy consumption and 10.8 kW load peak. This paper has shown the study on a hybrid system with 3 scenarios, consisting of a PV system, wind turbine, generator, and battery. The system is simulated by using HOMER for accounting the technical and economic aspects. The results showed that the NPC and LCOE of the third scenario, which consisted of PV/wind/battery, were $181,157.38 and $0.15 per kWh, respectively. It has the lowest cost compared to the first scenario with the usage of diesel generator only. The average fuel consumption is 7.97 litre per day, down 87% compared to the existing condition. Thus, this configuration can overcome the costs of delivering fuel supplies for GCS operations and complement the government’s efforts to achieve emission reduction targets.