Renewable energy will power radar monitoring the Beaufort SeaPublished on July 29th, 2010 By CARIN STEPHENS
UAF is testing a remote power module in Barrow that will power high-frequency radars using wind turbines, a solar array and backup generator. (Courtesy Photo, Hank Statscewich ) Oceanographers at the University of Alaska Fairbanks are installing a new alternative energy device along the Arctic coast of Alaska to power scientific instruments in remote areas. "In principle, the device means that we can deploy the radar systems anywhere along Alaska's coast," said Tom Weingartner, professor of physical oceanography and the principal investigator for the project. The device, called a remote power module, is equipped with four wind turbines, a solar array and a backup generator. The wind and solar energy provide five days' worth of battery charge. If the batteries get low, the module recharges using a biodiesel generator. Scientists will install the module in Barrow this month and test it from July to November. It will power high-frequency radars that map sea surface currents along the coast of the Beaufort Sea. The radars send signals over the water's surface, where they are reflected off the top of the waves. The radar signals are bounced back to the antennae and the data is transmitted to scientists in Fairbanks in real-time. Weingartner said that the information the radar and module collects may help everything from ecosystems research to search and rescue efforts. The information could impact engineering designs of offshore oil and gas development or, in the event of a spill, help marine clean-up responders. The radars are typically powered by shore-based power sources, but in Alaska power sources can be few and far between. The module can collect meteorological and oceanographic data and can be configured via satellite. It is about 16 by 20 feet wide and weighs a hefty 6,000 pounds - but can break down into parts weighing less than 120 pounds each so that two people can deploy, service or relocate it. Hank Statscewich, researcher at the UAF School of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences and the project lead, said UAF decided to go with renewable energy because they were looking for "a relatively maintenance-free, lightweight and autonomous power supply." The $890,000 project is funded by the Department of Homeland Security. Carin Stephens is a public information officer with the UAF School of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences. Carin Stephens can be reached at editor@thearcticsounder.com, or by phone at (800) 770-9830 |
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