Abstract:
The rapid growth of Rwanda's telecommunication infrastructure has created a greater demand for reliable and cost-effective energy solutions, particularly for off-grid telecom towers. Many of these sites still depend on diesel generators, which come with high fuel costs, significant carbon emissions, and ongoing maintenance challenges. This research investigates the technoeconomic feasibility of integrating solar PV systems into off-grid telecom towers, using the Murundi KTRN Telecom Tower as a case study. The goal is to assess the potential of replacing diesel generators with a solar PV and battery storage system, focusing on its technical, economic, and environmental advantages. To achieve this, the study employs hybrid research methodology, combining data collection, system modeling, and financial analysis. Key aspects such as load demand patterns, energy consumption, and diesel generator operating costs were analyzed to understand current power needs. The system was then simulated using PVsyst software, which provided insights into optimal system sizing, battery autonomy, inverter capacity, and overall efficiency. This approach ensures that the proposed solar PV solution is both technically sound and economically viable, offering a sustainable alternative for powering off-grid telecom infrastructure. The findings demonstrate that a 30.2 kWp solar PV system with a 7400 Ah lithium-ion battery storage can effectively meet the telecom tower's energy demand, ensuring two days of autonomy and significantly reducing reliance on the backup generator. The system achieves a solar fraction of 78.08% and a performance ratio of 74.78%, indicating high operational efficiency. Financial analysis reveals an LCOE of $0.16/kWh, a payback period of approximately two years, and an ROI of 1139.5%, making it a cost-effective alternative to diesel-powered systems. Furthermore, the system is projected to eliminate 132.6 million Rwandan francs in fuel costs over five years while significantly reducing CO₂ emissions. The study concludes that integrating solar PV systems in off-grid telecom towers is both economically viable and environmentally sustainable. Future research should focus on battery storage optimization, hybrid renewable energy integration, and demand-side management strategies to further improve system efficiency and cost-effectiveness. The study’s findings provide a scalable model for deploying renewable energy solutions in remote telecom infrastructure, supporting Rwanda’s clean energy transition and sustainable development objectives.
