The United Energy System of Russia has completed field testing of the pilot multifunctional electrical generation system comprising diesel and wind power units. The system is designed to generate electricity in the remote Far North and Far East areas of Russia where electricity price is usually higher due to the high cost of fuel transported to the areas.
Switching between these generators will be achieved by an automated control system. Wind will be the principal source of energy for this project, while the diesel generator will be switched on only when the wind strength is weak.
The United Energy System of Russia (UES) said that such power plants are needed in areas of the Russian Far North. According to tests, this project may save at least 40% of fuel, and the discounted payback period is estimated at three to five years.
Future success of the project reportedly depends on domestic power equipment manufacturers, primarily manufacturers of wind power units, variable speed generators, frequency translators and data control systems for power systems.
The project is being implemented by a consortium of multifunctional energy complexes led by NPC Maloy Energetiki. The consortium has been given approval by the government of the Republic of Sakha, Yakutskenergo, and Sakhaenergo. Further development of functionality of the new power system will be handled by the All-Russia Scientific-Research Heat Engineering Institute nonprofit partnership.