Report Number

FSEC-PF-317-97

URL

http://publications.energyresearch.ucf.edu/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/FSEC-PF-317-97.pdf

Keywords

Disaster Relief; Photovoltaics, Photovoltaic power; Weather stations; Solar energy; Disaster response; Remote monitoring; Hurricane Andrew

Abstract

A natural disaster, such as Hurricane Andrew, destroys thousands of homes and businesses. The destruction from this storm left thousands of people without communications, potable water, and electric power. This prompted the Florida Solar Energy Center to study the application of solar electric power for use in disasters.

During this same period, volunteers at the Tropical Prediction Center at the National Hurricane Center (NHC) and the Miami Office of the National Weather Service (NWS) were working to increase the quantity and quality of observations received from home weather stations.

Many weather data collecting stations are at remote sites, which are not readily serviced by dependable commercial power. Photovoltaic modules generate electricity and when connected to a battery can operate as a stand-alone power system.

This paper discusses the design criteria, operation, construction and deployment of a prototype solar powered weather station.

Date Published

11-17-1997

Identifiers

738

Subjects

Solar energy; Meteorological stations; Disasters; Remote sensing; Electric power production; Hurricanes

Local Subjects

Disaster Relief; Photovoltaics

Type

Text; Document

Collection

FSEC Energy Research Center® Collection

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Rights Statement

In Copyright