Integrating renewable energy sources with hydraulic systems in remote areas or islands involves overcoming unique challenges to create a reliable and sustainable energy and water supply. These areas typically lack grid infrastructure and may face logistical difficulties, making renewable-hydraulic hybrid systems an appealing choice due to their flexibility and potential for 24/7 power&waterr supply.  


SanCo´s Task


Description

Feasibility and Risk Identification

Early-stage assessment of technical, environmental, and financial risks.

Risk Management Planning

Develop comprehensive risk management and contingency strategies.

Site Selection & Geotechnical Surveys

Support site selection, geotechnical analysis, and metocean studies.

Contract & Procurement Support

Advise on contracts and manage procurement to de-risk the supply chain.

Design & Certification and Engineering Reviews

Conduct detailed engineering &Certification reviews to ensure technical reliability.

Permitting & EIA Management

Handle permitting processes and manage environmental assessments.

Grid Connection & Electrical Systems

Oversee grid connection processes and electrical system design.

Construction Oversight

Manage construction schedules and minimize installation risks.

O&M Strategy Development

Optimize O&M plans to reduce downtime and ensure efficient operations.

Financial Risk Assessment

Assess financial risks, secure funding, and prevent cost overruns.

Project Management Support

Provide risk-based project management and stakeholder coordination.

Decommissioning Planning

Plan decommissioning with a focus on reducing costs and environmental impact.

1.


Feasibility Study and Concept Development

Assess the technical viability of the offshore wind project in its early stages.


  • Renewable Resource Assessment: Evaluate the availability and variability of local renewable resources, such as solar irradiance, wind speeds, and hydropower potential. For instance, solar power is often highly available in tropical islands, while hydropower depends on stream flow and rainfall.

  • Technology Selection: Determine the most appropriate turbine models, foundation types (e.g., monopile, jacket, floating), and grid connection methods
  • Preliminary Design: Develop initial project concepts, including turbine layout, electrical infrastructure, and access routes
  • Cost Estimation: Estimate capital expenditures (CAPEX), operational expenditures (OPEX), and Levelized Cost of Energy (LCOE) for the project.
  • Gantt Chart and Critical Path Analysis: Create detailed schedules using project management tools (e.g., Primavera, MS Project) that track the critical path of the project.


2.


System Design and Technology Selection

Oversee the detailed engineering design & Certification 


  • Hybrid System Architecture: Design the hybrid system structure, integrating renewables (such as wind turbines, solar PV arrays) with hydropower and storage options.
  • Storage Solutions: Choose suitable energy storage solutions (e.g., battery banks, pumped hydro) to store excess renewable energy for periods when renewable generation is low. 
  • Control and Optimization System: Develop a control system for optimizing power generation across sources to match demand, regulate voltage, and handle power fluctuations.
  • Grid Connection and Microgrid Design: For off-grid setups, design an independent microgrid, balancing generation, storage, and load. For grid-tied systems, ensure compatibility with local grid infrastructure.
  • Others.

    3.


    Training, Operations, and Maintenance (O&M) Setup

    Develop an optimal O&M strategy.


    • Local Workforce Training: Train local technicians and operators on the hybrid system’s maintenance, diagnostics, and troubleshooting, empowering them to manage ongoing O&M.
    • Preventive Maintenance Planning: Schedule routine inspections, filter changes, and component replacements to minimize downtime, crucial in remote locations where emergency repairs may be difficult.
    • Spare Parts and Inventory Management: Maintain an inventory of essential spare parts and consumables on-site, avoiding long delays due to remote delivery needs.
    • Performance Monitoring and Optimization: Continuously monitor the system, adjusting control settings or maintenance schedules based on real-time data to optimize energy output and efficiency.
    • Others
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