815 / 2022-04-01 02:19:30

Energy Harvesting from Grounding Systems: Simulation and Experimental Analysis

computer simulation,Field measurement,Finite-element method (FEM),energy harvesting;,grounding system,transmission tower IoT

The trend towards remote assessment has motivated the development of systems that allow remote monitoring of structures belonging to the electrical system. Some of them, such as overhead towers, often are installed in remote locations where there are no fixed energy sources to supply the monitoring system. One applicable solution is the use of an energy harvesting method associated with batteries. In this context, in this paper an energy harvesting system from grounding conductors is proposed as an alternative for powering a lightning incidence sensor in transmission towers. It uses the potential difference between the grounding conductor and a nearby-located ground point, and is analyzed through computer simulations using the finite-element method (FEM), which demonstrate its applicability and allow determining the maximum power point from a pre-established grounding system configuration. The method proposed for the system design is exemplified through a case study built using a single grounding rod. Next, field measurements are carried out to analyze the applicability of the method. It is concluded that the proposed system is viable and can be applied to supply sensor/communication systems installed in or near transmission towers in remote locations.