Cellphone Tower Power System Prototype Testing

For Verizon Wireless, NREL validated a new cellphone tower power system prototype based on direct current interconnection and photovoltaics rather than an alternating current interconnection.

To validate an all-direct current design solution based on photovoltaics, batteries, and direct current cooling systems, NREL simulated environments over the range of temperatures specified for Verizon's telecommunications equipment using a large, walk-in environmental chamber at its Energy Systems Integration Facility. Resulting models inform design decisions for different loads and climates.

NREL continues to support Verizon Wireless with photovoltaics projects at cell sites in the western United States.

Impact

NREL's testing helps enhance the reliability and cost effectiveness of Verizon's new cellphone tower power systems. Photovoltaics in a direct current-interconnection enhances resilience of these critical telecommunications components and reduces operating cost and environmental impact.

Capabilities

Learn more about NREL's environmental testing chambers at the Energy Systems Integration Facility.

Partners

This work was enabled through a cooperative research and development agreement between NREL and Verizon Wireless with funding support from the U.S. Department of Energy's Advanced Materials and Manufacturing Technologies Office.

Contact