ASSESSMENT OF THE FEASIBILITY OF USING PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULES TO POWER EARLY DIAGNOSTICS DEVICES FOR THE INSULATION OF 6–10 KV OVERHEAD POWER LINES

The features of using small photovoltaic modules (PVMs) for powering devices for early diagnostics of the insulation condition of 6–10 kV overhead power lines (OPLs) in power networks with isolated neutral. These devices are intended to detect insulation defects before an actual fault occurs, which distinguishes them from post-fault diagnostic systems. Since early diagnostic equipment must operate continuously and independently of fault events, it cannot rely on inductive energy harvesting from the current of a single-phase earth fault, as is often used in post-event diagnostics. This limitation makes it necessary to develop an autonomous power supply system capable of providing stable energy regardless of fault presence. After analyzing various autonomous energy supply technologies, the use of a photovoltaic module was substantiated as a suitable and efficient power source. Photovoltaic modules offer advantages such as simplicity, reliability, and the ability to function in remote outdoor environments without relying on the grid or fault currents. To evaluate the applicability of this solution under real-world conditions, the study included an analysis of the minimum daily insolation levels recorded over the past five years in the Chernihiv region. Based on this data, the corresponding equivalent illuminance under conditions of continuous cloud cover was calculated. This parameter is valuable for modeling the expected operating environment of the PVM and estimating its energy output. The study also presents experimental data showing the amount of power that can be generated by a small PVM under low insolation. The results demonstrate the feasibility of using the generated power to sustain the operation of early diagnostics equipment for OPL insulation. It is recommended that PVMs be installed vertically on 6–10 kV poles to enhance self-cleaning from precipitation and contamination, ensuring more stable long-term performance. The presented findings can be used in the design of energy-autonomous insulation monitoring devices and as a universal power source for microprocessor-based systems operating in off-grid conditions.