10th International Congress on Information and Communication Technology

Authors - Williams A. Ayara, Adenike O. Boyo, Mustapha O. Adewusi, Razaq O. Kesinro, Mojisola R. Usikalu, Kehinde D. Oyeyemi
Abstract - The search for enhancing green electricity generation and the constant increase in the price of crude oil and its products propelled the choice of this research. Hence, a photovoltaic fuel-less power generating system using locally available materials. The input and output characteristics are analyzed to determine the efficiency, and the power generated by the photovoltaic-powered fuel-less generator is used to power an external load. The photovoltaic used is oriented to face in a direction with optimum tilt for maximum yield (to face southward) of solar power. This orientation and angle of tilt were determined using the Garmin Oregon450 GPS in conjunction with a Seaward Solar Survey 200R meter. Thus, the photovoltaic fuel-less generator was successfully developed. The driving component of this power-generating system is the 1 HP Direct Current (DC) motor, powered by two (2) 250 W mono-crystalline solar panels via a 12 V battery connected to a 30 A charge controller to maintain the charge level of the battery which helps to spin the 650 W Alternating Current (AC) alternator to deliver electricity. The device efficiently delivered power by lighting three (3) incandescent bulbs and a standing fan with total power between 100 – 220 W, and an efficiency of 70 -75%. This generator is eco-friendly since it does not emit any contaminants to the environment.