DEVELOPMENT OF A VOLTAGE LEVEL CONTROL DEVICE FOR AN HYBRIDIZED POWER GENERATING SYSTEM

Access to reliable and efficient energy remains a challenge, especially in areas with frequent power outages. Existing hybrid power systems that integrate renewable and non renewable sources face issues related to voltage instability and inefficient switching between sources. This project aims to design a voltage level controller for a hybrid power system to ensure stable voltage output and efficient power distribution. The hybrid system integrates solar panels, batteries, and a generator, with a control unit based on an Arduino Mega microcontroller. The microcontroller continuously monitors voltage levels, ambient temperature, and sunlight intensity, making real-time decisions to switch between power sources based on pre-set voltage thresholds. The system is designed to prioritize solar energy for charging the batteries and uses mains or generator power only as backups when solar power is insufficient. Data from the system’s operation, including voltage, temperature, and brightness levels, are logged and analyzed to assess system performance. After the load assessment was conducted, a total energy demand of 1030Wh was identified, primarily for lighting, charging and miscellaneous for basic office equipment. A voltage level control device for the hybridized power generating system was successfully developed which optimized battery charging on sunny days and maintained consistent battery voltage level of 12.35V on high-brightness days like day 4, thereby ensuring continuous power availability by reducing generator usage to between one to two hours daily in days of unstable grid supply. A seven-day test period was conducted in which days with higher brightness, such as Day 4 and Day 6 (730 W/m² and 715 W/m²), correspond to higher battery voltages (12.35V and 12.31V) respectively. These results show a significant correlation between brightness vi (sunlight intensity) and battery voltage, confirming the system's ability to harness solar energy effectively. In conclusion, the voltage level controller device effectively stabilizes voltage in the hybrid power system, contributing to energy sustainability by optimizing the use of renewable resources. This project highlights the potential of hybrid energy systems to provide reliable power in areas with inconsistent electricity supply, advancing knowledge in renewable energy integration and voltage management.