DESIGN AND ISTALLATION OF 7.5KVA SOLAR POWER SYSTEM IN THE DEPARTMENT OF ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONIC ENGINEERING, FEDERAL POLYTECNIC IDAH.

The availability of a stable and uninterrupted power supply is critical to the teaching and learning process in engineering education, particularly in the Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Federal Polytechnic Idah. Over the years, the department has experienced severe power supply challenges due to the unreliability of the national grid. These challenges have negatively impacted the delivery of practical sessions, which are essential components of the curriculum, as most laboratory equipment and testing instruments require constant electricity to function effectively. This project presents the design and installation of a 7.5KVA solar power system as a sustainable solution to the department’s energy needs. The study explores the load requirements of the department’s laboratory and proposes a solar photovoltaic (PV) system capable of providing consistent power supply for practical activities and basic departmental operations. The system design includes the selection and sizing of solar panels, charge controllers, inverters, and deep-cycle batteries, all tailored to meet the specific energy demands of the department. The installation aims to reduce dependency on the unstable public grid, minimize interruptions during practical sessions, and promote the use of renewable energy within the institution. By harnessing solar energy, the department not only enhances academic performance and research output but also contributes to environmental sustainability. This project serves as a practical demonstration of solar technology application and stands as a replicable model for other departments and institutions facing similar energy challenges.