Solar-Inverter System Design Strategies and Considerations

In line with the Sustainable Development Goal of providing reliable, affordable and sustainable energy this paper presents the design strategies and consideration in the installation of a 5kVA Photovoltaic system for the Electrical and Electronic Engineering Department of the Federal University of Technology, Owerri. It provides a comprehensive system design procedure used in designing the system. Its load analysis and management, design calculations for sizing the panels, inverter, charge controller, batteries and other accessories are presented. The designed system was a hybrid system that allowed for a seamless interoperation of different sources of power (grid supply, diesel/fuel generator supply and PV supply). The designed system, had a payback period of approximately five (5) years. The overall performance of the system is still under investigation, but so far, the system is working efficiently, there has been reduced fossil fuel usage and less environmental pollution (noise and fumes).