CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the study

Electricity plays an important role in socio-economic and technological development of every

country. Electricity demand in Nigeria far outstrips the supply and the supply is epileptic in nature.

Electricity is the transfer of energy through the physical phenomena involving electric charges

and their effects when at rest and in motion (United Nations Department of Economics and Social

Affairs, Statistics Division, 2020).

The country is faced with acute electricity problems, which is hindering its development

notwithstanding the availability of vast natural resources in the country (Sambo, 2017). It is widely

accepted that there is a strong correlation between socio-economic development and the availability of

electricity. (Zarma, 2017). The question is, how can we solve the problem of electricity?

Currently, Nigeria uses four types of energy: natural gas, oil, hydro, and coal. The energy

sector is heavily dependent on petroleum as a method for electricity production which has slowed

down the development of alternative forms of energy (Aliyu, 2015). Three out of the four above

resources used for energy production in Nigeria are linked with increasing greenhouse gas emittion:

coal, oil, and natural gas, with coal emitting the worst of the three (Saleh, 2013). Without access to

electricity, the pathway out of poverty is narrow and long. Meanwhile, about 1.06 billion people do

not have access to electricity, and approximately 3.04 billion people rely on dirty fuels (World Bank

Group 2017).

Nigeria is a tropical country with large amount of insulations coming from the sun. The mass

production of solar plants and the distribution of solar system for schools, especially Technical

workshop. The rural electrification project embarked upon by the federal government is poised to

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 supply solar system to five (5) million household. This will be a great way of increasing the energy

supply in the country (Rosen, 2013).

The sun can be a singular solution to our future energy needs since almost all renewable

energy sources directly or indirectly originates from the sun. It delivers more energy per hour than the

earth uses in one year, it is free from pollutant, greenhouse gases and very secure from geo-political

constraints and conflict. The amount of solar energy reaching the earth surface is about 100,000TW

(World Bank statistic on population and electricity assess, 2016).

This project involves the conversion of sunlight into electric power directly using the photo

voltaic (PV); or indirectly using concentrated solar power (CSP). The concentrated solar power uses

lenses or mirrors and tracking devices to focus a large area of sunlight into a small beam. The

photovoltaic converts light energy into electric current using the photovoltaic effect. In the

photovoltaic effect, sunlight is absorbed by solar panel whereby causing excitation of an electron or

other charge carrier to a higher energy level (Aminu, 2017).

Photovoltaic power generation is reliable, involve no moving parts, the operation and

maintenance costs are very low. And also, it creates no atmospheric pollution. Due to the increasing

efficiencies and decreasing cost of photovoltaic cells and the improvement of the switching

technology used for power conversion, our goal is to install a hybrid inverter powered by PV panels

and that could supply stand-alone AC loads. Solar panels produce direct currents (DC), and to connect

these panels to the electricity grid or use them in other industrial applications, we should have an AC

output at a certain required voltage level and frequency. The conversion from DC to AC is essentially

accomplished by means of a DC-AC inverter, which is the major component in the system. It is hoped

that this germane inverter will solve the blackout problem confronting technical education department.

1.2 Statement of the problem

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 In an ideal situation, The Federal College of Education Pankshin is suppose to provide electricity

for Technical Education Department if not 24 hours around the clock the light should be provided for at

least the minimum of 18hours, this will enable both student and staff to carry out practicals and effective

teaching process, but various reason(financial limitations) have diminish the amount of electrical power

supplyed by the college ranging from 9:00am to 1:00pm which is not enough for security, lighting and

for the students to carry on their practicals as well. Technical Education department is not supposed to

notice any form of epileptic or catastrophic form of electricity. Unfortunately, the department is

suffering from catastrophic and dwindling supply of electricity for quite some time now. This epileptic

supply of electricity to the department has crippled all the practical activities including teaching and

learning process that involves the use of computer's and other electronic appliances. Lecturers can no

more use projector's to project their slides while teaching.

The inadequate supply of electrical power in technical education department FCE pankshin

prompted the researcher to install a 3.5 KVA hybrid inverter in the department which is the thrust of the

study. The problem of blackout in technical education department office buildings will be a thing of the

past since this inverter works on both Direct Current (DC) and Alternating Current (AC); in case of

public power supply failure, the inverter will automatically change from DC to AC.

1.3 Purpose of the study

The objective of this project is to install a hybrid inverter that can be operated by a 12V battery and can

be used to drive AC loads while minimizing the conventional inverter cost and complexity. The main

objectives are:

1. Provide an alternative source of power supply for office utilization, effective lecture delivery,

and it will support research in the laboratories and workshop.

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 2. Install a hybrid inverter that will provide an alternative source of power supply to be used for

both AC and DC appliances.

1.4 Significance of the Study

The Study will be of great importance to students, researchers, Technical department and the

community at large. It will serve as motivation to the electronic students to put up there best in the area

of practicals than just merely seeing some of the electrical components without knowing how the can

work

The project will provide a fair platform for further research to be carried out on the adoption of

hybrid inverter power system in Technical education department.

The study will be of great advantage to the department by providing electrical energy to the

office buildings, lecture hall and workshop, enabling effective teaching process and practical.

This project shows the willingness of the department to take action in reducing Global warming

and greenhouse effect.

1.5 Delimitation of the Study

The project is Delimitated to the installation of 3.5 KVA hybrid inverter that will be used within

Technical Education Department FCE Pankshin.

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 CHAPTER TWO

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

This chapter reviews related literature on the installation of a 3.5KVA hybrid inverter in Technical

Education Department, FCE pankshin. It is therefore presented under the following sub-heading:

2.1 An inverter?

2.2 Historical review of photovoltaic (PV) system

2.3 Historical review of an inverter

2.4 Basic inverter operation

2.5 Types of inverter

2.6 Hybrid inverter system

2.7 Functions of a hybrid inverter

2.8 The inverter input and output

2.9 Advantages and disadvantages of a hybrid inverter

2.1 An inverter?

Alternating Current (AC) power supply is used for almost all the residential, commercial and industrial

needs. But the biggest issue with AC is that it cannot be stored for future use. So AC is converted into

DC and then DC is stored in batteries and ultra-capacitors. And now whenever AC is needed, DC is

again converted into AC to run the AC based appliances. So the device which converts DC into AC is

called Inverter. The inverter is used to convert DC to variable AC. This variation can be in the

magnitude of voltage, number of phases, frequency or phase difference (Ravi kansagara, 2018)

An inverter converts the DC (Direct current) voltage to an AC (Alternating Current) voltage. In most

cases, the input DC voltage is usually lower while the output AC is equal to the grid supply voltage of

either 120 volts, or 240 Volts depending on the country. The inverter may be built as standalone

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equipment for applications such as solar power, or to work as a backup power supply from batteries

which are charged separately. The other configuration is when it is a part of a bigger circuit such as a

power supply unit, or a UPS (uninterrupted power supply). In this case, the inverter input DC is from the

rectified mains AC, while from either the rectified AC in the UPS when there is power, and from the

batteries whenever there is a power failure. There are different types of inverters based on the shape of

the switching waveform. These have varying circuit configurations, efficiencies, advantages and

disadvantages. An inverter provides an ac voltage from dc power sources and is useful in powering

electronics and electrical equipment rated at the ac mains voltage. In addition they are widely used in the

switched mode power supplies inverting stages. The circuits are classified according the switching

technology and switch type, the waveform, the frequency and output waveform.

2.2 Historical review of photovoltaic (PV) system

When an object or material is exposed to light, causing it to generate voltage and current within its

molecular structure, that material is said to exhibit the photovoltaic effect. The photovoltaic effect is

most commonly observed in semiconductor element (group IV in the periodic table).

2.2.1 1839 – 1899: Discovery of Basic Phenomena and Propoerties of PV Materials

A physical phenomenon allowing light-electricity conversion - the photovoltaic effect, was discovered

in 1839 by the French physicist, Alexandre Edmond Becquerel. Experimenting with metal electrodes

and electrolyte he discovered that conductance rises with illumination. WilloughbSmith discovered the

photovoltaic effect in selenium in 1873. In 1876, with his student Richard E. Day, William G. Adams

discovered that illuminating a junction between selenium and platinum also has a photovoltaic effect.

These two discoveries formed a foundation for the first selenium solar cell construction, which was built

in 1877. Charles Fritts first described them in detail in 1883. In 1887, Heinrich Hertz discovered that

ultraviolet light changes the voltage at which sparks between two metal electrodes would be initiated.

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2.2.2 1900 – 1949: Theoretical Explanation of the Photovoltaic Effect and First Solar Cells

The author of the most comprehensive theoretical work about the photovoltaic effect was Albert

Einstein, who described the phenomenon in 1904. For his theoretical explanation, he was awarded a

Nobel Prize in 1921. Einstein's theoretical explanation was proven in practice by Robert Millikan's

experiment in 1916. In 1918, a Polish scientist Jan Czochralski discovered a method for monocrystalline

silicon production, which enabled monocrystalline solar cell production. The first silicon

monocrystalline solar cell was constructed in 1941. In 1932, the photovoltaic effect in cadmium-selenide

was observed. Nowadays, CdS is among the important materials for solar cell production.

2.3 Historical review of an inverter

The development of the power inverter can be traced back to the late nineteenth century, during which it

was invented as a consequence of extensive studies in the field of current electricity.

Early inverters were electromechanical devices that resembled generators, and worked based on a

rotating-coil mechanism. In the twentieth century, the power inverter was modified to improve its

aesthetic and performance characteristics. This improvement included the use of vacuum tubes. In 1925,

David Prince; a researcher and inventor, made the earliest-known use of the term “inverter”, in a

publication discussing current electricity and conversion.

Transistors and silicon-controlled rectifiers (SCRs) were introduced into the design of inverters

between the 1940s and 1950s. These components helped to drive the upgrade from square-wave to sine

wave power inverter. The 1970s saw some innovation in the form of Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistor

(IGBT) and Gate Turn-Off (GTO) thyristor, both of which improved the energy efficiency of the power

inverter. Improvements since the 1980s till present include other types of thyristors like MOS and

IGFET, microelectronics and energy efficient configurations.

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2.4 Basic inverter operation

The basic circuits include an oscillator, control circuit, drive circuit for the power devices, switching

devices, and a transformer. The conversion of dc to alternating voltage is achieved by converting energy

stored in the dc source such as the battery, or from a rectifier output, into an alternating voltage. This is

done using switching devices which are continuously turned on and off, and then stepping up using the

transformer. Although there are some configurations which do not use a transformer, these are not

widely used.

The DC input voltage is switched on and off by the power devices such as MOSFETs or power

transistors and the pulses fed to the primary side of the transformer. The varying voltage in the primary

induces an alternating voltage at secondary winding. The transformer also works as an amplifier where it

increases the output voltage at a ratio determined by the turn’s ratio. In most cases the output voltage is

raised from the standard 12 volts supplied by the batteries to either 120 Volts or 240 volts AC. The three

commonly used Inverter output stages are, a push-pull with centre tap transformer, push-pull half-

bridge, or push-pull full bridge. The push pull with centre tap is most popular due to its simplicity and,

guaranteed results; however, it uses a heavier transformer and has a lower efficiency.

2.5 Types of Inverters

This are the types of inverter system as ascertained by C. E. Mebunii, 2022; sine wave, modified sine

wave, square wave, single phase, three phase, series, parallel, central, string, micro, full bridge and half

bridge inverters.

These different types of inverters are further classified based on a variety of factors such as,wave model,

input source, mode of connection, commutation, and bridge type. They are discussed below;

2.5.1 Types of inverters based on wave models

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The ‘wave model’ here refers to the pattern of transmission of current after it has been passed through

the power inverter. Based on this criterion, the three types of inverters are square wave, sine wave, and

modified sine wave inverters.

1. Square wave inverter

Square wave power inverter is the most basic, and the cheapest type of inverter. This type of power

inverter does not perform a complete conversion of direct current to usable sinusoidal alternating

current. Rather it only performs the first, rudimentary stage of DC conversion, thereby producing AC

that flows in a square wave pattern. The final output from this type of power inverter is square wave AC,

and the working principle is relatively simple; involving an alternating switch that turns on and off to

change the flow pattern of the output current. (C. E. mebunii, 2022).

If we supply square wave to sine wave based appliance, it may get damaged or losses are very high. The

cost of this inverter is very low but the application is very rare. It can be used in simple tools with a

universal motor. (Ravi Kansagara, 2018).

2. Sine wave inverter

Also known as “pure” sine wave power inverter, this type of inverter can convert a unidirectional direct

current (DC) to a (nearly) pure sinusoidal alternating current (AC), Compared to square wave power

inverter, this type of inverter is complex in both design and operation. It is also more expensive.

However, the sine wave power inverter has the advantage of producing a more usable output than all

other types of inverters. In most sine wave inverters, a filter is incorporated into the system, to further

rectify the output current. In terms of practical usage, the sine wave power inverter is the most relevant

type. (C. E. Mebunii, 2022).

3. Modified sine wave inverter

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The modified sine wave power inverter (also called the “Quasi sine wave inverter”) is in-between the

square wave and pure sine wave inverters, in terms of complexity, cost, and applicability. This type of

power inverter, produces a sinusoidal AC output from DC input, however, the harmonic distortion (or

irregularity) of the output is usually more than that of pure sinusoidal AC. Alternating current produced

by this type of inverter, has a high frequency and abrupt flow pattern, and is not suitable for many

appliances and operations involving electricity. Modified sine wave power inverter also operates based

on a similar principle to the square wave type, which involves an alternating switch mechanism that

serves to alter the output flow pattern of a unidirectional input current. (C. E. Mebunii, 2022

Plate 1: types of inverter based on wave models

Source:https://in.pinterest.com/pin/introduction-to-different-types-of-inverters--771382242403188389/

2.5.2 Types of inverters based on source input

There are two types of power inverter, based on source of input. These are the current source inverter

and voltage source inverter. They are each discussed as follows;

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1. Current source inverter

The current source inverter (CSI) is a type of power inverter that capitalizes on DC current input to

produce usable alternating current. For this type of power inverter, the source of input is usually a DC

source which supplies a constant unidirectional stream of direct current to the system. This source is

often a high-capacity inductor. As a result of the constant pattern of DC supply, the current source

inverter is able to produce a nearly-equivalent magnitude of AC after conversion. (C. E. Mebunii, 2022)

This type of inverters is used in the medium voltage industrial application, where high-quality current

waveforms are compulsory. But CSIs are not popular. (Ravi Kansagara, 2018)

2. Voltage source inverter

The voltage source inverter (VSI) operates based on a constant supply of DC voltage. Like the current

source inverter, this type of power inverter, is capable of producing a nearly-equivalent magnitude of

AC output voltage from input voltage. The input voltage usually has a very low impedance, and the

entire conversion process usually occurs at constant voltage. (C. E. Mebunii, 2022).

This type of inverter is used in all applications because it is more efficient and have higher reliability

and faster dynamic response. VSI is capable of running motors without de-rating. (Ravi Kansagara,

2018)

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Plate 2: types of inverter based on source input

Source:https://www.electricaltechnology.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/Voltage-Source-Current-

Source-Inverter.png

2.5.3 Types of inverters based on circuit connection

The two types of power inverter are parallel and series inverters.

1. parallel inverters

Parallel inverters have the advantages of being cheap and producing stable AC output. This type of

power inverter is usually connected in parallel with the load. Components of parallel inverters include a

transformer, two thyristors, an inductor, and a commutator. The transformer is usually connected

between the load and the rest of the components in what is called a ‘center-tapped’ arrangement.(C. E.

Mebunii, 2022)

Plate 3: Image of a parallel inverter

Source:https://www.electricaltechnology.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/Parallel-Inverter.png

2. Series inverter

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Also known as the “load commutated inverter”, this type of power inverter is usually connected in series

with the load. Components which make up a series inverter are two thyristors, a resistor, inductor and

capacitor (RLC). Advantages of this type of inverter include high-frequency tolerance and induction

heating. (C. E. Mebunii, 2022)

Plate 4: Image of a series inverter

Source: https://www.electricaltechnology.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/Series-Inverter.png

2.5.4 Types of inverters based on operation

Based on mode of operation, the two types of power inverters are grid-connected and standalone

inverters.

1. Grid-connected inverters

As the name implies, this type of power inverter operates with direct connection to the utility grid. The

main purpose of the grid-connected (or grid-tie) power inverter is to supply AC power directly to the

grid, from a storage device like a solar battery. This AC power may either be needed to support a load,

or may be excess power from the storage device, that is being sent to the grid. There are four (4) types of

grid-connected inverters. These are string, central, micro and bimodal inverters. Advantages offered by

this type of power inverter include flexibility, and relative ease of monitoring. (C. E. Mebunii, 2022)

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Synchronverters are inverters that are designed to simulate a rotating generator, and can be used to help

stabilize grids. They can be designed to react faster than normal generators to changes in grid frequency,

and can give conventional generators a chance to respond to very sudden changes in demand or

production (Ruoyang and Robertson, 2017).

Plate 5: Grid connected inverter

Source: https://www.electricaltechnology.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/Grid-Connected-Inverter.jpg

2. Stand-alone inverters

Also known as “off-grid” inverters, the stand-alone power inverter is a type of inverter which is

designed to function without being connected to the utility grid. This type of power inverter, is usually

required in remote areas, where there is no access to the grid. In such areas, the source of power is often

renewable energy, like solar. Advantages of this type of inverter include reliability, stability and low

cost. (C. E. Mebunii, 2022)

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Plate 6: stand-alone inverter

Source: https://www.electricaltechnology.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/Stand-alone-Inverter.jpg

2.5.5 Types of inverters based on bridge model

Based on bridge model, the two types of power inverter are the full bridge and half bridge (H-bridge)

inverters.

1. Full bridge inverter

The full bridge power inverter, produces alternating current from direct current, by repeatedly switching

between negative and positive polarities. Full bridge inverters comprise of four (4) thyristors and four

(4) feedback diodes. The thyristors help to switch between polarities in order to produce AC, while the

diodes help to conduct the alternating current. A type of full bridge inverter; the three-phase bridge

inverter, changes a DC current into a three-phase alternating current. This type of AC has waveforms

whose crests and troughs 120° apart from each other.

To achieve this, the inverter is equipped with at least 6 thyristors that switch direct current between

negative and positive polarities to produce an alternating current. (C. E. Mebunii, 2022)

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Plate 7: Full bridge inverter

Source:https://www.electricaltechnology.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/Full-Bridge-Inverter.png

2.5.6 Types of inverters based on commutation

Based on commutation, the types of power inverters are force-commutation, line-commutation, and

simple-commutation inverters.

Commutation itself is the flow or transfer of electric current across a circuit, or from one circuit to

another. It usually involves the use of inductors and rectifiers to control and convert the flowing current.

Commutation means transfer of current from one circuit to another.

1. Force-commutation inverter

The force commutation (or force-commutated) inverter operates by using a reverse voltage to force the

forward current to zero. In forced commutation, the rectifier (or silicon-controlled rectifier; SCR)

resolves the output current to a point of minimum harmonics, by performing repeated voltage reversals

on the DC current supply. (C. E. Mebunii, 2022)

2. Line-commutation inverter

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The line-commutated inverters, the change of DC to AC current, is controlled by the utility grid or

power line. Unlike the force-commutated power inverter which uses a reverse voltage to ‘force’ the

current into a zero state, the line-commutated inverter allows current to flow through an inductor in a

near-constant pattern. This can be referred to as “natural commutation”. Compared to the force-

commutated type, this type of inverter has advantages such as low cost and effective energy

conservation. However, it has the disadvantage of being too dependent on the utility grid. (C. E.

Mebunii, 2022

2.6 Hybrid inverter System

A hybrid solar inverter is the combination of a solar inverter and a battery inverter into a single piece of

equipment that can intelligently manage power from your solar panels, solar batteries, and the utility

grid at the same time.

A traditional solar grid-tie inverter converts direct current (DC) electricity produced by your

photovoltaic (PV) system into the alternating current (AC) electricity that powers your house, which

also allows excess electricity generation to be transferred to the utility grid. A battery inverter handles

the process of inverting DC electricity that’s stored in your solar battery storage into AC electricity that

can be used by your home. By combining these functions into a single device, a solar hybrid grid-tie

inverter streamlines and improves the operations of the classic solar inverter. Even better, since the

amount of solar power that’s available can depend on the weather and seasonality, a hybrid inverter can

draw power from the electricity grid to charge your battery storage system if needed.

2.7 Functions of a Hybrid inverter

The basic purpose of an inverter is the conversion of DC input from your solar panel into AC output that

your home can use. The function of hybrid solar inverter use takes this process to the next level,

including the following benefits:

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2.7.1 DC-to-AC Bi-Directional Power Conversion: Normally solar batteries are charged by either DC

electricity received directly from solar panels (DC coupled), or DC electricity that has been converted

from AC electricity by a solar inverter (AC coupled). Then to release that power, an inverter needs to

convert that stored DC electricity back into AC electricity.

With a hybrid inverter and battery, one device can do both roles. The hybrid grid-tie inverter can convert

DC electricity into AC electricity to power your home, but it can also take AC electricity from the grid,

and convert it into DC electricity that can be stored in batteries for later use.

2.7.2 Power Regulation: Solar power can fluctuate as sunshine levels increase and decrease, based

upon the time of day and weather patterns. A hybrid inverter regulates this power to ensure the whole

system operates within the required parameters.

2.7.3 Power Monitoring: Solar hybrid grid-tied inverters can be fitted with solar power monitoring

software to measure and monitor your photovoltaic’s system via the display screen or a connected

Smartphone app to help identify any faults.

2.7.4 Power Maximization: Hybrid inverters with Maximum Power Point Trackers (MPPT) check your

solar power output and correlate it to the battery's voltage. This enables optimum power output and

conversion of DC electricity to the best voltage for the battery's maximum charge. MPPT guarantees

your solar power system works efficiently under every condition, such as varying amounts of solar light,

solar panel temperature, and electrical loads.

2.8 The inverter input and output

2.8.1 Input voltage

A typical power inverter device or circuit requires a stable DC

power source capable of supplying enough current for the intended power demands of the system. The

input voltage depends on the design and purpose of the inverter. Examples include: A 12 V DC, for

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smaller consumer and commercial inverters that typically run from a rechargeable 12 V lead acid

battery or automotive electrical outlet. 24, 36 and 48 V DC, which are common standards for home

energy systems.

2.8.2 Output Frequency: The AC output frequency of a power inverter device is usually the same as

standard power line frequency, 50 or 60 hertz. If the output of the device or circuit is to be further

conditioned (for example stepped up) then the frequency may be much higher for good transformer

efficiency.

2.8.3 Output Voltage: The AC output voltage of a power inverter is often regulated to be the same as

the grid line voltage, typically 120 or 240 VAC at the distribution level, even when there are changes in

the load that the inverter is driving. This allows the inverter to power numerous devices designed for

standard line power. Some inverters also allow selectable or continuously variable output voltages.

2.8.4 Output Power: A power inverter will often have an overall power rating expressed in watts or

kilowatts. This describes the power that will be available to the device the inverter is driving and,

indirectly, the power that will be needed from the DC source. Smaller popular consumer and

commercial devices designed to mimic line power typically range from 150 to 3000 watts. Not all

inverter applications are solely or primarily concerned with power delivery; in some cases the frequency

and or waveform properties are used by the follow-on circuit or device.

2.8.5 Inverter Battery

The runtime of an inverter powered by batteries is dependent on the battery power and the amount of

power being drawn from the inverter at a given time. As the amount of equipment using the inverter

increases, the runtime will decrease. In order to prolong the runtime of an inverter, additional batteries

can be added to the inverter (http://www.tripplite.com/support/inverter-faq).

2.9 Advantages and disadvantages of a hybrid inverter

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The hybrid inverter has it benefits and drawback below are the few of them. (Solar technologies, 2018)

2.9.1 Advantages of a hybrid inverter

1. Continuous Power Supply

key advantage of the hybrid solar system over a traditional one is that it delivers continuous power.

Because the batteries connected to hybrid solar systems store energy, they provide continuous power

without interruption. During power outages, the batteries work as inverters to provide you with backup

power for your home and important appliances. When the sun goes down or when there’s a power

outage, batteries provide backup power to keep things running smoothly.

2. Utilize the Renewable Sources in the Best Way

Because the batteries are connected to a specially designed system that stores excess solar energy, there

is no waste of unused power. So, these systems make use of the renewable energy in the best way, store

energy on sunny days and utilize that stored power on cloudy days or at night.

3. Low Maintenance Cost

Another benefit is the system is cost-effective in the long run. Although the initial cost may be high, you

will eventually save money because you will not have to pay for fuel (like you do with generators) and

these systems don’t require frequent maintenance.

4. High Efficiency

Unlike traditional generators, which can waste fuel under certain conditions, hybrid solar energy

systems work more efficiently and sustainably. Hybrid solar systems generate power efficiently in all

types of weather, storing extra energy for later use without wasting fuel.

5. Load Management

Traditional generators provide high output only when they are turned on. On the other hand, hybrid solar

power systems store energy during the day and distribute it at night. A hybrid solar system may have

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technology that automatically adjusts the energy supply according to the power requirements of specific

devices, whether it’s an air conditioner or a fan.

2.9.2 Disadvantages of a hybrid inverter

1. Complicated Controlling Process

Because different sources of energy are used, it is helpful to be knowledgeable about those systems. The

operation of different energy sources and the interaction between them can become complicated. The

great thing is that by working with a trusted contractor, we will handle those complications for you.

2. High Installation Costs

While the maintenance cost is low, the initial investment for a hybrid solar energy system is higher

compared to solar systems alone.

3. Less Battery Life

Home batteries connected to the system are often exposed to heat, cold or rain, so the system may have a

shorter life span. This is less of a challenge if you choose the correct location for installation. (Another

reason it’s important to work with an experienced installation team!)

4. The Number of Instruments Connectable is Limited

You can connect a limited number of devices to a hybrid solar energy system, and the amount varies

from system to system.

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 CHAPTER THREE

DESIGN PROCEDURE

3.1 Pictorial view of a hybrid inverter.

Pictorial view describes the angle in which a three-dimensional object is depicted on a drawing surface

(konstantin, 2020).

Plate: pictorial view of a hybrid-inverter, with dimensions for proper air circulation to dissipate heat,

Plate 8: pictorial view of a hybrid inverter

source: https://toplakuca.me/en/

3.2 Isometric drawing

isometric drawing, is way of presenting designs/drawings in three dimensions. In order for a

design to appear three dimensional, a 30 degree angle is applied to its sides. The cube opposite, has been

drawn in isometric projection.(Ryan, 2010)

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Plate 9 : Isometric drawing

3.3 orthographic projection of the hybrid inverter

Orthographic projection is a technique used in drafting or engineering drawings to depict a three-

dimensional object in two dimensions. Typically, this type of projection will show the top, side, and

front views of an object. In cartography, or map-making, an orthographic projection refers to a two-

dimensional map with a perspective of infinity. A map using this technique appears similar to a view

from space, but land mass shapes and distance are distorted.(Paul,2023)

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Plate 10: Orthographic projection

Source: www.https://toplakuca.me/en/installation-of-hybrid-inverter-deye/

3.4 Testing of materials

After the purchase of materials needed for the installation of 3.5kva Hybrid Inverter in Technical

Education Department. The hybrid Inverter is tested to be sure that it is in a good working condition (i.e

not spoiled or damage as a result of manufacturing process and transportation).

According to Lie, (2023) Hybrid Inverter is the combination of a solar Inverter and a battery

Inverter into a single piece of equipment.

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The following steps were employed in carrying out the testing:

1. It is first connected to a photovoltaic solar panels DC input terminal, to be sure it can converts the

DC input voltage from solar panels to AC voltage (50/60hz, 100v-240v) without attaching any

battery to it.

2. Battery is then connected and allowed to charge for 10minutes by solar and followed by an

Alternating current (AC) source.

3. The charging sources (i.e solar and AC generator) were then disconnected by the use of switch,

from the hybrid Inverter

4. It is also tested by using battery only to function as a battery Inverter

5. Other materials like; Wall mounting bracket, Stainless steel anti-collision-bolt were also tested to

affirm that they are durable and satisfactory for the installation.

6. Multimeter is used in the process, to test input and output of voltages (volts), current (Amp) and

power (Watt).

All the above steps were done and confirm that the hybrid Inverter is in a good working

condition and the materials used to aid the completion of the installation were also satisfactory and

durable to be used.

Table.1: Bill of materials

ITEMS DESCRIPTION QUANTITY RATE(₦) AMOUNT(₦)

Hybrid inverter 3.5volt 1 8×35,000 280,000

Transportation Lagos to 8×3750 30,000

Pankshin

Logistics - - 8×1000 8000

TOTAL - - - 318,000

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 CHAPTER FOUR

INSTALLATION PROCEDURE

Installation is the process of making hardware and/or software ready for use. Obviously,

different systems require different types of installations. While certain installations are simple and

straightforward and can be performed by non-professionals, others are more complex and time-

consuming and may require the involvement of specialists.(Margaret Rouse, 2017)

4.1 Collection of materials

Table. 2: collected materials

DESCRIPTION OF VALUE QUANTITY

MATERIAL

Hybrid Inveter 3.5Kva 1

Wall mounting bracket Stainless steel 1

Expansion bolt Steel 4

Screws Short/Long (mix) 500g

4.2 Assembling and Major consideration for installation

Basic steps involved in the installation of the hybrid inverter include the following:

I. It was ensured that the wall area for installation was capable of handling the system size and weight

II. It was ensured that there were no wall penetrations or damage.

III. The hybrid-inverter system was installed according to the manufacturer specifications, using

installation requirements such as the right wire gauge, nuts and bolts from the manufacturer’s

specification.

IV. The hybrid-inverter system was properly grounded with the system parts to reduce the threat of

shock hazard and induced surges.

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V. It was ensured that the right wire with the right polarity was observed while connecting the solar

panel to the charge controller port.

VI. the AC input from generator and the utility grid was connected to its right port for proper

rectification and charging of battery.

VII. it’s ensure that the inverter is not tilted more than 15-degree.

VIII. enough space was provided for proper air circulation, at least 100cm to each side.

IX. it was ensured that there is no interference from any other power electronic equipment in the

surrounding area (e.g antenna receiver and transmitter are kept far away).

X. The cables used are firmly connected and tight with screw, having good insulation.

XI. It was finally inspected for completion.

4.3 Operational Sequence

The correct startup sequence and shutdown sequence of the inverter are very important. Wrong

operation may cause damage to the inverter.

Startup sequence of the hybrid inverter:

First, turn on the battery switch, second turn on the battery switch of the single phase inverter , third turn

on the solar panel switch, fourth, turn on the output, and finally turn on the load. Prohibit

booting/starting with load.

Shutdown sequence of the hybrid inverter:

The first，Turn off the load, second, turn off the output of the inverter，

Third, turn off the solar panel switch, fourth turn off the battery switch of the inverter, and finally turn

off the battery switch.

4.4 Advantages of the hybrid inverter

The installed 3.5kva hybrid-inverter has the following benefits:

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 1. It maintains constant room temperature

2. It has an efficient cooling & heating system

3. Can be run with both solar panels, power from grid, generators and batteries

4. It monitors energy usage.

4.4.1 Disadvantages of the hybrid inverter

1. This kind of inverters is expensive to afford.

2. Sunlight is necessary to generate sufficient electricity.

3. It requires a huge space for installation.

4.5 Precautions

Safety is very important when it comes to handling/using of electricity, the electrical

equipment's, machines, appliances etc all work base on some principles and laws, these principles and

laws must be considered tool minimize or avoid risk of hazard, fire, damage and electric shock. The

following guidelines in handling a 3.5kva hybrid-inverter should be taken care of:

1. Do not touch the terminals while the Power is on, to prevent an electric shock.

2. When opening the safety cover, turn the power off or conduct a sufficient check of safety before

operation.

3. Do not disassemble the inverter. If you need maintenance or repair, take it to a professional

service center.

4. Improper reassembly may result in electric shock or fire.

5. To reduce the risk of electric shock, disconnect all wires before attempting any maintenance or

cleaning. Turning off the unit will not reduce this risk.

6. Never cause AC output and DC input to short-circuit.

7. Do not connect to the mains when DC input short circuits.

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 8. Never charge a frozen battery.

9. Do not install the inverter in direct sunlight.

10. Avoid unnecessary board contact.

11. Observe the static protection code and wear an anti-static wrist strap.

12. Pay attention to and follow the warning signs on the product.

13. Visually inspect the equipment for damage or other dangerous conditions before operation.

14. Pay attention to the hot surface of the inverter. For example, a heat sink of a power

semiconductor or the like maintains a relatively high temperature for a period of time after the

inverter is powered off.

4.6 Maintenance

According to Wikipedia maintenance involves functional checks , servicing, repairing, or

replacing of necessary devices, equipment, machinery, building infrastructure, and supporting utilities in

industrial, business, and residential installations. Over time, this has come to include multiple wordings

that describe various cost-effective practices to keep equipment operational; these activities occur either

before or after a failure. For proper maintenance of the inverter one should take note of the following:

i. Before performing any maintenance work, first disconnect the electrical connection between the

inverter and the grid, and then disconnect the DC side electrical connection.

ii. Wait at least 5 minutes until the internal components are discharged before performing maintenance

work.

iii. Check that there is no evidence of heating and/or corrosion at the connections

iv. Any fault that affects the safety performance of the inverter must be eliminated immediately before

the inverter can be turned on again.

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v. Keep the Inverter cool by ensuring the fan, ventilation system, or other cooling technology is up to

speed and working correctly.

vi. Keep the air intake filter clean to ensure there is no clogging, preventing the free flow of air and

preventing moisture from building up internally.

vii. Check for Error Codes or changes in the inverter lights; these could be signs that something is

amiss and needs attention.

viii. Use Solar Monitoring Technology whenever available from your solar equipment supply company.

Whether they are apps or alert systems of any kind, they can help monitor performance and spot

issues before they escalate.

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 CHAPTER FIVE

SUMMARY, CONCLUTION, AND RECONMENDATIONS

5.1 Re-statement of the problem

The epileptic nature of the electric power supplied to the department, has resulted in poor

implementation of the department resources preventing the student in carrying out practicals and

resulting in blackouts in office buildings and workshops, the dwindling nature of electricity

supplied to the department has prompted research to be carried out on a stable alternative form of

energy, among which the inverter comes into play.

5.2 Summary

The construction of the inverter has been completed and scrutinized by the designed to enhance

the purpose for which it was made for. The designer in his analysis on collection of material, received

help from both far and near due to scarcity of some components used to make the production of the

inverter successful.

The result of the production of the inverter exposed the designer to certain basic things he

was not exposed to. For instance, in the process of production it was noticed that the automatic

battery charging system capable of recharging the battery source when it goes below a threshold

value of 10v can actually be adjusted to a threshold of 11v to increase the lifespan of the battery.

The designer also observe that the frequency control circuit can maintain the operating frequency at

50HZ even the frequency tends to shift as a result of low battery.

5.3 Conclusion

The installation of 3.5KVA solar power system in Technical Education Department, Federal

College Education Pankshin because of the almost non-existent power supply in the school well as

to have a clean, economical, and reliable power supply are the crux of this work. The components

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used to realize the system, among others, are four solar panels of 300W each, four batteries of

220Ah each, and a 60A charge controller. Upon the installation, the system was tested and worked

perfectly in line with design, Various Performance tests, including using resistive and inductive

loads were carried out. The performance test of the system's lasting capacity when the batteries

were fully charged and isolated from solar panels was also carried out. When resistive loads of

270W were applied, the power supplied from the system lasted for 11hours, and when inductive

loads of 480W were equally applied, power supplied from the system lasted for 10 hours.

5.4 limitation of the project

In an attempt to explore other ways of energy supply called solar power. The researcher was able

to get only an aspect of it that is the 3.5KVA inverter, this inverter is limited in the sense that it can’t

work alone. Solar energy is a cluster of devices that are dependent on each other to give the required

voltage of 110 to 240 volts that will power whatever one wants. These things are interwoven on each

other before they can give out the desired output. For the system to function as expected, we will need.

1. Three addition 200wats solar panels to absorb the sun ray and supply the electrical energy.

2. Two 200Ahr batteries to store and discharge current in it.

3. 60 Ampere charge controller which will serve as automatic cutout voltage regulator between

the panel and the battery to regulate the charging limit of the battery

5.5 Recommendations

Although, the objective of this project has been archived, the inverter cannot be used to power any

device of higher power rating. In addition, when the inverter output, therefore, for improvement on this

project further research can include;

1. Increasing the power rating of the inverter by increasing the number of

power switching device and the current rating of the transformer.

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 2. Converting the inverter to act like UPS (Uninterrupted Power Supply)

through an additional automatic Voltage Regulator (AVR)

5.6 Suggestion for Further Construction

1. Installation of 5kva Hybrid Inverter with an inbuilt charge controller to be able carry

heavy load.

2. Installation of additional solar panels

3. Installation of additional 220Ahr battery.

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REFERENCES

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