CHAPTER IV

RESULT AND DISCUSSION

A solar power system is made up of several essential

components that work together to convert sunlight into usable

electricity. The solar panel captures sunlight and converts it

into direct current (DC) electricity. This electricity flows

into the solar charge controller (SCC), which regulates the

voltage and current coming from the panels to safely charge

the battery. The battery stores the energy for use when

sunlight is not available. An inverter is then used to convert

the DC power from the battery into alternating current (AC)

power, which is commonly used for household appliances.

Breakers are installed to protect the electrical circuit from

overcurrent, and outlets are the final point where the user

can plug in devices to access the solar-generated electricity.

Solar Panel

This section provides a comprehensive discussion of the

solar panel component used in the experimental design for a

solar-powered classroom at the Automotive Annex Building of

the BSIT Department, University of Eastern Philippines – PRMC

Campus. It includes the sizing computations, specification of

the selected panels, system configuration, performance

assessment, challenges, and mitigation.

1. Solar Panel Sizing and Calculation

Using the calculated total daily energy consumption of

11,760 Wh/day, and the average sun peak hours in the

Philippines (6 hours/day), the required power output of the

solar panels was determined using the formula from the

Philippine Electrical Code (PEC) 2017:

Total Daily Consumption

PV Power Required = ×1.3
Sun Peak Hours

11, 84 0
= × 1.3
6

= 1, 517.9 watts or approximately 1.6 kW

This implies that the system requires solar panels

capable of collectively producing at least 1.6 kW kilowatts

during optimal sunlight conditions to meet daily classroom

demands

2. Selection of Solar Panels

Based on this requirement, the study recommends using

standard 200-watt polycrystalline or monocrystalline panels.

To meet the 1.6 kW demand, a minimum of 8 panels (200 W × 8 =

1,600 W) would be needed. These panels will be installed on

the rooftop of the Automotive Annex Building, ensuring full

exposure to sunlight during classroom operational hours.

Specification Details

Model JAM5(L)-72-200/SI

Rated Power (Pmax) 200 Watts

 Module Efficiency 15.67%

Voltage at Maximum Power (Vmp) 37.26 V

Current at Maximum Power (Imp) 5.37 A

Open Circuit Voltage (Voc) 45.62 V

Short Circuit Current (Isc) 5.66 A

Dimensions 1580 mm × 808 mm × 40 mm

Weight 15.5 kg

Panel Type Monocrystalline

Temperature Coefficient (Pmax) -0.43%/K

10 years product, 25
Warranty
years performance

3. Cost Estimation

Estimated Cost per Solar Panel: ₱ 6,000 – ₱ 7,000

Total Estimated Cost of Solar Panel (8 units): ₱ 50,000 – ₱

55,000

This setup is budget-friendly for partial-load operation

and can be expanded if needed.

4. Solar Panel Specification

To meet the 1.6 kW requirement, the study proposes the use

of JA Solar 200 W Monocrystalline PV Modules, a widely

available and cost-efficient solar panel suitable for

institutional use.
Technical Specifications of Each Panel:

5. Panel Array Configuration

To meet the system’s 1.6 kW target:

1 , 600W
No. of Panels Required = =8 Solar panels
200W of Solar panels

Series Configuration: Depending on the inverter’s input

voltage, the panels may be arranged in 2 strings of 4 panels

each to optimize voltage and current.

6. Performance Considerations

The following performance aspects were considered during

the designing phase:

Sunlight Availability: Catubig, Northern Samar receives an

average of 6 sun hours/day, making the site ideal for solar

generation.

Panel Orientation and Tilt: For maximum output, the panels

should be tilted at an angle equivalent to the site’s latitude

(approximately 12–13 degrees) facing south.

Efficiency: Modern panels operate at 18–22% efficiency. For a

1.6 kW system, this efficiency ensures enough energy is

produced daily to match the building’s calculated demand.

7. Site Suitability and Solar Resource

 Catubig, Northern Samar receives an estimated 6 peak sun

hours per day. With minimal shading and unobstructed rooftop

space, the selected location is deemed ideal for optimal solar

performance.

Estimated Daily Energy Output = 8 panels × 200 W × 6 hours/day

= 9, 600 Wh/day or 9.6 kWh/day

This exceeds the daily energy requirement (11.84 kWh/day),

allowing a margin for inefficiencies (dust, temperature,

inverter losses) and battery charging.

Challenges Mitigation Strategy

Shading from nearby Conduct regular trimming and

buildings/trees placement planning during
installation

Dust and dirt accumulation Schedule quarterly panel

cleaning

High upfront cost Explore LGU/DOE subsidies or

partnerships with solar
energy providers

8. Challenges and Mitigation

9. Conclusion on Solar Panel Component

The use of 8 units of 200 W monocrystalline solar panels

ensures the classroom will have a reliable, clean, and

efficient power source. The experimental results,

calculations, and specifications affirm that the solar array

is correctly sized to meet and exceed energy demands, while

promoting long-term sustainability, educational advancement,

and operational cost reduction for the institution.

Solar charge controller (SCC)

This section provides a technical overview of the Solar

Charge Controller (SCC) used in the solar energy system

installed at the Automotive Annex Building, BSIT Department,

University of Eastern Philippines – PRMC Campus. The SCC was

selected based on the energy demand of an 8-hour classroom

operation and the electrical characteristics of the solar

array and battery system.

1. Purpose and Function

The SCC is responsible for regulating the electrical flow

between the solar panels and the battery bank. Its main

purpose is to ensure the batteries receive the correct

charging voltage and current while preventing overcharging,

deep discharge, and reverse current flow at night. These

protections help extend battery life, ensure stable system

performance, and enhance operational safety.

2. Type of Controller

A Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) controller was

selected for this system due to its ability to maximize energy

harvest. MPPT technology continuously adjusts the panel

voltage to operate at its optimal power point, making it more

efficient than standard PWM (Pulse Width Modulation)

controllers.

MPPT controllers are particularly suitable when the solar

panel voltage is higher than the battery bank voltage, as is

common in 24V or 48V systems. On average, MPPT units can

increase charging efficiency by 20–30%, especially during

variable sunlight conditions.

3. Sizing and Selection

The controller is sized based on the total solar panel

wattage and the battery bank voltage using the following

formula:

( Solar Panel Capacity x 1.2 ) 1600(1.2)

Solar Charger Capacity ¿ = =80 A
System Voltage 24

For this system:

Solar Panel Output = 8 panels × 200W = 1,600 W

Battery Bank Voltage = 24V

Applying the formula:

1600(1.2)
SCC Rating = =80 A
24

To allow for peak sunlight conditions and provide a

safety margin, an 80A MPPT controller was selected. This

rating accommodates potential load growth or future system

expansion.

4. Solar Charger Capacity Specifications

Specifications Details

Model Type LAIRPOW MPPT Solar Charge

Controller

System Voltage 12V / 24V/ 36V/ 48V (Auto

Delect)

Maximum Charging Current 80 Amperes

Maximum PV Input Voltage 90V DC (Voc – Open Circuit

Voltage)

Supported Battery Types Lead-acid, Gel, Lithium Iron

Phosphate

Display Backlight LCD with indicators

for:

 Battery Level
 Charging Current
 Discharge Current
 System Voltage
 Temperature
 Light Control + Delay
Mode

USB Ports 2 × 5V USB outputs

Efficiency Up to 99% (as advertised)

Other Features Voltage auto-recognition,

temperature sensor, load
control timer

Recommended Use Small to mid-size solar system

Approx. Price ₱ 507 (based on Online Shop

listing)
5. Installation and Configuration

The SCC is mounted close to the battery system to reduce

voltage drop. Wiring is sized appropriately based on current

ratings, and protective devices such as fuses or circuit

breakers are installed on both the input and output sides of

the controller.

Key setup considerations:

Set battery type and charging parameters (bulk, float,

and absorption voltages) as per manufacturer specifications.

Ensure good ventilation to prevent heat buildup. Enable

monitoring features (display, Bluetooth, or remote app) for

real-time diagnostics and maintenance.

6. Conclusion

The installation of an 80A MPPT Solar Charge Controller

ensures that the battery bank is charged safely and

efficiently, supporting uninterrupted operation of the

classroom for 8 hours per day. Proper sizing and configuration

of the SCC improve energy conversion, protect system

components, and contribute to the reliability and

sustainability of the solar power installation at UEP–PRMC

Campus.
Battery

This section presents the battery component used in the

experimental design to support the solar-powered classroom at

the Automotive Annex Building of the BSIT Department,

University of Eastern Philippines – PRMC Campus. It covers the

storage needs based on an 8-hour daily operation, including

battery size, specs, setup, mitigation and performance

consideration.

1. Battery Sizing and Calculation

Based on the solar panel sizing, the battery component is

designed to meet a daily energy demand of 11,760 Wh/day.

Adjusted daily load (8 hours/day): (11,840 Wh ÷ 24 hrs) × 8

hrs

= 3,946.6 Wh/day
Required Battery Storage: 3,946.6 × 1.3 = 5,130.58 Wh or 5.1

kWh

The formula to calculate the required battery consumption is:

Total Daily Energy Consumption(Wh)

Battery Capacity (Ah) =
System Voltage (V )

11, 84 0 VAh
= =53. 81 Ah
220V

= 53.81 Ah ×8 h/day

= 430.48 Ah/day

This implies that the Battery needed for the solar set up

is about 427.63 Ah/day or approximately 450 Ah of battery.

This amount of storage is sufficient only for light duty

application such as powering LED lights, fan, and a television

or multimedia device for several hours per day.

2. Battery Type and Selection

Based on this requirement, the study recommends using

standard 12 V 150 Ah sealed lead-acid deep-cycle batteries,

they're a good fit for solar setups because they are

affordable and easy to maintain. To meet the 450 Ah demand, a

minimum of 3 battery’s (150 Ah × 3 = 450 Ah) would be needed.

3. Battery Specifications

The system uses sealed lead-acid deep-cycle batteries, 12

V 150 Ah, suitable for solar charging. Specs are as follows:

 Specification Details

Model Deep Cycle VRLA

Voltage 12 V

Rated Capacity 150 Ah

Energy per Unit 1,800 Wh (1.8 kWh)

Battery Type GEL Sealed Lead-Acid (Deep

Cycle)

Approx. Weight 40-41 kg

Dimensions 283 ×170 ×248 mm

Standby Use 5 years

Warranty 1-2 years

4. Battery Configuration

The three 12 V batteries are configured to match the

system voltage requirement and maximize storage efficiency:

Series-Parallel Configuration: Two batteries are connected in

series to achieve 24 V. The third battery can be used to power

a 12V sub-system (e.g., lighting) or held in reserve for

rotation or expansion.

5. Usable Energy (50% DoD): 3 × 1,800 Wh × 0.5 = 2,700 Wh

This covers 52% of the adjusted daily load (5,096 Wh),

with the shortfall manageable by scheduling high-power loads

during peak sunlight hours.

6. Cost Estimation
Estimated Cost per Battery: ₱ 8,500 – ₱ 9,000

Total Estimated Battery Cost (3 units): ₱ 25,500 – ₱ 27,000

This setup is budget-friendly for partial-load operation

and can be expanded if needed.

7. Performance Considerations

Charging Efficiency: A solar charge controller will help

manage charging and prevent overcharging.

Temperature Management: Batteries will be placed in a

ventilated area to lower heat buildup and extend their

lifespan.

Usage Strategy: High-energy devices (like projectors and fans)

should ideally be used during the hours when we have solar

power.

8. Challenges and Mitigation

Challenge Mitigation Strategy

Limited storage for cloudy Restrict high-load use during

days low sun exposure

Battery wear over time Monitor battery health, plan

for replacement

Future demand increase Design system with space and

wiring for expansion

9. Conclusion on Battery Component

 The use of three 12 V 150 Ah deep-cycle sealed lead-acid

batteries offers a practical and efficient energy storage

solution aligned with the classroom's 8-hour daily operation

schedule. This configuration supports essential loads while

maintaining affordability and expandability. It helps make the

solar energy system at the UEP–PRMC Campus more reliable and

sustainable.

Inverter

1. Load Requirement Recap

The inverter is responsible for supplying alternating

current (AC) power to all classroom appliances, which are

originally powered by direct current (DC) electricity from

solar panels and stored in the battery. Based on the

calculated power usage of the classroom, the total electrical

load requiring conversion from DC to AC is as follows:

Appliances Quantity Power Rating Operating Total

(W) Time Energy
(Wh)

Ceiling Fans 4 180 W 8 hours 5,760 W

Light Bulbs 4 180 W 8 hours 3,200 W

 Power 2 100 W 8 hours 2,880 W
Outlets

Total 11,840
Wh/day

2. Inverter Sizing Calculation

Continuous Load Demand (Watts)

Ceiling Fans: 4 × 180 W = 720 W

Light Bulbs: 4 × 100 W = 400 W

Convenience Outlets: 2 × 180 W = 360 W

Total Continuous Load: 720 W + 400 W + 360 W = 1,480 W

Adding Safety Margin (20%)

1,480 W × 1.2 = 1,776 W

To safely and reliably operate all classroom appliances, a

2,000-watt pure sine wave inverter was selected. This inverter

size offers more than the calculated 1,776 watts needed,

providing a safety margin and allowing for brief power surges

(common during device startup) without system shutdown or

overload.

3. Inverter Specification

The chosen inverter is a 2000W 12V Pure Sine Wave

Inverter, capable of delivering reliable AC power output

suitable for sensitive electronics and standard electrical

devices.

Specification Details

Inverter Type Pure Sine Wave

Rated Power Output 2,000 watts (continuous)

Surge Capacity 4,000 watts

Input Voltage 12V DC

Output Voltage 220V AC

Output Frequency 60 Hz

Conversion Efficiency Up to 90%

Cooling System Internal automatic fan

Protection Features Overload, short circuit,

over-temp, under/over-voltage

Waveform Quality True Pure Sine Wave

Approx. Price P 2,550

4. System Integration

Placement: Located adjacent to battery bank to reduce energy

loss.

Wiring: Uses properly rated gauge cables to ensure safe DC

input and stable AC output.

Output Distribution: Connected to classroom’s distribution

board to power fans, lights, and outlets.

5. Challenges and Mitigation

Challenges Mitigation Strategy

Overload Risk Used 2000W inverter with 12% headroom
over 1,776W load

Inverter Heating During Proper ventilation and housing in a

Full Load cool, shaded location

Battery Compatibility Matched with 12V battery system to

ensure efficiency

Maintenance Positioning for easy inspection and

accessibility regular dust cleaning

6. Conclusion

The 2000W pure sine wave inverter used in this study is

adequately sized to support the classroom’s total peak load of

1,776 watts, with enough margin to accommodate start-up surges

and future expansion. With its integrated protection features

and high-quality AC output, the inverter serves as a critical

component in delivering a dependable and safe solar power

solution for the building.

 INSTALLATION

For the Solar Panels

Installing solar panels on a rooftop using angle bars and

flat bars is a common method due to their strength,

durability, and flexibility. The angle bar, typically made of

steel or aluminum, is used as the primary structural support

for the solar panel mounting system. It is commonly arranged

in a triangular or tilted framework to hold the solar panels

at the optimal angle for maximum sunlight exposure. The

inclination depends on the location's latitude to maximize

efficiency throughout the year. These angle bars are securely

anchored to the rooftop—either through bolting or welding—

ensuring the system can withstand wind loads and other weather

conditions.

Flat bars serve a complementary role in the mounting

system. While angle bars form the framework and provide

rigidity, flat bars are used to secure the solar panels onto

the angle bar frame. They are typically laid across or along

the panel edges and bolted down, clamping the panels in place

without damaging them. This combination allows for a cost-

effective yet robust structure that is also easier to

fabricate and install on various types of roofs, especially on

flat or slightly inclined concrete roofs.

 Overall, using angle and flat bars for solar panel

installation and cabinet fabrication is a practical approach,

combining strength with ease of assembly. It’s especially

favored in areas where custom-built, cost-effective solutions

are needed.

For the control Components

A control board cabinet is essential for housing the

electrical components such as inverters, charge controllers,

breakers, and meters. For this, a cabinet frame is often

fabricated using angle bars, which are welded or bolted

together to form a sturdy rectangular structure. Angle bars

are ideal for this purpose because they can carry the weight

of the mounted devices and resist deformation. The sides,

back, and doors of the cabinet are then covered with plywood

or other treated wood, which is screwed or nailed onto the

angle bar frame. This wooden cladding provides insulation,

easy access for maintenance, and a clean, finished appearance.

For better safety and durability, the cabinet can also be

painted or coated to protect against moisture and pests.

Efficiency During Different Weather Conditions

The performance of a solar power system is closely tied

to prevailing weather conditions, as solar panels rely on

sunlight to generate electricity. On clear, sunny days, solar

panels operate at peak efficiency due to the abundance of

direct sunlight. Under these optimal conditions, the system

produces a high amount of electrical energy, allowing the

battery to charge rapidly and the connected loads to be

powered consistently and reliably.

In contrast, during cloudy or rainy days, the system’s

efficiency declines. The presence of cloud cover significantly

reduces the amount of sunlight reaching the solar panels,

which results in a marked drop in power output. Although

modern solar panels can still generate electricity from

diffuse or indirect sunlight, the energy production is

substantially lower compared to sunny conditions.

 CHAPTER V

SUMMARY, CONCLUSION, RECOMMENDATION

Summary

The solar power system for the BSIT classroom at UEP–PRMC

was designed to meet a daily energy demand of 11,840 Wh. The

system uses:

 8 × 200W monocrystalline solar panels, delivering 1.6 kW

capacity.

 An 80A MPPT solar charge controller to optimize energy

harvesting and battery charging.

 Three 12V 150Ah deep-cycle sealed lead-acid batteries,

totaling 450Ah storage capacity.

 A 2000W pure sine wave inverter to supply AC power to

fans, lighting, and outlets.

Each component was selected based on load calculations and

the PEC 2017 guidelines. Installation utilized angle and flat

bars for mounting, with special attention to orientation,

tilt, and site shading. Challenges such as dust, shading, high

upfront cost, and limited battery storage during cloudy days

were mitigated through design strategies and suggested

maintenance practices. Overall, the system proved capable of

supporting classroom operations sustainably and reliably.

Conclusion

The solar-powered classroom system effectively meets the

energy needs of the Automotive Annex Building at UEP–PRMC for

an 8-hour daily schedule. Through careful sizing and selection

of components—solar panels, MPPT charge controller, batteries,

and inverter—the system delivers stable and clean electricity

to run lighting, fans, and outlets. The performance analysis

shows that the setup not only meets but slightly exceeds the

daily energy requirement, accounting for inefficiencies and

energy losses. Moreover, the installation method using angle

and flat bars ensures durability and cost-efficiency. This

project serves as a practical demonstration of how renewable

energy can be harnessed to support academic operations in

rural or off-grid settings.

Recommendations

Since this was only a design, the following are the

recommendation made by the researchers:

1. Expand Battery Storage: To improve energy availability

during prolonged cloudy weather, consider adding more

batteries or upgrading to higher-capacity lithium-based

storage systems.

2. Implement Real-Time Monitoring: Integrate a smart

monitoring system to track energy production,

 consumption, and battery health to enhance maintenance

and efficiency.

3. Schedule Preventive Maintenance: Regularly clean solar

panels, inspect wiring, and check system performance to

maintain efficiency and extend component lifespan.

4. Scale for Full Load Use: If the classroom intends to run

additional high-power equipment, future system expansion

should consider increasing the inverter capacity and

adding more solar panels.

Abstract

This research presents the technical evaluation and

performance analysis of a solar-powered classroom system

installed at the Automotive Annex Building of the BSIT

Department, University of Eastern Philippines – PRMC Campus.

The system comprises solar panels, a solar charge controller,

deep-cycle batteries, and a pure sine wave inverter configured

to supply energy for classroom operations lasting eight hours

daily. The solar panel array was designed to deliver 1.6 kW

using eight 200-watt monocrystalline modules, supported by an

80A MPPT charge controller and a 450Ah battery bank. A 2000W

inverter converts the stored energy into AC power for standard

appliances. Installation methods and weather-related

performance were also discussed, highlighting system

efficiency and reliability. The design demonstrates the

feasibility of using renewable energy to power educational

facilities in remote or underserved areas.