1. Introduction
With the rise in demand for renewable energy, solar energy has become a vital resource due to its sustainability and availability. However, efficient utilization of this energy requires smart energy management and control systems. Solar panels generate electricity that must be efficiently transferred and stored in batteries to maximize usage.
The project "Controlling Solar Energy Charge" focuses on monitoring and regulating the charging process of a battery from a solar panel using smart controllers. It prevents overcharging, increases battery life, and ensures maximum power extraction from the solar panel.
To further enhance functionality, the system can be integrated with features like Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) for efficiency and GSM modules for remote monitoring.
2. Working Principle
The system works on the principles of DC power regulation and intelligent charge control:
Core Concept:
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Solar panels produce DC power that varies with sunlight intensity.
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If connected directly to a battery, this could lead to overcharging or inefficient charging.
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A charge controller regulates the voltage and current going to the battery.
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In advanced systems, an MPPT algorithm is used to track the maximum power point of the solar panel to optimize power output.
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A microcontroller monitors battery voltage and controls relays or DC-DC converters to prevent overcharging and deep discharging.
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Optionally, a GSM module sends battery and panel status updates to a user remotely via SMS.
3. Methodology
Step-by-Step Working:
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Solar Energy Generation
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Voltage and Current Monitoring
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Charge Control via MPPT (Optional)
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Battery Charging Logic
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If the battery is below full charge, power is supplied to it.
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If the battery reaches full charge, charging is stopped or reduced to prevent damage.
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Relay or MOSFET switches are used to start/stop charging based on battery levels.
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GSM Communication (Optional)
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LCD Display (Optional)
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Real-time values such as voltage, current, battery level, and charging status are shown on an LCD screen.
4. Components Used
Component |
Function |
🔋 Solar Panel (12V/18V) |
Converts sunlight into DC electricity. |
⚡ Charge Controller (MPPT/PWM) |
Controls charging to the battery and prevents overcharging. |
🔌 Battery (Lead-acid or Li-ion) |
Stores solar energy for use when sunlight is unavailable. |
🧠 Microcontroller (Arduino/ESP32) |
Controls the system logic, reads sensor data, and executes the MPPT algorithm. |
📟 Voltage Sensor |
Monitors the output voltage from the panel and battery. |
📏 Current Sensor (ACS712/INA219) |
Measures current flowing into or from the battery. |
🔁 Relay or MOSFET |
Switches charging ON or OFF based on battery voltage levels. |
📶 GSM Module (SIM800L/SIM900A) |
Sends system data via SMS for remote monitoring. |
📺 LCD Display (16x2 or I2C) |
Displays voltage, current, and charging status locally. |
⚙️ DC-DC Converter |
Regulates voltage to required levels for battery charging. |
🔄 Diodes |
Prevents reverse current from battery to panel. |
🔩 Resistors/Capacitors |
Used for signal conditioning and circuit protection. |
Advantages of This System
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Increases solar power efficiency using MPPT.
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Prevents battery damage due to overcharging.
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Enables remote monitoring via GSM.
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Offers real-time data display on LCD.
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Supports low maintenance and sustainable energy usage.
Block Diagram:
