Design of a Stand-Alone Photovoltaic Energy System for Small-Scale Business Outlets (Case Study of Arogbo Community in Ondo State)

Abstract

This paper designed a stand-alone photovoltaic energy system for small-scale business outlets in rural areas, using Arogbo Community in Ese-Odo Local Government Area of Ondo State, Nigeria as a case study. Structured questionnaires were administered to 150 business outlets for energy audit. Total energy estimate and consumption for 8 hours daily operation were estimated from obtained information. Total energy demand of the outlets based on their appliances used per day with power factor of 0.8 and 15% tolerance for a maximum load of 355.228 kW was 1,894.844 kWh. The specific energy required for a typical outlet (Barbing Salon, Computer Centre and Hairdressing Shop) were (0.938, 9.04 and 10.87) kWh, and their photovoltaic equivalence were estimated as (1.266, 12.211 and 14.67) kWh respectively. The solar components for the outlets were estimated as (0.317, 3.053 and 3.66) kW solar modules on installation areas of (3, 28.4 and 34) m2. Inverter ratings of (0.22, 4 and 6) kVA were selected for the respective outlets.  (1, 4, and 4) numbers of 12 V deep cycle batteries of (100, 150 and 150) AH were selected. Electricity generator capacities selected were (1, 4 and 6) kVA respectively.