OFF-GRID BASED SOLAR SYSTEM

A Project submitted
by

ABDUL WAJITH M. 510622105001

MOHAMMED SHAFI M 510622105008
PERVEEN RAJ R. 510622105010
PRAVEEN G. 510622105011

In partial Fulfillment for the award of the degree of

BACHELOR OF ENGINEERING
IN
ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONICS ENGINEERING

C ABDUL HAKEEM COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY

MELVISHARAM,RANIPET-632509

ANNA UNIVERSITY:CHENNAI 600025

MAY 2025
 BONAFIDE CERTIFICATE

Certified that this project "OFF-GRID BASED SOLAR

SYSTEM'' is the bonafide workABDUL
of WAJITH M.,
MOHAMMED SHAFI M., PREVEEN RAJ R., PRAVEEN G.
who carried outtheprojectwork under my supervision.

SIGNATURE SIGNATURE
Dr. P. MOHAMMED SAJID Dr. S. SATHISH KUMAR M.E.
HEAD OF THE DEPARTMENT
SUPERVISOR
Electrical and Electronics Electrical and Electronics
Engineering Engineering & Technology
Melvisharam - 632509 Melvisharam - 632509
Ranipet District Ranipet District

Submitted for the university examination held on ..........

INTERNAL EXAMINER EXTERNAL EXAMIINIER

 ABSTRACT
With the rising concerns over energy scarcity and environmen­
tal degradation, solar energy has e1nerged as clean, renewable,
and sustainabie alternative to fossil fuel-based power generation. It
project focuses on designing and simulating an off-grid solar
power system sultable for household use in remote or rural areas is
either limited or non existent.
The project begins whth a detailed estimation of household power
requitements by surveying common appliances, evalueting their
energy usage, and predicting total daily load. This forms the basis
for calculating the required solar panel capacity and determining
battery storage needs. Real world data such sunlight availabil­
ity (solar insolation), panel efficiency, and usage patterns are used to
simulate a working solar system.
In the second phase involving analyzing solar cell productivity u­
sing irradiation data specific to typical rural indian environmen­
ts. Calculations account for seasonal variations, derating factors.
and temperature coefficients. Task 3 addresses the sizing of battery
storage systems based on load profiles, backup autonomy, and dep
th of discharge (DoD). Multiple configurations are analyzed to deter­
mine the most efficient and economical solution.
In the fourth stage, a MATLAB Simulink model is developed to sim­
ulate the photovoltaic (PV) cell behavior. IV (current-voltage) and
PV (power:-voltage) characteristics are plotiel and analyzed under
va­ rious operating conditions to assess real-time pertonnance.
Finally, the system design is completed by incorporating circuit
lavonts for charging, power delivery, and battery management. An
off-grid inver­ ter is consideted for AC load support, and system
safety components are selected to ensure stability and protection.
The model serves as a foundation for deploying off-grid solar
solutions in rural electrification efforts.
 TABLE OF CONTENTS
'

Chapter No.. Title Page No.

1 Title Page
2 1
3 Certificate 2
3
4 Declaration 4
5 Abstract 5
6
Acknowledgement i6
7
Introduction 8
8 I
9
Objectives 8

10 Scope of the Project

Task 1- Power Estimation
10-11
Task 2 - Determining Sola,Cr ell
Productivity 12-13
Task 3 - Power Storage & Excess
11 Power Handling 14-15
Task 4- MATLAB Model and
12 IV/PV Simulations 16-18
Task 5 - Circuit Design &Testing
14 19-20
15 Material List, Cost Estimation
22
16 Conclusion
22
 Chapter1
INTRODUCTION
The demand for reliable, renewable, and decentriaaliz energy
-has grown rapidly over the past decade. One of the most
viable optio­ ns, especially for rural and off-grid areas, is solar
photovoltaie. (PVI technology. Solar energy is not ondly
abundant and renewable • but also eco-friendly, making it
ideal for addressing energy def­ icits without harming the
environment.
An off-grid solar system, unlike a grid-tiel system, functions

inde­
pendently
charge c­ of the main utility grid. It includes solar panels, a
ontroller, battery storage, and an inverter (if AC loads are
present).
These
ih systems are particularly useful in remote reg-ions where
cost of grid extension is prohibitively high or where grid power
i
simprovements
meliable. With the falling costs of solar modules and
in battery technology, off-grid systems have incefficient,
This project aims to design and simulate a practical off-s1Yiem
capab­
le of powering-a small to medium household. The system is
built a
around real-world power consumption data, and the design
proce
ss involves areful selection of components to match energy
needt:"
with available solar resources, scuatato1ility, and cost
efficiency.
In addition to theoretical design, simulation and modelling using
 BLOCK DIAGRAM

OFF-GRID BASED SOLAR SYSTEM

# Components and Functions of a Solar Power System

(Simplified Overview)*
**PV Panel**
Converts sunlight into DC electricity.

**Charge Controller**
Regulates battery charging and prevents overcharging.

**Battery Bank**
Stores excess energy for use when sunlight is not available.

**DC-AC Inverter**
Transforms DC power into AC power for household appliances.

**Connected Load**
Devices and appliances powered by the system.

**Backup Generator**
Provides automatic or manual backup during periods of low solar or
battery power.

**Transfer Switch**
Switches between solar/battery and generator power sources.
 OBJECTIVES
The primary arm of this project is to develop a comprehensive
understanding and practical implementation plan for an off-gridal
solar power system tailored for household use. To ensure that the sys­
tem is not only technically sound but also economically viable and
scalable, the following objectives have been established:
2.1 Power Estimation
• Accurately calculate total power consumption for a typical
household using real usage patterns and appliance ratings.
• Identify peak demand, average daily consumption, and
categorize appliances into essential and non-essential loads.
2.2 Solar Sizing & Productivity
• Determine the required capacity, of the solar PV system to
meet energy generation potential.
• Consider derating factors like panel temperature, dirt acc­
umulation, and system losses.
2.3Battery and Storage Planning
• Size an appropriate energy storage system (batteries) to meet
power requirements during night-time-clloudy days.
• Calculate the number of backup days (autonomy) and attery
bank size based on DoD and efficiency fetl.
2.4Simulation & Performance Analysis
• Create a MATLAB Simulink model for PV cells and simulate
IV/PV characteristics.
• Analyze the safety and relablity through proper selection of
fuses, protection devices, and wiring
• Select appropriate materials and technologies for deployment
in rural/ remote areas
2.6 Sustainability & Cost Evaluation
• Evaluate the environmental impact and long-term sustainability
of the system
• Perform a rough cot estimation to assess feasibility
 Scope of the Project
The scope of this project is centendaround comprehensivaation of a
off-grid solar photovoltaic (PV) system for household applications. It
specifically adresses the needs of areas, that suffer from a lack to
continuous grid connectivity or where no grid is present at all.
31 System Type and Configuration

The project is confined to standalone (off-grid) systems, which are

independent of the central electricity grid. The system is designed to
function autonomously with the help of solar panels.
3.2 Load Profile and Househoid Energy Use

The target household is assumed to be a sm ar 1to medium- sized

residence in a rural area. The load profile includes basic amenities·
like lighting, fans, a refrigerator) television, mobile/laptop charging,
and essential electronics. The system is designed to cover both day
and night usage.
3.4 Geographic and Climatic Assumptions
The simulation is based on solar irradiance data typical of Indian
climatic conditions (e.g. average dally solar radiation of 5.5 kWh/m2/
day). The environmental factors, including temperature variations and
seasonal changes, are incorporated into the performance modeling of
the solar panels.

3.4 Technical Scope

• Load analysis and energy profiling
• Selection and sizing of solar pane is and batteries
• Development of a MATLAB Simulink model of the PV system
• IV and PV curve analysis
• Design of the electrical circuit and selection of system components
3.5 Limitations
While the simulation attempts to mimic real-world conditions as accura­-
tely as possible, sertain practical limitations such as shading, dust, in­-
stallation angle errors, and unexpected load spikes are not modeled in
 TASK 1 - POWER ESTIMATION
4.1 Understanding Energy Units
Electrical energy is measured in clcauing laily energy consump­
tion for the househoted uss: tiearming/ the energy consunntion.
It forms the baseline for sizing solar panels, batteries, and other
sys-
Energy (kWh) = Power (W) x Llours of Use per Day
-1000

4.2 Categorizing Loads

Classify household oads into three categories:
Essential Loads: Lighting, fans, phone chargers
Medium Loads: Television, refrigerator
Heavy Loads: Washing machine, electric iron, water pump
(af
present)
4.3 Categorizing Loads
The ptoject focuses on essentia\ and medium Loads only
Essentil Loads: Tighting, fans, phone c argers
Heavy Loads: Washing machine, electric iron
Table 4.1 Daily Load Estimation Table
Appliance Power (W) Usage (hrs/day) Quantity (Wh
LED Bulbs 10 5 4
Celling Fan 60 6 2
TV (LED) 100 4 1
Refrigerato 150 8 120
3
r Laptop/ 65 15
Charger
Mobile 5 2 20
Charging -
Total 2735 Wh = 2,7 kWh
SOLAR PANEL SOLAR CHARGE
CONTROLLER

J,
- -
B,ATTEIRY

!
INVERTER

LOAD FLOW S1CHEMATIC

4.4 Peak Load Demand
Peak load is the maximum instantaneous power drawn by the household at any
point in the day. This va1lueis crucial for inverter sizing. Based on load estimation,
a typical peak load occurs in the evening when lights, fans, TV, and phone
char,ging are simultaueously active

300

....... 200
Graph 4.1
"m"'1 24-hour Load Profilie

I :; •••••••• JI t Apeak Load neccurs a1sall

simultaneously running appliances

· Ix·
t "
q
'-b
<'< .q_
'o at peak
Timeo,fDay

Example: Peak Load (W) = Sum of alll simultaneously running appliances at peak
= 270W peak

4.5 Load Prioritization lable 4.2Load Shifting Plan

• Non-critical appliances like Appliance Day Use Night UseLoad
Shifte?
washing machines can be schduled for
daylight hours only, when solar Refrigera1or No
- - -- -
generation is active. Ceiling Fan No
• Critical loa,ds like fans and lighting1 LED Bulbs - - -
No
require storage (battery backup) to
TV Yes
support night-time use
Yes
-
Benefits of load shifting: Laptop
-
• Reduces battery dependency
• Optimizes panel usage during solar
generation hours
 SCHEMATICS

# Benefits of Off-Grid Solar Systems

Off-grid solar systems provide **energy independence** by

functioning without reliance on the utility grid, making them perfect
for remote areas without grid access. Key advantages include:

**Eco-Friendly:** These systems significantly lower carbon

emissions and reduce reliance on fossil fuels, promoting the use
of renewable energy sources.
**Reliable Power Supply:** They deliver consistent electricity
even during power outages or grid failures, making them ideal for
regions with frequent disruptions.
**Scalability:** Off-grid systems can be customized and expanded
according to energy requirements, with modular designs that
allow for easy upgrades.
**Cost-Effectiveness:** In remote areas, they eliminate the high
costs associated with extending grid infrastructure, leading to
 DETERMINING SOLAR CELL PRODUCTIVITY
5.1 Solar lrradiance
Solar irradiance is the power per unit area recived from sun in the form of
electromagnetic radiation, it measured in Wirn11
In india, the average daily solar insolation ranges from 4,5- 6,5 kWh/m5/day,
depending on location and season.
5.2 Solar Panel Output Calculation

Energy Output (kWh/day)= Panel Power (kW) x Sunligtht Hours) x Efficiency Factor
To esttimate t-elveny fout: Efficiency Refection
Energy Output -;: Panel Powe (kW)
Panel Temperature
(kWh/day)
Dust and Dirt
Equivet=1 5,5 x 0,8 =4A kWh/day
6
Wiring & Inverter
Losses Dust
§ 5

·
-(I)4 Tilt Angle & Shading
0 3
ca
Affects exposure
E
2 to sunlight and
1
overall performance Dust
0
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug See Oct Nov Dec
Solar Loss Factor Illustration
5.3 Efficiency Factors& Losses 5.4Selection of Solar Panel
Several parameters affect te real output Rating
from solar panels. Optimal energy harvesting when panel
is facing frue south (in the Northern
Factor Effect Effect
Hemisphere), tilted at an angle roughly
Panel Reduces equal to the location's iatitude,
Temperature efficiency by -0,5 %°C
~0,5%1C above 2s·c Example: 4 x 250W panels
5 x 200W panels
Dust and Dirt May reduce
output by up to 10-15% 5.5 Panel Orientation and Tilt
Optimal energy harvesting exchequed
Proposed installing a 1 kW solar panel when panel is facing true south [in th
array comprising: Northern Hemisphere), tilted at an
angle roughly equal to location•s latitu.
4 x 250W panels
5 x 200 W panels For example. Maharashtra (lat-19"N)
Till= 19'•
EFFICIENCY FACTORS& LOSSES
5.3 Efficiency Factors E Losses
Factor Effect
Panel Temperature Reduces efficiency by -0.5%'C above 25'C
Dust and Dirt May reduce output by up to 10-15%
Wiring & Inverter Losses 5-10% energy lost during conversion
& transmission
Tilt Angle & Shading Affects exposure to sunlight and
overall performance

Diagram 5.1: Solar Loss Factor Illustration

5.4 Selection of Solar Panel Rating

Based on aur required output of 3.2 kWh/day and an average irraidiance of
5.5 hours/day:

Required Panel Power= 3.2-0.8 = 0.73 kW

Adding a safety margin, we proposes installing a 1kW solar panel array
compnmmg:
4 x 250W panels, or
5 x 200W panels
These are widely available, cost-effective, and easy to install/ replace.

5.5 Panel Orientation and Tilt

Optimal energy harvesting is achieved wren panel is facing true south (in the
Northern Hemisphere), tilted at an angle requvily equal to location's
5.5 Panel Orientation and Tilt
Optimal energy harvesting, when
solar panel facing true south
(in the Northern Hemisphere).
tilted at 19°
Maharashtra: (lat -19°N)
10°=
( True South, -10°

5.6 Seasonal Variation Diagram 5·2 Panel Tilt

Orientation Schematic
During winter months, sunlight
hours decrease, power generatiom drop by
15-20%. This
must be accounted for in battery design
5.7 Conclusion for Task 2
A1 kW solar array is sufficient for daily energy requirement.
Real output expected: -4.4 kWh/day (w sed to run daily
energy systems succh as water pumping)
Proper panel orientation and cleaning are key to maintaining
productivity
-
D. TASK 3 EXCESS POWER CALCULATION
& RATTERY STORAGE SYSTEM SELECTION
An off-grid solar system must include an efficient and reliable
energy storage system to ensure power availability during
non-sunny hours, especially at night and during cloudy days.
Ex-yess energy can be stored in the battery bank or used to
run secondary systems such as water pumping, heating,
or occasional appliance use
6.1 Determining Excess Power
From Task 2: Daily solar generation =-4.4 kWh
Daily energy requirement -3.2 kWh =1.2 kWh
Excess energy 4.4-3.2 =1.2 kWh/day
This surplus energy can stored in battery bank or used to run
heating.. or
6. Battery Storage
6.1 Battery Options
1. Traditional battery Option 2 Lithium-Ion
Variapled 2 batterieses in series (24V 200 Ah) 2
2-3 parallel string Pros
Total4-6 C compact, longer life
Oros Affordy, available F faster charging
Cons Bulky Cons Expen ive complex BMS
Table 6.2 Battery Option Comparison Table
Type Voltage Ah Cost Lifespan Maintenance
Traditional 24V Variable Low Moderate High
Lithium-Ion 240Ah 200Ah High Long Low

6.5 Battery Backup System Design

• Incorporate a BMS to prevent orverscharging/discharging
• Ensure charge controller compatibility with battery type
• Use appropriately rated fusest cables, and disconnect swithes

6.6 Final Notes on Storage

• A properly sized battery bank ensures smooth 24/7 operation
• Over izing provides autonomy during cloudy/rainy periods
• Regular maintenance ensures battery health and performace longevity
Peak load i the maximum in tantaneou power drawn by the household
at any point in the day. This value is crucial for inverter sizing. Based on
the load estimation, a typical peak load occurs in evening when lights, fa­
ns, TY, and phone charging are imultaneously active.
We classify household loads into three categories:
• Essential Loads Lighting, fans, phone chargers
• Medium Loads Television, refrigerator, laptop
• Heavy Loads Washing machine, electric iron, water pum) (if present)
For this project, we focus on essential and medium loads only to ensure
economic feasibility and system reliability.
Battery Sizing (Part 1) - Calculations and Theory
6.2 Battery Storage Basics
A battery stares electrical energy in the form of chemical energy. For off-grid
applications, deep-cycle batteries such as Lead-Acid, AGM, or Lithium-Ion
types are common.
Key parameters in battery sizing include:

• Depth of Discharge (DoD): Max safe discharge level

• System Voltage: Commonly 12V, 24V, or 48V
• Autonomy Days: Number of days the battery
should power the load without solar input

6.3 Calculating Battery Capacity

Required daily load= 3,2 kWh
LITHIUM-ION
how assumme:

• 24 Vsystem
• DoD = 80°/o (fr Lithiun-ion) Battery capacity
• Autonomy =2 days
(Wh) = 3,X 2
(Wh) = 3,2- 2= 8.0 kWh
Battery Capacity 0,8
In terms of Amp-hours (Ah):

6.4 Battery Selection

Now that we know we need around 333 Ah at 24V, let's explore two
configurations:
Option 1: Lead-Acid Batteries (12V, 150Ah)

I
12V
150Ah 150Ah

- I - - - -
12V
150Ah 150Ah 150Ah
7. TASK 4- SIMULATION IN MATLAB:
IV/PV CHARACTERISTICS AND SYSTEM
BEHAVIOR
7.1 MATLAB Simulink Environment
MATLAB's Simulink block-base! design allows for real-time
simulation of solar cell parameters. For this project, a mnerated
using the Simscape Electrical toolbox, which contains
components for PV modules, batteries, and
inverters.
7.2 Components Used in Model
• PV Array Block: Represents solar panel behawior
• Battery Block (Generic): Lithium-ion or Lead-acid
• MPPT Controller: To track maximum power pain
• Inverter Block: Converts DC to AC
• Resistive Load/ Constant Load: Simutes household appliances
• Current and Voltage Mensurement Blocks: For analyzing output
These blocks are interconnected to form a complete off-grid
energy system

7.3 I-V and P-V Characteristics

The I-V (Current vs. Voltage) and P-V (Powerv, Voltage)
characteristics of a solar penel describe how the ourputt cahanges
with respect to environmental conditions like irradiance and tem­
perature.
• Opene Circuit Voltage (V0c): Voltage at zero current
• Short Circuit Current Osc): Current at zero voltage
• Maximum Power Point (MPP): The optimal voltage arrent point

These curves are simulated in MATLAB using a PV array block

under varving sunlight conditions (200 W/m2 to 1000 W/m2).
8. SYSTEM PERFORMANCE ANALYSIS
8.1 Load Response
This section analyzes how the system responds to different
types of electrical loads such as resistive, inductive, and
capacitive. The simulation shows system stability under
dynamic loading.
8.2 MPPT Efficiency
Maximum Power Point Tracking is evaluated for different
irradiance levels. The efficiency of the MPPT algorithm is
calculated as the ratio of power extracted to available power

9. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
& SUSTAINABILITY
This section highlights the environmental benefits of solar­
based energy systems:
• Reduction in CO2 emissions
• Support for decentralized electrification
• Renewable and sustainable source of power
Graphs or references to carbon footprint savings can also be
added.

10. FUTURE SCOPE

• Integration with Smart Grids: Expand the system to
support two-way power flow
• loT-Based Monitoring; Include sensors and cloud
dashboa.rds for real-time analytics
• Hybrid Systems: Combine with wind or diesel to improve
reliability in all-weather conditions
 CONCLUSION
This project report has explored the design, medering, simulation, and analysis of an
Off Grid Based Solar System, focused Sn fulfilling the energy requirements of a a
household using sustainable and independent solar power generation.
Key Takeaways from Each Task: Task 1-Load Estimation:

A thorough analysis of househoid appliances led to an estimated daily energy

reguirement of 3.2 kWh/day, considering essential lighting, fans, refrigerator, and
other loads.
Task 2-Battery Storage and etzess Energy
A sizing of a batterybank was cacluized enrgy autonomy and depth of discharge A
24V system with '-4 3334h capacity was recomnended to cover power needs for
two consecutive cloudy days. Comparison tables
and configuration schematics helpped in com-
Task 4-MATLAB Modeling and Simulation
A complete simulation model wes developed in MATLAB. Simulink to represent the
PV system and backup battery, 1-V and P-V curves simulated to demon-
strate the behavior of folar dlar array under different sunlight itens.
9.3 Future Scope
• integration of O-ln-basd energy monitering for smart performance tracking
• Use of Ai/ML algorithme for predictive energy management and efficiency
► This makes .1 particularly usetul for rural electrification, dleaster zones, smali­
scafe businesses, and eco-friendly homes.
9A Final Thoughts
9.2 Challenges Encountgted
• Balancing cost with performance (e.g, choosing between Lead-Acid vs. Lithium-ton
• Efficient battery management during changing weather conditions.
• Optimizing MPPT and inverter performance for variable loads,
• Reliable backup: Ensures uninterrupted power in remote or gid-dcient areas
This makes it perticularly useful for rural electrification, disaster zon«s,
small-scale businesses, and eco-friendly homes.
9.4 Final Thoughts
- Balancing cost with performance (e.g, choosing between Lead-Acid vs, Lithium-Ion
- Efficient battery management during changing weather conditions
- Optimizing MPPT and inverter performance for variable loads.
9.4 Future Scope
- Integration of lof-basd energy monitoring for smart performance tracking
- Use of Ai/ML algorithms for predictive energy management and efficiency areas
9.4 Final Thoughts
This project has proven that hat off-grid solar systems are not only technically viable but
also crucial in achieving a greener and more sustainable energy future. With conti­ nuous
innovation and cost reduction in solar and storage teehnology.