Design and Sizing of an Off-Grid Solar Photovoltaic (PV) System for an Office Unit at Modibbo Adama University, Yola-Nigeria

The average performance of a 100 W, 23.3 V monocrystalline silicon solar PV module for three days measurements were determined under Modibbo Adama University Yola climatic conditions. The performance parameters were used for more accurate sizing of a PV system of an office unit. The average values of the performance parameters of the modules were found to be 71.63 W, 16.00 V, 4.48 A, 22.53 V and 4.90 A for Pmax, Vmp, Imp, Voc and Isc respectively at an overall average solar irradiance of 667.54 W/m2. These values differ significantly from those of manufacturer’s data sheet. The average daily energy consumption of the office unit and the total rated power of the AC loads were found to be 9.78 kWh/day and 3.272 kW respectively. About 13 parallel modules, 2 series modules, 3 parallel batteries (Lithium Iron Phosphate- 48 V, 300 (Ah) and 2 voltage charge controllers are required to maintain stable power supply. The capacity of an inverter needed for stable conversion to AC supply is 4 kW. The average performance efficiency of the PV system is found to be 13.49%. The yearly energy yield and capacity utilization factor were determined as 13,297,680 Wh/year and 58.38% respectively. The initial capital cost of the proposed solar PV system is ₦ 8,853,772 and a levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) as ₦ 29.48/kWh.