Analysis design and construction of a pulse width modulated charge controller

Abstract

Erratic power supply has caused serious problems in the Nigerian environment resulting in the extensive use of small generating plants in the first instance. Frequent and unpredictable fuel scarcity has further exacerbated the problem of power that previously untouchable solar solutions have begun to look attractive. This paper presents a brief review of the evolution of prices of solar panels and examines various options that can improve the local value added of the solutions. One component that lends itself to relatively easy realization locally is the charge controller. One such design employing the pulse-width modulation principle is analyzed, designed, realized and the results of tests performed on it are presented in this paper. It is shown that an efficient product can be manufactured with a high level of reliability