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Igwe, J. E.
Mechanical Engineering Department, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, Nigeria
Ikechukwu, I. F.
Mechanical Engineering Department, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, Nigeria
Okeoma, T. F.
Mechanical Engineering Department, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, Nigeria
Emmual, E. E.
Civil Engineering Department, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, Abia State, Nigeria
Ugwu, H. U.
1Mechanical Engineering Department, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, Nigeria
ABSTRACT
Due to the persistent
instability of the national grid supply, this study focuses on developing an
efficient solar photovoltaic (SPV) system specifically designed to suit the
energy needs of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in metropolitan Umuahia,
Abia State, Nigeria. The design methodology involved load auditing and
cross-validated sizing methods, utilizing local meteorological data. The
analysis determined the required daily energy demand for a representative SME
to be 76.8 kWh as actual output energy while 783.8 kWh was realized
theoretically as daily output energy or energy consumption. The final system
configuration required 72 panels (435 W each) and 43 batteries (250 Ah each).
The design achieved a maximum inverter input power of 13.4kW. A subsequent
sensitivity analysis confirmed that the number of solar panels Np is directly
proportional to peak sunshine hours PSH and estimated electrical load. The
Techno-Economic Feasibility Assessment revealed a total capital cost of
N29,120,000. Given the significant projected annual savings realized by
displacing diesel generation, the system provides a robust 5.3-year Simple
Payback Period. The findings validate the SPV system as a financially
attractive and technically sound solution that is essential for ensuring
operational continuity and fostering economic stability for the SME sector in
the region.
Keywords: Design of SPV, Solar panel, Charge controller, Battery sizing, inverter sizing, Sensitivity analysis, Techno economics feasibility
https://doi.org/10.33922/j.ujet_v11i2_11
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Published
Monday, July 14, 2025
Issue
Vol. 11 No. 2, December 2025
Article Section
GENERAL
The contents of the articles are the sole opinion of the author(s) and not of UJET.
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