EKITI STATE UNIVERSITY

ADO EKITI, EKITI STATE.

TECHNICAL REPORT ON
STUDENT INDUSTRIAL WORK EXPERIENCE SCHEME
(SIWES)

HELD AT
SOLAR TECH NIG ENPTERISES
From January 2024 to 14 June 2024

BY
ADEGBITE ADEREMI SODIQ
MATRIC NUMBER: 2009008006
LEVEL: 300 LEVEL

SUBMITED TO:
DEPARTMENT OF PHYSICS
FACULTY OF SCIENCE

IN PARTIAL FULFILMENT OF THE AWARD OF BACHELOR OF

SCIENCE DEGREE IN PHYSICS (BSc).
 DEDICATION

This report is dedicated this to God who saw me through my SIWES program and
also to my family and for their kind gestures and wonderful support offered to me
during and after the course of my six (6) months Industrial Training
 ACKNOWLEDGMENT

My greatest appreciation and gratitude goes to God for his gift of life given to me
and strength to journey through the course of the program, and also to Eng. Ariyo,
the CEO of SOLAR TECH NIG. ENPTERISES, for giving me this very rare privilege and
opportunity to learn and to be trained under him.

I sincerely appreciate the entire staff of SOLAR TECH NIG ENPTERISES for their
time, patience and support in spite of all ups and down giving me the opportunity
to get a feel of the work environment which has exposed me to the engineers
responsibilities and ethics. I also appreciate my Institution-based supervisor,
Prof.Aduloju, for coming to visit and supervise me during my training. God bless
you sir.

My sincere appreciation goes to my parents, Mr And Mrs Adegbite, all my

incredible Mothers in sister form and my wonderful twin brother for their
wonderful contribution to the success of my SIWES program. You are the best of
the best and I say a very big thanks to you all. I can’t but say a very big thanks to
my colleagues most especially Adegbite Sodiq who has in one way or the other
contributed to the success of my Siwes program at large. I apperciate you. Thanks
and God bless you all.
 ABTRACT
This report is aimed at explaining key areas of my training under the
Students Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES) undertaken at Solar
Tech Nig Enterprise, Ado Ekiti.
 TABLE OF CONTENT

CHAPTER ONE

(1 .0) INTRODUCTION

(1.1 ) OBJECTIVES OF THIS REPORT

(1.2 ) OBJECTIVES OF SIWES

(1.3) ABOUT SOLAR TECH NIG ENPTERISES ADO EKITI

CHAPTER TWO

(2.0) ABOUT SOLAR TECH NIG. ENTERPRICES

(2.1) COMPANY’S MISSION AND VISION STATEMENT

(2.2) SOLAR TECH NIGERIA ENTERPRISES AS AN INDUSTRY

IN NIGERIA AND ITS SERVICE SITUATIONS
CHAPTER THREE

( 3.0) REPORT EXTERNAL SIWES.

(3.1) SOLAR POWER SYSTEM COMPONENT.

(3.2) TYPES OF BATTERIES AND SOLAR PANELS.

(3.3) SOLAR PANEL CONNECTION AND BATTERY CONNECTION IN SERIES (

(3.4) CALCULATION OF INVERTER SIZE AND BATTERY CAPACITY.

(3.5) CABLE SIZING AND SELECTION.

(3.6) SOLAR PANEL INSTALLATION.SERIES OR PARALLEL CONNECTION.

CHAPTER FOUR.

(4.0) RECOMMENDATION.

(4.1) CONCLUSION.
 CHAPTER ONE

(1.0) INTRODUCTION.

SIWES was established by Industrial Training Fund (IT F) in 1973 to solve

the problem of lack of adequate practical skills preparatory for employment in
industries by Nigerian graduates of tertiary institutions.
The Scheme exposes students to industry based skills necessary for a smooth
transition from the classroom to the world of work. It affords students of tertiary
institutions the opportunity of being familiarized and exposed to the needed
experience in handling machinery and equipment which are usually not available
in the educational institutions. Before the establishment of the scheme, there
was a growing concern among our Industrialists that graduates of our Institutions
of Higher learning lacked adequate practical background studies preparatory for
employment in Industries. Thus, the employers were of the opinion that the
theoretical education going on in higher institutions was not responsive to the
needs of the employers of labour.

At inception in 1 974, the Scheme started with 784 Students from 1 1 institutions
and 104 eligible courses. By 2008, 21 0, 451 Students from 219 Institution
participated in the Scheme with over 1 64 eligible courses. However, the rapid
growth and expansion of SIWES has occurred against the backdrop of successive
economic crises. The knowledge obtained in the lecture room is most of the times
not practicable in the Industrial market, this is to support the fact that learning can
only be completed and appreciated when one put into practice that which has
been acquired in the lecture room. It is also believed that things done are better
remembered than things heard. It is as a result of these aforementioned reasons,
that University students, most especially those in the faculty of Science,
Engineering and those in technical schools embark on SIWES so as to be able to
put into practice the theoretical knowledge that they have acquired. The purpose
of this SIWES report is therefore to emphasize the skills acquired during my SIWES
and to also make relevant recommendations.
(1.1) OBJECTIVES OF THIS REPORT.

The major objective of SIWES report is to present the experience, skills

and training garnered during the course of the six months SIWES program in a
documented and written form, for quality and reference purposes. Nevertheless,
the following highlighted points are also some of the objectives of this report:

To show to the appropriate bodies, most especially to the school's SIWES

unit/department, that I was fully engaged and dutifully participated in the
compulsory six months SIWES program for the award of Bachelor of Science
Degree (B.Sc.)

To provide a technical report on the area covered by the student to the

authority concerned in the fulfilment of the Industrial Training Semester
program.

To serve as a reference material, to me or any other intending users, in the

nearest future as the need might be in the field where I had the training i.e.
Engineering field.

To provide a detailed account of the knowledge and experience gained during

the training period by the student.

To provide a detailed understanding about the experience I acquired during the

course of the program.
 (1.2) OBJECTIVES OF SIWES

Specifically, the objectives of the Students Industrial Work Experience Scheme

(SIWES) are to:

i. To provide an avenue for students in the Nigerian universities to acquire

industrial skills and experience in their course of study.

ii. Prepare Students for the industrial work situation they are to meet after
leaving the school (graduation).

iii. To provide students with opportunities to apply their theoretical

knowledge in real work situations thereby bridging the gap between theory and
practical.

iv. To enlist and strengthen employers involvement in the entire educational

process of preparing Universities graduates for employment in industries.
 CHAPTER TWO

(2.0) Solar-Tech Nigeria Enterprisees was

incorporated in AdoEkiti, Nigeria with
Registration Number 2679955. It was
registered on 01 Nov 2018 and it's current
status is ACTIVE. Company registered office
address is No.6, Dango Avenue, off ilawe
Road. The Director of the Company is Eng.
Ariyo Enoch Adeogun. The Company had
their head office at No.69 opposite Nepa
Office, Ajilosun road, Ado Ekiti, Ekiti State.

The organization mainly deals with the

construction and maintenance of power inverters (which is an
alternative source of energy (electricity) for domestic, offices
and industrial use)

The program was organized to develop and

empower the youths and undergraduates
vocationally, mentally and psychologically
in order to contribute to the economic
growth of the nation. The objective of the
institution is to help the youths especially
the graduates and the undergraduates to
know the practical application of their
theoretical knowledge in physics through
 demonstration in the workshop so as to
develop their practical skills.

Other services offered are:

• Construction of power inverter

• Solar panel (PVC module) installation

• Installation and maintenance of power inverter

• Power inverter battery

• Charge controller

This ensures the necessary specialist

knowledge and customer focus for each
division to provide a comprehensive and
complete service for business needs in the
airport terminal.

(2.1) COMPANY’S MISSION AND

VISION STATEMENT

MISSION

Bringing technological advancement as a

panacea to solving human problem through
trainings and research

VISION

To become a foremost organization,

creating solution for development and
enhancement in Africa

MANAGEMENT STRUCTURE
The company boasts of some competent
workforces that help in the actualization of
her objectives. They include: CEO
(Director) directly to the Students (trainee)

Below is an organogram showing the

organizational setup of Magzonik inverter/
solar company Limited.

Figure 1: Organization Chart

(2.2) SOLAR TECH NIGERIA

ENTERPRISES AS AN INDUSTRY IN
NIGERIA AND ITS SERVICE SITUATIONS

Solar Tech Nigeria Enterprises is a

progressive professional company and
smart energy solution provider, located in
Ajilosun, Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State, Nigeria.
Due to constantly interrupted supply of
power in Nigeria, inhabitants and industries
in Nigeria have opted mainly for the use of
generators, which has disadvantages in the
form of high cost of maintenance,
ecological impacts etc.
 CHAPTER THREE

(3.0) REPORT EXTERNAL SIWES.

It was truly a great experience working for six months at SOLAR TECH
NIG. ENPTERISES. The system permitted me to alternate between different
engineering working departments after some weeks. This has greatly improved my
general perception of what SOLAR Power System and quite particularly Electrical
Engineering is all about. Over the months of my industrial training experience at
Solar Tech Nig. Enterprises, I was trained on the following major areas which are:
Solar Power System Installations, Skills required to be a Solar Installer and
Electrical
Maintenance and Precautions. Specifically, the key areas are:

Solar Power System Component.

> Types of Batteries and Solar Panels.

Solar Panel Connection and Battery Conection in series or parallel connection.

Calculation of inverter size and Battery Capacity.

Cable Sizing and Selection.

Solar Panel Installation

In as much as each division entails the application of general engineering
principles and operations, they also have in some occasions differences and
specially modified applications of known stipulated engineering principles and
operations and of course, this comes with due respect to dependent factors such
materials being worked on, location, accessibility, system, environment etc. My
involvement and participation are detailed below:

(3.1) > SOLAR POWER SYSTEM COMPONENT.

A solar power system, also known as a solar energy system or solar
photovoltaic (PV) system, is a technology that converts sunlight into electricity. It
harnesses the energy from the sun's rays and converts it into usable electrical
power. Solar power systems are commonly used to generate electricity for
residential, commercial, and industrial purposes.

During the course of my industrial training, I learnt that as a Solar

Installer a solar power system consists of several key components that work
together to harness energy from the sun and convert it into electricity. Here
are the main components of a solar power system:

• Panels (Photovoltaic Cells):

These are the most recognizable part of a solar power system. Solar panels
contain photovoltaic cells made of semiconductor materials that absorb sunlight
and convert it into direct current (DC) electricity.

• Inverter:
The DC electricity generated by the solar panels is then passed through an
inverter, which converts it into alternating current (AC) electricity. Most homes
and businesses use AC power for their electrical needs.

• Mounting and Racking System:

Solar panels need to be securely mounted to a structure, such as a roof or a

ground-mounted frame. Racking systems provide the necessary support and
allow for optimal panel orientation.
 • Solar Charge Controller (Optional):

In off-grid or hybrid systems, a solar charge controller is used to regulate

the charging of batteries. It prevents overcharging and ensures efficient
battery storage.

• Batteries (Optional):
For off-grid or hybrid solar systems, energy storage in batteries is crucial to
provide electricity when the sun is not shining. Common types include lead-acid
and lithium-ion batteries.

• Solar Monitoring System: Many modern solar installations include

monitoring systems that track the performance of the solar panels. This
helps detect issues and optimize energy production.

• Power Meter:
 To measure the energy generated and used, a power meter is installed. It
can be a bidirectional meter in cases where excess energy can be fed back
into the grid for credit or compensation (net metering).

• Electrical Wiring and Breakers:

Wiring connects all the components of the solar system, and breakers or
fuses ensure safety by disconnecting the system in case of a fault.

(3.2) > TYPES OF BATTERIES AND SOLAR PANELS.

Battery:

A battery is an electrochemical device that stores electrical energy in the form of

chemical energy and can release it as electrical energy when needed. It consists
of applications of storing renewable energy from sources like solar panels. There
are several types of batteries, including:

• Lithium-ion (Li-ion) Batteries:

• These are widely used in consumer electronics and electric vehicles due to
their high energy density and long cycle life. Lithium is advisable to be
considered when selecting the type of batteries to be used during solar
power system installation.

• Lead-Acid Batteries:
Commonly used in automotive and uninterruptible power supply (UPS)
applications.

• Nickel-Cadmium (NiCd) Batteries:

Known for their reliability and durability, often used in industrial applications.

• Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH) Batteries:

Used in various portable devices as a more environmentally friendly alternative to

NiCd batteries.

Solar Panel (Photovoltaic Panel):

A solar panel, also known as a photovoltaic (PV) panel, is a
device that converts sunlight into electricity using the
These panels are made from multiple crystal structures
and are cost-effective but slightly less efficient than
monocrystalline panels.

• Thin-Film Solar Panels:

These panels use various semiconductor materials, like
amorphous silicon or cadmium telluride, and are
lightweight and flexible, making them suitable for unique
applications.

• Bifacial Solar Panels:

 These panels can capture sunlight from both sides,
increasing overall energy production.

(3.3)
> SOLAR PANEL CONNECTION AND BATTERY
CONNECTION IN SERIES OR PARALLEL CONNECTION.

During the course of my industrial training, I learnt

that as a Solar Installer, it is a must to understand the
concert behind the connection of batteries and solar
panels either in series or in parallel connection.

• Series Connection:

PV PANELS IN SERIES
 In a series connection, you connect the positive
terminal of one solar panel to the negative terminal of
another, creating a chain. This increases the total
voltage while keeping the current constant.

The total voltage across the panels adds up, but the
current remains the same as that of a single panel. Series
connections are useful when you need to match a specific
voltage requirement, such as charging a higher voltage
battery.

• Parallel Connection:
 In a parallel connection, you connect all the positive
terminals together and all the negative terminals together.
This keeps the voltage the same as that of a single panel
but increases the total current. Parallel connections are
used when you want to maximize the current for a
particular voltage level, such as charging a battery bank
quickly.
For the connection of solar panels and batteries, it's
essential to consider your specific application and
requirements. Series connections are often used to match
voltage requirements, while parallel connections are useful
for increasing current. Additionally, charge controllers may
be necessary to regulate the charging process and prevent
overcharging the batteries.

(3.4)
CALCULATION OF INVERTER SIZE AND BATTERY
CAPACITY.

Calculation of Inverter size and Battery Capacity is one

of the major aspect a solar installer needs to understand.
After checking the appliances, it is a must to calculate the
size of inverter that would be suitable for the job and also
calculate the capacity of the battery needed for the job.

To calculate the inverter size, these are the steps to

follow:

• Determine Load Requirements:

 First, make a list of all the electrical appliances and
devices you intend to power with the solar system. Note
the power consumption of each device in watts (W) or
kilowatts (kW). You can find this information on labels or in
user
manuals.

• Calculate Total Load:

Sum up the power consumption of all the devices
to get the total load in watts (or kilowatts). This represents
the amount of power your inverter needs to handle
simultaneously.

• Consider Inverter Efficiency:

Inverters have an efficiency rating, typically around 90-
95%. To compensate for energy losses during conversion,
divide the total load by the inverter's efficiency. For
example, if your total load is 5,000W and the inverter is 90%
efficient, you would calculate: 5,OOOW / 0.90 = 5,555.56W
(approximately 5.56kW).

• Select Inverter Size:

Choose an inverter with a capacity equal to or
greater than the calculated load. In this example, you
would need an inverter with a capacity of at least 5.56kW

To calculate the Battery Capacity, these are the steps to

follow;
 • Determine Backup Needs:
Decide how long you want your system to
provide backup power during periods of low or no
sunlight. This is typically measured in hours.

• Calculate Energy Requirement:

Multiply the total load (in watts or kilowatts) by the
number of hours of backup required. This gives you the
total energy requirement in watt-hours (Wh) or kilowatt-
hours (kWh).

• Consider Battery Efficiency:

Batteries have charging and discharging efficiencies,
often around 80-90%. To account for these losses, divide
the total energy requirement by the battery efficiency. For
example, if your total energy requirement is 10,000Wh and
the battery is 90% efficient, you would calculate: 10,000Wh
/
0.90 = 1 1,1 1 1 .1 IWh (approximately 1 1 .1 1 kWh).

It's essential to consider factors like the location's sunlight

availability, system losses, and safety margins when sizing
your inverter and battery. Oversizing your inverter slightly
can provide flexibility, and having additional battery
capacity can ensure reliable backup power. Be sure to
consult with a solar professional or use specialized software
tools for precise calculations tailored to your specific setup.
(3.5) CABLE SIZING AND SELECTION.

A Cable is an assembly of conductors held together

with an overall sheath for transmission of electrical power
from electricity source such as transformer, generator,
switchgear, distribution panel etc. to the terminal of
utilisation equipment. It is generally made of materials
which are good conductors of electricity like copper and
aluminium. Great percentage of the cables is made using
copper because of its being a very good conductor and
less vulnerability to environmental attack.

Cables consist of three major components:

• Conductors
• Insulation
• Protective jacket.
The components of individual cables varies according to
application. The construction and material are determined
by three main factors:
• Working voltage, determining the thickness of the
insulation

• Current-carrying capacity, determining the cross-

sectional size of the conductors
 • Environmental conditions such as temperature, water,
chemical or sunlight exposure, and mechanical impact,
determining the form and composition of the outer cable
jacket.

Cables for direct burial or for exposed installations may

also include metal armour in the form of wires spiralled
around the cable, or a corrugated tape wrapped around it.
The armour may be made of steel or aluminium, and
although connected to earth ground, it is not intended to
carry current during normal operations.
Criteria for Cable Selection and Sizing

There are basically 4 criteria to be considered when sizing a

cable:

•Current Rating

•Thermal Short Circuit

•Voltage Drop

•Cable Impedance

There are different types of cable sizes: 1 .5mm, 2.5mm,

4mm, 6mm etc

1 .5mm Cables were used for lighting

2.5mm Cables were used for sockets

4mm Cables were used for A.C/ Water Heaters

6mm Cables were used for Cooker Control Unit

1 Omm and 16mm were used for Incomer Cables on

distribution.
(3.6) > SOLAR PANEL INSTALLATION
Installing a solar panel system is a complex task that
should be done by professionals due to safety and
electrical considerations. However, here's a general
overview of the practical steps involved in a solar panel
installation:

• Site Assessment
Evaluate your location's solar potential by considering
factors like shading, orientation, and roof condition.
After that, determine your energy needs to size the system
appropriately.

• Obtain Permits and Approvals:

Check local regulations and obtain any necessary permits
for solar panel installation.

• Select and Purchase Equipment:

Choose solar panels, inverters, racking or mounting
hardware, and wiring based on your site assessment
and energy requirements.

• Roof Preparation (if applicable):

Inspect and repair the roof if necessary. Also, observe the
direction of the sunlight in order to know how to position
the Solar Panels (in all cases the east direction).
Install flashing and seal any roof penetrations to prevent
leaks.

• Mounting and Panel Installation:

Install the mounting system on the roof or ground.
Attach solar panels to the mounting system following
the manufacturer's instructions.

• Electrical Wiring:
After connecting the solar panels either in series or
parallel, connect the solar panels to a combiner box or
junction box. Run wires from the junction box to the
inverter location.

• Inverter Installation:
Install the inverter near your main electrical panel.
Connect the DC wires from the solar panels to the inverter.
Connect the inverter to the AC electrical panel.
 • Safety Measures:
Ensure the system is properly grounded.
Install appropriate safety disconnect switches.

• Electrical Connection to the Grid (if applicable): If

you're connecting to the grid, coordinate with your utility
company and install a grid-tie inverter.

• System Testing:
Test the system's performance to ensure it's generating
power as expected.

• Monitoring Setup:
Install a monitoring system to track the performance of
your solar panel system.
• Final Inspections:
Schedule any required inspections and ensure the system
complies with local regulations.

• Maintenance:
Perform routine maintenance, such as cleaning the panels
and checking for any damage or debris.

Remember, it's crucial to hire a qualified solar installer

or electrician for this work. Working with electricity and
climbing on roofs can be dangerous, and professionals
(Solar-Tech Nig. Enterprises) have the expertise and tools
to do it safely and efficiently.

CHAPTER FOUR
(4.0) RECOMMENDATION
In view of the relevance of the SIWES program,
it is important that it is sustained by the
government through the Industrial Training
Fund (ITF) as it exposes the student to work
tools, facilities, and equipment that may not be
available in their respective institutions in
relation to their course of study. To this end, I
recommend that the following under-listed
points should be implemented:

I. Students’ Industrial Works Experience

Scheme (SIWES) needs to be strengthened
 by all concerned stakeholder in order for its
objectives to be fully realized.
II. Regular monthly allowances for students on
attachment should be paid promptly.
III. Organizations should always accept
students for SIWES and subsequently assign
them to relevant jobs.
IV. Experience staff should always be made to
train the students on attachment
V. There should be more funding of the
scheme by the government in order for it to
be more effective.
VI. The companies should put in place all the
necessary facilities needed to enhance the
knowledge of the student in industrial
attachment.
VII. It will be of great benefit if the institution
can create a platform whereby student can
obtain pre-siwes knowledge or excursion
programs, before student embark for
general 6 months industrial training
programme.
CONCLUSION

This report has been able get my SIWES

experience in solar installation which has been
a valuable opportunity to apply the theoretical
knowledge gained during my electrical
engineering studies in a real-world setting.
Throughout my placement, I gained practical
insights into the design, installation, and
maintenance of solar photovoltaic systems.
This experience allowed me to develop a
deeper understanding of power electronics,
electrical wiring, safety protocols, and grid
integration. I faced various challenges during
my SIWES, such as [mention specific
challenges], but I learned to overcome them
through determination, effective
communication, and problem-solving skills.
Additionally, I improved my ability to work in a
professional environment, collaborate with
colleagues, and adapt to workplace dynamics.
 The Importance of renewable energy
sources, like solar power, became evident
during my SIWES, aligning with the growing
global emphasis on sustainability and green
energy solutions. I also gained an appreciation
for the practical implications of electrical
engineering in addressing energy needs while
considering environmental impacts. This SIWES
experience has not only enhanced my technical
skills but also sharpened my interpersonal and
time management abilities. It has been a
valuable step towards my future career as an
electrical engineer.