INSTITUTION: KENYA SCHOOL OF TVET

COURSE: DIPLOMA IN TECHNICAL TRAINER

EDUCATION

NAME: LINET NYABWARI MOKONO

ADMISSION NUMBER: 2024EE158520

UNIT OF COMPETENCE: SOLAR PHOTOVOLTAIC

SYSTEM

UNIT CODE: 7303

ASSIGNMENT 1
1. Define the following solar energy terminologies:
a. Irradiance
Irradiance refers to the amount of power electromagnetic radiation per unit
area received from the Sun in the form of electromagnetic radiation. It is a
measure of how much solar power is available at a specific location and time.
It is typically measured in watts per square meter (W/m²).
b. Diffuse Radiation
Diffuse radiation is a type of solar radiation that reaches the Earth's surface
after being scattered by particles and molecules such as aerosols, and clouds
in the atmosphere. Like irradiance, it is also measured in W/m².
c. Daily System Energy Requirement
The daily system energy requirement refers is the amount of energy that
modules need to generate to meet the daily energy load and any extra
energy required to overcome system losses It is usually measured in
kilowatt-hours (kWh). This energy requirement is based on the type of loads
that will be powered by the system, in terms of their energy consumption.
d. Solar Constant
The solar constant is the amount of solar radiation that reaches a unit area
outside the Earth's atmosphere per unit of time. It's measured on a surface
that's perpendicular to the sun's rays and at the average distance between
the Earth and the sun also known as one astronomical. It is approximately
1361 W/m². This value is the average radiation intensity reaching the Earth's
atmosphere.
e. Insolation
Insolation is the amount of solar radiation energy that reaches the Earth's
surface or atmosphere over a given amount of time. It is also defined as the
cumulative sum of irradiance over a period of time It is measured in kilowatt-
hours per square meter per day (kWh/m²/day).

2. (a) Describe the procedure of installing a domestic solar PV system

Step 1: Site Assessment:
-Here, one is required to carry out evaluation regarding the solar potential of
the given location. This includes assessing roof space, shading, orientation,
and tilt.
Step 2: System Design:
-It may involve quite a number of steps or activities:
  Needs Assessment- Here an energy audit is carried out to analyze client’s
electricity bills to understand their energy consumption patterns. Load
calculation may also be carried out to determine the total power demand
of the intended loads i.e. appliances.
 System Sizing -Upon completing energy audit and load calculation, the
next step is to calculate the required solar panel capacity to meet the
identified energy needs. Some critical aspects to consider in this step
include, sunlight availability in the area, shading, and desired energy
independence level.
 Budgeting -Next is to obtain or do a quotation for system costs i.e. cost of
panels, inverter, batteries, installation using multiple installers as the
main sources of information, which will lead to exploration of client’s
financing options.
 Permissions and approvals form the relevant authorities -Before moving
the next step, one needs to check with local authorities for necessary
permits and regulations, as well as ensure compliance with building
codes and safety standards.
Step 3: System Selection
-This involves choosing of the various solar installation components based on
the energy needs identified. For instance:
 Efficient solar Panels should be select efficient based on appropriate
wattage and voltage.
 One may choose a grid-tie or off-grid inverter depending on client’s needs
and local regulations.
 A suitable battery with appropriate capacity should be selected
 A sturdy and appropriate mounting System should be chosen.
 One should also consider aesthetics in that panels and mounting systems
that blend with client’s home appearance should be considered.
Step 4: Installation:
-This may involve quite a number of activities including:
 Roof Inspection –Involves assessing roof suitability for solar panel
installation i.e. strength, slope, and shading.
 Mounting System Installation –Involves installing the mounting system
securely to the roof.
 Panel Installation –Involves mounting the solar panels on the racking
system, ensuring optimal sun exposure.
Step 5: Wiring the System:
-Involves connecting the solar panels to the charge controller, and then to
the battery bank. The wiring should be done using suitable gauge cables to
handle the current. Connect the system to the inverter for converting DC to
AC if it is within the client’s energy requirement.
Step 6: Inverter and Battery Setup:
-Involves setting up the inverter, which will convert the DC from the panels
or batteries into AC power.
On the other hand, batteries are connected to store the excess energy
produced during the day for use at night.
Step 7: System Testing
-Involves testing the system thoroughly to check whether it is functioning
properly. The system is also checked to ascertain whether the panels are
producing the correct voltage and current, the inverter is working, and the
battery is charging. Consequently, safety checks are performed to ensure
compliance with regulations.
Commissioning:
-This is the final step and it involves inspection and commissioning of the
system to ensure that it meets safety standards and is operating at full
efficiency.

2. (b) Illustrate the earthing of a solar PV module

-Earthing a solar PV system is crucial for safety, to prevent electrical shocks
or fires due to faults or lightning. The earthing procedure typically involves:
 Connecting the frame of each solar panel to an earthing rod or ground.
 Ensuring that all conductive parts, such as the metal frame and mounts,
are properly grounded.
 Using copper or aluminum wire with sufficient gauge to handle fault
currents.
 Testing the continuity of the ground connection to ensure there are no
breaks.
(c) Sketch the block diagram of an installed solar energy system
with both ac and dc loads
A solar energy system block diagram for both AC and DC loads is as follows:
(d) Highlight the tests carried out on a completed solar installation.
-Tests that are typically carried out on a completed solar installation include:
 System Performance Test –This involves verifying whether the system is
generating and supplying the expected amount of power.
 Voltage Test –Involves measuring the voltage at various points in the
system i.e. panels, batteries, inverter, etc. to ensure they match expected
values.
 Connection Check –Involves inspecting all connections to ensure there are
no loose wires or faulty connections.
 Safety Tests: Involves ascertaining whether the system is properly
grounded and that circuit breakers and fuses are functioning as required.
 Inverter Test –Involves verifying that the inverter converts DC to AC
efficiently, with minimal faults.
 Battery Test –Involves checking the battery to ascertain whether it is for
proper charging and discharging cycles are functioning normally.
(e) Explain the factors that affect the output of a solar PV module
 Panel Orientation and Tilt -The angle and direction at which solar panels
are installed play a critical role in how much sunlight they capture. For
instance, when a solar module is oriented towards and tilted at an angle
close to the latitude of the installation site, the module absorbs maximum
energy from the sun, consequently increased output throughout the year.
Meanwhile, if the PV module is installed incorrectly i.e. at the wrong tilt, it
will receive less sunlight, leading to a decrease in power output,
particularly during certain times of the day or season.
 Temperature -High temperatures can reduce the efficiency of solar cells.
As the temperature rises, the semiconductor materials inside the solar
 cells experience increased resistance, which reduces the voltage they can
produce and therefore the overall output.
 Shading Effect on Output –Total or partial shading from objects such as
trees, buildings, or other obstacles can significantly reduce the amount of
sunlight hitting the panels, decreasing the total power output.
 Age of the Panel -As solar panels age, their output gradually decreases
due to wear and tear on the materials inside them. Over time, exposure to
environmental factors like UV rays, temperature fluctuations, and moisture
causes the photovoltaic cells to degrade. This leads to a drop in efficiency
and consequently decreased output. It is important to note that solar
panels typically degrade by about 0.5% to 1% per year, meaning after 20-
25 years, they might still produce 80% of their original power output.
Therefore, the older the panel, the less efficient it becomes.
 Dust and Dirt -The accumulation of dirt, dust, or snow on the surface of
solar panels can block sunlight, reducing their efficiency. When dirt or dust
covers the surface of a panel, it prevents sunlight from reaching the
photovoltaic cells. Snow can have the same effect if it accumulates and
isn't cleared off.
 System Losses -Solar systems are composed of multiple components such
as panels, wiring, inverters, and batteries. Losses in any of these parts can
reduce the overall energy output. For instance, wiring losses are the most
common as resistance in the wiring causes energy to dissipate as heat,
reducing the amount of electricity transmitted from the panels to the
inverter.
3. Draw a labeled diagram of the thermo-siphon water heating
system and explain its operation.
Operation:
-The solar collectors absorb solar energy and heat up the water inside
them.
Due to the difference in temperature, the hot water rises naturally a process
known as thermo-siphon effect. The hot water is then stored in the tank. The
cold water is fed from the bottom of the tank to the collectors. The natural
circulation continues without the need for a pump, using the principle that
hot water rises and cold water sinks. The system operates efficiently without
electricity, making it energy-saving.
Diagram:

4.Using appropriate diagrams differentiate between a solar box

cooker and the parabolic dish cooker
Solar Box Cooker:
-Uses insulated box with reflective surfaces inside to concentrate sunlight
onto a cooking pot as shown in the diagram below:

 Relies on a slower, steady heat transfer process.

 Suitable for boiling, baking, and cooking at a moderate pace.
 Typically, more affordable and less complex.
 Parabolic Dish Cooker:
Uses a parabolic-shaped reflector to focus sunlight onto a small area,
typically a pot or pan as shown in the diagram below:

Produces higher temperatures, allowing faster cooking.

Requires precise alignment with the Sun.
More efficient for high-temperature cooking but less versatile for lower heat
needs.
5. Elaborate any Four possible causes of each of the following
faults;
a. Battery Does Not Charge When Connected to a Solar PV System.
The Battery may fail to charge due to any of the following factors:
i. Faulty Charge Controller -The charge controller may not be functioning
properly, preventing charging.
ii. Panel Damage -Damaged or poorly connected solar panels may not
generate enough power to charge the battery.
iii. Wiring Issues -Loose or corroded connections can prevent current from
flowing properly to the battery.
iv. Battery Fault-The battery itself may be faulty or nearing the end of its
lifespan and unable to accept charge.
b. Lamps Do Not Light Even on a Sunny Day
i. Inadequate Solar Panel Output -If the solar panels are not generating
enough power due to shading, dirt, or damage.
ii. Faulty Wiring or Connections -Loose connections or damaged wiring can
prevent power from reaching the lamps.
iii. Battery Discharge -If the battery is completely discharged or has a low
charge, there might not be enough power to run the lamps.
iv. Inverter Malfunction -In AC systems, a malfunctioning inverter might
prevent proper power conversion to light the lamps.