Solar Photovoltaic Demonstration

Finding ways to produce electricity without burning fossil fuels has been a challenge. One of the technologies we have to do this is solar photovoltaics.

This project is designed to introduce students to solar photovoltaics by working with small 40 Watt panels. The technical document outlines how to setup the panels, associated equipment and measuring devices, as well as outline a series of variables that students can vary to see their impact on the panels performance. For this particular project, you will need the following equipment:

• CSE 40W Solar Photovoltaic Panel
• Sunforce 7A Charge Controller
• UB12220 12V Battery
• PowerBright 200W Inverter
• Multi-meter or datalogger capable of measuring current

You can download the project guide here:

The Gaia Project has also developed a how to to help you setup a solar PV array with the above listed equipment.

You may also find our guide on Calculating Savings useful. This guides you through performing basic cost / benefit analyses to determine payback periods all the way up to complex Net Present Value analyses, as well as helping you assess the size any carbon reductions you may be achieving.