Solar Battery Charger Circuit

Solar Battery Charger Circuit

Author Name : Sowmiya S, R. Nisha, C. Anjalai, K. Nishanthi

ABSTRACT

Solar concept is not new for us. As non-renewable energy sources are decreasing, usage of solar energy is increased. This solar energy is not only used on the Earth but also used in space stations where no electrical power is available. Solar energy begins with the sun. Solar panels, also known as photovoltaic, are used to convert light from the sun; which is composed of particles of energy called "photons", and into electricity that can be used to power electrical loads. Light from the sun is a renewable energy resource that provides clean energy, produced by solar panels. Many people are familiar with so-called photovoltaic cells, or solar panels, found on things like spacecraft, rooftops, and handheld calculators. The cells are made of semiconductor materials like those found in computer chips. When sunlight hits the cells, it knocks electrons loose from their atoms. As the electrons flow through the cell, they generate electricity.

Here is the simple circuit to charge 12V, 1.3Ah rechargeable Lead-acid battery from the solar panel. This solar charger has current and voltage regulation and also has overvoltage cut off facilities. This circuit may also be used to charge any battery at constant voltage because output voltage is adjustable.