Design and Operation of a Simple Solar Inverter

A solar inverter is a pivotal component in solar power systems, responsible for converting Direct Current (DC) from solar panels or batteries into Alternating Current (AC) that can power household appliances. This guide offers a detailed, step-by-step approach to constructing a simple solar inverter, making it an excellent resource for learners, hobbyists, and educators.

The inverter design is divided into three key sections:

1. Oscillation: Produces a stable AC signal at a frequency of 50 to 60 Hz.
2. Amplification: Boosts the signal’s power to drive larger loads.
3. Step-Up Transformation: Converts low-voltage AC into a high-voltage AC suitable for appliances.

Learning Objective

• Introduction to electronics and electronic components.
• Introduction to solar inverters: what they are and how they are used
• (Use of a digital multimeter: how to test electronic components) --> not part of the document! is there any other resource we coud use? like a youtube video or some guide?
• Solar inverter design: How to build your own DIY solar inverter

Table of Content

• Tools & Materials
• How to Use a Multimeter
• Step-by-Step Guide
  • Oscillation
  • Amplification
  • Step-up Transformation
  • Circuit Assembly
• Testing, Application, Safety Notes
• Photo Gallery

Training schedule

Day 1

• Day 1 started with an introduction, the trainees introduced themselves and their interests as well as staff.
• The participants were briefed about the purpose of the training and the participants were asked to write down their expectations.
• The participants were introduced to basic tools for repair and were taken through the various types of mobile phones and its parts.
• The 16 women trainees were then grouped into 3 groups, each consisting of 5 members and discussed topics such as common mobile phone faults, procedures to consider when doing a repair and steps in troubleshooting and soldering a device. They were given questions to discussed

Day 2

• A check-in and recap session was conducted to evaluate the level of understanding of the participants about what they have learnt on day one.
• The students were introduced to what a solar inverter is and how to use a digital multimeter to test electronic components.
• They were also taken through the steps in designing and building a DIY solar inverter from electronics waste. Using sticky notes, the students were asked to give feedback about the training.

The CIC Solar Inverter

The project's brief documentation is available to view. This film shows how the inverter was assembled and how it is working.

link to youtube video

Partners and the Network