The sun can be considered the best source of energy anywhere if it is properly harnessed. It is an inexhaustible, renewable energy source like no other. That is why we have solar-powered devices in use now such as calculators, watches, and lights. Solar technology is still far from being the primary source of energy for most of our gadgets today, however; it can be used to recharge the batteries of these devices. Using solar-powered battery chargers is a great alternative to conventional battery chargers.
It uses a clean, renewable source of energy, the sun. It is cost-efficient save money on non-rechargeable batteries and saves electricity usage and its corresponding costs. A readily available alternative source of energy in case electricity is unavailable. This is famous for its portability whether you are traveling around a lot, or camping in the wilderness, there is no better alternative to charge your gadgets than solar-powered battery chargers.
Hardware Required
| S.no | Component | Value | Qty |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | solar panel | 9V | 1 |
| 2. | IC regulator | LM317 | 1 |
| 3. | SLA battery | 6V/4.5Ah | 1 |
| 4. | Diode | 1N4007 | 1 |
| 5. | Resistor | 220Ω, 680Ω 2KΩ | Each One |
| 6. | Capacitor | 0.1µF | 1 |
| 7. | Schottky diode | 3A,50V | 1 |
| 8. | Connecting Wires | – | – |
Circuit Diagram
Working Explanation
This circuit is built with a 9V solar panel and LM317 adjustable voltage regulator. You can vary the regulation voltage level according to the SLA battery voltage, here 3A,50V Schottky diode is used for protection from the reverse supply. As this battery charger consists of a solar panel, it is composed of photovoltaic (PV) cell blocks which are responsible for producing electricity from the light of the sun. When the photons from sunlight hit the solar panels, they are absorbed by the PV cells. The cells are made up of semiconducting materials such as silicon. A chemical reaction occurs in batteries which transfers electrons to the electronic circuits of our devices. During this process, residual particles slow down and eventually halt the production of electrons. This discharge cycle is countered through the current produced by the solar panels wherein protons are drawn to the cells of the battery using the electrons’ attraction.
Applications
You can use this circuit to charge your SLA battery from solar power.
