Back-up power supply to traffic lighting system by means of solar energy

Abstract

Hydroelectricity is the primary source of Ghana's power supply. Low rainfalls in the country sometimes and the overdependence on our hydro and thermal systems, do force power cuts from Ghana's hydroelectric facilities. The power cuts affects our traffic lighting systems and hence, mobility in the urban areas. This design is introduced to help sustain power in the event of power failure from the national grid. In the event of power failure, power is switched to a solar energy source. When the grid is restored, a relay is energized by disconnecting the solar power source. Thus, this solar power remains as a standby, or an alternative power. Solar powered traffic light which is based on photovoltaic is a new technology providing a reliable, inexpensive, affordable and environmentally friendly energy for traffic lighting systems. It comprises of a 24V Zener diode, a Solar charge controller, Solar batteries, Solar panel, a relay and bridge rectifier with a capacitor and a 24 volts transformer. Three power options were considered. Solar power only had the highest implementation cost. Hydroelectricity had the lowest implementation cost. Whiles hybrid of the two (Solar and Hydro power) implementation cost was not that high and was, thus, considered the best option. In addition to this buck-up system, Telemetric control or remote monitoring will introduce a more effective way of managing our traffic systems