Lakshmi GopiReddy

Adventures in STEM

Final Project: The Electric and Micro Grid

MicrogridMicrogrid- Small scale independent electric grids, generating low power.

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Advantages of micro gridThe idea is to use energy where it is generated.

Less transmission challenges▫ No need to step up voltage for transmission

Less distribution challenges▫ The loads are local and so the distribution is for a limited

area.DisadvantageWith uncertainty in renewable energy, we might not have

enough power all the timeSolution: 1)Connect to the Electric grid and use power only when

required.2)Energy storage. (Batteries, fuel cells, etc.)

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Tasks for the Project1) Build wind turbine system. (Yesterday’s

project)2) Build a solar farm system. 3) Build your loads.4) Build transmission and distribution

towers5) Connect all of your electric grid or micro

grid with wire.

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Solar Farm(10 min.)

Connect 4 solar panels to generate > 4.0 V with a light source.

Each solar panel generates about 2.2 V.

Use all four panels!!! .(Hint: series and parallel).

Make a connection and test it with the loads.

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Loads (15 min.)Four LEDs.Should you connect your loads in series or parallel?Even before connecting wires, connect them in parallel and test them if they light up when connected to the solar farm.

Connect wires to LED. Sand both ends of the wire.Make sure that the two leads/terminals of the LED are not touching!Pull your wires though the straw.

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Transmission and Distribution Towers (10 min.)

Two transmission towers and one distribution tower.Transmission tower: 2 Balsa wood sticks1) Build two towers2) Less than 10 inches.3) Should stand on the table by itself.4) Design should include a bar to hold two wires.5) Not fall apart even if it falls on the ground.

Distribution Towers: 1 Balsa wood stick1) Build one tower.2) Less than 7 inches.3) Should stand on table by itself.4) Hold 8 wires.5) Not fall apart

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Connecting the grid (15 min.)The total distance of the grid You need two long wires.Before you get your connections, get it verified by a mentor/helper.

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