GGG
The GCET Go Green Project aims to install a Photovoltaic (PV) station at the College of Engineering and Technology (GCET) to promote renewable energy and reduce carbon emissions. Aligning with Oman’s Vision 2040, the project seeks to reduce energy costs and dependence on non-renewable sources. The system, with a peak capacity of 10 kWp, is installed on Building B's roof. The project includes monitoring system performance over time and analyzing efficiency through IV curves. This initiative serves as a model for sustainable energy practices in Oman.
By Dr.Issa Mahmoud
GCET Go Green Project
The GCET Go Green Project aims to design and implement a Photovoltaic (PV) station for sustainable energy generation at the College of Engineering and Technology (GCET). The project focuses on integrating solar energy solutions to reduce the college’s carbon footprint while promoting the use of renewable energy.
This project is especially relevant given the rising global concerns over climate change and the urgent need to transition to renewable energy sources. By installing a PV station at GCET, we not only contribute to a cleaner energy alternative but also set an example for sustainable energy practices that could be replicated by other educational institutions, businesses, and communities. In line with Oman’s Vision 2040, which emphasizes the country’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, this project supports the nation’s efforts to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and promotes the use of clean, renewable energy.
The primary research question of the project was: “How can the implementation of a PV station at GCET contribute to sustainable energy use and reduce dependence on non-renewable energy sources?” The underlying hypothesis is that integrating solar power into the college’s energy grid will result in a significant reduction in energy costs, as well as a positive environmental impact by lowering the institution’s carbon emissions.
The methodology used in this research involved several stages. We began with a site assessment to determine the optimal location for the PV station. Following this, we designed a solar energy system with a maximum capacity if 10 [kWp], selecting appropriate solar panels and inverters.One of the targets is to calculate the efficiency and the hourly performance of the system by measuring certain parameters such as the solar global horizontal ration, wind speed and direction, and ambient dry and wet temperatures.
Based on our projections, the system will cover [percentage] of the campus’s electricity consumption, leading to a notable reduction in energy costs and CO2 emissions. This will not only benefit the college but also serve as a practical demonstration of the potential for renewable energy in Oman’s broader sustainability efforts.
PV System at Building B: The PV system is installed on the roof of Building B, consisting of two parallel connected strings of panels, each one contains 10 solar PV panels connected in series. Each panel measures 2.261 x 1.134 [m] and operates at a total peak capacity of 10.8 [kWp] at the Standard Test Conditions (STC). The installed system is of the type on-grid.
Research Potentials: Currently, we have the following two main research topics
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Time-dependent performance evaluation: Monitoring the system’s performance over time, considering factors such as degradation and monthly variations of weather conditions.
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IV Curve Analysis: Drawing and analyzing the current-voltage (IV) curve to assess the system’s efficiency and optimization, especially under different environmental conditions.
In conclusion, this project not only provides significant benefits to GCET but also contributes to the wider efforts of transitioning to a more sustainable energy future in Oman.