POP Module 2 - Solar Basics

Solar Power Systems and Energy Management

Master solar power fundamentals, battery management, troubleshooting, and sustainable operation of off-grid POP systems

Learning Objectives

By the end of this module, you will be able to:

Explain how solar panels, batteries, and controllers work together
Diagnose and resolve common power system issues
Calculate power budgets for POP equipment loads
Describe sustainability benefits of solar-powered POPs
Monitor battery charge levels and interpret system health indicators

How Solar Powers POPs

Understanding the complete solar power system architecture

 

POP trailers operate completely off-grid using solar energy. The system consists of three primary components working in harmony: solar panels that convert sunlight to electricity,batteries that store energy for nighttime and cloudy periods, and a charge controller that manages the flow of power between them.

 

System Architecture

POP Trailer Power System

Technical Training Module

1. Solar Panel Array

Function: Converts sunlight (photons) into direct current (DC) electricity through the photovoltaic effect in silicon cells.

Capacity Range

400W - 3200W

Panel Type

Monocrystalline

Voltage

12V / 24V

Performance Factors:

  • Sunlight intensity: Peak generation occurs during midday (10am-2pm)
  • Panel angle: Tilted toward sun for optimal capture
  • Temperature: Panels are more efficient in cooler weather
  • Shading: Even partial shade dramatically reduces output
  • Dust/dirt: Accumulation can reduce efficiency by 5-15%

New Mexico advantage: With 310+ sunny days per year and high elevation, solar generation is exceptionally reliable across all ASC locations.

2. Battery Bank

Function: Stores electrical energy as chemical potential energy for use when solar panels aren't producing (nighttime, storms, winter).

Capacity

2 × 200Ah

Voltage

12V (series/parallel)

Autonomy

48-72 hours

Battery Chemistry Options:

Sealed Lead Acid (SLA)

Lower cost, proven reliability, heavier, 3-5 year lifespan, 50% usable capacity

Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4)

Higher cost, lighter weight, 10+ year lifespan, 80-90% usable capacity, better cold performance

Most NMSU POPs use LiFePO4 batteries for their longevity and performance in variable weather conditions.

3. Charge Controller & Monitoring

Function: Regulates power flow from solar panels to batteries, prevents overcharge/overdischarge, and provides system monitoring and remote management.

Key Components:

MPPT Solar Charge Controller

Maximum Power Point Tracking technology extracts maximum available power from solar panels (15-30% more efficient than PWM controllers)

Victron Cerbo GX Monitoring System

Central monitoring hub providing real-time data on battery voltage, current, solar production, load consumption, and system health via web interface and mobile app

Protection Features:

  • Overcharge protection
  • Deep discharge protection
  • Reverse polarity protection
  • Short circuit protection
  • Over-temperature shutdown

Monitoring Capabilities:

  • Real-time voltage/current
  • State of charge (SOC %)
  • Daily energy production
  • Historical data logging
  • Alert notifications
Energy Flow Diagram

Daytime (Sunny):

Solar Panels → Charge Controller → Batteries (charging) + Equipment Loads (direct power)

Nighttime / Cloudy:

Batteries → Charge Controller → Equipment Loads (battery power)

The charge controller intelligently manages power routing to maximize battery life and ensure continuous operation.

Quick Knowledge Check

Question: What type of batteries do most NMSU POPs use and why?
Think about longevity, performance, and weather conditions...

POP Trailer Technical Training | Power Systems Module

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