ANALYSIS OF AC VOLTAGE PROTECTION FOR SOLAR-BASED UNIVERSITY FACILITIES: INVESTIGATING VOLTAGE PROTECTION DEVICES AND THEIR ROLES IN STABILIZING AC SUPPLY FOR SENSITIVE EQUIPMENTS

Abstract

The integration of solar energy systems in university facilities presents both opportunities and challenges, particularly in maintaining a stable alternating current (AC) supply for sensitive laboratory and IT equipment. This project, titled “Analysis of AC Voltage Protection for Solar-Based University Facilities: Investigating Voltage Protection Devices and Their Roles in Stabilizing AC Supply for Sensitive Equipment,” aims at assessing the effectiveness of various voltage protection devices in ensuring power quality and system reliability in solar-powered academic environments.With the intermittent nature of solar energy and the possible voltage inconsistencies introduced by photovoltaic systems, safeguarding sensitive electronic infrastructure becomes critical. This study investigates key voltage protection devices, including surge protectors, voltage regulators, automatic voltage stabilizers, and uninterruptible power supplies (UPS). The project evaluates each device based on performance indicators such as response time, voltage regulation accuracy, and ability to mitigate overvoltage, undervoltage, and transients. Through simulation models, field measurements, and comparative analysis, the research identifies optimal protection strategies tailored to hybrid energy systems within university campuses. The outcome of the study shows that integrating voltage protection devices such as stabilizers, surge protection devices, UPS systems, isolation transformers, and dynamic voltage restorers significantly improves the stability of AC supply in solar-based university facilities. These devices safeguard sensitive equipment, reduce the risks of damage from voltage fluctuations, and enhance the overall reliability of solar energy system.  The outcomes provide recommendations for enhancing the reliability and longevity of sensitive equipment, ensuring continuous academic and research operations even under fluctuating power conditions.