Design of a Standalone Photovoltaic System for a Primary School in Gombe State

This project designs a standalone solar photovoltaic power system to provide reliable electricity for a rural primary school in Gombe State, North East Nigeria. Many rural primary schools in Gombe State operate without electricity, limiting the use of computers, projectors, fans, and public address systems that could improve the quality of teaching and learning. A load survey of the target school, identified in Balanga Local Government Area, established a daily electrical energy requirement of 4.6kWh based on eight classrooms with LED lighting, ceiling fans, an administrative computer and printer, and a public address system. Sizing calculations using the peak sun hour method and accounting for battery bank autonomy of two cloudy days determined the system requirements as a 1.5kWp PV array, a 200Ah 24V battery bank, a 40A MPPT charge controller, and a 1kVA pure sine wave inverter. Component selection was guided by availability in Nigerian markets and suitability for the semi-arid Gombe climate. A detailed single-line electrical diagram, cable sizing schedule, and installation specification were produced in accordance with IEC 62446 PV system installation standards. Cost estimation indicates a total installed cost of approximately 1.8 million naira, with an expected system lifespan of 20 years for the PV panels. An economic analysis demonstrates that the project delivers a higher social return than the diesel generator alternative currently used in similar schools in the area. The project recommends adoption through the Universal Basic Education Commission's school infrastructure improvement programme. Keywords: solar PV, primary school, off-grid, standalone system, Gombe State.