Experimental Validation of Programmable Charge Controller for Mitigating Solar Power Fluctuations in a Lab-Scale Renewable Microgrid with Hybrid Battery–Supercapacitor Storage

Arash Asrari () and Samuel Ayala
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Arash Asrari: Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Purdue University Northwest, Hammond, IN 46323, USA
Samuel Ayala: Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Purdue University Northwest, Hammond, IN 46323, USA

Sustainability, 2025, vol. 17, issue 5, 1-14

Abstract: The transition to sustainable energy systems necessitates innovative solutions to address the variability and intermittency of renewable energy sources, particularly solar power. This study explores the integration of programmable charge controller with hybrid energy storage systems comprising a battery and supercapacitor to improve power quality and energy efficiency. A lab-scale renewable microgrid was developed, incorporating a Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT)-enabled programmable charge controller, passive hybrid storage, and adjustable load banks to emulate real-world conditions. Experimental scenarios were designed to assess performance under static and dynamic solar irradiance, with a focus on mitigating continuous and transient power fluctuations. The results demonstrate that a programmable charge controller significantly reduces current fluctuations and Total Harmonic Distortion (THD), achieving improvements of 69.15% and 65%, respectively, over a fixed controller. The incorporation of a supercapacitor alongside a battery further enhances system stability, reducing stress on storage components and extending their lifespan. Frequency-domain analyses confirm improved harmonic performance, aligning with global power quality standards. This study bridges a critical gap by providing hands-on experimental validation of hybrid storage systems with programmable controllers, offering actionable insights for optimizing renewable energy systems to address real-world challenges in power quality and system reliability.

Keywords: programmable charge controller; hybrid energy storage; lab-scale microgrid; power quality; renewable energy integration; supercapacitor; battery (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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