DEVELOPMENT OF SOLID STATE LAMPS AND ENERGY MANAGEMENT APPLICATIONS

LED LAMPS, PV DESIGN & ENERGY MANAGEMENT. Firstly, the author wrote a JAVA object-oriented program to design lighting systems. A step-by-step lighting design procedure is compiled. Illuminance calculations are performed and the software displays relevant Isolux diagrams on a floor plan. The author heads the Service Learning and Development unit that provides training in energy management, in collaboration with government organizations and industry. In the second project the SLD unit performs energy audits, retrofits and new lighting installations at a school, to significantly reduce the electricity consumption. Thirdly, low cost inverters, solid state lighting luminaires and driving circuits were designed, simulated and developed. The high bright LED lamps were installed and commissioned at sites in a rural community. Designed AC driven LED streetlamp installations were commissioned in a pilot site at a local municipality. Finally, recommendations were made to optimize an inefficient hybrid solar–diesel, off grid system on a farm. A voltage regulator and 17kWp standalone solar PV plant, with grid tie capabilities, are designed.