Implementación de paneles solares en el laboratorio de eficiencia energética y energías renovables de la Facultad de Mecánica

Abstract

This Curricular Integration work addresses the need to integrate renewable energies in academic and research environments. The main objective is to implement a photovoltaic system that generates clean energy and, in addition, serves as a research and educational tool for students and teachers. The first step is to diagnose the laboratory's energy situation by analyzing the electrical consumption and the technical feasibility of implementing the photovoltaic system. Studies are carried out on solar radiation where the building to implement the system is located, which allows the system to be appropriately sized, considering factors such as the inclination and orientation of the panels. The work includes system design, selection of materials to be used, number of solar panels, power of inverters, and support bases. Aspects such as connection to the electrical grid and energy storage are also considered to guarantee a continuous energy supply. Functional tests are carried out, and calculations are shown to support the system's efficiency. In addition, the environmental benefits of the implementation are evaluated. The thesis concludes that the use of the photovoltaic system reduces the carbon footprint of the laboratory, and, in addition, they present an alternative to the consumption of traditional electrical energy. New strategies are presented for teaching concepts related to solar energy, promoting a culture of sustainability among teachers and the student community. Finally, future lines of research are suggested, such as the optimization of the system and the possibility of implementing these systems in other faculty buildings, thus positioning the laboratory as a reference in the promotion of renewable energies within the academic field. Implementing the system is a crucial step towards greater sustainability in higher education.