SolarSpace
Welcome!
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The NC State Stewards thought of this project with one goal: a space made by students, for students. Collaborating with the College of Design, Office of the University Landscape Architect, Facilities, and the Sustainability Office, we are excited to invite you to SolarSpace!
What is SolarSpace?
SolarSpace serves as an area for students to study, socialize, charge their electronics, and ultimately gives diverse audiences a place to interact with and learn about renewable energy. This energy is provided by 4 solar panels installed on top of the Gardener Arboretum trellis as well as a battery system. This project provides learning opportunities and upholds NC State's drive for sustainability. Providing this visually interactive space facilitates the learning environment by displaying how much power the solar panels are producing. The space features seating, desk space, charging ports, lighting, and more.
How it Works
Stage 1: Sun to Panels: Photons from sunlight travel to the photovoltaic modules (solar panels) which convert light energy to an electrical current.
Stage 2: Panels to Battery: DC electrical current travels to the battery.
Stage 3: Energy Inversion: The Battery also serves as an Inverter, converting DC current to AC current.
Stage 4: Light Pole to Battery: The light pole provides backup energy when sunlight is not providing energy, for example at night or on a rainy day.
Stage 5: Battery to Outlets: The battery provides AC current to outlets to power devices.