International Research Journal of Engineering and Technology (IRJET)
e-ISSN: 2395-0056
Volume: 12 Issue: 08 | Aug 2025
p-ISSN: 2395-0072
www.irjet.net
Solar-powered Charging Station Vending Machine Alberto Deliña1, Cloue Deriada2, Leslie Esparar3 1 Assistant Professor, Department of Electrical Engineering, CPSU, Kabankalan City, Philippines 2 Instructor, Department of Electrical Engineering, CPSU, Kabankalan City, Philippines
Science & Research Specialist, Department of Science and Technology, Philippines ---------------------------------------------------------------------***--------------------------------------------------------------------3
Abstract - The Solar-Powered Charging Station Vending
battery depletion. This becomes a significant concern for commuters without power banks, as well as for communities in remote areas and during power outages, where access to charging facilities is limited.
Machine is a standalone device designed to provide reliable mobile phone charging services in areas with limited or no access to electricity. Developed to address the growing dependence on mobile phones for communication, online learning, and business—especially in remote communities and during power outages—the system harnesses renewable solar energy, thereby reducing carbon footprint and promoting environmental sustainability. The design process involved determining load requirements, sizing solar panels, charge controllers, batteries, conductors, and over-current protection devices. The final prototype featured two USB charging ports and an LED light, powered by a 100 W solar panel, 10 A charge controller, and 80 Ah sealed lead-acid battery, with vending capability based on coin operation. Reliability testing was conducted over 20 days at a public transport terminal, serving 35 smartphones and 40 basic phones. Results showed the vending mechanism performed precisely according to coinset charging times, with smartphones achieving an average 57% increase in battery capacity and basic phones achieving a 248% increase in charge bars. The study concludes that the machine is highly reliable for both charging and vending operations. Recommendations include increasing the number of charging ports, adding laptop-compatible outlets, and improving portability. This project demonstrates a practical, eco-friendly, and income-generating solution for energy access in underserved areas, contributing to both technological innovation and sustainable development goals.
Background of the study The COVID-19 pandemic has made cellphones, particularly smartphones, an essential tool in the academe, as academic institutions shifted from traditional face-to-face classes to online learning. However, not all communities have access to electricity, and those beyond the reach of electric utilities struggle to charge their devices—now vital for education and communication. Frequent brownouts caused by system failures, environmental factors, and human error further compound the problem. To address these challenges, the researchers developed a stand-alone, solar-powered charging station for mobile phones, independent of the electrical grid. Designed as a vending machine, the system also offers an income-generating opportunity for individuals who adopt the technology. This project is especially beneficial to people in remote areas, commuters, and small entrepreneurs seeking passive income during the pandemic. By using a renewable energy source, it produces zero carbon emissions, contributing to climate change mitigation. The study aims to design and test the reliability of the charging station’s vending and charging capabilities, while providing a sustainable power source for underserved areas.
2. Methodology
Key Words: Solar energy, charging station, vending machine, renewable energy, mobile phone charging, off-grid system, sustainable technology
This study employed an applied research approach, focusing on the design, fabrication, and performance evaluation of a solar-powered charging station vending machine. The methodology was structured to ensure the device’s technical reliability, operational efficiency, and suitability for deployment in off-grid and public areas. The process began with determining the total daily load requirements of the charging station, which served as the basis for the sizing of major system components, including the solar panel, charge controller, battery storage, conductors, and over-current protection devices. Standard engineering calculations and relevant provisions of the Philippine Electrical Code were applied to ensure safety, efficiency, and compliance with industry standards. Once the design parameters were established, the prototype was fabricated using readily available materials and components in the local market. The assembled unit was then subjected to a 20-day field testing
1. INTRODUCTION Solar energy is a major renewable energy source that is both eco-friendly and capable of addressing many of the world’s pressing challenges. With technological advancements, various devices have been developed to harness solar power, such as the Solar Home System (SHS) and Battery Charging Station (BCS). Alongside these developments, mobile phones have become an essential part of daily life for people worldwide. Their role in maintaining communication with family, managing business affairs, connecting with associates, and providing instant access to social media underscores their growing importance. However, frequent usage leads to high battery consumption, resulting in faster
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