The Eco-GreenergyTM Outdoor Lighting System is comprised of the hybrid green energy generation system and the energy-saving lighting concept. This compact system integrates a vertical-axis-wind-turbine (VAWT) with the novel omni-direction-guide-vane (ODGV), solar PV panel and LED light-strip. The ODGV is designed to surround the VAWT for wind power augmentation. It overcomes the mild wind and turbulence conditions in urban areas by guiding and creating a venturi effect to increase the wind speed before the wind-stream interacts with the wind turbine blades. The solar panel is mounted on the top surface of the ODGV for solar energy generation.
The unique design of the ODGV that shrouds the wind turbine rotor provides a safer and more secure environment for maintenance workers and the public. The energy generated from this wind-solar hybrid system is utilized to provide green power to the lighting system. LED light is preferred since it is both energy-saving and long-lasting. Extra power generated (after fulfilling the lighting requirement) can be stored in a battery or used to supply energy demand for other appliances (e.g. CCTV camera and mosquito trap) or fed into the grid line.
The overall “clean” impression of the product compared to other conventional wind-solar lamp posts serves as an added advantage for this product. This 125 W (100 W Solar PV panels + 25 W wind turbine) renewable energy generation system with 2 units of 12 V, 40 Ah deep cycle battery is able to provide 3 days stand-by energy for LED lighting. It is a stand-alone system that eliminates both cabling and trenching costs.
The team led by Assoc. Prof. Engr. Dr. Chong Wen Tong from University of Malaya was awarded a Pre-commercialized Prototype Fund to develop and install the product at suitable locations in the campus. The fund was provided by UM via UM Center of Innovation and Commercialization (UMCIC).
In 2014, his completed FRGS project was selected as the Best FRGS (Fundamental Research Grant Scheme) 2010 Project by Ministry of Education Malaysia (MOE) and awarded RM 50,000 for extension works. The first prototype was installed next to the outdoor gymnasium, opposite the UM 1st Residential College.
To date, 5 units of this lighting system have been installed in UM KL Campus and UM Ulu Gombak Facilities. With the motto 'Lighting up UM', the team aims to provide a sustainable solution for energy efficient and quality lighting powered by wind-solar hybrid renewable energy sources.
