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Abstract

The objective of this project was to develop and design a solar-powered retrofit kit for an electric golf cart. The purpose of installing this kit on an electric golf cart is to extend overall battery life, lower the amount of electricity used to charge the golf cart, and reduce indirect emissions introduced into the atmosphere. The solar-powered retro-fitting kit was designed to charge a 36 V battery bank, be lightweight and economically feasible, and be attached to the golf cart in less than an hour. These goals were all achieved by the group. The team has attached a solar-powered retro-fitted kit to a 1995 EZGO electric golf cart. Three 12 V/100 W solar panels, a charge controller, and solar panel wiring are the primary components used in the electrical system. The team designed multiple mounting components to allow easy assembly for the users. When the team tested the cart with the retrofit kit, the solar panels provided a substantial trickle-charge to the battery bank. The team also performed a point design on Rolling Hills Country Club in Newburgh, Indiana. This point design included both a solar-powered system on the roof of the cart bam and implementation of the solar-powered retrofit kit on each cart. The team theoretically calculated the cost to Rolling Hills installing solar panels on the cart bam and retrofit kits on their 55-cart fleet. A payback period was calculated based on the electricity savings and lowered need of battery replacement. Overall, the project has been considered a success by the group.

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