An IoT-integrated Hybrid Solar- and Fuel Cell-powered charging station for portable devices and STEM education

Access to clean, reliable energy remains a persistent challenge in underserved communities, especially during periods of limited solar availability. This project introduces a hybrid solar charging station designed to power micro-mobility devices and portable electronics while supporting real-world STEM education. The initiative, jointly developed by University of Texas at Tyler and Houston City College, aims to enhance energy access and knowledge empowerment in the Greater Houston area. The system integrates a 150-250 W solar photovoltaic panel, a battery storage set, a 30-100 W hydrogen fuel cell, and a solar charger controller, coordinated through a customized energy management system. A distributed array of sensors collects performance data, which is transmitted via an IoT-enabled platform to a cloud-based dashboard for real-time monitoring, remote control, and analytics. This dual-energy production design ensures continuous power availability by using solar energy as the primary source during daylight to charge the batteries, which in turn supply power to both the electrical loads and the hydrogen generator. The fuel cell uses hydrogen that serves as a backup energy source during periods of low or no sunlight. In addition to its energy function, the station serves as a multidisciplinary educational tool. Students engage in hands-on learning across renewable energy technologies, embedded control systems, and data-driven system analysis. The platform also lays the groundwork for implementing more advanced control strategies, including predictive and adaptive methods that incorporate elements of machine learning. This system provides a model for sustainable energy deployment and workforce development in regions with limited energy access.