Development and Analysis of Solar-Powered Auxiliary Electric Systems for Light Sport Aircraft
11th International Conference on Recent Advances in Air and Space Technologies, Conference Program, RAST 2026, İstanbul, Turkey, 13 - 15 May 2026, (Full Text)
- Publication Type: Conference Paper / Full Text
- Doi Number: 10.1109/rast69551.2026.11672519
- City: İstanbul
- Country: Turkey
- Keywords: avionic systems, fuel efficiency, light sport aircraft, solar energy, sustainability
- Istanbul University Affiliated: Yes
Abstract
This study investigates the feasibility of powering the internal electrical systems of Light Sport Aircraft (LSA) using solar energy. Utilizing the STOL CH 750 aircraft as a baseline platform, the mechanical load and subsequent fuel consumption of a conventional 250 W alternator were calculated. By integrating solar irradiation data from the Antalya region, a photovoltaic (PV) system with a 2.03 m2 surface area was designed. Despite the aerodynamic drag and weight penalties, the system demonstrates a net fuel saving of 0.1037 L/h under cruise flight conditions. The findings, validated through both initial and preliminary design-level methods, confirm that solar energy has the potential to offset avionic loads without compromising aircraft performance.