Green Energy Solutions for Post-harvest Storage: A PCM-Solar Hybrid System
Keywords:
Cold storage system, Electricity, Energy, Phase Change Materials (PCM), Power supply, Solar energyAbstract
Post-harvest losses due to inadequate cold storage facilities are a major issue faced by small-scale farmers in rural areas. A significant percentage of fruits, vegetables, and grains in rural areas perish due to a lack of affordable and hygienic drying solutions. Open sun drying is inefficient, unhygienic, and vulnerable to pests and weather. This proposed work presents the design of an off-grid cold storage unit powered by solar energy and integrated with Phase Change Materials (PCMs) to maintain low temperatures even during night hours or cloudy days. The system enables safe, reliable storage of perishable crops, ensuring better shelf life, reduced waste, and increased farmer income, particularly in remote areas with unreliable electricity.
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