A Compact Solar Thermic Cooking Solution: Design Validation and Performance Analysis

The increasing cost of cooking gas has led to the growing popularity of solar cooking as a renewable energy alternative. However, implementing effective renewable energy-based cooking systems in urban areas remains a significant challenge for industries. To address this, a novel compact solar thermic cooking device is proposed, designed specifically for domestic use in urban settings. The device utilizes a fluid-based heat transfer system, incorporating molten salt or mineral oil, and operates using four key modules: 1) a solar thermal concentrating system, 2) a thermal exchanger, 3) a heat dissipater, along 4) thermal Reservoir, utilizing a Fresnel lens-based Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) technique for energy conversion. Building on prior work that included a 3D CAD model and optimization, along with computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis and thermal simulations, this study details the fabrication and evaluation of the solar thermal cooking device, supported by real-time field-testing results. The findings demonstrate the system’s capability to meet the daily cooking energy needs of an average Indian household while promoting sustainable energy use. Future scope aims to facilitate the broader implementation of renewable solar cooking solutions to enhance long-term sustainability in urban areas.