Development and Performance Evaluation of an Energy Efficient Solar-driven Refrigeration System with Thermal Energy Storage

A solar-powered vapour refrigeration system integrating eutectic phase-change material (PVC) as thermal energy storage at evaporator was constructed and tested. Creating a satisfied temperature and potential difference to activate the compressor and run it constantly at 2A, the panels were placed in parallel. The direct current that powers the compressor was initially generated from sunlight and transformed into alternating current utilizing an inverter. The PVC tank was iced by the circulated eco-friendly isobutene (R134a) refrigerant. Using PV system software, an investigation was conducted to examine the differences in the efficiency of a solar photovoltaic panel (PVP) driven refrigeration system. Analysis was done on the voltage, energy, and energetic efficiency changes of PVP. With a maximum solar intensity of 911.90 W/m2, a cell temperature of 56.11 °C resulted in an 8.26% energy efficiency at 13 hours of the day. The desired temperature of the refrigerated water was maintained during the off-cycle of the compressor, which increased the off-cycle. When compared to without PCM to eutectic PCM used, the system coefficient of performance (COP) improved by 32% operation. These findings contribute to society by saving energy, reducing compressor work, improving the system refrigerating effect and reducing national grid consumption.