Experimental Study of Solar Powered Heating and Cooling System Using Thermo-Electric Module

Abstract

Experimental study of solar powered heating and cooling system using thermo-electric module has been conducted. Research interest focused on testing the system performance under sunshine. The main objective of this study is to design and build an affordable solar thermoelectric refrigerator for the Bedouin people (e.g. deserts) living in remote parts of Oman where electricity is still not available. Experiment results demonstrated that the unit could maintain the temperature in the refrigerator at 15 – 18 oC, and have a COP about 0.25. Further analysis indicated that the performance of the system is strongly dependent on intensity of solar insolation and temperature difference of hot and cold sides for the thermoelectric module, etc. There exist optimum solar insolation rates, which let the cooling production and COP achieve maximum value, respectively. It was expected that the refrigerator would be potential for cold storage of vaccine, food and drink in remote area, or outdoor conditions where electric power supply is absent.