The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has established guidelines for solar cold storage systems that incorporate thermal energy storage backup.
These guidelines aim to enhance efficiency, reliability, and sustainability in the preservation of perishable items, including agricultural products, dairy, seafood, and pharmaceuticals.
By combining solar photovoltaic (PV) technology with a cutting-edge thermal energy storage (TES) system, these cold storage facilities can operate continuously, even in the absence of sunlight.
This development represents a pivotal move towards decreasing reliance on traditional energy sources such as grid electricity and diesel generators.
Significance of Thermal Energy Storage Backup in Solar Cold Storage
To guarantee optimal performance in cold storage, the MNRE guidelines specify technical and operational standards for thermal energy storage backup systems.
These standards encompass capacities from 2 metric tons (MT) to 20 MT, with temperature maintenance between -5°C and 4°C. Each system consists of a well-insulated cold room, a refrigeration unit, a TES system that employs phase change materials (PCMs), and an advanced solar PV system.
The synergy of these elements facilitates the storage of surplus cooling energy during daylight, allowing for its utilization at night or during periods of overcast weather.
Key Features of the Updated Guidelines
The updated guidelines highlight several essential elements that improve system efficiency and dependability:
Pre-Cooling Capability: The system is required to facilitate daily pre-cooling of no less than 10% of its total storage capacity for a duration of two consecutive days.
Consistent Temperature Regulation: The integrated solar photovoltaic (PV) and thermal energy storage (TES) system should ensure a consistent cold storage temperature while maximizing energy efficiency.
Incorporation of Phase Change Materials (PCMs): The use of PCMs improves energy retention, contributing to reduced operational expenses and an extended lifespan of the system.
Wind Resistance and Safety Compliance: The mounting structures for solar modules must be capable of withstanding wind speeds of up to 150 km/h, and all electrical components are required to adhere to applicable safety regulations.
Remote Monitoring Capabilities: Sophisticated monitoring systems should provide real-time tracking of room temperature, humidity, solar energy production, and TES charge levels.
Testing and Performance Assessment
The guidelines encompass a comprehensive testing protocol designed to evaluate the effectiveness and dependability of the cold storage system. The primary metrics for evaluation are as follows:
Cooling Capacity of Thermal Energy Storage (TES): Assesses the system’s capability to maintain and distribute cooling energy efficiently.
Temperature Consistency: Verifies that the cold storage environment stays within the specified temperature range.
Solar Performance and Autonomy Evaluations: Analyzes the efficiency of solar photovoltaic power generation and the system’s energy storage capabilities.
Power Consumption Analysis: Employs energy meters and temperature sensors to monitor electricity usage and cooling efficiency across various operational conditions.
Impact on India’s Cold Storage Infrastructure
India has successfully established more than 1,400 solar cold storage units.
The introduction of these guidelines will simplify future procurement installations by offering a definitive reference for the Ministry of Agriculture and relevant state government departments engaged in and execution.
Additionally, these guidelines will aid in the creation of bid documents and the standardization of procedures for the acquisition of solar cold storage systems.
The integration of thermal energy storage backup in solar cold storage presents several advantages:
Energy Autonomy: Diminishes dependence on traditional grid electricity and diesel generators.
Reduced Operational Expenses: Phase Change Materials (PCMs) and Thermal Energy Storage (TES) systems decrease energy loss, resulting in considerable cost reductions.
Increased Farmer Earnings: By mitigating post-harvest losses, farmers can extend the storage duration of their produce and achieve better market prices.
Strengthened Cold Chain Infrastructure: Enhances the overall storage and distribution network for perishable goods throughout India.
Environmental Sustainability: Promotes the utilization of renewable energy sources, thereby lowering carbon emissions and fostering environmental stewardship.
Expert Editorial Comment
The implementation of MNRE guidelines for solar cold storage integrated with thermal energy storage backup marks a significant step forward in the realm of renewable energy solutions.
By establishing standardized protocols for system design, performance, and testing, these guidelines promote improved efficiency, reliability, and sustainability.
With a clear framework established, the broader adoption of solar-powered cold storage systems is positioned to stimulate economic development, assist farmers, and strengthen the cold chain infrastructure in India.
The future of cold storage is set to be environmentally friendly, efficient, and economically viable.
