EMPO-NI introduces innovative Solar Direct Heater with optimised power generation
A new application, the Solar Direct Heater (SDH), has been developed, aiming to improve the efficiency of converting solar energy into heat. The system couples a photovoltaic (PV) panel with a heating element, or resistor, to generate heat from solar power. The introduced SDH resolves the problem of matching the voltage and current produced by the PV panel and the quadratic voltage-to-power curve of the heating resistor. It also performs maximum power point tracking (MPPT) simultaneously.
This mismatch causes the system to operate inefficiently under lower solar intensities, such as during mornings, evenings, or cloudy weather, leading to a substantial reduction in heating power output. The solution to this issue lies in decoupling the PV panel from the heating resistor and employing a power transformation method, combined with Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT).
The EMPO-NI power optimiser has been introduced as part of this solution. It works by extracting the maximum possible power from the PV panel at any given time and delivering it to the heating resistor. This is particularly valuable during periods of low sunlight, where optimising power usage is crucial.
The SDH500W-50V model, designed for PV panels up to 500 watts peak (Wp), is particularly suited for electric solar cooking applications. It ensures that the system utilises the maximum available power at all times, offering a more reliable and efficient solar heating solution. Its precise energy counter enables CO2 offset trading as well. Its field test is currently running in Togo with locally fabricated insulated cooking stoves.
This innovation marks a significant step forward in solar energy utilisation, especially in regions with fluctuating sunlight conditions. By maximising energy efficiency, the Solar Direct Heater promises to revolutionise the way solar energy is harnessed for heating purposes.