Performance and feasibility analysis of an AC compressor freezer with a swapped DC compressor for optimum solar use — A complete off-grid solution ensuring food security

Abstract

This paper focuses on the prototype of the cold storage which is designed by BRAC University, Control & Applications Research Centre (CARC). The cold storage is a conventional freezer where its AC compressor is swapped by a DC compressor. It is run by the DC output of the solar panels and the battery banks. The batteries are simultaneously charged by the solar panels besides running the freezer. The batteries can give energy backup in the absence of the sun for almost four days. This project can be used as a micro storing system as well as a large cold storage. Various performance test analysis has been done to ensure the reliability and consistency of the system. The DC Compressor's Coefficient of Performance (COP) is 1.48 [1], which is more than the conventional AC Compressor system. As well, it's Life Cycle Cost (LCC) and Payback Period (PP) is satisfying and ensures that it is a good solution to the poor's financial distress in rural areas.