Sustainable cooling solutions for rural communities: solar PV-driven DC vapour compression with low cost PCM storage

This paper presents a solar photovoltaic (PV) driven DC vapor compression system with low-cost phase change material (PCM) storage for cooling. Its primary objective is to provide an affordable and sustainable cooling solution in rural areas of Malaysia. The system operates by utilizing PV panels to power the compressor during the day, delivering cooling to the space, and storing excess electricity as cooling energy for later use. The system's key performance was assessed in two operational modes: Mode 1 (off-grid) and Mode 2 (grid). The results reveal that the grid mode exhibits a higher average COP, approximately 4-5% higher compared to the off-grid mode, attributed to consistent grid power. However, the off-grid mode outperforms in terms of COPpv and SPFpv due to PV integration. Despite lower COP values in Mode 1, a 10-year life cycle cost savings analysis unveils significant advantages for the fully off-grid system, primarily due to the exorbitant cost of electricity for air conditioning. Moreover, the low-cost PCM storage unit significantly contributes to reducing the system's overall cost, hence, it is more affordable for low-income communities. The system holds substantial potential for general use in rural areas and stop centres located in low-income regions, offering much-needed daytime cooling to individuals. In conclusion, the solar PV-driven DC vapor compression system with low-cost PCM storage represents an affordable and sustainable cooling solution for low-income communities. The findings of this study can offer valuable insights for designing and implementing similar systems in other low-income communities, thereby contributing to the sustainable development of such areas.