Industrial Experiences with Solar Water Heaters

Abstract

Energy Division of Jyoti Limited, a pioneering organisation in the area of Renewable Sources of Energy, started its activity on solar energy sometime in 1976. In the initial stages, i.e. from 1976–78, greater emphasis was given on basic research and on development of a suitable design of a flat plate collector system which could be effectively used to meet hot water demand in industries as also to power Vapour Absorption Refrigeration Systems (VARS) for cold storages in rural areas. In order to assess the potential for solar hot water systems in industries, a survey was conducted in selected textile, chemical, pharmaceutical, dairy and engineering industries. The survey revealed that there existed a tremendous potential for solar water heating systems in industries in general and process industries in particular (Table 1).