Exploring the Potential of a Battery‐Assisted Solar Cooking System

Abstract

This chapter presents research on the operation and evaluation of an innovative photovoltaic (PV) solar cooker that incorporates battery storage for enhanced efficiency, reliability, and autonomy. The system is designed to optimize energy utilization by integrating a heating plate (thermal resistor) powered by a 48 V/250 Ah battery bank, which is charged via 600-Wp PV panels. The charging process is managed by a BOOST-based DC/DC converter and a digital control circuit. Experiments conducted both during the day and at night, based on user needs, confirm that the stored electrical energy ensures continuous cooking, independent of sunlight fluctuations. The power conversion system operates with an efficiency exceeding 95%, while the heating element reaches 400°C within 30 minutes, with a temperature increase rate ranging from 12 to 33°C per minute. Boiling one liter of water (100°C) requires approximately 45 minutes, corresponding to a heating rate of 3.2°C per minute. The analysis of experimental data highlights that the battery system successfully delivers the necessary electrical energy for heating and daily cooking, providing an operational autonomy of up to 14 days. The overall results validate the feasibility of using a PV-powered battery system for cooking applications, catering to the energy needs of rural and urban households alike.