Design and Construction of a Solar Powered Cold Storage System for Agriculture Produce

AbstractPost-harvest losses remain a major challenge in the agricultural sector, especially in developing regions where access to reliable electricity is limited. This project focuses on the design and construction of a solar-powered cold storage system aimed at preserving perishable agricultural produce such as fruits, vegetables, and dairy products. The system utilizes photovoltaic (PV) solar panels as the primary energy source, converting solar energy into electrical power to drive a refrigeration unit and maintain a low-temperature environment suitable for food preservation. A battery storage unit is incorporated to store excess energy, ensuring continuous operation during nighttime or low sunlight conditions.The design process involves determining the cooling load, selecting appropriate components such as the compressor, condenser, evaporator, inverter, charge controller, and insulation materials, and integrating them into an efficient and sustainable system. The constructed prototype was tested for its cooling performance, energy efficiency, and reliability under varying environmental conditions. Results showed that the system effectively maintained temperatures between 4°C and 10°C, suitable for most agricultural products, while operating solely on renewable solar energy.This project demonstrates that solar-powered cold storage systems provide a sustainable, cost-effective, and eco-friendly solution to the problem of post-harvest spoilage, improving food security and income for small-scale farmers