Recent research published in the journal “Renewable Energies Review” has shed light on an innovative approach to solar cooking that could significantly benefit remote communities in arid regions like the Algerian Sahara. Led by Assam Benbaha from the LEB Laboratory at the University of Batna 2, this study focuses on enhancing the efficiency of box-type solar cookers using cost-effective sensible heat storage materials.
The research highlights the use of small masonry brick pieces as a thermal storage medium placed atop the cooking plate within the solar cooker. This method aims to improve the performance of solar heating systems without imposing a heavy financial burden on users. “The practicality of affordable energy storage materials could lead to widespread adoption of the tested model,” Benbaha noted, emphasizing the importance of accessibility in energy solutions.
The findings from the cooking trials are promising, with the box cooker achieving a thermal efficiency of approximately 36.8%, a cooking power of around 61.10 W, and a thermal storage capacity of about 7 hours per day. With an estimated cost of just $75, this cooker presents a viable option for those living in areas where traditional cooking methods may be less practical or sustainable.
The implications of this research extend beyond just cooking; they open up commercial opportunities in the renewable energy sector. By focusing on low-cost materials and simple designs, manufacturers can cater to a growing market of environmentally conscious consumers and communities seeking sustainable cooking solutions. This could also lead to partnerships with non-governmental organizations and government initiatives aimed at improving energy access in underserved regions.
As global interest in renewable energy continues to rise, innovations like those presented by Benbaha and his team could play a crucial role in shaping the future of energy consumption in developing areas. The study underscores the potential for solar cooking technologies to not only provide a sustainable cooking method but also to enhance the quality of life for many by reducing reliance on expensive or polluting fuels.
