Solar energy is growing and advancing so rapidly that now one can run a refrigerator on it. These refrigerators are powered by a photovoltaic cell which collects energy from the sun stores it and then makes it available for use. This new technology not only saves money but also the environment which definitely needs some saving.

Size and Power Consumption

Refrigerators that run on solar energy are small in size. They are ideal for use during camping or for RV owners. Many people in remote areas also use these type refrigerators. These refrigerators run on a 12 volt backup battery and can easily cool down their contents to about thirty degrees lower than the surrounding temperature. Solar energy is not as compatible with these refrigerators as one would like. If solar energy is the only available source of charging the battery then the refrigerator must have a very small ampere-hour need.

Usage according to Conditions

Solar refrigerators can be a difficult thing to use when the solar energy is the only source for charging the battery because solar energy produced with the help of photovoltaic cells is not constant all the time due to changes in the intensity of sun’s light, and other various factors which includes their position. According to the temperature the refrigerator will require similar energy. For example during the winter the temperatures are lower and the refrigerator will require lesser amount of energy to keep its contents cool.

Solar Refrigerators against Conventional Refrigerators

Solar refrigerators can be used very effectively to transfer vaccines and medicines where they are required and can easily take place of conventional refrigerators that mostly run on kerosene. Kerosene refrigerators require a fuel of about a liter on everyday basis whereas refrigerators that run on solar energy can keep the contents cold for free.

Cost of Solar Refrigerators

Refrigerators that run on solar energy are much more costly than their conventional counterparts. A solar refrigerator costs about $3500 to $4500.

 Solar chill coolers cost almost $1500 and they use three 60 watt voltaic panels, and this refrigerator can not only run on solar energy but also wind energy as well as grid energy and car battery. This is because of the fact that solar chill coolers are fitted with AC to DC converter which allows them to use a wide number of electrical sources.

Batteryless Systems

Other Companies also offer battery less solar refrigerators which are powered by a solar panel capable of generating about 75W of electricity. These generators are also very good but they cannot operate in the night and hence are not as good as battery-backed refrigerators.

Final Words

Solar energy powered refrigerators are still in their initial development phase and a lot of research and development awaits this technology so it can become a more reliable refrigerator which can not only accommodate travelers, but also can also find its use in the homes. Many companies have already started their development into this technology and in the near future we might be able to see solar refrigerators in many homes.