EE 5092

Research Methodology
Electrical Installation 2015/16
Semester 2

Assignment

Research Proposal
Designing a solar thermal storage for domestic purposes

S.B.Wijesundara
159382 M
Department of Electrical Engineering
University of Moratuwa
 RESEARCH PROJECT PROPOSAL
Name of the student: S.B.Wijesundara
Index No: 159382M
Program of study: MSc/Dip. in Electrical Installations
Telephone number: 0717939756
E-mail address: salindawijesundara@gmail.com

Project title: Designing a solar thermal storage for domestic purposes

Introduction: This system will be developed to store the thermal energy of sun in a basin of sand in
the day time and re-utilize them in the evening. Thermal energy (heat) of sun rays will be
concentrated to pipes which are carrying a thermal fluid using solar troughs, and heated up the
thermal fluid. Heat energy of the thermal fluid will be stored in an appropriate storing medium. Stored
energy will be absorbed by water heaters and cookers effectively through different technologies.
Problem statement/ justification: As a developing country with a smaller portion of continuous
industrial loads and a considerable portion of varying domestic loads power supplying authorities are
experiencing an extremely non-uniform demand curve. The peak of our demand curve occurs during
1900h to 2200h where domestic demand is maximum. This peek is 2-3 times of the base load and
supplied by dispatching the most expensive thermal generators. Therefore, it is financially and
economically advantageous to introduce a non-electrical power sources for thermal loads of this
peak.
Objectives of the study: Developing a thermal storage by considering the cost, temperature levels,
physical size, thermal capacity and construction possibilities. Subsystem for collecting a maximum
amount of thermal energy from sun and transmitting them to the storage medium, will be developed.
Specially designed cookers and heaters will be introduced along with the alternations for exiting
devices for effectively and efficiently utilizing the stored thermal energy. Intelligent controlling
mechanisms for controlling the quality and quantity of outputs will be developed.
Methodology: Relevant data on the existing thermal storage systems, solar troughs, climate
conditions, storage materials, thermal fluids, cooking patterns, consumer energy requirements will be
studied. Initial calculation will be done by developing a mathematical model based on thermo
dynamic theories. Practical limitations will be introduced to the mathematical model. Controlling
subsystem will be introduced by considering the initial mathematical model and the quality control
requirements.
Results & dissemination: A dummy system will be constructed as per the designed system and the
final system will be developed step by step. Safety standards and quality standards will be met in the
design stage and will be implemented. Monthly savings, capital cost and IRR will be calculated for
the final product.
Time frame: Planned duration – 12 months (48 weeks)
Reading theory in depth & discussing with supervisor : 4 weeks
Collecting data : 2 weeks
Analyzing the existing systems and collected data : 2 weeks
Calculating energy requirement and absorption capacity of solar heat : 2 weeks
Developing the conceptual design/ Modelling the theoretical system : 6 weeks
Selecting material accessories/ finalizing the design to be implemented : 4 weeks
Developing the dummy system : 6 weeks
Trouble shooting and further developments : 12 weeks
Final construction : 10 weeks
Resource requirements: Exiting systems, energy requirements, material and devices
Budget: 1,500,000.00 LKR
References:
 Thermal Energy Storage, IEA-ETSAP and IRENA© Technology Brief E17 – January 2013
 http://www.ecohome.net/guide/thermal-batteries-storing-solar-heat
 http://www.rgees.com/solutions_solar-thermal.php