Theoretical Studies of the Vegetable Store Operation Using a Complex of Renewable Energy Sources
This research paper investigates the implementation of renewable energy sources within a complex system designed for the storage of vegetables and fruits. The study developed and applied a mathematical model to simulate the operation of a potato storage facility, incorporating weather data and the technological cycle of storage. The results indicate a significant potential for minimizing heat losses and energy consumption through the use of wind and solar energy.
Key highlights
- Many farms and agricultural enterprises face the problem of storing fruits and vegetables.
- A simulation mathematical model for the operation of an energy complex using renewable energy sources is studied and developed in this article.
- The mathematical model includes sub-models for individual elements of the energy generation system, such as wind power and photovoltaic panels.
- The results of the simulation show heat losses, power consumption, and power generation metrics for a potato storage facility using renewable energy sources.
by Jorge Luis Alonso with ChatGPT-4
In the ever-evolving agricultural sector, the challenge of storing perishable produce such as fruits and vegetables goes beyond simple preservation. It encompasses a wide range of considerations, from ensuring year-round availability to reducing post-harvest losses, all while preserving the nutritional and sensory qualities of the product. This narrative explores a novel approach to addressing this challenge by incorporating renewable energy sources (RES) into the operational framework of vegetable storage facilities. Through a detailed examination of a potato storage facility in Yoshkar-Ola, Russia, this study highlights significant progress toward sustainable agricultural practices.
The central theme focuses on the critical need for advanced storage solutions that can effectively adapt to climate variability, thereby facilitating increases in crop diversity and production volumes. The development and modernization of vegetable storage facilities are critical, particularly for large agricultural enterprises seeking to extend the shelf life of their produce. While traditional storage methods offer some effectiveness for short-term preservation, they need to catch up in terms of long-term sustainability and efficiency. Climate change has exacerbated these challenges, making seeking alternative, energy-efficient solutions imperative.
This research presents a sophisticated mathematical simulation model aimed at optimizing energy consumption in vegetable storage facilities through a mix of wind power plants (WPP) and photovoltaic (PV) panels, further supported by electric batteries for energy storage. This model, implemented in the Microsoft Excel environment, provides a detailed insight into the energy dynamics of the storage process. The model was used to simulate the operational cycle of a potato storage facility with a capacity of 1000 tons, using weather data from Yoshkar-Ola from September 2020 to May 2021. This cycle includes specific phases such as treatment, cooling, main storage, and preparation for sale, each characterized by unique temperature and ventilation requirements.
The results of the simulation are revealing. Heat loss throughout the storage period was directly linked to external weather conditions, highlighting the impact of ambient temperatures on the facility’s energy requirements. Notably, the initial cooling phase required additional power from centralized sources, being the most energy-intensive phase. However, the combined energy produced by the PV panels and the WPP was sufficient to meet the facility’s needs for the remainder of the storage period, and even generated excess energy that could potentially be sold back to the grid. Specifically, the system, consisting of a 400 m² solar cell array and a wind turbine array, generated a surplus of 31,971 kWh during the operating period.
This study underscores not only the practicality of integrating renewable energy into vegetable storage operations but also the potential environmental and economic benefits of such systems. The ability of facilities to be nearly self-sufficient in their energy needs is a critical step in reducing the agricultural sector’s carbon footprint and operating costs. In addition, the flexibility of the model offers the potential to adapt to different geographic and climatic conditions, providing a versatile solution to the global challenge of food preservation.
In conclusion, the use of renewable energy sources in vegetable storage facilities offers a practical and innovative method to improve the sustainability of agricultural practices. Through the development and application of a comprehensive mathematical model, this study demonstrates the potential to significantly reduce energy consumption, and carbon emissions, and ensure the long-term preservation of agricultural products. As the agricultural sector evolves in response to climate change and growing food demand, such research provides valuable insights and viable solutions to improve food security and sustainability.
Source: Svechnikov, V., Medyakov, A., & Sidyganov, Y. (2024). Theoretical studies of the vegetable store operation using a complex of renewable energy sources. AIP Publishing. https://doi.org/10.1063/5.0197695
For more research on potato storage, click here: https://bit.ly/3u8OCtU.
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