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Direct Current Photovoltaic Solar Energy for Water Heating

Author

Listed:
  • Juan José Milón Guzmán

    (Instituto de Energías Renovables, Universidad Tecnológica del Perú, Lima 15046, Peru)

  • Sergio Leal Braga

    (Departamento de Engenharia Mecânica, Pontificia Universidade Católica do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 22451-900, Brazil)

  • Florian Alain Yannick Pradelle

    (Departamento de Engenharia Mecânica, Pontificia Universidade Católica do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 22451-900, Brazil)

  • Mario Enrique Díaz Coa

    (Departamento de Engenharia Mecânica, Pontificia Universidade Católica do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 22451-900, Brazil)

Abstract

In this study, an experimental device is developed and implemented to evaluate the process of heating water using photovoltaic solar energy in direct current. The prototype consists of a 147 L stainless steel tank, a 5000 W heating element, and four solar panels (370 W each). Tests were carried out with a direct photovoltaic power supply and with the use of a maximum power point tracking (MPPT) device. Temperature and electrical sensors were installed and connected to a data acquisition system. The results show that the electrical energy produced by the PV solar panels can be used directly for water heating. For the direct PV power supply, the average total efficiency is 12%; with the MPPT, the average value is 18.2%. There is a clear improvement in efficiency when using a device with maximum power tracking, improving the heating process and reducing the time needed to reach the set temperature. This technology can be applied to water heating in residences, medical centers, and other buildings that require it.

Suggested Citation

  • Juan José Milón Guzmán & Sergio Leal Braga & Florian Alain Yannick Pradelle & Mario Enrique Díaz Coa, 2025. "Direct Current Photovoltaic Solar Energy for Water Heating," Energies, MDPI, vol. 18(8), pages 1-18, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jeners:v:18:y:2025:i:8:p:2009-:d:1634345
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
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