Economics of solar powered refrigeration transport applications

The application of photovoltaics (PV) to refrigeration for the distribution of chilled supermarket produce has been pioneered in the United Kingdom (UK). Weather conditions in the UK are such that the power produced by a PV system is in phase with the refrigeration load for most transported chilled product applications. An economic assessment of PV chilled delivery has been undertaken and compared with that of diesel powered refrigeration units. The analysis indicates that a payback time of 18 years for a PV refrigerated supermarket trailer can be achieved. Further analysis is presented for other chilled applications of airport catering supply and household milk delivery. In each case the typical delivery profile, energy loads and possible photovoltaic system are described.