Solar-powered Rankine system for domestic applications

A new environmentally friendly device for solar-powered electricity generation and storage is described in this paper. Emphasis is given to a computer model which calculates the optimum features of the electricity-generating phase of the system; these features include working fluid efficiencies, solar collector size and efficiency and power output. Weather conditions for the UK and Mexico City are analysed and computer simulations are made using reliable updated meteorological data for both latitudes. Results show that, for an annual power output of 4000 kW.h, in the UK, the collector area required by the system proposed would be 92 m(2); whereas in Mexico, the area of collector required for the same output would be 48 m(2) under similar simulation conditions. A small increase in the efficiency of the turbine, feed pump and generator would bring about a significant reduction of the collector area required.