Analysis on the Implementation of a Solar-Powered Automobile Air Conditioning System (SPAAS)

This study presents the implementation of a Solar-Powered Automobile Air-Conditioning System (SPAAS), offering a sustainable alternative to conventional vehicle air conditioning. Installed in a repurposed minibus, the system utilizes four 330-watt mono-crystalline photovoltaic (PV) panels mounted on the roof to harness solar energy. A 3-kilowatt inverter converts this energy, while a 40-ampere solar charge controller regulates its flow to two 250 ampere-hour, 12-volt gel-type deep-cycle batteries. These batteries provide a reliable power source for the 1-hp split-type air conditioning unit. Addressing the transportation sector's growing demand for eco-friendly and energy-efficient solutions, SPAAS significantly reduces reliance on fossil fuels. By harnessing readily available solar radiation, it directly decreases carbon emissions associated with vehicle cooling, aligning with global efforts to mitigate climate change and promote sustainable transportation. The system's design integrates photovoltaic panels, a robust battery storage system, and an optimized air conditioning unit for efficient energy conversion and storage. A comprehensive evaluation assesses SPAAS performance, energy efficiency, and economic viability, providing insights into its technological feasibility and potential for widespread adoption. The study also examines the broader environmental implications, including potential benefits and challenges of large-scale implementation. This includes an analysis of initial investment costs, long-term maintenance, and the overall environmental impact throughout the system's life cycle. The findings contribute to a better understanding of solar-powered technologies in creating a more sustainable transportation future.