Efficient utilization of solar energy for domestic applications

Shortage of energy is dangerously affecting the economic growth of the developing countries. Oil, gas and coal reserves are being depleted rapidly and are affecting the environment. Embargo and safety requirements limit the development of nuclear energy. Renewable energy resources need to be embedded with the conventional generation. A lot has been said and done on solar energy. However emphasis has been on the conversion to electricity using photovoltaic cells. In the present work, it is proposed that efficient use of solar energy would be to utilize it for direct heating and cooling. Solar chillers based on solar heating coupled with gas firing are proposed for urban houses. Solar pumps for irrigation in the rural areas should be used. This would reduce the demand of electricity hungry air conditioners and diesel hungry tube wells.