Design of a Solar Energy Water Heater Tank with High Efficiency for Local Use in Gaza Strip

Abstract

The traditional sources of energy are considered as a threat to the environment. On the contrary, renewable sources of energy such as wind energy, solar energy, and geothermal energy, etc. are eco-friendly. The main source of renewable energy in our area is solar energy where Palestine is considered as one of the sunny countries, and percepts good solar radiation over the year. The insolation intensity is in the range of 0.5-1kW/m2, and so solar concentrators are required to attain medium and high temperature conditions. In this work, Solar Energy Heater Tank (SEHT) is designed. SEHT uses solar energy to produce hot water for various domestic purposes. By using SEHT, the cost of electric bills reduces dramatically. Moreover, it is a great alternative for regions which do not receive utility services. It does not pollute air or water or soil and is completely eco-friendly. The components used in designing SEHT are taken form junk yards. The tank replaces the currently available ones that are electricity powered supplied by utility company. Though the design is found very useful to Gaza, and it also applicable to any area where solar radiation is abundant, especially for areas suffering from lack of tradition sources of energy or in remote areas where utility services cannot reach them.