Higher Efficiency Solar and Grid Connected Oven Using PI Controller

Abstract

This paper presents the development of a higher-efficiency solar and grid-connected oven that integrates solar energy and grid power for optimized cooking efficiency. Utilizing a Proportional-Integral (PI) controller[1], the system maintains precise temperature control by dynamically adjusting energy sources based on real-time availability. The research includes modeling photovoltaic (PV) modules and the integration of a boost converter, with simulations conducted using MATLAB. Results reveal significant improvements in temperature stability and reductions in energy consumption compared to traditional ovens. The system promotes decreased reliance on grid power while advancing sustainable energy practices. Challenges associated with initial setup costs and solar availability are also discussed. Ultimately, this innovative approach supports the transition toward renewable energy solutions in cooking applications.

Introduction

Purpose & Motivation

To address climate change and reduce reliance on fossil fuels, this project explores the development of a high-efficiency oven powered by both solar energy and grid electricity. Solar energy is prioritized due to its abundance and sustainability. The system offers a seamless energy switch between solar and grid power to ensure reliable and energy-efficient cooking, even during poor sunlight conditions.

Key Components & Technologies

• Hybrid Power Integration: Combines solar panels with grid electricity to enhance efficiency and ensure continuous operation.

• PI Controller: A Proportional-Integral controller dynamically manages energy input from solar and grid sources, ensuring precise temperature control and efficient energy distribution.

• DSPIC30F2010 Microcontroller: Acts as the system's brain, executing real-time control algorithms based on sensor inputs (e.g., voltage, current, temperature).

• Boost Converter: Increases the low voltage output of the solar panel to usable levels for the oven.

• Power Electronics:

  • MOSFETs (IRFP250): Handle high current switching.

  • LM317 Regulator & Capacitors: Ensure voltage stability and filter noise.

  • Protection Diodes (MBR20200): Safeguard against voltage spikes.

System Design

• PV Module: A 200W solar panel with 54 series-connected cells generates the primary power using photovoltaic principles.

• Boost Converter Specs:

  • Input: 15–20V

  • Output: 24V @ 1.5A

  • Switching Frequency: 20 kHz

• Sensor Feedback Loop: Monitors performance and adjusts energy input in real-time to maintain efficiency and safety.

Simulation & Results

• The system was simulated under two solar irradiance levels (500 W/m² and 1000 W/m²).

• Findings:

  • Power output stabilizes faster and more consistently at higher irradiance.

  • Dual-source integration (solar + grid) ensures uninterrupted performance.

  • PI controller improves energy management and temperature stability.

  • System adapts well to variable solar conditions, making it suitable for both on-grid and off-grid locations.

Conclusion

This hybrid solar and grid-connected oven system:

• Promotes sustainable cooking.

• Enhances reliability and efficiency.

• Provides a practical solution for integrating renewable energy into daily appliances.

• Supports global sustainability goals by reducing dependence on fossil fuels and enhancing energy resilience.

Conclusion

This paper presents the development of a higher efficiency solar and grid-connected oven that utilizes a Proportional- Integral (PI) controller, marking a significant advancement in the integration of renewable energy with traditional power systems. The simulation results included in this study demon- strate that this hybrid system effectively optimizes energy man- agement, ensuring consistent performance through seamless transitions between solar and grid power. By enhancing energy efficiency and reducing reliance on non-renewable sources, this innovative approach not only contributes to sustainable energy solutions but also paves the way for further research and development in hybrid energy systems, ultimately support- ing the global shift towards renewable energy adoption. The design process detailed in this paper encompasses the modeling of the photovoltaic (PV) module and the boost converter, which are critical components for maximizing en- ergy capture and conversion efficiency. The extensive literature review highlights existing advancements in solar energy appli- cations, providing a solid foundation for the proposed system. Furthermore, the MATLAB simulations validate the system’s performance under varying environmental conditions, show- casing its adaptability and reliability in real-world scenarios. In addition to its technical contributions, this research emphasizes the importance of integrating renewable energy sources into everyday applications, such as cooking, to promote sustainability in domestic and industrial settings. The findings suggest that the hybrid system not only enhances energy efficiency but also offers cost savings to users by reducing dependence on conventional energy sources. As the world increasingly shifts towards sustainable energy solutions, this work serves as a vital step in demonstrating the feasibility and benefits of hybrid energy systems, encouraging further exploration and innovation in this field.

References

[1] H. Fathabadi, “Novel high efficiency dc/dc boost converter for using in photovoltaic systems,” Solar Energy, vol. 125, pp. 22–31, 2016. [2] M. L. Azad, S. Das, P. K. Sadhu, B. Satpati, A. Gupta, and P. Arvind, “P&o algorithm based mppt technique for solar pv system under differ- ent weather conditions,” in 2017 International Conference on Circuit, Power and Computing Technologies (ICCPCT), pp. 1–5, IEEE, 2017. [3] S. Bennett, “Development of the pid controller,” IEEE Control Systems Magazine, vol. 13, no. 6, pp. 58–62, 1993. [4] R. P. Borase, D. Maghade, S. Sondkar, and S. Pawar, “A review of pid control, tuning methods and applications,” International Journal of Dynamics and Control, vol. 9, pp. 818–827, 2021. [5] K. Dubey and M. Shah, “Design and simulation of solar pv system,” in 2016 international conference on automatic control and dynamic optimization techniques (ICACDOT), pp. 568–573, IEEE, 2016. [6] UR, Prasanna and Umanand, “Hybrid solar cooking,” [7] M. Gaboriault and A. Notman, “A high efficiency, noninverting, buck- boost dc-dc converter,” in Nineteenth Annual IEEE Applied Power Elec- tronics Conference and Exposition, 2004. APEC’04., vol. 3, pp. 1411– 1415, IEEE, 2004. [8] A. Verma and A. K. Kori, “Higher efficiency solar and thermal hybrid power plant based on pi controller,” in 2020 Fourth International Con- ference on Computing Methodologies and Communication (ICCMC), [9] pp. 699–703, IEEE, 2020. [10] T. Ma, H. Yang, and L. Lu, “Solar photovoltaic system modeling and performance prediction,” Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, vol. 36, pp. 304–315, 2014. [11] A. Siebert, A. Troedson, and S. Ebner, “Ac to dc power conversion now and in the future,” IEEE transactions on industry applications, vol. 38, no. 4, pp. 934–940, 2002. [12] P. Mohanty, G. Bhuvaneswari, R. Balasubramanian, and N. K. Dhaliwal, “Matlab based modeling to study the performance of different mppt techniques used for solar pv system under various operating conditions,” Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, vol. 38, pp. 581–593, 2014. [13] M. L. Swarupa, E. V. Kumar, and K. Sreelatha, “Modeling and simula- tion of solar pv modules based inverter in matlab-simulink for domestic cooking,” Materials Today: Proceedings, vol. 38, pp. 3414–3423, 2021. [14] M. A. Moussa, A. Derrouazin, M. Latroch, and M. Aillerie, “A hybrid renewable energy production system using a smart controller based on fuzzy logic,” Electrical Engineering & Electromechanics, no. 3, pp. 46– 50, 2022. [15] A. O. Victor and E. Ejiogu, “Hybrid solar thermal/electricity automated oven,” Adv. Sci. Technol. Eng. Syst. J, vol. 5, p. 188, 2020. [16] G. Zubi, F. Spertino, M. Carvalho, R. S. Adhikari, and T. Khatib, “Development and assessment of a solar home system to cover cooking and lighting needs in developing regions as a better alternative for existing practices,” Solar Energy, vol. 155, pp. 7–17, 2017.

Copyright

Copyright © 2025 Dr. Reenu George, Prof. Linu Jose, Afsiya Neznin Hashim VH, Ajilkurian , Joseph Nebu, Nashak AK. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.