LPG hassle ends as solar cooking system runs on sunlight, works even at night; trial successful
Scientists in Bhubaneswar develop a solar-powered cooking system that works day and night, offering a cost-effective and eco-friendly alternative to LPG.
New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): Amid rising concerns over LPG shortages and increasing prices due to tensions in the Middle East, a promising innovation has emerged from Bhubaneswar, Odisha. Scientists have developed a modern cooking system powered entirely by solar energy, offering a sustainable alternative to conventional gas cylinders. The system has successfully entered the trial phase.
Developed under the leadership of scientist Sudhanshu Shekhar Sahoo at Odisha University of Technology and Research (OUTR), the system uniquely combines solar coil technology with induction cooking. It is designed to be cost-effective and environmentally friendly, reducing dependence on LPG.
One of the key features of this innovation is its Direct Current (DC)-based mechanism. During the day, solar panels directly power the cooking process. At night, the stored energy is converted into Alternating Current (AC), enabling uninterrupted cooking even after sunset. This ensures 24/7 usability without reliance on gas.
A pilot project is currently underway at Golden Brew Cafe, where dishes like biryani and pulao are being prepared efficiently using the system. While a 2 kW solar setup is generally sufficient, the café has installed a 3 kW system to meet higher demand.
Experts believe that although the system requires an initial investment, it can significantly reduce long-term fuel costs. It is especially beneficial for commercial establishments such as hotels, dhabas, and cafés.
The project was developed by a three-member team including Dr. Manoj Nayak from National Institute of Technology (NIT) and electrician Santosh Swain from Dhenkanal. The team redesigned an older coil heating system—previously discontinued due to high electricity consumption—into a more efficient DC-based model.
A patent for the technology was filed in 2021 and approved in 2024. Currently, the system is being showcased at OUTR’s incubation center, with ongoing efforts to further reduce its cost. Experts believe that in cities like Bhubaneswar, this solar cooking technology could play a transformative role in promoting clean, affordable, and sustainable energy solutions.