Development and Evaluation of an IoT-Integrated Solar-powered Cold Storage System for Post-harvest Preservation of Perishable Produce

Abstract

A sustainable, energy-efficient cold storage system prototype was designed and developed using a combination of photovoltaic (PV) solar power and IoT-based real-time environmental monitoring. This research addresses the need for reliable preservation of perishable agricultural commodities, particularly in rural and off-grid regions. Key components included a solar PV panel, DC-powered refrigeration hardware, insulation, sensors, and an IoT platform for continuous temperature and humidity data acquisition. The approach has replicable potential for various perishable supply chains, contributing to both food security and renewable energy adoption in agriculture. Post-harvest losses of fruits and vegetables remain a critical challenge, particularly in rural regions with limited access to reliable electricity. This study presents the design, development, and evaluation of an IoT-based solar-powered cold storage system for small-scale agricultural applications. The system utilises photovoltaic panels to generate renewable energy, coupled with an IoT-enabled monitoring setup for real-time control of temperature and humidity. Components, including a compressor, condenser coil, R-134a refrigerant, sensors, and a minimal-maintenance battery, were integrated into a cold storage prototype. Performance tests conducted with apples, cucumbers, and tomatoes indicated significant improvements in shelf-life and quality compared to ambient storage. The system maintained internal temperatures between 3–5 °C while reducing spoilage, ensuring food safety and quality. This work demonstrates the feasibility of decentralised, sustainable cold storage solutions for small farmers, potentially reducing post-harvest losses and improving farm income.