The challenges and opportunities of solar thermal for palm oil industry in Malaysia

Abstract

Renewable energy is the key solution to the growing energy crisis. Renewable energy resources such as solar, biomass, wind, and wave energy are infinite, abundant and environmentally friendly. Solar energy is one of the most promising renewable energy sources in the equatorial zone of Malaysia. Photovoltaic (PV) and solar thermal are the current technology implemented in harvesting solar energy to generate energy. The purpose of this study is to investigate the potential implementation of solar thermal technologies at the palm oil industrial processes in Malaysia. In order to determine the potential, analysis of palm oil processes operational condition is needed, then a solar thermal potential based on irradiation will be assessed. A review of solar thermal potential and process heat requirement in the palm oil industrial leads to the selection of promising unit processes that can be integrated with solar thermal. The palm oil processes in this study includes palm oil refinery and oleochemicals. The challenges and opportunities for integrated solar thermal with palm oil processes are discussed as well. The outcomes of this study facilitate the implementation of solar thermal technologies in prioritized processes in the palm oil industry.