Solar Pond Systems

Solar pond systems are proposed as potential solutions that combine the low-cost collection of solar energy with long- and short-term storage of thermal energy. Solar ponds include several different concepts, but all use water to absorb solar energy and store energy in the heat form. Solar ponds contain layers with varying densities. The top layer absorbs solar energy, while the bottom layer stores thermal energy for use. As a result of their simplicity, cost-effectiveness and versatility, solar ponds represent a promising way to harness solar energy. The local energy needs can easily be met through solar ponds in the future as advancements in materials and design reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote sustainability. A solar pond system is really the key subject of this chapter, which discusses the basics and its applications. A discussion of the physics of solar ponds is followed by a discussion of the effective parameters which are critical to their performance. We further discuss the types of solar ponds with examples.