Performance prediction results of a 500 square metres Pondicherry salt gradient solar pond

Solar pond modelling studies (SGSP) have been made to predict the heat collecting pattern of the present 500 sq.m. solar pond with a pond perimeter of 90 m, on its annual storage zone temperature development. Periodically measured temperature and specific gravity dataset of the brine solution is observed at various depths of SGSP has been utilised to study the performance of the solar pond. The recorded temperature profiles of the SGSP have been utilised in the estimation of the solar thermal conversion efficiency of the SGSP. Transmission function, heat loss of the solar pond is estimated numerically during heat extraction period. Various heat extraction efficiency of the pond at steady state was presented. Experimental studies have been made on the SGSP to find its suitability for delivering a daily thermal load of 500 kWh.