A low-cost solar tunnel dryer was designed and developed with a capacity of 50 kg. This prototype dryer is intended for drying seasonal higher catch/landing of fish. The dryer is a stand-alone system as it does not require any external power source/electricity. The fans are operated utilizing a solar PV panel fitted on the rooftop of the dryer and associated battery. The new dryer can be constructed in a larger size for drying bulk quantities of fish in a single batch. It is also of affordable cost and is expected to be suitable for the low-income fishermen community.

Technology Benefits 

• A stand-alone system, with no AC power requirement
• Equipped with Solar PV system for energy requirement
• Ideal for drying fish, fruits, vegetables, spices, and agro products  
• Hygienically prepared premium quality uniformly dried product
• Economically viable and eco-friendly – maximum use of solar energy 
• The drying time is reduced considerably with improved product quality
• Lesser operating expenses
• Improved shelf life and value addition of the product fetches higher income for the fisher folk.
• Labor requirement is considerably reduced compared to open sun drying 
• The re-handling process like spreading, sorting, and storing are eliminated