Suryodaya: An experiment in Karnataka

Researchers developed and are deploying a new high-performance and affordable solar drying system for chili farmers in India. Traditional open-sun drying takes 2-3 weeks, leading to degradation of chili quality and loss of marketable chilies. Commercially available heat pump dryers can address this issue but require more electric power and CapEx than are available in rural areas. The new product dries chilies in 3-4 days, reducing risk while increasing chili quality and quantity. Researchers accomplish this by utilizing thermal management techniques to convert a low-cost, inefficient greenhouse into a well-controlled drying structure. Morsel conducted a survey with chili farmers and producing groups to test the drying-as-a-service business model.