Feasibility of Phase-Change Energy Harvesting in Cold Climates via Ice-Driven Latent Heat Recovery
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.15377/2409-5818.2026.13.1Keywords:
Renewable energy, Cryo-thermal cycle, Phase-change energy, Latent heat harvesting, Cold climate renewable.Abstract
This study investigates the feasibility of generating renewable energy by harnessing the latent heat released during the cyclical freezing of water. We propose a novel system wherein solar thermal energy is used to melt ice, and the resultant water is refrozen by exposure to the surrounding environment, acting as an environmental cold sink. The key innovation involves capturing the considerable latent heat released during the freezing phase via a working fluid and converting it into mechanical work using a low-temperature differential heat engine. Our thermodynamic modeling demonstrates that net energy production is theoretically achievable, contingent upon specific conditions of solar irradiance, ambient temperature, and heat engine efficiency. This work proposes a new pathway for energy generation in cold climates, potentially utilizing the extensive natural reservoirs of ice present in polar and alpine regions.
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