Summary:

System profitability analysis and carbon (IV) oxide emission saved by an indirect passive solar cabinet dryer for tomatoes drying was evaluated under Bauchi (Nigeria) prevailing weather condition. Dryer minimum annual throughput of 27.89 kg occurred in the design month of August at 180 days of drying with thermal energy output of 262.55 kWh. Financial analysis indicated a minimum annual cash flow of ₦7,826.61 for electricity energy saved with a payback period of 14.22 years which is less than the economic useful life of the dryer in the design month, while preventing 105.02 kg of carbon (IV) oxide emission. This illustrates a conventional energy cost saving method for drying high moisture crop using a cleaner form of energy. The study recommends the development and adaptation of solar dryers with auxiliary heating units for proper harnessing of solar energy for environmental sustenance and economic growth.