Towards using renewable energy in Mezcal production

TL;DR

This study investigates the use of photovoltaic systems for mezcal distillation in Oaxaca, aiming to replace traditional firewood methods with renewable energy to reduce environmental impact and maintain product quality.

Contribution

It proposes a novel photovoltaic-based distillation process and compares its effectiveness and product quality with traditional firewood methods in mezcal production.

Findings

Electrical distillation reduces environmental impact.

Solar energy can be used without compromising mezcal quality.

The approach improves energy efficiency in mezcal production.

Abstract

This paper explores the electrification of mezcal distilling in Oaxaca, Mexico, as a sustainable alternative to traditional firewood methods. We investigate the mezcal process, including cooking, grinding, fermentation, and distillation, and propose a photovoltaic system for distillation. The research also includes scientific outreach activities in the producing communities. We, in collaboration with the communities, proposed novel uses of renewable energies. The results of chemical analysis (chromatography and FTIR) and sensory data for distillation using firewood and electricity are presented to compare the mezcal produced with solar energy and traditional mezcal. Our studies conclude that electrical distillation can reduce environmental impact and improve energy efficiency without compromising product quality.