In this study, we analyzed the feasibility of using radiation concentrators in thermal solar systems for the hygiene of milking parlors. We analyzed three options for water heating with tank accumulation: system with electric resistance, the solar system with concentrator and the solar system without concentrator. It was calculated the total cost of these alternatives and the net present value of the solar system supplemented by purchased eucalyptus wood, eucalyptus wood produced on the farm, electricity and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). A sensitivity analysis of the thermal solar system varying the number of dairy cows, the electricity and the firewood costs, the interest rate, the system's components cost, the life expectancy and the subsidy on the equipment value. The thermal solar system with concentrator supplemented by firewood produced on the property was the more feasible heating alternative. The use of concentrators caused a reduction of around 10 % of the purchase cost of solar heating system.
solar energy; water heating; milk production
