Libyan academic for post graduate studies
Report in solar cooling systems
Othman Essa Othman (747)
Supervisor
dr. Ali. F.Muftah
2025-2026
Definition
A solar cooling system, also known as solar air conditioning, utilizes solar
energy to provide cooling for buildings or spaces. It works by converting
sunlight into heat, which is then used to drive a cooling process, either
directly or indirectly through a refrigerant. This process reduces indoor
temperatures and provides comfort, offering an eco-friendly alternative to
traditional cooling methods.
How it works:
1. Solar Energy Collection:
Solar panels (photovoltaic-thermal collectors) or specialized solar
collectors capture sunlight and convert it into heat.
2. Cooling Process:
The heat is then used to drive various cooling technologies, such as:
Absorption Refrigeration: Uses heat to power a refrigeration
cycle, which produces chilled water or cool air.
Ejector Cooling: Utilizes a simple design with low boiling
point refrigerant, ideal for solar applications.
Thermoelectric Cooling: Converts heat directly into
electricity, which can then be used to operate cooling devices.
Hybrid Systems: Combine different cooling methods, such as
solar thermal and conventional air conditioning, to ensure
consistent cooling even with varying solar conditions.
3. Cooling Distribution:
The cooling effect, whether chilled water or cooled air, is then
distributed throughout the building or space to be cooled.
Benefits of Solar Cooling:
Environmental Sustainability:
Uses a renewable energy source (solar) to reduce reliance on fossil
fuels and greenhouse gas emissions.
Cost Savings:
Operating costs can be significantly reduced compared to
conventional air conditioning as the system runs on solar energy,
especially during peak cooling demand.
Energy Independence:
Offers a decentralized cooling solution, making buildings less reliant
on the grid and potentially reducing energy costs.
Disadvantages
High Initial Costs:
Solar cooling systems, especially those using photovoltaic panels, have a
higher upfront cost compared to traditional air conditioning.
Lower Performance:
Their cooling capacity can be less efficient than traditional air conditioning,
and they may not be suitable for areas with limited sunlight.
Space Requirements:
Solar panels and related components require significant space, which can be
a barrier for some installations.
Sunlight Dependency:
The efficiency of solar cooling systems is directly tied to the amount of
sunlight available, making them less effective in cloudy or shaded areas.
Maintenance Issues:
Solar cooling systems, especially those using absorption or adsorption
cycles, can have maintenance needs related to corrosion, crystallization, and
cooling tower upkeep.
Overheating:
While sunlight is beneficial, excessive solar radiation can also lead to
overheating of components, potentially reducing efficiency and lifespan
Reference
1. Maidment, G.G. (2012). Comprehensive Renewable Energy || Solar
Cooling and Refrigeration Systems. , (), 481–494.
2. Pesaran AA and Wipke K (1994) Use of unglazed transpired solar
collectors for desiccant cooling. Solar Energy 52: 419–427.