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A Review of Using Solar Energy for Cooling Systems: Applications, Challenges, and Effects

Author

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  • Farhan Lafta Rashid

    (Petroleum Engineering Department, College of Engineering, University of Kerbala, Karbala 56001, Iraq)

  • Muhammad Asmail Eleiwi

    (Mechanical Engineering Department, College of Engineering, Tikrit University, Tikrit 34001, Iraq
    Electromechanical Engineering Department, College of Engineering, University of Samarra, Samarra 34010, Iraq)

  • Hayder I. Mohammed

    (Department of Physics, College of Education, University of Garmian, Kurdistan, Kalar 46021, Iraq)

  • Arman Ameen

    (Department of Building Engineering, Energy Systems and Sustainability Science, University of Gävle, 801 76 Gävle, Sweden)

  • Shabbir Ahmad

    (Institute of Geophysics and Geomatics, China University of Geosciences, Wuhan 430074, China
    Department of Basic Sciences and Humanities, Muhammad Nawaz Sharif University of Engineering and Technology, Multan 60000, Pakistan)

Abstract

Energy security refers to a country’s capacity to provide the energy resources essential to its wellbeing, including a reliable supply at an affordable costs. Economic growth and development cannot occur without access to reliable energy sources. Energy availability is a proxy for a country’s standard of living and a key factor in its economic development and technical progress. Solar power is the most reliable and cost-effective option when it comes to meeting the world’s energy needs. Solar-powered cooling systems are one example of how solar energy may be used in the real world. Solar-powered air conditioners have become more popular in recent years. The problems caused by our reliance on fossil fuels may be surmounted with the help of solar cooling systems that use solar collectors. Solar cooling systems may utilize low-grade solar energy, making them popular in the construction industry. Solar cooling systems powered by photovoltaic–thermal (PVT) collectors have been the subject of much research to improve the thermodynamic and economic performance of solar cooling systems. This research focuses on exploring the potential of solar-generated heat for use in cooling systems. This study will also examine the current challenges involved with using solar energy in cooling applications, as well as the possible benefits that may help pave the way for more research and greater employment of heat gain from the solar system in various cooling applications.

Suggested Citation

  • Farhan Lafta Rashid & Muhammad Asmail Eleiwi & Hayder I. Mohammed & Arman Ameen & Shabbir Ahmad, 2023. "A Review of Using Solar Energy for Cooling Systems: Applications, Challenges, and Effects," Energies, MDPI, vol. 16(24), pages 1-34, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jeners:v:16:y:2023:i:24:p:8075-:d:1300763
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Hussein A. Al Khiro & Rabah Boukhanouf, 2025. "Performance Analysis of Solar-Integrated Vapour Compression Air Conditioning System for Multi-Story Residential Buildings in Hot Climates: Energy, Exergy, Economic, and Environmental Insights," Energies, MDPI, vol. 18(11), pages 1-31, May.

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