Solar Cooling for the Sunbelt Regions – Final results from IEA-SHC Task 65
Abstract
The IEA SHC Task 65 “Solar Cooling for the Sunbelt Regions” started in July 2020 and has been focusing on innovations for affordable, safe and reliable Solar Cooling systems for the Sunbelt regions. The Task 65 finished in June 2024. Its innovative approach was the adaptation of existing concepts/technologies to the Sunbelt regions using solar energy, either solar thermal or solar PV. This paper presents the comprehensive Task 65 results of the different activities carried out in the last four years as well as the research highlights. In Subtask A (Adaptation) climatic conditions, applications, components and systems have been investigated and adapted tools and systems for sun belt countries have been developed. A GIS-based tool is now available for the global identification of possible solar cooling locations, taking into account technical as well as socio-economic factors. Subtask B (Demonstration) put the focus on design guidelines, performance indicators and standardization. An analysis of multiple case studies has been undertaken and lessons learned have been compiled. In Subtask C (Assessment & Tools), design tools have been analysed as well as assessment mechanisms have been developed. A variety of tools for solar cooling design is available. Subtask D (Dissemination) focused mainly on distributing the Task 65 results, but also developed new roadmaps for sunbelt countries with regard to the implementation of solar cooling systems. Financing models have been analyzed and recommendations for policy makers are given as a result.