Solar collector air conditioning system using absorption chiller for a commercial building in Palakkad district, Kerala, India

Abstract: Due to effects of global warming and rising living standards, Kerala’s, India air conditioning sector has seen an increase in energy consumption in recent years. Increased need for power resulted in a peak demand owing to the usage of traditional air conditioning systems running on electricity produced from fossil fuels. For reduced environmental effects of air conditioning/refrigerant system operation, this study considers alternative energy sources. The solar powered air conditioning is marketed as an appealing appliance that makes use of free, clear, and sustainable solar energy. In this study we are installing an air conditioning system based on solar collector using absorption chiller for a commercial building in Palakkad district Kerala, India, and thus making the building sustainable. The study uses a case study methodology comparing two systems. One old using hazardous refrigerant and one new with environmentally friendly coolant. This study designs an air-conditioning system for required cooling demand and checking the viability of the installation by cost analysis and energy use. Installing roof top solar panels will make the building completely energy sustainable. The study proves the new solar collector air conditioning system and integrated solar panels can come to a breakeven point within one year of operation.