Solar Cooling in High Latitudes Conditions

摘要

The renewable energy sources (RESs) occupy a significant part in the energy sectors of Latvia andrnneighbouring countries; therefore, new solutions for electricity, heat and cold production using differentrnRESs including solar energy are sought for. Since it could be necessary to maintain an optimum indoorrnmicroclimate in the summer time – e.g. in hotels, office buildings, manufacturing premises (mainly concreternand glass structures) – small-scale use of solar refrigeration is important.rnIn the climatic conditions of the Baltic Sea region cooling is required for 3000 - 5000 degree hours per year.rnSo far, in Latvia solar cooling systems have not been used; therefore, it is important to assess the potential ofrnsuch systems. At the Institute of Physical Energetics a solar cooling system with the cooling capacity of 8rnkW is installed in the Solar Energy Testing Park. The system has appropriate measuring equipment; itsrnperformance is improved, and the operating data are monitored.rnThe paper presents new methods for efficient use of solar energy for cooling based on experimental data. Thernresults obtained allow for evaluation of the potential of relevant technologies taking into account theirrnstrengths and weaknesses as well as for promotion of innovative technology transfer from science to practice.