Optimization and enviro-economic assessment of solar-cooling systems towards sustainable development: A case study of Qatar

The rising demand for cooling and increasing environmental concerns about fossil fuel-based power generation have led to the exploration of renewable energy as a complementary solution to cooling technologies. In hot climate regions like the Middle East, solar energy integration can be a sustainable option for district cooling systems. This study aims to compare the environmental and economic performance of various solar-cooling systems in Qatar by utilizing a generalized mixed-integer linear programming model to optimize each configuration. The results demonstrate that the hybrid solar integrated district cooling system is the most cost-effective and environmentally friendly option, generating yearly benefits of $17,704 and reducing CO2 emissions by 104.33%. Sensitivity analysis highlights that photovoltaic and hybrid integrated district cooling systems are the most suitable under high subsidy electricity tariffs. These findings have policy implications for governments and policymakers to consider implementing subsidies to promote these systems, leading to reduced electricity consumption, lower peak demand, and decreased greenhouse gas emissions. The methodology used in this study can be applied to other case studies, and the sensitivity analysis can evaluate the feasibility and economic viability of district cooling systems in similar areas. Furthermore, this methodology can be adapted to analyze the sensitivity of other renewable energy technologies to electricity tariffs, which can be beneficial for promoting their adoption in various sectors.

Automated summary

The increasing demand for cooling and environmental concerns have prompted the exploration of renewable energy as a complement to cooling technologies. The study compares the environmental and economic performance of different solar-cooling systems in Qatar using a model to optimize each configuration. The findings highlight the cost-effectiveness and environmental benefits of the hybrid solar integrated district cooling system, with potential policy implications for promoting its adoption and reducing electricity consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.