Technical Evaluation of Solar Desiccant Evaporative Cooling with Solar Absorption and TraditionalCompression Systems

The use of heat produced by solar thermal collectors is an interesting option for thermal driven airconditioning process. Three technologies are commercially available: absorption, adsorption anddesiccant cooling systems. This paper is focused on solar desiccant cooling and solar absorptionsystems. The aim of the study is to assess energetic and comfort performances of these solar coolingsystems integrated in an office building. Solar systems are positioned in reference to standard airconditioning equipments (compression and variable refrigerant equipments).For that purpose, the linkbetween solar air conditioning system and building is predominant. Therefore the modelling takesplace in a dynamic thermal building simulation software, CA-SIS developed by EDF R&D to get global results. The article presents main results of assessments regarding the energetic and economic balances and the thermal comfort of the occupants.