Feasibility of solar air conditioning system for Afghanistan’s climate

Abstract

Among the broad varieties of power supply in Afghanistan such as city power produced from water dams, fuel generators, and imported electricity from neighboring countries, solar energy production is growing at a noticeable pace. Its preference is because of cost and sustainability perimeters. Given the climate of the country air conditioning inside buildings is required throughout the year, which is an important requirement for the comfort of its residents. Because it requires a great amount of energy, therefore, most companies are working on different principles to provide new products of solar air conditioning systems. The solar air conditioning system provides heating and cooling by utilizing solar energy. Recently, climate change and air pollution proved to be a major challenge for humans, and the current rate of resource consumption will result in a total depletion of natural energy resources in the earth. In this paper, we are assessing the feasibility study of solar-powered air conditioner technology in Afghanistan. Considering the weather of the country, there exists enormous potential for solar energy production. Afghanistan receives 4 – 6.5 kWh/m2 /day solar insolation on average with 300 sunny days a year. In conclusion, the air conditioning complication which can be addressed by solar energy production is sustainable, cost-effective, and environment-friendly manner in Afghanistan.