Proceedings of the
Second International Energy 2030 Conference,
November 4-5, 2008, Abu Dhabi, U.A.E.
Solar Powered Adsorption Refrigeration System
Ali Al Alili
The Petroleum Institute, UAE
Abstract
Solar power is an environment-friendly source of energy which is abundant in nature. It also has the
potential of reducing the world’s demand for fossil fuels. It is particularly attractive for use in adsorption
refrigeration systems in areas of the world where electrical power is scarce and where there is a plentiful
source of solar energy. Since there are few/no moving parts, the consumption of any mechanical energy is
minimized. Such refrigeration systems function on the basis of adsorption and desorption which are the
accumulation and release of gases (adsorbate) into a solid substance (adsorbent), respectively. Solar
powered adsorption refrigeration systems (SPARS) have the advantage of being thermally-driven as well
as the ability of operating with low-grade heat energy. In such systems, the compressor of a conventional
refrigeration system is replaced by an adsorber. Moreover, SPARS are promising solar refrigeration
method and have low maintenance and operating expenses. This paper focuses on the possibility of using
the solar adsorption refrigeration technology for air-conditioning purposes in the UAE.
