The integration of renewable energy sources (RES) into district cooling (DC) systems presents a significant opportunity to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. By leveraging local renewable resources, such as solar thermal-electric power systems, biomass, geothermal energy, and surplus heat from industrial processes, DC systems can enhance their efficiency and sustainability.

Renewable energy sources provide a diverse array of options for integrating sustainable practices into DC systems. Notably, excess heat, which is often abundant and cost-effective, can be a viable resource for district cooling especially in industrial areas such as Jubail & Yanbu as well Power & Desalination plants. The feasibility of using this heat depends on factors such as the location of the industry, the amount of available heat, and its temperature level.

DC systems are particularly effective at harnessing excess thermal energy from medium to large-scale renewable plants and industrial facilities. This collected energy can significantly increase the efficiency of the DC system by replacing energy that would otherwise be generated by the traditional power plants. In cities like Vienna, waste heat from incineration power plants is utilized not only for District Cooling but also for District Heating.

Renewable energies, especially when used for cooling, can significantly contribute to a sustainable energy supply. Technologies such as power-to-heat convert surplus electricity from fluctuating renewable power generators, like wind turbines and photovoltaic plants, into heat. This conversion method, alongside solar thermal technology, has been in use for many years and continues to grow globally, with over 580 million m² of solar collectors installed worldwide, amounting to a capacity of 410 GWth.

Free cooling leverages low ambient temperatures from air, soil, or water bodies to provide low-cost cooling. Although some energy is required to operate the necessary equipment, utilizing natural climate conditions can substantially reduce costs and GHG emissions. Various natural cooling sources, such as cool water from seas, lakes, rivers, night-time coolness, high-altitude coolness, and geothermal coolness, can be used either independently or in conjunction with other cooling technologies. For example, cool air collected during the night can reduce reliance on conventional chillers during peak cooling demand periods.

Integrating renewable energy sources into district cooling systems is a powerful strategy for enhancing energy efficiency and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. By utilizing diverse and sustainable energy sources, such as excess heat and solar thermal energy, DC systems can significantly contribute to a greener future. The combination of various renewable technologies and innovative cooling methods ensures that district cooling remains a vital component in the transition towards sustainable urban environments.

Sources:

https://www.coolheating.eu/images/downloads/D4.1_Handbook_EN.pdf

https://www.scribd.com/document/702835509/IEA-DHC-Sustainable-District-Cooling-Guidelines

https://www.kapsarc.org/research/publications/the-future-of-cooling-in-saudi-arabia-technology-market-and-policy-options/