Renewable energy thermoelectric module air conditioning system-design factors: a review

Abstract

The conventional air conditioner is fast becoming a noticeable energy user that negatively affects the supplier’s ability to supply energy during peak periods when the country’s energy need rises. The Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) stipulates that a country committed under the Kyoto Protocol, has to implement emissions-reduction programs in developing countries to help reduce the CO2 emissions around the world. It is therefore important to invest in renewable energy projects and perform research on air conditioning systems, in order to lower the energy strain on the electricity grid and contribute towards CDM. This paper therefore provides a review on the factors that need to be taken into account and the different technologies that can be used in the design of a renewable energy thermoelectric module (TEM) air conditioning system for South African conditions. The different technologies in the design are compared to each other by means of a unique tradeoff study, in order to design the optimal efficient and cost effective renewable energy TEM air conditioning system