In another groundbreaking achievement, researchers at the Centre of Excellence in Energy Science and Technology (CEEST) at Shoolini University, in collaboration with the University of New South Wales, Australia, have introduced a groundbreaking cooling technology devoid of traditional compressors. This pioneering approach, underpinned by photovoltaic (PV) systems, represents a significant step towards realising net-zero energy buildings (NZEBs) and slashing global greenhouse gas emissions. The transformative research has been published in the esteemed International Journal of Cleaner Production, boasting a Cite Score of 18.5 and an impact factor of 11.1.
The collaborative team, including Asst Prof Rahul Chandel, Prof Shyam Singh Chandel, Deo Prasad, and Prof RP Dwivedi, showcased a green alternative to conventional compressor-based air conditioning. Their pioneering, thermoelectric cooling technology, trialled at the Solar Energy Research Facility of CEEST under full solar loading, proved its efficacy by reducing indoor temperatures by 5–16°C.
A standout feature of their research is the development of innovative semi-transparent thermoelectric-PV (STEM-PV) modules, setting the stage for the next generation of commercial cooling devices and further exploration into NZEBs. “This model is capable of assessing performance across a variety of global climatic conditions, employing solid-state semiconductor devices that capitalise on the Seebeck or Peltier effects for energy conversion, thus steering clear of harmful refrigerant gases like CFCs and HCFCs,” Prof Shyam Singh Chandel, a co-author and internationally acclaimed top 2% scientist in Energy by Stanford University and Elsevier, elaborated.
By avoiding the use of CFCs, HCFCs, or any gases that contribute to global warming and ozone layer depletion, this thermoelectric technology aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) and SDG13 (Climate Action).
Highlighting the importance of such innovations, Prof Shyam Singh Chandel stressed the necessity of advancing and adopting sustainable cooling solutions in response to the pressing challenges of global warming and the collective commitment to the UN SDGs.
Solan, February 10
