Breakthrough Innovations in Cooling Technology Set to Revolutionize the Industry

The scorching summer has already pushed the heat index well beyond 120 degrees in certain parts of Texas and Louisiana. Meanwhile, India experienced yet another deadly heat wave, resulting in multiple fatalities. Spring heat waves in Asia caused widespread destruction, igniting fires and causing roads to melt. Furthermore, global temperatures recently surpassed the critical 1.5 degrees Celsius (2.7 degrees Fahrenheit) threshold outlined in the Paris climate agreement.

As the demand for air conditioners skyrockets in response to escalating heat, it is vital to acknowledge that traditional cooling methods exacerbate climate change. The substantial energy consumption of air conditioners contributes to approximately 4% of global emissions, equivalent to twice the emissions of all the world’s airplanes combined.

A significant factor in this environmental impact is the use of potent greenhouse gas refrigerants in air conditioning systems. These refrigerants, if released, can be up to 2,000 times more damaging to the climate than CO2. Additionally, air conditioners contribute to urban heat islands by expelling heat into cities, while the high energy demand during hot days can strain power grids and result in blackouts. Consequently, a fresh solution is necessary.

Transaera, a startup located near Boston, is currently conducting tests on prototypes featuring revolutionary technology that can reduce energy consumption in air conditioners by up to 50%. Ross Bonner, the co-founder and chief technology officer of Transaera, explains that the key lies in the company’s utilization of metal organic frameworks, which act as a sponge to extract moisture from the air. By incorporating this material into the air conditioner’s components, excess energy expenditure to eliminate humidity is eliminated. Moreover, the generated heat is utilized to dry the material, enhancing its moisture absorption capabilities.

Transaera has partnered with Carrier, one of the leading HVAC equipment manufacturers, to facilitate the integration of this technology into the market. Bonner emphasizes the importance of cost competitiveness, which is achieved by applying the coating to existing components produced at scale. This strategy ensures that the advanced air conditioning systems remain affordable, considering price is a crucial factor driving sales across the industry.

Another startup, Blue Frontier, backed by Bill Gates’ Breakthrough Energy Ventures, has adopted a similar approach by focusing on humidity reduction. Instead of traditional refrigerants, the company employs a salt solution that absorbs water from the air, subsequently cooling it. Remarkably, Blue Frontier’s system becomes more efficient as temperatures rise, boasting the potential to reduce energy consumption by up to 90%. The salt solution’s energy storage capability enables the system to utilize renewable energy during peak availability and operate without drawing excessive power during periods of high demand.

Blue Frontier intends to launch a pilot program within the next two years, offering “cooling as a service” to large-scale customers such as commercial and apartment buildings. This approach reduces the need for upfront capital investment, ensuring widespread implementation of their innovative technology. Moreover, the same principles can be applied to individual homes in the future.

Nostromo, an Israel-based startup, has taken a distinct approach by leveraging ice-based cooling systems. Their system, called the “IceBrick,” freezes water during periods of abundant renewable energy supply. The stored ice is subsequently used to provide chilled water for cooling when demand surges in the late afternoon and evening. Large commercial buildings can significantly reduce their carbon footprint by implementing this technology. Notably, The Beverly Hilton has already installed Nostromo’s system, guaranteeing sustainable cooling for both the hotel and the neighboring Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills.

In addition to these advanced technologies, low-tech solutions can play a crucial role in reducing the need for air conditioning. Strategies such as tree planting for shade, using traditional shutters and shades, and relying on fans can help mitigate heat-related discomfort and energy consumption.

As the world transitions to cleaner energy sources, prioritizing energy efficiency remains vital. Reduced energy consumption not only facilitates a faster transition to clean energy but also ensures sufficient electricity for emerging demands such as electric vehicles and induction stoves. Consequently, adopting more efficient cooling methods will prove indispensable in our pursuit of a sustainable future.