Unlocking the potential of renewable cooling for a decarbonised cooling sector fit for the climate of the 21st century

Introduction

Renewable cooling needs to be at the center of the supply side strategy to address the decarbonisation of the cooling sector while managing the expected exponential growth in demand.

Current Technologies

While some technologies are already well established, such as geothermal cooling in large building systems, their potential remains largely untapped. Moreover, further research and innovation can bring to market innovative renewable cooling solutions that provide a different set of benefits, for instance:

• Geothermal absorption cooling for district heating
• Process cooling

Project Goals

The COOLING DOWN project proposal aims to propose a vision for a renewable cooling sector in Europe in the coming decades, and issue policy recommendations and proposals to achieve it.

Research Focus

To develop this vision, extensive research about the potential of renewable cooling technologies is required. This research will be in line with the Renewable Energy Directive Article 7 requirements for eligibility as renewable cooling, and will also consider the projected trends for cooling.

Assessment Areas

Beyond the technological, economic, and social trends to be assessed through research, expert consultations, and modelling, the COOLING DOWN project will also be seeking to address the contribution of renewable cooling technologies to climate change adaptation. This will include a specific focus on the mitigation of the urban heat island effect.