In the heart of Nigeria, a groundbreaking study is paving the way for sustainable cooling solutions, offering a glimpse into the future of energy-efficient office buildings. Led by Mkpamdi Eke, a mechanical engineering expert at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, the research focuses on integrating solar-driven adsorption chillers with thermal energy storage, a innovation that could revolutionize the energy sector, particularly in regions with abundant solar radiation.
Nigeria, with its average solar radiation of 6.29 kW/m²/day, provides an ideal testing ground for such technologies. Eke and his team at the Africa Center of Excellence for Sustainable Power and Energy Development have developed a prototype that promises to redefine cooling systems in office buildings. The prototype, featuring a double-stage, 2-bed heat and mass recovery design, is a testament to the potential of solar-assisted cooling systems.
The study, conducted at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, involved a 24 m³ office space, where the team demonstrated a cooling load of 2.7–3.5 kW. This required a cooling capacity of 250 W/m² over 10 hours, achieving a performance coefficient (COP) of 0.68. “The integration of thermal energy storage is a game-changer,” Eke explains. “It addresses the mismatch between solar energy availability and cooling demand, ensuring consistent performance even during periods of low solar radiation.”
The prototype utilizes a silica gel-water pair and paraffin wax for heat storage, achieving a refrigeration capacity of 9406 kJ and a cooling effect of 715.43 kJ. The system’s cycle performance coefficient (COPcy) stands at 0.08, with a specific cooling power (SCP) of 77 W/kg. These figures, while promising, are just the beginning. Eke envisions a future where this model can generate up to 8 kW of cooling power with just 23 kg of silica gel, making it scalable for larger office spaces.
The implications for the energy sector are vast. As businesses increasingly prioritize sustainability, the demand for energy-efficient cooling solutions is set to rise. This research offers a blueprint for developing countries, particularly in Africa, where solar radiation is abundant but access to reliable energy is often a challenge. “This model offers a promising solution for sustainable cooling in Nigeria’s climate and beyond,” Eke asserts. “It’s not just about reducing energy costs; it’s about creating a more sustainable future.”
The study, published in ‘Next Energy’ (which translates to ‘New Energy’ in English), highlights the potential of solar-driven adsorption chillers with thermal energy storage. As the world grapples with climate change, such innovations are not just welcome; they are essential. They represent a step towards a future where energy efficiency and sustainability go hand in hand, reshaping the energy landscape one office building at a time. The research by Eke and his team is a beacon of hope, illuminating the path forward in the quest for sustainable energy solutions.