In a world where temperatures are rising, the demand for cooling solutions is also increasing. A recent study published in the Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews journal provides a comprehensive insight into the continent's space cooling technologies.

The study has been conducted by researchers from Eurac Research and from the Faculty of Applied Sciences of the University of Liège. The objective is to categorise 32 alternative space cooling technologies based on eight essential parameters. These parameters include the physical energy form, basic working principles, the medium used for heat transfer, the phase of the working fluid, specific physical processes or devices, the type of space cooling technology, fuel type, and the technology readiness level (TRL). Currently, most space cooling in Europe is provided by traditional vapour compression systems. However, a small fraction of the demand for cooling is met by thermally-driven heat pumps. The study explores alternative space cooling technologies, many of which hold promise for energy-efficient cooling.