An independent assessment of the performance of solar cooling technology is now available, following Standards Australia’s publication of the Interim Standard AS 5389 (Int) — 2013 Solar heating and cooling systems—Calculation of energy consumption.

“This Interim Standard is a world-first and sets out a method of evaluating the annual energy performance of solar cooling and heating systems,” says Standards Australia chief executive officer Colin Blair.

Colin says the Standard uses test results for components and a mathematical model to determine the amount of supplementary conventional energy needed to provide comfort in a standardised Australian home in a range of Australian climates.

The procedure is applicable to solar air conditioners capable of space heating, cooling or both; with or without water heating. This Interim Standard covers testing and reporting of the energy performance characteristics of desiccant-based air conditioners.

The Interim Standard will facilitate increased market support and consumer confidence in solar cooling technology as it provides an independent method to verify performance potential.

The Interim Standard was prepared by the Australian members of the Joint Standards Australia/Standards New Zealand Committee CS-028, Solar Water Heaters.

The following organisations are represented on the committee:

Australian Building Codes Board
Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry
Australian Industry Group
Australian Institute of Refrigeration, Air Conditioning and Heating
Australian Solar Cooling Interest Group
Australian Solar Council
Clean Energy Council
Consumer Electronics Suppliers Association
CSIRO
Department of Climate Change and Energy Efficiency
Electrical Compliance Testing Association
Gas Appliance Manufacturers Association of Australia
James Cook University
Office of the Renewable Energy Regulator
Sustainability Victoria
University of New South Wales
University of South Australia