Renewable-Powered HVAC Systems: Advances in Solar, Bioenergy, and Heat Pump Technologies

Year : 2026 | Volume : 13 | Issue : 01 | Page : 26 33
    By

    G. Sujay Kumar,

  1. Assistant Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Yenepoya Institute of Technology, Moodbidri, Karnataka, India

Abstract

The global demand for refrigeration, air conditioning, heating, and ventilation (HVAC) systems has increased rapidly due to population growth, urbanization, industrialization, and rising expectations for indoor thermal comfort. These systems account for a substantial share of global energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, primarily because they rely heavily on fossil-fuel-based electricity and thermal energy. Consequently, the decarbonization of HVAC and refrigeration sectors has become a critical component of global climate mitigation strategies. Renewable energy technologies—including solar, wind, bioenergy, geothermal, and hydropower—offer viable pathways to reduce emissions while ensuring reliable and efficient heating and cooling services. This paper presents a comprehensive review of the current status, technological advancements, and sustainability aspects of renewable energy systems with specific emphasis on their application in refrigeration, air conditioning, heating, and ventilation. Recent progress in renewable-powered heat pumps, solar-assisted cooling technologies, geothermal heating systems, and district heating and cooling networks is discussed. The review also examines key challenges such as intermittency, thermal energy storage, system integration, material sustainability, and economic feasibility. Emerging solutions including advanced thermal storage, digitalized HVAC systems, and green hydrogen for heating and cooling applications are highlighted. The findings aim to support researchers, engineers, and policymakers in developing sustainable, energy-efficient HVAC systems aligned with long-term climate and energy goals.

Keywords: Renewable energy, HVAC systems, refrigeration, heating and cooling, sustainability, heat pumps, thermal energy storage, green hydrogen.

[This article belongs to Journal of Refrigeration, Air conditioning, Heating and ventilation ]

How to cite this article:
G. Sujay Kumar. Renewable-Powered HVAC Systems: Advances in Solar, Bioenergy, and Heat Pump Technologies. Journal of Refrigeration, Air conditioning, Heating and ventilation. 2026; 13(01):26-33.
How to cite this URL:
G. Sujay Kumar. Renewable-Powered HVAC Systems: Advances in Solar, Bioenergy, and Heat Pump Technologies. Journal of Refrigeration, Air conditioning, Heating and ventilation. 2026; 13(01):26-33. Available from: https://journals.stmjournals.com/jorachv/article=2026/view=240725


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Regular Issue Subscription Original Research
Volume 13
Issue 01
Received 05/02/2026
Accepted 06/02/2026
Published 21/02/2026
Publication Time 16 Days
1

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