VRF and split systems are powered by solarPV
Solar-powered VRF and split-system air conditioning made by Chinese manufacture Gree are available in the UK through Klima-Therm. This latest agreement means that Klima-Therm is the only UK supplier of Gree’s full range of air-conditioning, including centrifugal chillers.
Gree’s direct-drive photovoltaic-powers VRF system is said to be the first commercially available system of its kind in the world. This hybrid solar-electric technology can reduce cooling-energy costs by up to 30%.
The direct-drive concept enables electricity from the solarPV array to be fed directly to the air-conditioning system without converting it to AC first. Losses associated with power conversion are thus avoided. Surplus electricity can be fed into the grid.
Tim Mitchell, sales director with Klima-Therm, says, ‘Gree’s PV-powered VRF and centrifugal chillers offer a very attractive approach on both economic and environmental grounds. And because of Gree’s clever technology, PV-powered systems can operate in UK conditions. We believe these technologies are set to become mainstream operators in the very near future. Indeed, we already have active enquiries.’