Sea Water Air Conditioning (SWAC) Technology: Performance and Worldwide Potential

Abstract

By drawing seawater from great depths (over 900 m), sea water air conditioning (SWAC) systems directly cool buildings without the need for supplementary backup systems, ensuring precise indoor temperature regulation. With a coefficient of performance values ranging from 25 to 150, depending on the distribution loop’s length, this technology presents remarkable energy efficiencies. When applicable, it serves as a credible alternative to compression vapor cycle air conditioning. This chapter offers a comprehensive overview of SWAC technology, evaluating energy performances through the analysis of operational data collected from installations in operation for several years. The assessment includes a comparative analysis between SWAC and conventional air conditioning systems. Additionally, potential avenues for enhancing the technology are explored, emphasizing associated energy benefits, and discussing prospects for its widespread adoption globally. An additional paragraph will present the state of the art in research on this technology.