Performance investigation of a novel solar hybrid air conditioning and humidification–dehumidification water desalination system

Parametric and economic studies of the performance of a solar hybrid air conditioning (A/C) and humidification–dehumidification (HDH) water desalination system are presented. The system is integrated with thermal storage and auxiliary heating systems for steady-state operation. Fresh water production rate, fresh water recovery, cooling capacity, electrical power consumption, coefficient of performance and system economical index are studied at different operating and design parameters. The results show that (i) the electrical consumption of the auxiliary heater decreases with decreasing outdoor air flow rate and increasing both of outdoor air temperature, outdoor air humidity and temperature difference across the heating system, (ii) the increase in outdoor air temperature, outdoor humidity and temperature difference across the heating system increase the fresh water production and recovery rates, cooling capacity and the electric power consumption of the proposed system. Comparison with a basic air conditioning system showed that the proposed system has higher water production, cooling capacity, coefficient of performance (COP) and lower power/electricity consumptions at hot and humid regions. A cost analysis reveals that the saving in the total operating cost increases with increasing outdoor air temperature, and outdoor humidity and decreases with increasing temperature difference across the heating system. •Solar hybrid A/C and HDH water desalination system under steady-state operation are presented•Effects of operating and design parameters on the proposed system is investigated•System capacity, consumption, performance and cost saving analysis are presented•Proposed system operates more efficient with increasing outdoor air temperature and outdoor humidity