Yihan (Sarah) Shu

Integration of sustainable cooling technologies in Southern California ice arenas

Started Sept. 23, 2022

Abstract or project description

Ice rinks are notorious for using massive amounts of electricity, most of which are derived from conventional power sources like coal, oil, and natural gas. This contributes to the emission of greenhouse gasses into the atmosphere, further increasing climate change. To address this issue, this study explores how to integrate efficient cooling technologies in ice rinks. In the process of cooling the ice, much of the wasted energy can be redirected back into the cycle, lowering the amount of energy from outside sources and potentially producing a self-sustaining cycle. Different sustainable cooling technologies are compared and the best fit method based on efficiency, cost, energy production, required energy input, and feasibility is recommended.