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GORD Institute’s cooling technology bags grant from QNRF and MME

Synergia 7n1

Following a comprehensive feasibility study, Qatar National Research Fund (QNRF), in partnership with the Ministry of Municipality and Environment (MME), has funded GORD Institute’s research activity on Synergia7n1’s novel hybrid cooling technology for low-energy climatization of dairy farms. The project, which is supported by Baladna – a leading dairy producer in Qatar – will work on the adaption of the technology for real-life applications. The outcomes of the research project will be reflected in the implementation of Synergia in climatizing the barns to achieve optimum temperature and humidity levels with reduced energy footprint while providing fresh air for the cattle which not only increases the quality of livestock welfare, but also aids in the production of dairy products.

Sustainable and affordable locally produced food is a key strategy to ensure a nation’s dietary needs are met. Accordingly, self-sufficiency is at the forefront of Qatar National Vision 2030. However, considering the country’s dry and arid climate where temperature in farms can reach up to 48°C along with increased humidity, farming in Qatar poses a range of challenges. Temperature control, therefore, is necessary to ensure safe, reliable, sustainable and efficient food production. While air-conditioning is the most effective option for reducing air temperature and relative humidity, conventional cooling systems not only come with high carbon and energy footprint, but also leave a toll on the cattle health.

GORD Institute’s patented fresh air handling dehumidification and cooling technology has been adapted for the design and manufacture of a fully integrated and controlled ventilating and air conditioning system, proposed as part of an important tactic in the development of a more effective cooling strategy. The technology presents a 100% dedicated fresh air handling unit which saves energy in multiple aspects of operation while relying on solar energy and eco-friendly desiccants. It provides efficient, cost-effective and sustainable fresh air cooling while addressing common issues associated with current industry standards by coupling indirect evaporative cooling and direct expansion classical system.

GORD Institute’s cooling technology bags grant from QNRF and MME
GORD Institute’s cooling technology bags grant from QNRF and MME

GORD Institute, supported with industry expert Baladna, aims to aid the development of the Qatar’s sustainable dairy industry for improved food security. Synergia7n1 will help reduce the environmental footprint of farm operations through: (i) optimized energy use relative to conventional industry system, (ii) reduced cost of air-conditioning systems to allow for more affordable dairy production to aid dairy farmers and consumers, (iii) improved farm animal welfare by reducing heat stress to meet international health standards, (iii) improved virus control and disease transmission from herd-to-herd with high efficiency filters and, (iv) fresh air supply which replaces recycled air used in standard HVAC systems.

The recent research grant by QNRF and MME covers a duration of two years.