Performance Analysis of a Solar Air Heating System for Thermal Comfort in Tropical Buildings: Case Study in Madagascar

This paper investigates the performance of a solar air collector integrated into a hybrid heating and cooling system for buildings in tropical climates, specifically in Madagascar. The study analyzes internal and external heat gains, calculates the thermal loads, and evaluates the efficiency of the solar system based on real temperature measurements. The results show that the solar collector can ensure thermal comfort, especially during morning and evening periods, and can also be used for domestic hot water production. With a coefficient of performance (COP) of 2 and a total installation cost significantly lower than conventional systems, the proposed solution proves to be energy-efficient, cost-effective, and suitable for local implementation. The system offers a sustainable alternative to conventional air conditioning by using locally available materials and renewable energy.