Cooling more people with fewer emissions: intelligent, efficient cooling with AI and ice batteries

Summary

MBZUAI researchers are developing an AI-driven energy management system that optimizes ice battery technology for cooling in hot climates. The system stores energy as frozen water during times of energy surplus and uses it to cool buildings when demand peaks. The AI model integrates multimodal data from weather forecasts, environmental sensors, and power grid signals to determine when to store or release thermal energy. Why it matters: This approach promises to reduce fossil fuel dependence and lower energy costs while improving cooling performance in regions like the UAE.