CoolAnt
Author: Philip Gray
The Problem:
Electricity consumption associated with air conditioning creates an alarming paradox - efforts to cool buildings are warming the planet.
Air conditioning systems and electric fans consume 10% of global electricity. In some of the hottest populated regions in the world, it is estimated that up to 70% of peak residential electricity demand goes toward cooling.
As global temperatures rise and heatwaves become more frequent and severe, demand for air conditioning is increasing rapidly, particularly in emerging economies.
The Solution:
CoolAnt, an Indian startup, uses “passive cooling” methods to design and build energy-free cooling systems for indoor spaces.
Their most innovative solution is their Evaporative Terracotta Cooling Walls, which relies on what is known as the Beehive Method.
Inspired by an ancient Egyptian cooling technique, the Beehive Method allows water molecules to cling to terracotta surfaces, keeping them cool and moist.
CoolAnt modernizes this approach by applying computational fluid dynamics to optimize the shape and design of terracotta pots, which are crafted by local artisans, thereby supporting traditional Indian craftsmanship. The cylindrical pots are stacked horizontally on building facades, with water flowing through them in a continuous cycle.
CoolAnt’s methods can lower indoor temperatures by 6-8°C on average. In doing so, they can also reduce energy use by anywhere from 30% to 70%.
Terracotta, meaning "baked earth," is a sustainable and cost-effective material—it’s abundant, recyclable, and biodegradable, making it an environmentally friendly choice for construction and manufacturing.
Importantly, CoolAnt’s systems don’t just cool - they also beautify. The structures are often used as artistic installations, blending functional technology with visually-pleasing architecture and design.
Impact & Lessons:
To date, CoolAnt have designed and installed systems for indoor and outdoor spaces, in both private and public settings.
It must be noted that their systems are not a complete replacement for air conditioning. They don’t provide enough cooling for certain applications - such as grocery shops, which must be kept extra-cool to preserve food. However, by making mechanical cooling more efficient, they do significantly reduce reliance on energy-draining AC units.
Their simple, nature based technology is a promising solution to the dangers of the AC-global warming paradox. Interior designers, architects and urban planners of today and tomorrow should all take note!