Core Insights - The article highlights the innovative use of centralized cooling systems in Qingdao, specifically the Zhongtian Hengda Building, which utilizes magnetic levitation cooling technology to maintain a comfortable environment without traditional air conditioning units [2][3] - Qingdao has implemented various renewable energy technologies across 19 locations, achieving significant energy savings and carbon reduction [2][7] Group 1: Centralized Cooling Technology - The Zhongtian Hengda Building is the first existing building in China to implement a "light-storage direct-flexible" project, achieving a reduction in grid dependency by over 50% during peak summer periods [2][3] - The building's rooftop is equipped with photovoltaic panels that generate 157,000 kWh annually, covering 40% of its cooling electricity needs, and the system has improved overall energy efficiency by 14% [3] - The project has been recognized as an excellent case by the United Nations Development Programme and has been adopted in 12 other parks across the country [3][7] Group 2: Diverse Applications of Cooling Technology - Various projects in Qingdao utilize different technologies tailored to specific environments, such as seawater source heat pumps at the Olympic Sailing Center and a combined ground and air source heat pump system at China University of Petroleum [5][6] - The Qingdao Municipal Hospital has upgraded its cooling system to high-efficiency centrifugal chillers, resulting in a carbon reduction of 218 tons annually [6] Group 3: Benefits of Centralized Cooling - Centralized cooling systems demonstrate significant land resource savings, with a 50% reduction in land use compared to traditional systems that require individual cooling units [7] - The total annual electricity savings from centralized cooling in Qingdao exceeds 8 million kWh, with a carbon reduction of 1,500 tons [7] - The average energy savings for commercial buildings is 35%, while residential areas achieve a 41.8% reduction [7] Group 4: Challenges and Future Prospects - While centralized cooling is increasingly adopted in new residential areas, retrofitting existing buildings poses challenges, including high costs and the need for unanimous consent from building owners [7][8] - The article emphasizes the need for supportive policies to facilitate the expansion of centralized cooling systems in older urban areas [7][8]