District cooling systems and individual cooling systems: Comparative analysis and impacts of key factors

District cooling systems are used in many areas, especially where the building density is high. However, its efficiency is still quite controversial compared with conventional individual cooling systems, especially in China. It is highly necessary to conduct a detailed study and give clear answers when a decision is made between the district cooling system and individual cooling system. Key factors that affect the decision need to be studied. This article therefore conducts a comprehensive performance assessment of district cooling systems by comparing with individual cooling systems. The comparative performance of both systems is analyzed when the combination of buildings with different functions varies. The optimal combinations for each system are obtained using genetic algorithms, and recommendations are summarized for better application of both systems. Impacts of the efficiency of chillers, the resistance of chilled water networks, and the cooling loads on the comparative performance are quantified considering uncertainties. Economic performance of both systems is analyzed, including the capital costs and operational costs. Suggestions are summarized for the future application of district cooling systems and individual cooling systems.