The simplest form of solar air conditioning is a small solar panel that generates enough electricity to run a fan—for example, to cool an attic. More advanced and powerful systems use air conditioners that run just like any window air conditioner—by transferring heat from one place to. A small solar-powered air conditioner can work well to keep an attic cool and dry. The unit sits on a shingle roof, just as an attic vent might. These small systems can be purchased (and easily self-installed) for under $500. For larger systems, however, the cost of a solar air. Modern solar air conditioning is a relatively recent technology, so the terminology can be confusing and subject to change. Even the very term “solar air conditioning” can mean different things. Installing a larger solar air conditioning system can be costly, depending on labor and permitting costs in your area. It may be more cost-effective to install enough solar panels to run your entire houseand use solar electricity to run mini-split heat pumps, which.