Mainly, there are two approaches: Energetic analysis based on first law of thermodynamic and Egxergic analysis based on the second law of thermodynamics.
actually I'm looking for thermodynamic analysis methods for solar cooling and heating systems.I didn't know how many methods are available but now,I find that I should search around entropy and exergy analysis.
do you have any article in this field?I'll be thankful if you can send some to me.