PDRC mimics the natural process of radiative cooling, in which the Earth cools itself by releasing heat to outer space (Earth’s energy budget), although during the daytime lowering ambient temperatures under direct solar intensity. On a clear day, solar irradiance can reach 1000 W/m² with a diffuse component between 50 and 100 W/m². As of 2022 the average PDRC had a cooling power of ~100–150 W/m². Cooling power is proportional to the installation’s surface area.