I posted a link a bit ago about a solar-powered icemaker using no moving parts.

It is based on the use of ammonia gas in a sealed environment.

http://www.scribd.com/doc/6599651/How-to-Build-a-Solar-Icema...

I am a bit of an HVAC engineering enthusiast/hobbyist.

Perhaps something like that could be used as a mini-chiller with a heat exchanger.

You can use a solar panel/battery for the fans, circulating pump, and condensate removal pumps. These devices would require minimal current.

Perhaps servo controlled tarps to cycle the ammonia refrigeration cycle and an Arduino to glue all the logical pieces together?

Also, you can make it zoned, with solenoid valves and seperate thermostats, to keep each room at a specific temperature.

Not useful for the US military, but maybe remote homes in hot areas.

The point was: Get over the inertia and do something about the idea (finding and importing solar powered a/c's). "Pretty dick"? I guess it might be perceived like that. Wasn't intended though, hence the :-)