In the paper, a solar driven ammonia-water chiller is investigated, as one of the systems having potential for reduction of resources depletion. An energy and exergy analysis is proposed for correct diagnostics while designing and operating the cycle. The boundary conditions for the analyses are set in accordance with Professor Szargut's primary instructions. They are however widened to solar collector component. Solar radiation is treated as the driving energy or exergy, respectively. The analyses are supplemented with a sensitivity diagnosis revealing the most significant parameters modifying the efficiency and irreversibilities distribution. According to the findings, design COP of the chiller equals 0.444 while its net exergy efficiency is 0.026. Solar collector component is the most burdened with exergy destruction and loss in the whole cycle. (C) 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.