A detailed review on sole and hybrid solar chimney based sustainable ventilation, power generation, and potable water production systems

Abstract

In this review article, the potential of solar chimney technologies for building ventilation, power generation and potable water generation in sole, hybrid and poly-generation modes has been reviewed extensively by highlighting their optimal configuration, pros, cons and economics. Solar chimney ventilation system in combination with evaporative cooler and earth-air heat exchanger can save at least 20 to 75% of the energy consumed for space conditioning activity. Sole solar chimney power plant occupies huge land area and has efficiency of only 1.0%. However, under hybrid and poly-generation operation modes its efficiency has improved to 55%. Solar PV modules seem to be a suitable partner for solar chimney technologies and it enhances utilization factor by providing extra electric power output. Solar PV modules have been suggested as absorber for ventilation system and canopy for solar chimney power plants. However, proper thermal management of PV modules is essential for proper functioning under the conditions inside the former system. Geo-thermal energy, waste heat energy from thermal power plants and flared gas from oil extraction sites can be utilized in solar chimney power plants to increase its operation time even after sun-set hours without any major modifications. Solar chimney based atmospheric water extraction systems enhances the micro-climate of sites and is highly suitable for applications in arid regions. Solar chimney ventilation systems are commercial and form an integral part of green buildings and net-zero buildings. On contrary, most of the literatures on power generation and water production with solar chimney technology are theoretical hence more practical studies are needed to justify their reliability.