Energy Generation Research Articles

Water for Whom? Unravelling the Allocation of Water Storage Capacity between Irrigation and Electricity Uses in Spain during the 20th Century

This work explores the intricate dynamics of water management, energy generation, and irrigation in Spain by examining the evolving regulatory framework governing water resource allocation. It introduces a novel approach to quantify water usage and unpacks the ‘mixed uses’ category for the first time, focusing on entities holding water allocation concessions rather than mere dam ownership. Our f indings reveal the profound influence of private electricity companies on water resource management, despite the significant portion of state-owned dams. The results point to hydroelectric dominance in water allocation and underscore the complex interaction between public ownership and private management of electric companies. This research emphasises the need for nuanced policy considerations in the broader context of energy and agriculture while contributing to a richer understanding of Spain’s unique water governance landscape.

The Need for Solar Power Energy Utilization in the Northern Part of Nigeria for Sustainability and Economic Growth (A case study of Nigeria)

Northern Nigeria is one of the most recognizable areas, having vast amounts of solar radiation and rapidly growing populations. Thus, there is an opportunistic aspect of the use of solar power in this region. Since this region enjoys all-year sunshine, it is one of the best places for the integration of solar energy. With huge problems of energy she presently faces such as irregular supply of electricity, people's growth and thus demand, solar power presents an immediate usable, reliable, and sustainable solution. The energy demand in northern Nigeria is expected to sharply increase from about 48 billion kWh in 2024 to 64.5 billion kWh by 2034. This escalated energy requirement directly puts a demand for an efficient and sustainable source of energy, and as such, the promise of steady and renewable energy supply through solar power makes it very appealing. The average regional solar radiation exceeds 6 kWh/m2 per day, which points towards a very vast potential for solar energy generation. But to meet the energy requirements that will arise in the future from solar, it would call for a tremendous investment in infrastructure. This is because it is estimated that approximately 246,000 km2 of solar panels might be needed by 2034 in order to be able to cover the energy needs of the country. However, this massive area is required, but the benefits of solar energy do not stop there at solving shortages of energy. Solar power would increase economic activities due to job creation, stimulation of local industries, and the end reliance on fossil fuels. It has implications on environmental sustainability as it reduces greenhouse gas emissions and promotes cleaner practices of energy consumption. Northern Nigeria will unlock a stable and reliable source of power through investment in this infrastructure. This is important for economic development, thereby eventually improving the quality of life. Indeed, the integration of solar power addresses the immediate needs of satisfying energy challenges but builds a foundation for sustainable growth and environmental stewardship over the long term. Solar power in northern Nigeria is important for ensuring future demands for energy and significant economic development while emphasizing sustainability within the environment. A lot still has to be tapped into by tapping into the solar resources that are available. Key words: Solar Energy,Sustainability,Economic Growth,Energy Demand,Renewable Resources

Improving Solar Cell Efficiency of Silicon and Silicon Tandem Structure by Using Surface Modification

Silicon heterojunction (SHJ) solar cells face challenges in maximizing energy capture due to limitations in light collection and surface passivation. To address this, the use of SHJ tandem solar cells in a back‐to‐back configuration is explored, allowing illumination from both sides to enhance light absorption and energy generation. This study aims to improve the stability and efficiency of these cells through Al2O3 and Nafion surface treatments. Al2O3 is deposited to enhance bifacial light collection, while Nafion is applied for surface passivation to increase the fill factor (FF). The method involves adding 0.1–0.6 units of incident light to the rear of the cells to evaluate the effects of these treatments. The results show a 2.06% increase in efficiency with Al2O3 and a 1.72% improvement with Nafion under standard illumination conditions. The optimized tandem SHJ with Al2O3 and Nafion achieves a Jsc of 62.01 mA cm−2, Voc of 650.63 mV, FF of 76.49%, and an efficiency of 30.86%. These findings demonstrate the significant potential of these surface treatments to enhance the overall performance of bifacial back‐to‐back tandem SHJ solar cells.

Efficient DC–DC power converters for fuel‐cell electric vehicle: A qualitative assessment

AbstractThe general shift in vehicle propulsion systems from internal combustion engine (ICE) power‐train towards electric power‐train has led to the development of energy‐efficient and compact electric drivetrain for next‐generation automobiles such as fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEV). As opposed to ICE, fuel cell vehicles operate with higher powertrain efficiency and are combustion‐less since the only byproduct is water. In light of developmental and environmental goals, fuel cell technology is consequently seen as the evolutionary step in vehicle technology. The electric drivetrain for FCEV consists of power converters, motors, and associated control systems. Direct connection of the fuel cell stack to the DC bus and other system components is inefficient. As a result, it becomes essential to regulate the high‐voltage DC bus connecting the fuel cell stack to other system elements like the motor and energy storage devices. Therefore, DC–DC converters are designed for main power unit to provide the desired and regulated voltage to the DC bus making the system efficient and reliable. High‐voltage step‐up DC–DC converters have undergone extensive research in recent years, which has increased their functionality, performance, and efficiency for FCEV. A survey of these converters, and evaluation of their performance and index parameters, could be very helpful in designing efficient converters and for the development of vehicular electric power‐train. This paper reviews the literature on electric drive‐train, fuel cell systems, and different DC–DC converter topologies for fuel cell electric vehicles. This study aims to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the existing topologies, their applications, and comparative aspects, as well as works that haven't been covered in earlier reviews.

Application of an Improved State Feedback Control in the Selective Catalytic Reduction Denitrification Systems of Coal Power Units Under Variable Load Conditions

Selective catalytic reduction (SCR) flue gas denitrification systems are inherently complex, typically embodying characteristics of non-linearity, significant time delays, and susceptibility to multiple disturbances. In the context of coal power units engaging in deep load cycling and rapid frequency adjustment, conventional proportional-integral-derivative (PID) control struggles to meet the demands of effective control. This study introduces a control strategy that incorporates a “state observer + Linear Quadratic Regulator (LQR) state feedback + Improved Quantum Genetic Algorithm (IQGA) optimized PID”. Initially, local linear mathematical models of an SCR denitrification system at 340 MW, 450 MW, and 540 MW loads were used to design state observer and LQR state feedback control parameters for each operational condition. At a single load point, the IQGA was employed to optimize the outer loop PID parameters, followed by simulation experiments of load increases and decreases between 340 MW and 540 MW. The results demonstrated that, compared to two other strategies, the proposed approach reduced the overshoot by a minimum of 1.5% and shortened the adjustment time by 31.7% under conditions of step disturbances and internal perturbations. Throughout variable operational conditions, the strategy consistently exhibited minimal output fluctuations, rapid adjustment capabilities, strong disturbance rejection, and robust stability. This algorithm proves to be an effective method for controlling NOx concentrations, offering insights for precise ammonia injection control in future applications.

Enhancing zT in Organic Thermoelectric Materials through Nanoscale Local Control Crystallization.

Organic thermoelectric materials are promising for wearable heating and cooling devices, as well as near-room-temperature energy generation, due to their nontoxicity, abundance, low cost, and flexibility. However, their primary challenge preventing widespread use is their reduced figure of merit (zT) caused by low electrical conductivity. This study presents a method to enhance the thermoelectric performance of solution-processable organic materials through confined crystallization using the lithographically controlled wetting (LCW) technique. Using PEDOT as a benchmark, we demonstrate that controlled crystallization at the nanoscale improves electrical conductivity by optimizing chain packing and grain morphology. Structural characterizations reveal the formation of a highly compact PEDOT arrangement, achieved through a combination of confined crystallization and DMSO post-treatment, leading to a 4-fold increase in the power factor compared to spin-coated films. This approach also reduces the thermal conductivity dependence on electrical conductivity, improving the zT by up to 260%. The LCW technique, compatible with large-area and flexible substrates, offers a simple, green, and low-cost method to boost the performance of organic thermoelectrics, advancing the potential for sustainable energy solutions and advanced organic electronic devices.

Self-sufficient power plant prototype composed by cascaded disruptive power units doing work by isothermal contraction and expansion

This research work aims at the design and development of a disruptive prototype for a Self-sufficient power plant (SSPP) prototype composed by cascaded disruptive power units (PUs) doing work by isothermal contraction-expansion processes. The innovative design integrates thermo-hydraulic actuators enabled to drive hydraulic pumps connected to a hydraulic motor-generator. The prototype's cascaded PUs operates on a double closed processes-based isochoric-isothermal-isochoric-isothermal (VTVT) thermal cycle, enabled to do useful work by contraction and expansion of a thermal working fluid (TWF), which is notable for its high specific work output and high thermal efficiency. This is due to a disruptive cascaded heat recovering technique associated to a heat upgrading strategy. Among the most relevant Key Features are its self-sufficient operation modes that challenge traditional limitations of second-kind perpetual motion machines (PMMs) The expected capabilities on the basis of the consistency of empirical analysis are summarized as: - Design based on the optimal number of cascaded power units, - Efficient generation of useful mechanical work through expansion and contraction of the TWF, - High specific useful work (kJ/kg of TWF), such as helium, - Low ratio of actuator volume and weight to specific work. Preliminary tentative validation: The prototype design model was validated through case studies using air and helium as real TWFs. Empirical results demonstrate the SSPP's exceptional performance under certain conditional restrictions. - The optimal SSPP completed with nine cascaded PUs each operating on a double-VTVT cycle per PU. - Helium: RIT value of 0.9 and 9 PUs coupled in cascade to give an SSI of 156.72and a SSEP yield of 922.23 kJ/kg.cy. - Air: RIT value of 0.9 and 9 PUs coupled in a shell to give an SSI of 27.41 and a SSEP production of 37.67 kJ/kg.cy. These findings highlight the prototype's potential to significantly advance energy production efficiency and self-sufficiency in power generation systems.

Sustained energy generation from unusable waste steel through microbial assisted fuel cell systems.

In the present study, a novel green energy generation process assisted with Microbial Fuel Cell (MFC) principle for generation of electricity from used or wasted steel is explored. Through a unique approach, unused and other steel waste are recast by simple re-melting with a flexible wide composition for generation of green energy. A microbial-assisted electron transfer derived from the degradation of the steel material is utilized for production of green energy in a microbial galvanic reactor system. A. ferrooxidans acts as biocatalysts, facilitating the oxidization of ferrous ion (Fe2+) to ferric ion (Fe3+). The reaction takes place on the biofilm matrix which results in oxidised reactive zones that endorses further degradation or dissolution of Fe anode. This consequently results in achieving the highest power density as high as 4.92±0.03mW/cm2 at a current density of 0.01±9mA/cm2. The total cost of the unusable steel anode and other accessories are roughly estimated to be 7.94 $/m2 and 178.54 $/m2 and the gain from unit power generation is estimated to be 3.79 $/W, assuming continuous operation of 4.92±0.03mW/cm2. The present study presents a potent methodology/strategy for the generation of sustainable bioenergy from low-cost, unusable steel materials, which cannot be anyway used as such in other battery systems, say iron air cells/batteries.

Extreme Precipitation Events During the Wet Season of the South America Monsoon: A Historical Analysis over Three Major Brazilian Watersheds

Most of South America, particularly the region between the southern Amazon and southeastern Brazil, as well as a large part of the La Plata Basin, has its climate regulated by the South American Monsoon System. Extreme weather and climate events in these areas have significant socioeconomic impacts. The Madeira, São Francisco, and Paraná river basins, three major watersheds in Brazil, are especially vulnerable to wet and drought periods due to their importance as freshwater ecosystems and sources of water for consumption, energy generation, and agriculture. The scarcity of surface meteorological stations in these basins makes meteorological studies challenging, often using reanalysis and satellite data. This study aims to identify extreme weather (wet) and climate (wet and drought) events during the extended wet season (October to March) from 1980 to 2022 and evaluate the performance of two gridded datasets (CPC and ERA5) to determine which best captures the observed patterns in the Madeira, São Francisco, and Paraná river basins. Wet weather events were identified using the 95th percentile, and wet and drought periods were identified using the Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI) on a 6-month scale. In general, CPC data showed slightly superior performance compared to ERA5 in reproducing statistical measures. For extreme day precipitation, both datasets captured the time series pattern, but CPC better reproduced extreme values and trends. The results also indicate a decrease in wet periods and an increase in drought events. Both datasets performed well, showing they can be used in the absence of station data.

Assessment of the impact of intensification of heat exchange processes in heaters on power unit efficiency

In various spheres of modern industry, including power engineering, the issue of low efficiency of operation of heatexchange equipment, where condensation of vapour-gas media occurs, is a significant concern. It is known that one of the effective ways of solving this problem is intensification of heat exchange processes by transitioning from the traditional film condensation mode to the droplet condensation mode. A promising and technically straightforward way to achieve the droplet mode of condensation is a method based on the treatment of heat-exchange surfaces using a surfactant – octadecylamine (ODA). The analysis of studies, in which results of experimental research and industrial implementation are given, has shown that application of the specified method in conditions of condensation of water steam promotes formation of a stable droplet mode of condensation; as a result, the heat transfer coefficient on the steam side can more than double.Equally important and interesting is the question of how the efficiency of heat exchangers impacts the overall efficiency of complex systems, in which they operate. In this study, we examined the effect of the operational efficiency of network and regenerative heaters on the energy efficiency and economic performance of a power unit based on steam turbine unit T-110-12,8-3 operating in the heat recovery mode. To this end, we calculated the thermal scheme under various operating conditions of these heat exchangers and determined several key efficiency indicators, including the fuel heat utilisation factor (HUF) and electrical efficiency (EE). It is revealed that intensification of heat-exchange processes by a factor of 2 in horizontal delivery water heaters (HDWH) or in low-pressure heaters (LPH) significantly enhances the efficiency indicators of the power unit as a whole. At the same time, as the analysis of calculation results showed, the greatest benefits are realized when this measure is implemented in HDWH.

Creation and research of numerical models of cyclones with inclined and horizontal inlets

The article considers the challenges of using cyclone devices for cleaning gas emissions from solid fuel combustion in power engineering and industry. With the increasing energy consumption and generation, including the use of coal, the requirements for the efficiency of cleaning emissions from small solid particles of classes PM10 and PM2.5 are also rising. One of the key tasks is to maintain high cleaning efficiency while minimizing energy costs, which is also important for reducing the environmental impact of generation and industrial production. The article considers the design features of currently used cyclones, as well as existing approaches to their classification. The main focus is on modern areas of research related to numerical modeling based on CFD (Computational fluid dynamics) aimed at optimizing the design of separators. It is shown that most studies are carried out for cyclone operating conditions in production cycles, rather than in emission cleaning systems that operate at low suspended matter loads. Using the example of creating numerical models of cyclones with inclined and horizontal inlet pipes (CN-11, SK-CN-34), the article discusses certain features of geometry creation in the SpaceClaim Direct Modeler (SCDM) environment, which ensure the correctness of grid generation and calculations in the future. The results of numerical modeling carried out using the ANSYS Fluent software are presented. The turbulence model (RANS, Reynolds Averaged Navier – Stokes), methods for closing the Navier – Stokes equations (k-ε model with near-wall functions), and methods for calculating the dispersed part of the flow (Euler – Lagrange, DPM) are selected based on the conditions relevant to the systems for cleaning emissions from coal generation. The results indicate that, with the same pressure drop, the efficiency of settling suspended matter with a concentration of 100 mg/m3 or less in an apparatus with an inlet angle of 11° to the horizontal can be higher than that of a cyclone with a horizontal inlet.

Waste-to-energy: exploring the roadmap for energy generation from commercial waste in South Africa

Purpose This study aims to investigate the adoption of waste-to-energy (WtE) technologies in South Africa (SA), focusing on identifying the key drivers, barriers and potential solutions for commercial uptake. The ultimate aim is to propose an implementation framework that promotes renewable energy while reducing landfill reliance. Design/methodology/approach A systematic literature review (SLR) of papers published between 2020 and 2023 was conducted to identify factors impacting WtE adoption in SA. The conceptual model developed from the SLR was tested using a qualitative case study approach. Data was collected through 15 semi-structured interviews with commercial entities and WtE experts from four regions of SA. Findings Anaerobic digestion and pyrolysis are identified as the most suitable waste-to-energy technologies in the South African context. Among the financial challenges of WtE in SA, the availability of cheap coal, low landfill tariffs, high capital costs, funding constraints and regressive economic incentives are critical. The lack of government support, insufficient incentives, regulatory burdens, weak policies and limited innovation capacity are considerable non-financial barriers hindering WtE technologies’ growth. The successful adoption of renewable energy also requires adequate infrastructure, increased sustainability awareness and technical expertise. Research limitations/implications Although the sample size is diverse and consists of a range of organisations, it may not capture the thoughts and experiences of other SA businesses in their entirety. It is important to note that the lack of existing research on the implementation, benefits and impacts of WtE technologies limits the authors’ ability to interpret and benchmark the findings of this study. Yet, this study contributes by developing an implementation framework to encourage WtE adoption, recommending policy actions such as regressive taxation on fossil fuels and landfills and promoting renewable energy through subsidies, awareness and energy credits. Practical implications This study provides a practical framework for businesses and policymakers to adopt WtE technologies by addressing key barriers. The research suggests that businesses could reduce waste management costs and generate new revenue streams by adopting anaerobic digestion and pyrolysis. Policymakers are encouraged to disincentivize landfills and promote WtE through financial incentives such as subsidies and energy credits. The implementation framework offers clear recommendations for integrating WtE into SA’s energy and waste management strategies, supporting both sustainability and economic goals. Social implications The main social contribution is the potential for WtE adoption to improve waste management practices and generate new job opportunities within the renewable energy and waste sectors. Originality/value This study provides a novel contribution by developing an implementation framework tailored to SA’s unique regulatory, economic and social contexts. The research highlights the importance of aligning WtE adoption with sustainability goals, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and promoting renewable energy. The framework serves as a practical guide for policymakers, businesses and industry leaders seeking to implement sustainable waste management solutions in SA.

Quantifying Uncertainty Costs in Renewable Energy Systems Considering Probability Function Behavior and CVaR at Low-Probability Generation Extremes using Deterministic Equations

The increase and integration of renewable energy sources in electrical power systems implies an increase in uncertainty variables, both in costs and production, of economic dispatch (ED) and currently have a significant influence on wholesale electricity markets (MEM). Uncertainty costs refer to the quantification of additional expenses or economic losses associated with the variability inherent in the generation of renewable energy, such as wind, solar, or hydroelectric. Therefore, this article presents deterministic equations related to cost overestimation and underestimation, as well as CVaR, to model and evaluate the stochasticity of risks associated with the integration of renewable sources, allowing system operators and planners to make informed decisions. To mitigate or use said risks in energy systems with high penetration of elements, mainly smart networks. In this study, a mathematical analysis is carried out using the histogram spectrum formed by the power generated by the probability density function (PDF) for solar generation, although it is possible to consider other types of functions to determine energy generation. The objective of the proposed model is to provide another tool to the system operator for energy management and planning, which relieves a little of the weight of the computational load and at the same time presents more precision in the results by being able to work with a database. Historical data if these values are available. Commonly, for this type of analysis, values are estimated using probabilistic calculations by density functions when integrating these functions, or in other recent cases by estimating them by analytical methods of the same functions. A validation of the model is presented by comparing the result with the Monte Carlo simulation, developing the total cost of uncertainty only from "low probability generation extremes". Furthermore, the results are presented through analytical uncertainty cost functions (AUCF). This analysis includes the calculation of uncertainty costs for low and high-probability energy generation, determined by the Conditional Value at Risk (CVaR), using deterministic equations.

Addressing Uncertainty in Renewable Energy Integration for Western Australia’s Mining Sector: A Robust Optimization Approach

The mining industry is a key contributor to Western Australia’s economy, with over 130 mining operations that produce critical minerals such as iron ore, gold, and lithium. Ensuring a reliable and continuous energy supply is vital for these operations. This paper addresses the challenges and opportunities of integrating renewable energy sources into isolated power systems, particularly under uncertainties associated with renewable energy generation and demand. A robust optimization approach is developed to model a multi-source hybrid energy system that considers risk-averse, risk-neutral, and risk-seeking strategies. These strategies address power demand and renewable energy supply uncertainties, ensuring system reliability under various risk scenarios. The optimization framework, formulated as a mixed integer linear programming problem and implemented in Python using the Gurobi Optimizer, integrates renewable energy sources such as wind turbines, photovoltaic arrays, and demand response programs alongside traditional diesel generators, boilers, combined heat and power units, and water desalination. The model ensures reliable access to electricity, heat, and water while minimizing operational costs and reducing reliance on fossil fuels. A comprehensive sensitivity analysis further examines the impact of uncertainty margins and the value of a lost load on the total system cost, providing insights into how different risk strategies affect system performance and cost-efficiency. The results are validated through three case studies demonstrating the effectiveness of the proposed approach in enhancing the resilience and sustainability of isolated power systems in the mining sector. Significant improvements in reliability, scalability, and economic performance are observed, with the sensitivity analysis highlighting the critical trade-offs between cost and reliability under varying uncertainty conditions.

A Rooftop Solar Photovoltaic Tree Solution for Small-Scale Industries

With the increase in population and the growing demands of industrialization, carbon emissions across the globe are increasing exponentially. Furthermore, the demand for clean energy from renewable sources (solar, wind, etc.) is growing at an unparalleled rate to fight against the climate change caused by these increased carbon emissions. However, at present, it is very difficult for small-scale industries in urban areas to install solar power systems due to constraints around the operation area and on rooftops. Therefore, these small-scale industries are not able to install any solar plants and, thus, are not able to reduce their carbon emissions. In the context of this problem regarding the generation of cleaner energy and reducing carbon emissions by small-scale industries in urban areas, a model of a rooftop solar photovoltaic tree (SPVT) has been proposed that may be considered by small-scale industries in the place of a conventional rooftop solar photovoltaic (SPV) system. It is also noted that various models of SPVT systems are commercially available on the market, each with their own unique features. However, no new SPVT model has been designed or provided in this paper, which simply presents simulation studies comparing a conventional rooftop SPV system and an SPVT system. The results show that a 9.12 kWp SPVT system can be installed in just 6 Sq.mt, while a 3.8 kWp conventional SPV system requires 40 Sq.mt of rooftop area. Consequently, an SPVT generates around 128% more electricity than a conventional SPV, leading to greater reductions in carbon emissions. Thus, the objective of this study is to identify the most suitable option for small-scale industries in densely populated urban areas to generate electricity and maximize carbon emission reduction.

Investigation of mechanical, electrical conductivity, wear and corrosion performances of traditional CuNi2Si and new high performance CuNiCoSi copper based alloys

ABSTRACT CuNi2Si copper alloy has been utilised in electronics, resistance welding electrodes, and electrical connections. The industry is seeking new copper alloys with improved strength and electrical conductivity. Cu-Ni-Co-Si alloys have been designated as the next generation of high-performance copper alloys. In this study, the cast and hot-forged CuNi2Si and CuNiCoSi alloys were solid-solution treated and aged. Under optimum ageing conditions, alloys were tested for hardness, electrical conductivity, microstructure, mechanical properties, wear resistance, and corrosion resistance. Comparing the CuNiCoSi alloy to the Co-free CuNi2Si alloy, the Co element decreased grain size, accelerating Ni2Si and Co2Si precipitates. The CuNiCoSi alloy has 23% higher conductivity, 31% higher tensile strength, and 17% higher resistance under a 5 N load, 44% higher under a 10 N pressure, and 50% higher under a 20 N load in wear tests than the CuNi2Si alloy. Potentiodynamic studies showed that the CuNi2Si alloy removed 40% more metal per unit time than the CuNiCoSi alloy. The CuNiCoSi alloy outperforms the CuNi2Si alloy in hardness, conductivity, mechanical strength, wear resistance, and corrosion resistance. Due to its outstanding performance, the CuNiCoSi alloy will be vital in industrial equipment, aviation, space, nuclear energy, and electrical power generation.

Magnetic field sensor based on multiple Fano resonance in metal-insulator-metal waveguide coupled with cross-shape resonator

Abstract In this paper, an innovative plasmonic magnetic field sensor (MFS) that exploits a Metal-insulator-Metal (MIM) waveguide configuration with an asymmetric cross-shaped resonator is constructed. The design enables the observation of double Fano resonance in the transmission spectrum, resulting from the coupling between continuous spectrum and discrete spectrum. By incorporating magnetic fluid in the asymmetric cross-shape resonator, the Fano line shapes can be tuned by the external magnetic field. Finite-Difference Time-Domain (FDTD) is used to simulate the spectra response to external magnetic fields and geometrical sizes. The proposed structure exhibits remarkable magnetic field sensitivity of 12.1 p m / O e within the detection range of 15 O e to 199 O e . The resolution of MIM magnetic field sensors can reach 0.0826 O e . The optimal figure of merit (FOM) and maximum Q factor of the Fano dip are about 6.9 × 10 − 4 / O e and 66.74, respectively. Meanwhile, The proposed Fano resonance MFS has some advantages, including compact size, high sensitivity, and cost-effectiveness. A strong linear relationship between the magnetic field and resonance wavelength indicates that the proposed structure can find potential applications in diverse fields such as magnetic field sensors, aircraft navigation, and even nuclear energy generation.

THE PERFORMANCE AND ADVANCED COOLING TECHNIQUES FOR PHOTOVOLTAIC SOLAR PANELS

The high performance of the photovoltaic cell requires proper and efficient cooling because the electrical efficiency of the photovoltaic cell is affected by the operating temperature. Providing a suitable operating environment for the photovoltaic cell at a low temperature is necessary, which can be achieved using devices with highly effective thermal performance in which heat is transferred from the cell to the external surroundings via pulsating heat pipes, and this process leads to significant energy generation and the best efficiency of the photovoltaic unit. In this work, we use pulsating heat pipes with copper fins to achieve adequate cooling of the cell and make it operate at the best temperature, leading to a higher photovoltaic cell efficiency. The metal used for the pulsating heat pipes is copper, which has high conductivity needed to increase performance. The study showed that pulsating heat pipes are the most suitable options for cooling the photovoltaic cell, which leads to increasing its efficiency and increasing electricity production.

GESTÃO SUSTENTÁVEL DE RESÍDUOS NA INDÚSTRIA DE LATICÍNIOS: ESTRATÉGIAS PARA O REAPROVEITAMENTO DO SORO DO LEITE

Whey, one of the main by-products generated during the production of cheese and other dairy products, has a rich composition that can be transformed into relevant resources. In this context, various technologies, such as membrane filtration, microfiltration, ultrafiltration, nanofiltration and reverse osmosis, are suitable for separating and concentrating important components, such as proteins and lactose, from whey. In addition, spray-drying transforms whey into high value-added products, while anaerobic digestion allows waste to be converted into biogas, promoting the generation of renewable energy. Reviewing the approach to integrating these technologies not only reduces the environmental impact of the dairy industry, but also contributes to economic efficiency, promoting a circular economy. The article concludes that adopting these practices is essential to ensure a sustainable future for the sector, benefiting both the industry and the environment.

Techno-Economic Feasibility: Planning an On-Grid Solar Power System for Shrimp Pond Aeration

The rapid growth of the Indonesian shrimp farming industry is accompanied by high production costs, primarily driven by the reliance on fossil fuel-based energy sources that can destabilize the ecosystem. This study investigates the technical, economic, and environmental feasibility of using three energy sources, including photovoltaics (PV), grid, and generator, to supply aeration needs in shrimp ponds. A comparative analysis of three scenarios with on-grid schemes was conducted through optimization using Queen Honey Bee Migration (QHBM) and Grey Wolf Optimization (GWO) algorithms, namely Net Present Cost (NPC), Renewable Fraction (RF), and Carbon Emission (ECO2). From a technical point of view, a lower electricity tariff is obtained compared to the grid, which is US$ 589,968. The optimization results on the NPC, RF, and ECO2 parameters show that scenario 1 of the QHBM algorithm is the most optimal. This condition is evidenced by the acquisition of 3 parameters that are closest to the determination of the objective function, yielding an NPC of US$ 230,390.34, RF of 26.01%, and ECO2 of 1,484KgCO2e, with 655Wp PV specifications and the number of PV as many as 578pcs. Economically, the investment in a solar power plant for the shrimp pond obtained BEP of 4.2 years with a payback period (PP) obtained in year 5, net cash-flow of US$ 63,317.31, with ROI of 19% and NPV of US$ 775,159.40 in the same year.