High Electricity Demand Research Articles

Regional inequality in China's electricity trade

The electricity industry has emerged as a key driver in the global carbon reduction initiative within the energy sector. Meanwhile, the national power grid is an essential foundation for societal well-being. However, ongoing regional inequalities in electricity trading highlight the urgent need for a thorough investigation to ensure efficiency and fairness in electrification. We strategically address the spatiotemporal evolution characteristics of inter-regional electricity trade and its added value. The mismatch between carbon emissions and benefits during electricity exchanges is quantified across 30 distinct regions in China from 2005 to 2019. The conclusion indicates that, since 2005, eastern coastal areas have generally benefited, whereas inland areas have faced disadvantages in electricity trade. By 2019, an analysis of electricity trade among regions and grids revealed that areas with low net outflows of clean electricity are more prone to trade inequality. Lastly, regions with high electricity demand or economic development exhibit lower carbon emissions per unit and higher added value per unit of exported products compared to low electricity demand or economically backward regions, with the disparity between them widening. This research offers important insights into developing fair climate policies.

Innovative materials integrated with PCM for enhancing photovoltaic panel efficiency: An experimental investigation

The electrical power generated by a photovoltaic panel is crucial due to the high demand for electricity. Operating temperatures above the Standard Test Conditions (STC) negatively impact the output power, which is a significant drawback of this technology. Therefore, it is essential to keep the front and back surface temperatures of the photovoltaic panel as low as possible. Phase Change Material (PCM) is a good passive cooling method, but it has low thermal conductivity. This paper introduces a novel material to address this issue. Iron Filling Waste (IFW) is integrated with PCM to cool the photovoltaic panel. This investigation is presented experimentally with three modules. The highest surface temperature of the reference panel, 78 °C, is recorded for the uncooled module, while with PCM- IFW is 70.5 °C. The comparative analysis shows that the PV module cooled by PCM-IFW achieved an efficiency enhancement and power output increase of 39 % and 33 % respectively, compared to the reference panel without cooling. IFW-PCM achieves an average enhancement in efficiency and output power by 23 % and 11 %, respectively, compared with panels that use PCM only. Also, IFW enhances thermal conductivity without any additional economic cost for the cooling systems.

Revealing spatial and temporal patterns of residential cooling in Southern California through combined estimates of AC ownership and use

Air conditioning (AC) is an important tool for combatting the adverse health effects of heat, but its use can also drive surges of high demand for electricity. To better understand these effects, there is a need for non-intrusive methods of estimating AC access and operation. In this study, we use a novel methodology to identify residential AC ownership rates using smart meter data from 200,000 customers in Southern California, and find that 79 % of all customers in the region have AC. In contrast to previous methods, we classify AC ownership using hourly, rather than daily, electricity consumption records and directly account for the potential presence of electric heating. We then adapt and apply an algorithm to determine in which hours these households operate their AC. We estimate that the average customer runs their AC during 8.3 % of all hours in the two-year study period, but census-tract level averages range from 1 to 23 % of all hours. Lastly, we combine our estimates of AC ownership and use to analyze cooling behavior spatially and temporally, and are able to identify pockets of high cooling demand, areas lacking in access or the ability to use their AC, and potential targets for cooling-related DR programs.

Electricity system optimisation based on python model for renewable electricity generation portfolio

100% renewable electricity scenarios have received great attention from industry and policy makers, this is due to its widespread need for technical, economical, and renewable integration action plans. In this research, a python model named WIBSS, is developed and tested for adequacy using sensitivity analysis and then used to simulate the Irish electricity system.In this investigation, the optimal cost was identified with the installed capacities needed for the electricity system for high electricity demand scenario, and the generation portfolios for the electricity system in Ireland is proposed.The electricity system parameters are determined and the levelised cost of electricity is optimised and tabulated. In this investigation, the optimal solution is identified to decrease curtailment and minimize the total cost. Overlay graphs are plotted, and the optimal renewable sources combinations are presented.This research of determining generation portfolios toward 100% renewable electricity systems demonstrates simulations of two different pathways for 2030 scenarios to meet electricity demand in Republic of Ireland. The renewable energy target appeared in the government climate action plan and the authors renewable energy target determined based on the simulation of the python model, with more than doubled photovoltaic installation, a significant reduction in offshore wind, and a substantial integration of battery capacity, the authors renewable energy target performs better than renewable energy target, the levelised cost of electricity were 57.22 €/mWh and 51.11 €/mWh respectively. The least cost pathway is extended to balance between electricity generation and electricity demand in 2040 scenario, and keys target were proposed for generation portfolios.

A Systematic Review of Expert Systems for Improving Energy Efficiency in the Manufacturing Industry

Against the backdrop of the European Union’s commitment to achieve climate neutrality by 2050, efforts to improve energy efficiency are being intensified. The manufacturing industry is a key focal point of these endeavors due to its high final electrical energy demand while simultaneously facing a growing shortage of skilled workers crucial for meeting established goals. Expert systems (ESs) offer the chance to overcome this challenge by automatically identifying potential energy efficiency improvements, thereby playing a significant role in reducing electricity consumption. This paper systematically reviews state-of-the-art ES approaches aimed at improving energy efficiency in industry with a focus on manufacturing. The literature search yields 1668 results, of which 62 articles published between 1987 and 2024 are analyzed in depth. These publications are classified according to the system boundary, manufacturing type, application perspective, application purpose, ES type, and industry. Furthermore, we examine the structure, implementation, utilization, and development of ESs in this context. Through this analysis, this review reveals research gaps, pointing toward promising topics for future research.

DESENVOLVIMENTO DE PROTÓTIPO UTILIZANDO MICROCONTROLADORES PARA CONTROLE DE EFICIÊNIA ENERGÉTICA EM RESIDÊNCIAS UNIFAMILIARES

The search for solutions that aim to improve the way we use electrical energy in our daily lives is of great importance when it comes to sustainability. Energy efficiency plays a fundamental role in the development of sustainable technologies. In a period of high demand for electricity and concerns about the environment, energy efficiency has become increasingly important, both in industrial and domestic applications. In this scenario, microcontrollers play a fundamental role in optimizing and controlling electrical energy. Among its various applications is monitoring and managing energy consumption in real time, making intelligent decisions to minimize waste. These systems, when integrated with sensors and other devices, allow the development of solutions that not only save energy, but also make environments smarter and more sustainable. Observing this context, this study aims to develop a device capable of providing accurate information about the electrical energy consumption of equipment. The developed prototype aims to provide detailed information about the energy consumption of monitored equipment, contributing to better energy management. The developed energy meter prototype demonstrated the potential to contribute significantly to energy efficiency, by providing accurate and real-time data, thus resulting in a more intelligent use of the energy consumed, as, with knowledge of real-time data, it is possible to monitor and work on energy optimization.

Economic Impact of CSP Plants with Storage Addressing the Energy Transition in Locations with High Electricity Demand in Chile

This study explores the economic implications of hybrid plants combining photovoltaic (PV) and Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) technologies with energy storage in response to Chile's ongoing energy transition. Utilizing the System Advisor Model (SAM), six diverse locations were evaluated to assess energy generation profiles, calculate the Levelized Cost of Energy (LCOE), and analyze gross margins. The key finding is that higher solar multiples or storage capacities do not consistently lead to lower LCOE, primarily due to operational strategies aligning CSP generation profiles with PV. Notably, northern regions consistently yield higher gross margins despite occasional zero marginal costs, while areas near Santiago experience lower gross margins, with Salamanca presenting the lowest margin. This highlights the critical role of available solar resources in shaping economic outcomes.

Atmospheric Mercury Concentrations and Isotopic Compositions Impacted by Typical Anthropogenic Mercury Emissions Sources.

Coal-fired power plants (CFPPs) and cement plants (CPs) are important anthropogenic mercury (Hg) emission sources. Mercury speciation profiles in flue gas are different among these sources, leading to significant variations in local atmospheric Hg deposition. To quantify the impacts of Hg emissions from CFPPs and CPs on local-scale atmospheric Hg deposition, this study determined concentrations and isotopes of ambient gaseous elemental mercury (GEM), particulate-bound mercury (PBM), and precipitation total Hg (THg) at multiple locations with different distances away from a CFPP and a CP. Higher concentrations of GEM and precipitation THg in the CFPP area in summer were caused by higher Hg emission from the CFPP, resulting from higher electricity demand. Higher concentrations of GEM, PBM, and precipitation THg in the CP area in winter compared to those in summer were related to the higher output of cement. Atmospheric Hg concentration peaked near the CFPP and CP and decreased with distance from the plants. Elevated GEM concentration in the CFPP area was due to flue gas Hg0 emissions, and high PBM and precipitation Hg concentrations in the CP area were attributed to divalent Hg emissions. It was estimated that Hg emissions from the CFPP contributed 58.3 ± 20.9 and 52.3 ± 25.9% to local GEM and PBM, respectively, and those from the CP contributed 47.0 ± 16.7 and 60.0 ± 25.9% to local GEM and PBM, respectively. This study demonstrates that speciated Hg from anthropogenic emissions posed distinct impacts on the local atmospheric Hg cycle, indicating that Hg speciation profiles from these sources should be considered for evaluating the effectiveness of emission reduction policies. This study also highlights the Hg isotope as a useful tool for monitoring environmental Hg emissions.

On the Potential of Biomass-Fueled Externally Fired Micro-Gas Turbines in the Energy Transition: Off-Design Performance Analysis

Abstract The potential of replacing the use of natural gas with biomass gasification syngas through an externally fired micro-gas turbine (EFMGTs) is the main scope of this study. This includes the performance assessment at various off-design and ambient conditions compared to a reference natural-gas-fired Micro-Gas Turbine. The penetration of biomass use in the decentralized combined heat and power (CHP) sector can reduce fossil fuel dependency and contribute to the achievement of the net-zero emissions target. For this purpose, an analytical externally fired thermodynamic model is incorporated and validated with an artificial neural network (ANN) based on a natural-gas-fired micro-gas turbine unit. An operating strategy is proposed to ensure the system's safe operation under any fuel input conditions. The performance between the investigated cases is compared using an exergetic analysis. The main loss contributors that determine each case's performance are the exit losses. The substantial decrease of the latter results in high externally fired part-load efficiency, maximizing 110% of design-point efficiency. System performance has a linear dependency on ambient conditions. The increased flexibility introduced by the proposed operating strategy case facilitates the transition from natural gas to biomass, especially for higher heat-to-power ratio demands. The analysis highlights that the current externally fired configuration lags behind in high electrical demands (>90 kWel). However, this deficiency is diminished in cold ambient temperatures (<0 °C), indicating that the proposed technology is very opportune for these climatic conditions.

Life cycle assessment of synthetic natural gas production from captured cement’s CO2 and green H2

Research on the environmental benefits of carbon capture and utilization (CCU) in cement production so far, has predominantly emphasized energy efficiency enhancements and CO2 emission reductions at a CCU product level, neglecting broader environmental consequences for the sector. This research broadens this perspective by providing an extensive life cycle assessment (LCA) of a circular Portland cement (CPC) model. Synthesized methane is used as input fuel through green hydrogen and calcium-looping (CaL) post-combustion captured CO2 from cement flue gas. Comparative analysis with ordinary Portland cement (OPC) reveals significant reductions in climate change and fossil resource use environmental impact categories. However, trade-offs are evident in acidification, water use, and minerals and metals resource consumption. The electrolysis system is a critical contributor due to the high electricity demand for hydrogen production, and its environmental impact depends largely on the renewable electricity source. The wind-based electrolysis model yields the most favourable results, followed by mixed (50% solar – 50% wind) and solar scenarios. These findings offer valuable insights for the cement industry, supporting stakeholders decision making on the adoption of sustainable circular production methods.

Research on intelligent auxiliary regulation technology of large power grid section based on artificial intelligence

In the modern era, large-scale renewable energy systems are integrated with advanced power systems and provide efficient operations. Also, optimized power systems require accurate energy generation and effective control systems to manage and ensure a stable power supply. Nevertheless, uncertainties are the intermittent balance of supply and high electricity demand. In addition, conventional power sources are not applicable for this challenging task and increase electricity costs. Therefore, an efficient Neuro Fuzzy Single phase Unified Power Quality Conditioner with Maximum Power Point Tracking (NF-SP UPQC -MPPT) strategy is developed for enhancing the grid-connected power systems. Here, Neuro-fuzzy logic is used as dynamic reactive power compensation in the grid. Also, this logic can efficiently handle the Energy storage system (ESS). Then SP UPQC was used to enhance power quality in electrical distribution systems. It combines both series and shunt compensators to mitigate various power quality issues such as voltage sags, harmonics, and unbalance. After that MPPT was utilized to extract the maximum power from the grid system. Model Predictive Control (MPC) controller to determine the overall stability and performance of the system. Moreover, the developed model was implemented on the MATLAB platform and performance is analyzed in terms of voltage deviation, grid current, reactive power fluctuations and Total Harmonic Distortion (THD).

Assessment Wind Energy in the Central Region of Thailand

This study evaluates the wind energy potential in the central region of Thailand by using data from seven wind measurement stations (Ayutthaya, Bangna, Chainat, Kamphaeng Saen, Lopburi, Nakhon Sawan, and Pathum Thani) and two wind turbines, namely AN Bonus 1300/62 and Vestas Wind System A/S. The analysis was conducted using the Wind Atlas Analysis and Application Program (WAsP) to examine the collected wind speed data over three years from the seven stations. The objective was to identify the top three areas with the highest annual energy production (AEP). Additionally, the study included an economic analysis using various metrics, such as the present value of costs (PVC), benefit-cost ratio (BCR), payback period (PBP), and levelized cost of electricity (LCOE). The results indicate that the AN Bonus 1300/62 model provides higher values in areas with high wind speeds and relatively high electricity demand, whereas the Vestas V52 model is suitable for areas with low wind speeds and lower investment requirements. Based on these findings, the authors recommend prioritizing wind energy development in the provinces of Ayutthaya, Nakhon Sawan, and Lopburi using the AN Bonus 1300/62 model, as these areas have high wind speeds and relatively high electricity demand. Overall, this research provides valuable insights for policymakers and investors, enabling them to make informed decisions regarding renewable energy investments in Thailand.

Techno-Economic Assessment for the Best Flexible Operation of the CO2 Removal Section by Potassium Taurate Solvent in a Coal-Fired Power Plant

Alternative solvents based on aqueous solutions of amino acids have been recently developed as possible substitutes for Mono Ethanol Amine (MEA) for CO2 removal from flue gas streams. The potassium taurate solvent has the advantages of degradation resistance, low toxicity and low energy requirements for its regeneration. With any type of solvent, CO2 removal applied to a power production plant decreases the revenues obtained from selling electricity because of the energy requirements. Operating the CO2 removal section in flexible mode avoids significant effects on the profits of the power plant, while accomplishing environmental regulations. This work is the first journal paper focusing on the application in flexible mode of the potassium taurate system for treating a flue gas stream from a 500 MW coal-fired power plant. Techno-economic evaluations are performed to determine the best operating conditions considering the variation in the electricity demand and its price, and different values of carbon tax. In the summer period, with high electricity prices and demands, carbon tax values between 45 EUR/tCO2 and 60 EUR/tCO2 favor CO2 absorption in the flexible mode, without periods of full CO2 emissions during the day.

Shore-to-ship: Enabling the electrification sustainability of maritime transport with the nexus between berthed cruise ships and renewables in the isolated energy systems

Shore-to-ship (S2S), also known as cold ironing (CI) represents an electrification innovation and is among the most significant research areas in the maritime industry. This technology allows ships at berth to connect to the electricity grid and switch off their on-board diesel generators. Article 4 of Directive (2014)/94/EU requests the installation of S2S at ports by 2025. However, the S2S must be integrated in the electricity grid with a substantial proportion of renewable energy sources (RES) to decarbonise ships at berth. The S2S is used at a few ports worldwide, but because of its relatively high electricity demand and impacts on power grid operations, it is still viewed as a futuristic concept for isolated energy systems (IES). This study demonstrates the synergy between S2S and RES in the IES to address challenges of the wider electrification of berthed ships at ports. The EnergyPLAN is used for simulating hourly operations of the IES, including the power and cruise ship industries. The results confirm that integrating S2S in the IES with a substantial RES proportion can decrease critical excess of electricity production (CEEP), operational expenses and CO2 emissions of the IES.

Global low carbon transitions in the power sector: A machine learning clustering approach using archetypes

This study presents an archetype-based approach to designing effective strategies for low-carbon transitions in the power sector. To achieve global energy transition goals, a renewable energy transition is critical, and understanding diverse energy landscapes across different countries is essential to designing effective renewable energy policies and strategies. Using a clustering approach, this study identifies 12 power system archetypes based on several features, including energy and socio-economic indicators of 187 UN countries. Each archetype is characterised by distinct challenges and opportunities, ranging from high dependence on fossil fuels to low electricity access, low economic growth, and insufficient contribution potential of renewables. Archetype A, for instance, consists of countries with low electricity access, high poverty rates, and limited power infrastructure, while Archetype J comprises developed countries with high electricity demand and installed renewables. The study findings have significant implications for renewable energy policymaking and investment decisions, with policymakers and investors able to use the archetype approach to identify suitable renewable energy policies and measures and assess renewable energy potential and risks. Overall, the archetype approach provides a comprehensive framework for understanding diverse energy landscapes and accelerating decarbonisation efforts for the power sector.

Assessing the Effectiveness of an Innovative Thermal Energy Storage System Installed in a Building in a Moderate Continental Climatic Zone

In the present work, the operating results from an innovative, renewable, energy-based space-heating and domestic hot water (DHW) system are shown. The system used solar thermal energy as its primary source and was assisted by a shallow geothermal application in order to accommodate the space-heating and DHW needs of a domestic building in Austria. The system incorporated phase-change materials (PCMs) in specially designed containers to function as heat-storage modules and provide an energy storage capability for both the space-heating and DHW subsystems. This system was designed, implemented, and tested under real operating conditions in a building for a period of one year. The operating and energy results for the system are demonstrated in this work. The system was compared with a conventional one, and a reduction in the primary energy consumption equal to 84.3% was achieved. The maintenance and operating costs of the system were reduced by 79.7% compared to the conventional system, thus significantly contributing to the NZEB target of the building. The newly proposed system, although presenting an increased operating complexity, utilizes an innovative self-learning control system that manages all of its operations. The combination of a solar thermal energy source with thermal energy storage increases the use of renewable energy by extending the capacity of the system beyond the solar hours and using excess solar energy for space-heating needs. The thermal energy storage unit also increases the energy and economic efficiency of the geothermal heat pump by operating it during the hours of a reduced electricity tariff and using the stored energy during hours of a high electricity demand. The cost for the installation of such a system is higher than a conventional one, but due to the significantly decreased operating costs, the pay-back period was calculated to be 8.7 years.

The Legality of Rooftop Solar Power Generators Utilization to Fulfill Energy Need

This legal writing examines the utilization of new and renewable energy as an environmentally friendly approach to electricity consumption. New and renewable energy (EBT) encompasses various primary sources such as solar (PLTS), geothermal (PLTP), water (PLTA), wind (PLTB), etc. To meet the high demand for electricity, harnessing energy from sunlight is explored as an alternative power generator. Utilizing buildings’ roofs for solar cell installation is a common practice. However, challenges arise including the initially high investment for purchasing solar cell components, batteries for energy storage, inverters, and installation costs. Despite these challenges, the monthly operational costs are minimal. The government, through Regulation of the Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources of the Republic of Indonesia Number 26 of 2021 concerning rooftop solar power systems, supports the legal framework of this which is linked to the electricity grid held by the license holders for electricity supply for public purposes. Furthermore, rooftop solar power systems can be on-grid with the national electricity network (jaringan PLN) to meet energy needs when the installed capacity is below the electricity demand of the consumers. This writing employs a research method with a normative juridical approach by examining literature through a doctrinal perspective. The research results focus on the legality, requirements, and processes involved in the construction of rooftop solar power plants, detailing considerations across various factors before deciding to establish them, including the procedures, regulations, and agreements when integrating rooftop solar power systems into the national electricity network managed by the state electricity company.
 Highlights:
 
 
 High Initial Investment: Discusses the challenges related to the upfront costs of purchasing solar components, batteries, inverters, and installation despite minimal operational costs.
 
 
 Government Support: Emphasizes the role of government regulations, such as Regulation Number 26 of 2021, in supporting and providing a legal framework for rooftop solar power systems connected to the national electricity grid.
 
 
 Integration with National Grid: Highlights the on-grid capability of rooftop solar power systems, enabling them to supplement energy needs and aligning with the capacity of the national electricity network managed by the state electricity company (PLN).
 
 
 Keywords: Legality, Solar Cell, New and Renewable Energy (EBT), On-Grid.

Impact of the incorporation of photovoltaics distributed generation in electric distribution grids in Ecuador

The distributed generation (DG) allows electricity production to be closer to consumers, relieving the burden on distribution grid feeders. Interest in DG has increased in recent years due to its close relationship with smart grids and the development of carbon-free generation technologies. The Ciudad del Sol feeder in the city of Machala in Ecuador is one of the feeders with the highest electricity demand. This study evaluates the incorporation of DG in several consumers connected to this feeder. Depending on the range of energy consumption of each customer, different PV systems are proposed to meet their demands. The results of the study show that the installation of PV generation systems allows considerable savings on the electricity bill. In addition, the reduction of grid demand reduces Joule effect losses and improves voltage profiles. The results suggest that the massive incorporation of correctly dimensioned PV systems does not affect the operating conditions of a distribution power grid.

Modeling the clearing of intra-provincial power market considering the equivalent value of power supply from outside Guangdong Province under the environment of Southern Regional Market (SRM)

Abstract Focusing on the complex market environment of Guangdong Province, this research pioneers a model for assimilating external power sources into the intra-provincial power market, a critical move to support the region’s high demand for electricity driven by robust economic activities. Our study innovatively tackles the province’s fluctuating power supply and demand by employing a novel power supply equivalence and co-modulation technique, enhancing system modeling efficiency and computational effectiveness. Comparative evaluations demonstrate that our approach significantly reduces the power market’s purchase costs by 15% while safeguarding power supply stability and security. The proposed model presents a breakthrough in optimizing Guangdong’s power market’s economic and reliability aspects, offering a promising pathway for future market clearing practices.

Techno-Economic Analysis of a Thermally Integrated Solid Oxide Fuel Cell and Compressed Air Energy Storage Hybrid System

Natural-gas-fueled solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) systems have the potential for high-efficiency conversion of carbon to power due to the underlying electrochemical conversion process while readily facilitating carbon capture through the separation of the fuel and oxidant sources. Compressed air energy storage (CAES) technology can potentially store significant quantities of energy for later use with a high round-trip efficiency and lower cost when compared with state-of-the-art battery technology. The base load generation capability of SOFC can be coupled with CAES technology to provide a potentially flexible, low-carbon solution to meet the fluctuating electricity demands imposed by the increasing share of intermittent variable renewable energy (VRE) production. SOFC and CAES can be hybridized through thermal integration to maximize power output during periods of high electrical demand and then store power when either demand is low or renewable generation reduces power prices. The techno-economics of a low-carbon hybrid SOFC and CAES system was developed and investigated in the present study. The proposed hybrid system was found to be cost-competitive with other power-generating base-load facilities when power availability was considered. The hybrid system shows increased resilience to changes in a high VRE grid market scenario.