Solar Photovoltaic Integration Research Articles

Potential of agrivoltaics in ASEAN considering a scenario where agroforestry expansion is also pursued

Integration of solar photovoltaics on croplands (“agrivoltaics”) has been promoted as an environmentally-friendly approach for solar energy deployment. Past studies, however, have not considered that these croplands could alternatively be used as sites for expanding agroforestry, a practice which provides important ecosystem services to the neighbouring environment. We assessed the potential of agrivoltaics on herbaceous croplands in ASEAN, considering potential trade-offs with agroforestry. We assumed that croplands located in environmentally sensitive areas (ESAs) – including protected areas, key biodiversity areas, forests, wetlands/inland water bodies, their buffer zones, and areas with steep slopes – were better suited for agroforestry than agrivoltaics. We found that even if agrivoltaics are prohibited on all croplands located in ESAs, using just 10 % of the remaining land for agrivoltaics can still allow it to provide most of ASEAN's electricity generation needs. Thus, large-scale expansion of agrivoltaics need not conflict with regional efforts to enhance biodiversity/ecosystem services through agroforestry.

Investigations on solar PV integration and associated power quality challenges in distribution systems through the application of MCS and GA

In the forthcoming decades, significant advancements will shape the construction and operations of distribution systems. Particularly, the increasing prominence of photovoltaic (PV) systems in the power industry will impact the security of these systems. This study employs Monte Carlo Simulation (MCS) in conjunction with genetic algorithm (GA) and differential evolution (DE) to address uncertainties. The probability density functions (pdf) for total voltage harmonic distortion (UTHD), individual voltage harmonic distortion (UIHDh), and RMS voltage (URMS) have been determined for utilization in chance constrained framework. In addition, the uncertainty effects of PV systems on grid losses for various solar radiation conditions are also investigated. Specifically, the paper aims to evaluate these impacts within the context of stochastic limits. The PV system sizing problem has been addressed inside the distribution system using a chance-constrained framework. A key contribution is the integration of GA, DE, and MCS into a cohesive approach, and the study evaluates the benefits of this approach through an analysis of outcomes derived from the stochastic method. The simulation results illustrate the advantages of the proposed stochastic GA methodology.

Decarbonising mining of Australia's critical mineral deposits: Opportunities for sustainable mining through solar photovoltaics and wind energy integration

Critical minerals are essential in numerous industrial applications, particularly those related to green energy production. Nonetheless, the mining and processing of these minerals are severely energy-intensive, relying predominantly on diesel, coal, and gas as sources of power in Australia. Consequently, the use of diesel, coal, and gas as power sources results in a substantial carbon footprint. An important research gap that remains to be explored in the Australian mining sector is investigating the potential for decarbonising the mining of critical minerals through the implementation of renewable energy to attain sustainable mining. This study examines the potential of using solar photovoltaics (PV) and wind energy towards the decarbonisation of critical mineral deposits, taking into account both the intrinsic mineral characteristics such as ore grade, ore depth, and co-existing mineral clusters, as well as external factors such as the capacity factor (CF) and the periods of low energy generation (lull times) of solar PV and wind, which are crucial in assessing the availability of the renewable energy sources explored. The results from this study indicate that a considerable number of critical mineral deposits in Australia are remotely located from the existing national transmission line infrastructure. These deposits often form geographical clusters and typically have favourable conditions for solar PV and wind energy implementation, characterised by high capacity factors and minimal lull times in solar PV/wind. This clustering presents a promising opportunity for powering mining activities with solar PV and wind energy, thus facilitating the decarbonisation of mining operations in Australia through the utilisation of shared renewable energy infrastructures. Moreover, the study identifies specific mineral deposits that are most suitable for decarbonisation with solar PV and wind energy integration. The research method used in this study proposes an evaluative framework that correlates the capacity factor of solar PV and wind with lull times from these sources, as well as with mineral intrinsic characteristics within deposits. This framework enables a comparative analysis of different deposits, assessing their relative suitability for the integration of solar PV and wind energy technologies. This framework is versatile and can be employed to assess different renewable energy sources, making it applicable to various global contexts. The findings from this study underscore the transformative potential of renewable energy sources, indicating that solar PV and wind energy offer new opportunities for attaining decarbonised and sustainable mining in Australia.

Design and development of energy management system for solar electric vehicle with dynamic power split approach

ABSTRACT The integration of on-roof solar photovoltaic (PV) systems in electric vehicles (EVs) represents a groundbreaking advancement in the evolution of sustainable transportation. The objective of the research is to design and validate an integrated system for on-roof solar PV integration in EVs, optimising energy utilisation and reducing reliance on grid electricity. This paper explores the implementation of an Adaptive Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) system, which maintains the output of the PV system at a constant level, leading to a significant improvement of approximately 10.20% in energy output compared to conventional MPPT systems. Additionally, a dynamic power split approach (DPAS) is employed to intelligently manage the allocation of power between the solar PV system and the vehicle battery, ensuring continuous fulfilment of energy demand while simultaneously recharging the battery. The proposed system reduces 65% of energy demand from grid and hence, reliance on grid. Furthermore, the dynamic power split approach enable substantial reductions in battery capacity requirements, with a potential decrease of 25–35% observed. These advancements not only enhance the performance and efficiency of EVs but also contribute to cost savings and the transition towards a cleaner and more sustainable transportation ecosystem.

Emergency power supply enabling solar PV integration with battery storage and wireless interface

ABSTRACT This paper presents a detailed investigation of an emergency power supply that enables solar photovoltaic (PV) power integration with a battery energy storage system (BESS) and a wireless interface. Through the utilisation of solar PV-based generation and BESS with wireless/contactless power transmission, the proposed method offers an easy-to-setup and flexible alternative solution for the emergency power supply (EPS) for household appliances and wireless electric vehicle (EV) charging for all weather conditions. During bad weather conditions, the battery acts as the main power supply and can be charged from the solar PV panel and during rainy days, it can be charged from the grid by the proposed wireless interface for emergency use. The proposed system is analysed by mathematical modelling, focusing on the interface of the solar PV, BESS, and load, with inductive power transfer (IPT) as a wireless power transfer (WPT) method. The simulation and a scaled-down experimental prototype are built to demonstrate that the proposed system enables wireless power transfer with PV and BESS, and easy installation can be achieved by just placing the primary charging coil of the proposed power supply close to the wireless charging pad that is available in the existing system for e.g. EV charging. The results show that the load voltage is kept constant at 48 V against the varying input characteristic of the solar panel which is the solar irradiance ranging from 20% to 100% and output characteristics of the load of the proposed integrated system with variation of 20–50%, respectively. Moreover, the wireless power transfer efficiency across the inductive coils is maintained at about 97% under these variations.

A technical appraisal of solar photovoltaic-integrated single slope single basin solar still for simultaneous energy and water generation

In the contemporary era, the availability of energy and water stands as an essential foundation for human survival, with water's significance underscored by its role in shaping habitats. However, the modern world faces the pressing challenge of water scarcity, exacerbated by factors like air and water pollution, leading to ecological imbalances. Water, an indispensable resource for various daily human activities, necessitates the generation of freshwater. Simultaneously, the imperative of sustainable energy generation has taken precedence on the national agenda for growth. In this context, the integration of solar photovoltaic (PV) technology with solar stills emerges as the most viable solution. Within these integrated systems, electrical energy generated by solar PV is strategically employed to preheat inlet feeds, enhance air temperature, and optimize the evaporation and condensation processes within the solar still, thereby augmenting its overall performance. This study delves into the integration of solar PV collectors/systems with solar stills, distinguishing between thermal and electrical energy utilization in solar PV systems. The review underscores the pivotal role of solar PV integration in addressing critical issues of water scarcity and sustainable energy generation, contributing to the nation's growth.

An IoT-based intelligent smart energy monitoring system for solar PV power generation

Abstract As the world’s attention turns to cleaner, more dependable, and sustainable resources, the renewable energy sector is rising quickly. The decline in world energy use and climate change are the two most significant factors nowadays. PV forecasting was essential to enhancing the efficiency of the real-time control system and preventing any undesirable effects. The smart energy management systems of distributed energy resources, the forecasting model of irradiation received from the sun, and therefore PV energy production might mitigate the impact of uncertainty on PV energy generation, improve system dependability, and increase the incursion level of solar power generation. Smart sensors and Internet of Things technologies are essential for monitoring and controlling applications in a broad range of fields. As a result, solar power generation forecasting was essential for microgrid stability and security, as well as solar photovoltaic integration in a strategic approach. This paper examines how to use IoT, a solar photovoltaic system being monitored, and shows the proposed monitoring system is a potentially viable option for smart remote and in-person monitoring of a solar PV system.

Comparative Analysis of Smart Grid Solar Integration in Urban and Rural Networks

Solar photovoltaic (PV) power, a highly promising renewable energy source, encounters challenges when integrated into smart grids. These challenges encompass voltage fluctuations, issues with voltage balance, and concerns related to power quality. This study aims to comprehensively analyze the implications of solar PV penetration in Malaysian power distribution networks predominantly found in urban and rural areas. To achieve this, we employed the OpenDSS 2022 and MATLAB 2022b software tools to conduct static power flow analyses, enabling us to assess the effects of solar PV integration over a wide area under two worst-case scenarios: peak-load and no-load periods. Our investigation considered voltage violations, power losses, and fault analysis relative to the power demand of each scenario, facilitating a comprehensive evaluation of the impacts. The findings of our study revealed crucial insights. We determined that the maximum allowable power for both urban and rural networks during no-load and peak-load situations is approximately 0.5 MW and 0.125 MW, respectively. Moreover, as the percentage of PV penetration increases, notable reductions in power losses are observed, indicating the potential benefits of higher smart grid PV integration.

Cybersecurity Vulnerabilities in Smart Grids with Solar Photovoltaic: A Threat Modelling and Risk Assessment Approach

Cybersecurity is a growing concern for smart grids, especially with the integration of solar photovoltaics (PVs). With the installation of more solar and the advancement of inverters, utilities are provided with real-time solar power generation and other information through various tools. However, these tools must be properly secured to prevent the grid from becoming more vulnerable to cyber-attacks. This study proposes a threat modeling and risk assessment approach tailored to smart grids incorporating solar PV systems. The approach involves identifying, assessing, and mitigating risks through threat modeling and risk assessment. A threat model is designed by adapting and applying general threat modeling steps to the context of smart grids with solar PV. The process involves the identification of device assets and access points within the smart grid infrastructure. Subsequently, the threats to these devices were classified utilizing the STRIDE model. To further prioritize the identified threat, the DREAD threat-risk ranking model is employed. The threat modeling stage reveals several high-risk threats to the smart grid infrastructure, including Information Disclosure, Elevation of Privilege, and Tampering. Targeted recommendations in the form of mitigation controls are formulated to secure the smart grid’s posture against these identified threats. The risk ratings provided in this study offer valuable insights into the cybersecurity risks associated with smart grids incorporating solar PV systems, while also providing practical guidance for risk mitigation. Tailored mitigation strategies are proposed to address these vulnerabilities. By taking proactive measures, energy sector stakeholders may strengthen the security of their smart grid infrastructure and protect critical operations from potential cyber threats.

Achieving energy sustainability by using solar PV: System modelling and comprehensive techno-economic-environmental analysis

The integration of renewable energy into existing energy infrastructure plays a significant role for promoting sustainable development, but it lacks the certain facets of comprehensive feasibility analysis regarding technical, economic, and environmental aspects. This study focuses on integrating solar photovoltaic (PV) energy into the residential sector using a decision tree and design parameters (DPs) optimisation to assess sustainability and meet the electrification requirements of water, energy, and food elements in the residential sector. In this study, we first quantify the synergies and trade-offs between DPs using a statistical method, and identify influential DPs for solar PV integration using the information gain ratio method. Then, we evaluate the impact of solar PV systems on energy sustainability by considering optimised DPs and energy-economic-environmental decision indicators. Finally, the competitiveness of various solar PV integrated energy systems is analysed using energy, economic, and environmental indicators. The findings suggest that combining solar PV systems with grid power has a greater impact, whereas combining them with battery energy storage systems is more competitive. This study provides valuable insights for decision-making organisations to encourage renewable solar integration in the residential sector, resulting in energy sustainability.

Integration of Solar Photovoltaic Systems into Power Networks: A Scientific Evolution Analysis

Solar photovoltaic (PV) systems have drawn significant attention over the last decade. One of the most critical obstacles that must be overcome is distributed energy generation. This paper presents a comprehensive quantitative bibliometric study to identify the new trends and call attention to the evolution within the research landscape concerning the integration of solar PV in power networks. The research is based on 7146 documents that were authored between 2000–2021 and downloaded from the Web of Science database. Using an in-house bibliometric tool, Bibliometrix R-package, and the open-source tool VOSviewer we obtained bibliometric indicators, mapped the network analysis, and performed a multivariate statistical analysis. The works that were based on solar photovoltaics into power networks presented rapid growth, especially in India. The co-occurrence analysis showed that the five main clusters, classified according to dimensions and significance, are (i) power quality issues that are caused by the solar photovoltaic penetration in power networks; (ii) algorithms for energy storage, demand response, and energy management in the smart grid; (iii) optimization, techno-economic analysis, sensitivity analysis, and energy cost analysis for an optimal hybrid power system; (iv) renewable energy integration, self-consumption, energy efficiency, and sustainable development; and (v) modeling, simulation, and control of battery energy storage systems. The results revealed that researchers pay close attention to “renewable energy”, “microgrid”, “energy storage”, “optimization”, and “smart grid”, as the top five keywords in the past four years. The results also suggested that (i) power quality; (ii) voltage and frequency fluctuation problems; (iii) optimal design and energy management; and (iv) technical-economic analysis, are the most recent investigative foci that might be appraised as having the most budding research prospects.

MPC-Based Coordinated Voltage Control in Active Distribution Networks Incorporating CVR and DR

With massive integration of solar photovoltaics (PVs) in the distribution networks, the voltage regulation problem has become one of the serious concerns for distribution network operators. This article proposes a model predictive-based voltage control that optimally coordinates the reference voltage of distribution static synchronous compensator and on-load tap changer, and PV inverters’ active and reactive power set points to maintain network voltages within the operating limits. The two functionalities of the active distribution management system are demand response (DR) and conservation voltage reduction (CVR), which are further explored in the voltage control methodology to enhance energy efficiency of the distribution networks. The proposed methodology is implemented in a 33-bus distribution network to verify its effectiveness for different cases. Furthermore, simulation results demonstrate the benefits of CVR and DR on the proposed methodology.

Using solar power regulation to electrochemically capture carbon dioxide: Process integration and case studies

This work focuses on the use of solar photovoltaic energy to capture carbon dioxide by means of a combined electrolyzer–absorption system and compares operating results obtained in two cases studies (operation during one clear and one cloudy day in March) in which real integration of solar photovoltaics, electrolyzer and absorption technologies is made at the bench-scale. The system is a part of a larger process (so-called EDENⓇ, Electrochemically-based Decarbonizing ENergy) which aims to regulate solar photovoltaic energy using a reversible chloralkaline electrochemical cell. Results demonstrate the feasibility of the sequestering technology, which can produce chlorine and hydrogen but also the sequestration of CO2 and its transformation into a mixture of sodium chloride, bicarbonate, and carbonate, useful as raw matter. Efficiencies over 70% for chlorine, 60% for hydrogen and 90% for sodium hydroxide were obtained. The sequestration of carbon dioxide reached 24.4 mmol CO2/Ah with an average use of 1.6 mmol NaOH/mmol CO2. Important differences are found between the performance of the system in a clear and a cloudy day which point out the necessity of regulating the dosing of the electrochemically produced sodium hydroxide to optimize the sequestration of CO2.

Verifying operational intra-day solar forecasts from ECMWF and NOAA

Global horizontal irradiance (GHI) forecasting at intra-day horizons of up to 12-h ahead is vital to grid integration of solar photovoltaics, but has been fundamentally difficult for all methods that do not involve numerical weather prediction (NWP), since non-NWP methods are unable to extrapolate the data to a horizon beyond a fews hours. The European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) are the most representative weather centers in Europe and America, respectively. To understand their operational impact and value to grid integration, the ECMWF’s High Resolution (HRES) model and two models from NOAA, namely, Rapid Refresh (RAP) and High-Resolution Rapid Refresh (HRRR), are validated through the Murphy–Winkler distribution-oriented verification framework, over the year 2020, at seven locations. All forecasts are retrieved at native horizontal resolutions—9 km for HRES, 13 km for RAP, and 3 km for HRRR; it depicts the “off-the-shelf” scenario if these forecasts are to be utilized by end users. Three simple linear correction methods, each being statistically optimal in its own respect, are used to post-process the raw forecasts. It was found that 1–12-h-ahead ECMWF’s HRES forecasts have a significantly lower root mean square error (14.0–33.7%) as compared to NOAA’s HRRR (19.0–53.2%) and RAP (19.2–45.9%). Even after the large biases in HRRR and RAP forecasts are removed, those post-processed versions are still inferior to the raw HRES forecasts.

Performance improvement of CO2 air conditioner by integrating photonic radiative cooler as sub-cooler or/and roof envelope

Passive radiative cooling, which creates a direct in-situ cooling effect, along with a natural refrigerant-based vapor compression system, could be a potential alternative for building air conditioning to reduce the heat island effect and global warming. Hence, the radiative cooler is integrated with transcritical CO2 air conditioner as a sub-cooler or/and roof envelope. Three configurations of radiative cooler integrated CO2 system (Case 1: radiative cooler as roof envelope only, Case 2: radiative cooler as sub-cooler only and Case 3: radiative cooler as sandwiched roof envelope and sub-cooler) are proposed and simulated for tropical Indian summer climate. Energy, exergy and economic analyses along with gas cooler pressure optimization are performed. The Monte Carlo method is used to calculate annual energy savings for all three cases. Results show that case 3 exceeds the performance of other cases. Case 3 also reduces the variations of optimum gas cooler pressure and cooling load, leading to the smooth operation of the CO2 air conditioner. COP increment of 33.8% and exergy efficiency improvement of 29.1% are observed for case 3. A simple payback period of 5.3 years is worked out for case 3. Annual energy saving per unit area for case 3 is found comparable to solar photovoltaic integration.

Yield analysis and economic assessment for GIS-mapping of large scale solar PV potential and integration in Morocco

In this paper, the technical and economic potential of large-scale integration of photovoltaic (PV) power plants in Morocco is assessed. For this purpose, environmental and technical constraints were first evaluated and gathered into a land exclusion map to identify the unsuitable areas for PV deployment. Subsequently, using accurate and high resolution data as well as Geographic Information System (GIS) tools, calculation of the technical potential for three scenarios -based on the plants efficiency- has been conducted. Afterwards, the economic potential -LCOE- was derived. The results indicate that 87.52% of the total area is considered suitable for PV installations. The total technical potential stood at 49,643 TWh/year for the third scenario with a decrease of 5% between the three alternatives. As for the LCOE, the cheapest electricity price is about 0.0331 $/kWh in the Souss-Massa region. These results are with high importance since they highlight the significant large-scale PV potential of Morocco, which can serve as a reference for investors in selecting optimal sites from a technical and economic standpoint.

Dynamic Cost-Optimal Assessment of Complementary Diurnal Electricity Storage Capacity in High PV Penetration Grid

Solar Photovoltaics (PV) is seen as one of the renewable energy technologies that could help reduce the world’s dependence on fossil fuels. However, since it is dependent on the sun, it can only generate electricity in the daytime, and this restriction is exacerbated in electricity grids with high PV penetration, where solar energy must be curtailed due to the mismatch between supply and demand. This study conducts a techno-economic analysis to present the cost-optimal storage growth trajectory that could support the dynamic integration of solar PV within a planning horizon. A methodology for cost-optimal assessment that incorporates hourly simulation, Monte Carlo random sampling, and a proposed financial assessment is presented. This approach was tested in Japan’s southernmost region since it is continuously increasing its solar capacity and is at the precipice of high PV curtailment scenario. The results show the existence of a cost-optimal storage capacity growth trajectory that balances the cost penalty from curtailment and the additional investment cost from storage. This optimal trajectory reduces the impact of curtailment on the energy generation cost to manageable levels and utilizes more solar energy potential that further reduces CO2 emissions. The results also show that the solar capacity growth rate and storage cost significantly impact the optimal trajectory. The incorporation of the Monte Carlo method significantly reduced the computational requirement of the analysis enabling the exploration of several growth trajectories, and the proposed financial assessment enabled the time-bound optimization of these trajectories. The approach could be used to calculate the optimal growth trajectories in other nations or regions, provided that historical hourly temperature, irradiance, and demand data are available.

Voltage profile improvement of weak grid with solar PV integration

The objective of this paper is to improve the voltage profile of the grid in pertinence to grid due to power injection from distributed solar photovoltaic (PV) arrays. Weak grids are modeled as worldwide adaptation of net metering, transactive energy systems, and the possibility of further deterioration of power quality with higher grid penetration. In this paper, a solar PV integrated weak distribution grid modelled as the PV arrays being frequently connected in rural areas, due to various reasons like cheap real estate and lack of accessibility. In this paper, three case studies of PV generation are simulated, i.e., scheduled solar PV generation less than load requirement, PV generation equal to load requirement, and PV generation more than load requirement, by considering the daily solar irradiation and load demand profiles of a residential area under study.

Modelling and Simulation of 330 KV, 600 MW Shiroro Substation in the DIgSILENT Environment for Integration of Hybrid Solar PV – Hydro System to Improve Power Supply in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) of Abuja from Shiroro, Nigeria

This research paper focuses on modelling and simulation of 330 KV, 600 MW Shiroro Substation in the DIgSILENT Environment for the integration of Hybrid Solar PV – Hydro System to improve power supply in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) of Abuja, Nigeria. A hybrid energy system is a system that combines multiple types of energy generations to satisfy the demand of the users effectively and efficiently. The Solar Photovoltaic (PV)/Hydro hybrid system consists of electrical energy generated from solar PV and hydro energy. Effect of environmental issues, reduction of fossil fuels in addition to its high cost have actively encouraged interest in great integration of renewable energy sources in power systems. This work capitalized on the possibilities of harnessing commercial solar energy and feeding it to the National grid through a nearby 330 KV substation at Shiroro Dam. The simulation is carried out in DIgSILENT (Power factory) environment. The Shiroro 16 kV, 330 kV, 600 MW Transmission Lines are modelled, and results of simulations of the five bus bars (Jebba, Shiroro, Gwagwalada, Katampe and Kaduna) voltages directly connected to Shiroro Network are: 331.8kV, 331.7 kV, 329.3 kV, 325.6 kV and 332.2 kV, respectively. All the values are within the Operational and Statutory Limits of the National Grid Code.

The Modelling and Simulation of 330 KV, 600 MW Shiroro Substation in the DIgSILENT Environment for Integration of Hybrid Solar PV – Hydro System to Improve Power Supply in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) of Abuja from Shiroro, Nigeria

This research paper focuses on modelling and simulation of 330 KV, 600 MW Shiroro Substation in the DIgSILENT Environment for the integration of Hybrid Solar PV – Hydro System to improve power supply in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) of Abuja, Nigeria. A hybrid energy system is a system that combines multiple types of energy generations to satisfy the demand of the users effectively and efficiently. The Solar Photovoltaic (PV)/Hydro hybrid system consists of electrical energy generated from solar PV and hydro energy. Effect of environmental issues, reduction of fossil fuels in addition to its high cost have actively encouraged interest in great integration of renewable energy sources in power systems. This work capitalized on the possibilities of harnessing commercial solar energy and feeding it to the National grid through a nearby 330 KV substation at Shiroro Dam. The simulation is carried out in DIgSILENT (Power factory) environment. The Shiroro 16 kV, 330 kV, 600 MW Transmission Lines are modelled, and results of simulations of the five bus bars (Jebba, Shiroro, Gwagwalada, Katampe and Kaduna) voltages directly connected to Shiroro Network are: 331.8kV, 331.7 kV, 329.3 kV, 325.6 kV and 332.2 kV, respectively. All the values are within the Operational and Statutory Limits of the National Grid Code.