Maximize Energy Generation Research Articles

Experimental evaluation of the temperature related behaviour of pigment based coloured BIPV modules integrated in a ventilated façade

Coloured BIPV installations require an accurate balance between aesthetic and energy aspects. This study explores the integration of Building Integrated Photovoltaic (BIPV) modules into building envelopes to enhance energy efficiency while maintaining aesthetic appeal. To achieve this goal, a real-scale mock-up was realized within the INFINITE project at the PV Integration Lab of Eurac Research to investigate the influence of aesthetic features (mainly given by different colors) on the energy performance of BIPV modules. Supported by an extensive monitoring campaign, this work delves into the performance of BIPV modules of five colors and finishes in both indoor and real exposure conditions. These modules serve as the outer layer of a prefabricated rain screen facade for building retrofitting. The study highlights that darker colors exhibit higher efficiency under standard test conditions but are also correlated with higher operating temperatures. Consequently, the differences in energy efficiency among the colors, observed during indoor tests, are significantly reduced when analyzing the energy produced under real exposure conditions. This observation underscores the intricate balance between maximizing energy generation and mitigating thermal stress on BIPV modules, while preserving aesthetic features. By providing empirical evidence of color-specific performance characteristics, this work offers insightful results for colored BIPV research and customized product optimization.

Synergistic Application of Particle Swarm Optimization and Gravitational Search Algorithm for Solar PV Performance Improvement

This study aims to optimize photovoltaic systems by developing a novel hybrid metaheuristic approach for maximum power point tracking (MPPT). The proposed method eclectically combines particle swarm optimization (PSO) and gravitational search algorithm (GSA) to overcome individual limitations and leverage complementary strengths. PSO, while surpassing in exploration, may suffer from premature convergence. GSA demonstrates strong exploitation capabilities but can struggle with slow convergence. A simulation model is developed to evaluate the hybrid algorithm’s performance in optimizing PV systems’ duty cycle. The approach utilizes the exploitation capabilities of PSO and GSA to navigate the search space effectively. Results demonstrate that the hybrid algorithm outperforms traditional techniques and standalone metaheuristics, achieving improved convergence time, faster settling time, and enhanced MPPT tracking efficiency. Under varying irradiance conditions, the proposed method consistently delivers higher power generation and improved overall PV system efficiency, offering a promising solution for optimizing PV systems and maximizing energy generation.

A methodology for optimal placement of energy hubs with electric vehicle charging stations and renewable generation

The use of electric vehicles and renewable energy sources can significantly contribute to the reduction of pollution levels, fostering a cleaner and more sustainable environment. In addition to their positive environmental impact, electric vehicles can also serve as energy storage units, enabling a bidirectional energy flow between the vehicles and the grid. Despite these promising prospects, a disjointed approach to charging infrastructure planning overlooks the synergies between the energy and transportation ecosystem. This calls for a holistic and coordinated approach to infrastructure development that harnesses the benefits emerging from the convergence of electric vehicles, renewable energy, and transport planning. This paper presents a methodology for the optimal placement of future Energy Hubs for electric vehicle charging and renewable generation. The methodology uses data from open-source datasets involving renewable energy sources, traffic density, charging patterns, road topology, and land use. The optimization problem is formulated as a multi-objective linear programming problem, with the objectives of minimizing the number of Energy Hub units, minimizing electric vehicles charging radius coverage and distance from power substations, and maximizing energy generation. The methodology is demonstrated through an application in Trondheim, Norway, which produces a Pareto front for decision-makers to evaluate the best trade-offs between objectives.

Geological survey techniques and carbon storage: Optimizing renewable energy site selection and carbon sequestration

Geological survey techniques play a crucial role in optimizing site selection for renewable energy projects and identifying suitable locations for carbon storage to mitigate climate change. This abstract provides an overview of how geological survey techniques can be used to achieve these objectives. Renewable energy development, particularly solar and wind power, requires careful site selection to maximize energy generation efficiency and minimize environmental impacts. Geological surveys are instrumental in assessing factors such as subsurface geology, topography, soil composition, and hydrological conditions. These surveys help identify suitable locations with optimal wind or solar resources and geologic conditions for infrastructure development. Additionally, geological surveys are essential for identifying suitable sites for carbon storage, a critical component of carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Geological formations, such as deep saline aquifers, depleted oil and gas reservoirs, and unmineable coal seams, can serve as storage reservoirs for captured carbon dioxide (CO2). Geological surveys help characterize these formations to assess their suitability for long-term CO2 storage, considering factors such as porosity, permeability, and sealing integrity. Optimizing site selection for renewable energy projects and carbon storage requires a comprehensive understanding of subsurface geology and environmental conditions. Advanced geological survey techniques, such as seismic imaging, remote sensing, and geophysical surveys, are essential for acquiring detailed subsurface data. These techniques enable scientists and engineers to assess site suitability, evaluate risks, and design effective mitigation measures. In conclusion, geological survey techniques are invaluable tools for optimizing site selection for renewable energy projects and identifying suitable locations for carbon storage. By leveraging these techniques, stakeholders can make informed decisions that promote sustainable energy development and mitigate the impacts of climate change.

Optimal Positioning of Small Wind Turbines Into a Building Using On-Site Measurements and Computational Fluid Dynamic Simulation

Abstract Renewable energy solutions are essential for addressing several pressing issues, including climate change, the fossil fuels supply chain fragility and fuel price fluctuations. One promising technological solution is rooftop-mounted turbines into buildings. This study presents an evaluation of the potential for wind energy utilization on the rooftop of a 29 m tall building. The primary objective of this research is to develop a methodology that can effectively investigate the integration of small wind turbines (SWTs) into urban buildings, intending to promote energy sufficiency in urban areas. A robust framework has been developed that consists of seven steps. These steps include site selection, evaluating urban wind energy with computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation and on-site measurements, selecting an appropriate SWT, estimating the annual energy production (AEP), conducting an evaluation of the environmental impact, resilience, and economic analysis, and finally, installing the system. This straightforward yet reliable framework provides a comprehensive approach to assessing the viability of wind energy utilization in urban areas. The findings revealed that the most suitable location for installation had an estimated AEP of around 1030 kWh, leading to a reduction in emissions of 0.64 tCO2/y. Additionally, it was observed that the building's geometry and orientation significantly affected the wind flow, causing a substantial decrease in wind speed downstream. Selecting optimal sites and considering wind patterns are essential for maximizing energy generation in wind energy projects.

Analysis of hydraulic losses in the series from 1990 to 2022 at the Retiro small hydroelectric power plant

Hydraulic losses are a crucial variable in hydroelectric ventures as they can cause significant reductions in power generation. This article analyses the impact of hydraulic losses on the Retiro Small Hydroelectric Power Plant (SHPP), investigating their effect on monthly average power and, consequently, the efficiency of electricity generation. This study examines the historical series of load losses at the Retiro SHPP from 1990 to 2022. The calculations are based on flow data available in HidroWeb. The study considered the maximum and minimum flow rates in the historical flow series as constraints for hydropower generation. We used a multivariable function to calculate the efficiency of the hydraulic turbine, relating the turbine flow rate and the net water head. We developed mathematical relationships for head losses that occur in the grid, at the water intake, and due to friction from the intake to the turbine of the Retiro SHPP. The article presents a comparison between the actual monthly average power of the Small Hydroelectric Power Plant (SHPP) and the simulated monthly average power. We normalized the data for turbine flow and load loss to conduct statistical analysis. Kernel probability density was applied to understand the distribution shape of the data. Findings show that average monthly capacity is lowest in September, at approximately 0.81 MW. In March, the highest power occurs, approximately 14.19 MW. During the high flow period, the simulated average power, which accounts for load losses, closely matched the actual average power generated at the Retiro SHPP. In the months from July to October, despite being the period with the lowest head losses, it is the time when there is a greater opportunity to maximize energy generation at the power plant. An inefficient power generation system experiences significant load losses during specific periods of the year. To minimize this effect, it is crucial to understand the behavior of hydraulic losses and consider implementing mitigating measures.

Self‐Boosting Energy Generation via Triboelectric Nanogenerator–Capacitor Coupling

AbstractWith the development of wearable and wireless electronic devices, the triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) is attracting interest as a candidate for portable power. Many studies are conducted to increase the surface charge density of the TENG, such as external charge pumping or external electron excitation strategies. However, there are limitations in that another additional external energy source is required. Here, a TENG–capacitor (TC) coupling system that can maximize energy generation and storage efficiency within a limited volume is proposed. Density functional theory calculations indicate that the electric field induced on capacitor increases the fermi energy of positive triboelectric material, resulting in more charge transfer between two triboelectric materials. TC coupling system enhances TENG output performance and the capacitor charging rate in a virtuous cycle. This study provides new insights into TENG structural design and an important guideline for the use of TENG as a portable power source for wearable and wireless applications.

A Review of the Sustainable Development of Solar Photovoltaic Tracking System Technology

In the face of the traditional fossil fuel energy crisis, solar energy stands out as a green, clean, and renewable energy source. Solar photovoltaic tracking technology is an effective solution to this problem. This article delves into the sustainable development of solar photovoltaic tracking technology, analyzing its current state, limiting factors, and future trends. The adjustment of solar panel orientation using solar tracking technology to maximize energy generation efficiency has been widely implemented in various fields, including solar power plants. Currently, limiting factors for this technology include energy generation efficiency, costs, and the complexity of various environmental conditions. In terms of sustainable development, this article emphasizes the importance of photovoltaic materials and manufacturing innovation, energy efficiency improvements, as well as the integration of smart and digital technologies. Future trends include higher precision, broader applications, and lower costs. Solar photovoltaic tracking technology will play a pivotal role in global energy production, fostering the realization of a clean and sustainable energy future.

The feasibility of transparent solar panels for high-rise building façade in Sri Lanka

Purpose The use of renewable energy has become necessary because of the harmful effects of current energy sources on the environment, limited availability and financial crisis. Transparent solar panels have emerged as a promising technology for integrating renewable energy generation into building structures. Therefore, this paper aims to explore the feasibility of transparent solar panels for high-rise building façades in Sri Lanka. Design/methodology/approach The research apprehended a qualitative approach, including two expert interview rounds adhering to the Delphi technique with 17 and 15 experts each per round. Manual content analysis was incorporated to analyse the collected data. Findings Regarding operation and maintenance, the study emphasizes the importance of regular inspection, cleaning and repair of transparent solar panels to ensure optimal performance and longevity. These activities contribute to maximizing energy generation and maintaining the aesthetic appeal of the building. The benefits of implementing transparent solar panels on building façades are manifold. They include renewable energy generation, reduced greenhouse gas emissions, improved energy efficiency and enhanced architectural aesthetics. Furthermore, the research findings underscore the potential of transparent solar panels to contribute to Sri Lanka’s sustainable development goals and address the country’s increasing energy demand. However, the study also identifies challenges that need to be addressed for successful implementation. Originality/value This study contributes to understanding the feasibility of transparent solar panels for high-rise building façades in Sri Lanka. The research findings offer valuable insights into the operation and maintenance aspects, benefits, challenges and strategies for implementing transparent solar panels effectively. This knowledge can guide policymakers, architects and developers in making informed decisions regarding the integration of transparent solar panels, thereby promoting sustainable and energy-efficient building practices in Sri Lanka.

Revenue-optimized photovoltaic orientation in a northern competitive electricity market with carbon offsets

Solar photovoltaic (PV) farms are typically designed to maximize energy generation; however, their impacts on market prices can create conditions where revenues may be maximized by orienting the system to produce more energy at more valuable times of the day. PV generation offers its energy at a zero-dollar price in competitive electric markets, which tends to result in a drop in hourly price (“merit-order effect”) and reduction of revenues (“cannibalization effect"). We present an analysis of optimizing the orientation of PV systems for revenues, accounting for cannibalization in three pricing dynamics, with flat, medium, and steep merit-order curves. We employ a dataset of historical price-quantity offers from 2011 to 2019 from Alberta, Canada, a market that also has significant opportunities to generate carbon credits (CC). The market has an average maximum hourly load of ∼9 GW; we introduced 15, 400, 1000, and 3000 MW PV-capacity inputs, using tilt angles from 0° to 90° and azimuths from 90° to 270°. Our results show that for small PV capacities compared to the load, the market revenue-optimized orientations are close to the energy-optimized orientations, as would be expected. At higher levels of PV capacity, market revenue-optimized orientations deviate from the energy-optimized orientation as price cannibalization increases. The extent of this deviation depends on the slope of the historical merit order. When CC are introduced into the simulation, the total revenue-optimized orientation moves back towards the energy-optimized orientation as the CC overcome cannibalized market losses but exasperate overall market price depression.

Sustainable Urban Energy Solutions: Investigating the Solar Potential of Vertical Façades Amidst Adjacent Buildings in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

This article explores the impact of adjacent buildings on solar exposure for photovoltaic (PV) applications in high-rise urban areas in Malaysia. The rapid urbanization and population density in Malaysia's high-rise areas have increased energy demand, necessitating the exploration of alternative energy sources. Integrating PV systems into vertical façades offers a promising solution for maximizing energy generation in space-constrained urban environments. However, the efficacy of PV systems is influenced by adjacent buildings, including their arrangement, height, and orientation, which affect solar exposure and energy generation potential. Understanding these effects is crucial for optimizing PV system design and placement. This study aims to investigate the relationship between adjacent buildings and solar exposure for PV panels mounted on high-rise buildings in Malaysia. By examining these effects, the research provides valuable insights for urban planners, architects, and renewable energy practitioners involved in sustainable urban development. The findings will inform decisions regarding the integration of PV systems, promoting renewable energy adoption, and reducing the environmental impact of urban areas. The article also discusses Malaysia's climate, energy consumption, and solar radiation potential, emphasizing the need to harness solar energy in a country blessed with abundant sunlight. The challenges faced by current air conditioning systems and building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) applications in Malaysia are outlined, along with efforts to address them through energy-efficient systems and awareness campaigns. The research conducted simulations using a 3D model in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, considering different heights and distances of adjacent buildings. The software used for simulations was IES-VE, which offers various modules for energy consumption analysis. The results demonstrate how adjacent buildings affect the annual average energy for different scenarios, highlighting the importance of distance and height. The findings provide insights into the monthly average energy variations and emphasize the relationship between adjacent building height and average energy levels. Overall, this research contributes to the efficient utilization of vertical façades for harnessing solar energy in high-rise urban areas, supporting Malaysia's sustainable energy goals while ensuring urban environment liveability and resilience.

Yaw system restart strategy optimization of wind turbines in mountain wind farms based on operational data mining and multi-objective optimization

The wind resources of mountain wind farms are affected by more complex terrain than are found at flat wind farms. Wind turbine (WT) failures caused by frequent operation of the yaw system occur often in mountain wind farms, resulting in significantly reduced economic benefits over the WT life cycle. Considering the problem of frequent yaw motions of WTs in mountain wind farms, this study introduces multi-objective optimization theory into the yaw system restart strategy optimization of WTs for the first time and proposes an optimized yaw system restart strategy with wind speed segmentation in the wind speed region below the rated wind speed. The yaw behavior of mountain wind farms in southern China is analyzed from multiple perspectives; a segmentation scheme of wind speed intervals for yaw control was determined from the results. The Non-dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm-II (NSGA-II) is used to optimize the control parameters for each sub-interval with the goals of minimizing yaw operation time and maximizing energy generation. A set of Pareto solutions is obtained and evaluated with the Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to an Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) method to produce the optimal solution. The simulation results indicated that after the WT adopts the optimized yaw system restart strategy in the wind speed region below the rated wind speed, the number of yaw motions is decreased by 82.9%, with only a slight decrease in energy generation. The optimization method proposed in this study can significantly reduce yaw operation time with minimal loss of energy generation, which provides a new approach to balancing the relationship between reducing the WT failure rate and ensuring power generation efficiency and is expected to significantly improve the economic benefits to wind farms.

Why Does the PV Solar Power Plant Operate Ineffectively?

Quality, reliability, and durability are the key features of photovoltaic (PV) solar system design, production, and operation. They are considered when manufacturing every cell and designing the entire system. Achieving these key features ensures that the PV solar system performs satisfactorily and offers years of trouble-free operation, even in adverse conditions. In each cell, the quality of the raw material should meet the quality standards. The fulfillment of the quality management system requires every part that goes into the PV solar system to undergo extensive testing in laboratories and environments to ensure it meets expectations. Hence, every MWh of electricity generated by the PV solar system is counted, the losses should be examined, and the PV system’s returns should be maximized. There are many types of losses in the PV solar system; these losses are identified and quantified based on knowledge and experience. They can be classified into two major blocks: optical and electrical losses. The optical losses include, but are not limited to, partial shading losses, far shading losses, near shading losses, incident angle modifier (IAM) losses, soiling losses, potential induced degradation (PID) losses, temperature losses, light-induced degradation (LID) losses, PV yearly degradation losses, array mismatch losses, and module quality losses. In addition, there are cable losses inside the PV solar power system, inverter losses, transformer losses, and transmission line losses. Thus, this work reviews the losses in the PV solar system in general and the 103 MWp grid-tied Al Quweira PV power plant/Aqaba, mainly using PVsyst software. The annual performance ratio (PR) is 79.5%, and the efficiency (η) under standard test conditions (STC) is 16.49%. The normalized production is 4.64 kWh/kWp/day, the array loss is 1.69 kWh/kWp/day, and the system loss is 0.18 kWh/kWp/day. Understanding factors that impact the PV system production losses is the key to obtaining an accurate production estimation. It enhances the annual energy and yield generated from the power plant. This review benefits investors, energy professionals, manufacturers, installers, and project developers by allowing them to maximize energy generation from PV solar systems and increase the number of solar irradiation incidents on PV modules.

Maximizing energy generation: A study of radiative cooling-based thermoelectric power devices

In the present study, a continuous thermoelectric power generation device (CTEGRC) has been fabricated by combining the recently proposed radiative cooling paint with a commercially available thermoelectric generator (TEG) to achieve continuous power generation throughout the day. The CTEGRC has been modeled and the results have been verified through experiments, and then the effects of structural and environmental parameters on the performance of the CTEGRC have been discussed in detail. The annual performance of the CTEGRC has been evaluated for five different weather conditions (five cities in China) based on the established model. It has been shown that an annual power generation of 241.46 Wh/m2-423.86 Wh/m2 can be achieved for the applications of the CTEGRC in the five climate zones of China based on an optimal area ratio of 11 for the radiative cooling module to the TEG.

Economical sizing and multi-azimuth layout optimization of grid-connected rooftop photovoltaic systems using Mixed-Integer Programming

Solar energy is expected to be a significant contributor to meet the increasing global energy demand. Rooftop photovoltaic (PV) systems account for a substantial portion of the global solar energy potential. However, optimizing the size and layout of these systems remains challenging. Existing approaches either focus on maximizing energy generation, heavily restrict the space of potential layouts, ignore inverter-type implications, or neglect practical aspects, such as minimizing self-shading. This paper presents a mixed-integer programming (MIP) model to address these limitations for PV systems installed on flat rooftops. The proposed model optimizes the net present value (NPV) and can produce multi-azimuth layouts while accounting for practical considerations, including mitigating self-shading, and ensuring rooftop walkability. The proposed model is adapted for systems that utilize micro-inverters or string-inverters. Two case studies are conducted to evaluate the performance of the proposed model. In one case study, the model is applied to a residential area. It is numerically shown that in some instances of capital costs and billing policies, the use of multi-azimuth layouts could significantly improve the NPV compared to the use of single-azimuth layouts with parallel rows of panels. The proposed model solutions are compared to an existing optimized installation in the second case study. The proposed model multi-azimuth layout solution improves the NPV by 10.17%. When restricted to single-azimuth layouts, the proposed model produces the same design as that of the existing installation in only a few seconds.

A numerical modelling approach for the optimisation of photovoltaic installations in the mitigation of thermal effects

Solar energy presents one of the best alternative sources of energy in the current bid to mitigate the negative impacts of global warming. The present study evaluated the influence of the installation configuration together with the meteorological parameters on the temperature characteristics of a solar photovoltaic array. Three dimensional simulation using Computational Fluid Dynamics was used in the numerical analysis of the temperature characteristics on solar PV arrays. The Shear Stress Transport k-ω model was employed to analyse the turbulent characteristics of the airstream near the photovoltaic array. A temperature prediction model was developed using Artificial Neural Networks and the model was found to be accurate with a coefficient of determination, R2 of 93.1 %. A Response Surface Methodology optimization model was developed to maximize energy generation while minimizing solar photovoltaic cell operating temperature. The models were able to reduce temperature and improve energy generated by a 3.9 %. The optimized tilt and azimuth angles were found to be 28.2o tilt and 13.2o, respectively, yielding an average cell temperature of 29.3 °C which gave a 3.9 % increase in energy and revenue generated.

Technology Focus: Hydraulic Fracturing Operations (June 2022)

The recovering global economy, post the pandemic and current geopolitical circumstances, has underscored the reliance on energy to drive global development. Underinvestment in oil and gas projects over the past few years, coupled with a sudden increase in energy demand, has put the onus on oil and gas companies to accelerate the ramp-up of deferred projects. As winter approaches every year, global gas consumption increases exponentially. Because gas is a cleaner source of energy, countries and organizations once solely focused on oil exploration have shifted their strategies to concurrently explore for gas reserves. As a means of meeting the current increase in energy requirements, there is a push around the world to replicate the North American shale-development strategy of long horizontals with multiple hydraulically fractured stages targeting these oil and gas reserves. Low oil and gas prices in the recent past have necessitated a focus on the wider implementation of efficient fracturing technologies, in terms of both operations and production, with the aim of maximizing returns with minimal investment. There has been greater emphasis on moving away from the factory approach and using a more-engineered well-by-well approach. The past decade has seen many technological innovations in the well-completion domain focused on hydraulic fracturing. Within openhole multistage completions, we have seen a wider use of higher-expansion-ratio packers, such as metal expandable packers; fracturing-sleeve configurations, which enable greater stage count in a single well than previously possible; multicluster fracturing sleeves; dissolvable ball and seat technologies; and reclosable sleeves, to name a few. On the other end of the spectrum, when we look at cased-hole completions, we have seen great improvements in pumpdown technologies, dissolvable plugs, and advanced perforation and logging technologies, among other developments. There have also been great advances in fracture propagation and stage-contribution monitoring, moving from traditional radioactive tracers to various nonradioactive tracers, and developments in microseismic and fiber-optic monitoring as well as production-logging technologies. In an environment where we are limited by both surface facilities and subsurface well placement, these technologies have been crucial in trying to better understand the interaction between parent and child wells along with formulating field strategies in new basins. The implementation of machine learning and artificial intelligence in the fracture design and analysis domain, as well as in fracturing equipment operation and maintenance, has led to further optimization in planning and resource management. Some of these technologies can indirectly help us lower the carbon footprint while fracturing. As an industry, we are at a critical point where, along with advancements in hydraulic fracturing optimization, it is important to focus on highlighting our technological achievements and developments through the mainstream media. It is critical to emphasize the efforts of the oil and gas industry in lowering the environmental impact of hydraulic fracturing by using minimal resources and maximizing energy generation to fuel global economic growth. Considering the renewed focus on hydraulic fracturing as a means of meeting the world’s energy requirements, we can expect to see considerable advancement and introduction of new innovative technologies in the near future. Recommended additional reading at OnePetro: www.onepetro.org. SPE 200846 - Novel Application To Recognize a Breakdown Pressure Event on Time Series Fracture Data vs. an Artificial-Intelligence Approach by Alberto Jose Ramirez, Well Data Labs, et al. SPE 201376 - Pumpdown Diagnostics for Plug-and-Perf Treatments by David Cramer, ConocoPhillips, et al. SPE 203284 - Critical Review of Multistage Fracturing Completions and Stimulation Methods by Eyad A. Alali, Saudi Aramco, et al.

Ion-permselective conducting polymer-based electrokinetic generators with maximized utility of green water

Hydro-electric technology has gathered much attention by the virtue of water as the energy source. However, the low energy density of this technology severely limits its practical use. Here, we demonstrate a PEDOT:PSS-based transpiration-driven electrokinetic power generator (p-TEPG) that enables the utilization of a wider variety of real-world water resources for maximizing energy generation efficiencies. In addition to the conventional electrical double layer on the material surface, the p-TEPG builds an additional potential difference in the polymer matrix by the selective penetration of cations into the matrix that contains sulfonate functional groups. p-TEPG exhibits 80–250% higher energy density than carbon-based TEPG at the same resistance. Moreover, seawater produced enhanced volumetric energy/power densities (34.36 mJ cm−3 and 44.70 μW cm−3) and areal energy/power densities (410 μJ cm−2 and 0.45 μW cm−2), respectively, compared to DI water on a single p-TEPG device, which is sufficient to charge electrical energy storage systems and directly operate low-powered electronic.

Optimal hydropower generation of Maithon multi‐purpose reservoir system

AbstractThe present study focuses on optimizing the hydropower generation capacity of a multi‐purpose reservoir system considering various constraints, including reservoir water mass balance, minimization of sediment, maximum and minimum reservoir water storage, maximum and minimum reservoir water releases, reservoir water drawdown levels, reservoir overflows, maximum flood zone space, and maximum and minimum storage constraints under 50%, 70% and 90% dependable inflow conditions The focus is the Maithon multi‐purpose reservoir system located at Maithon, a distance of 40.2 km from Dhanbad, the coal capital of India, in the State of Jharkhand. The study results indicate the derived policy is capable of producing maximum annual hydropower of 146,519.48 MWh/year for a 50% dependable inflow condition, 105,512.02 MWh/year for a 70% dependable inflow condition and 58,924.38 MWh/year for a 90% dependable inflow condition, compared to the existing hydropower generation of 129,428.4 MWh/year (average of last 10 years). A trade‐off between reservoir release water releases, mostly for meeting irrigation water needs and maximizing energy generation, was determined for use by various stakeholders and managers of reservoir operations.

Current status and perspective of colored photovoltaic modules

AbstractPhotovoltaic (PV) systems, which directly convert solar light into electricity, are one of the most attractive renewable energy sources to fulfill the increased demand for clean energy. The accumulated installation of PV systems has expanded rapidly, reaching over 700 GW in 2020. Although black colored PVs maximize energy generation by harvesting a broad range of solar light, their monotonous color limits their installation in urban areas and portable devices where the harmonization of color with neighboring exterior elements is a high priority. Moreover, it is not suitable for covering transparent area of buildings, such as window and curtain wall. Hence, the demand for aesthetic PV systems is increasing significantly. In this review, we focus on the current status of colored PV systems and their prospects for aesthetic energy harvesting system. This work reviews possible approaches to realize colored PV systems by implementing semitransparent cells, selective reflective films, and luminophores. Additionally, the research progress to minimize light sacrifice for color production has been investigated. Moreover, the technical limitations of each technology for colored PV systems are presented in terms of color purity and efficiency. Finally, obstacles to commercialization and their solutions are discussed. Therefore, this study provides a crucial review of the latest developments and current status in the field of colored PV systems.This article is categorized under: Photovoltaics > Science and Materials