Photovoltaic System Research Articles

Improved DC-DC converter based on quadruple boosting technique for high-voltage gain in photovoltaic systems

Improved DC-DC converter based on quadruple boosting technique for high-voltage gain in photovoltaic systems

Direct Laser Interference Patterning of Fluorine‐Doped Tin Oxide as a Pathway to Higher Efficiency in Perovskite Solar Cells

AbstractImproving light‐trapping capabilities through surface microstructuring of transparent conductive oxides is a promising approach to enhance solar cell efficiency. This study focuses on treating fluorine‐doped tin oxide (FTO) thin films using four‐beam direct laser interference patterning (DLIP) to create dot‐like periodic surface microstructures. The surface analysis using scanning electron microscopy and confocal microscopy reveals the presence of a periodic square grid of microcraters with a spatial period of ≈700 nm and an average depth ranging between 4 and 18 nm. These structures enhance the dispersion of incoming light up to 1000% in the visible and NIR spectra. When integrated into metal halide perovskite solar cells, FTO films patterned using low fluence conditions lead to a notable increase in the power conversion efficiencies (PCEs) compared to those made using untreated FTO. Importantly, preliminary stability tests on devices based on patterned FTO substrates show significantly improved stability compared to those fabricated using reference unpatterned substrates. These findings demonstrate that a DLIP treatment of FTO substrates is a promising technique that can substantially enhance the efficiency and stability of perovskite photovoltaic devices.

Micro-homogeneity of lateral energy landscapes governs the performance in perovskite solar cells

Suppression of energy disorders in the vertical direction of a photovoltaic device, along which charge carriers are forced to travel, has been extensively studied to reduce unproductive charge recombination and thus achieve high-efficiency perovskite solar cells. In contrast, energy disorders in the lateral direction of the junction for large-area modules are largely overlooked. Herein, we show that the micro-inhomogeneity characteristics in the surface lateral energetics of formamidinium (FA)-based perovskite films also significantly influence the device performance, particularly with accounting for the stability and scale-up aspects of the devices. By using organic amidinium passivators, instead of the most commonly used organic ammonium ones, the micro-inhomogeneity in the lateral energy landscapes can be suppressed, greatly improving device stability and efficiency of FA-based single-junction perovskite solar cells.

SolarDesign: An online photovoltaic device simulation and design platform

Abstract SolarDesign (https://solardesign.cn/) is an online photovoltaic device simulation and design platform that provides engineering modeling analysis for crystalline silicon solar cells, as well as emerging high-efficiency solar cells such as organic, perovskite, and tandem cells. The platform offers user-updatable libraries of basic photovoltaic materials and devices, device-level multi-physics simulations involving optical-electrical-thermal interactions, and circuit-level compact model simulations based on detailed balance theory. Employing internationally advanced numerical methods, the platform accurately, rapidly, and efficiently solves optical absorption, electrical transport, and compact circuit models. It achieves multi-level photovoltaic simulation technology from “materials to devices to circuits” with fully independent intellectual property rights. Compared to commercial software, the platform achieves high accuracy and improves speed by more than an order of magnitude. Additionally, it can simulate unique electrical transport processes in emerging solar cells, such as quantum tunneling, exciton dissociation, and ion migration.

Design of a triple port integrated topology for grid-integrated EV charging stations for three-way power flow

Environmental fluctuations, solar irradiance, and ambient temperature significantly affect photovoltaic (PV) system output. PV systems should be efficient at the Maximum Power Point in various weather climates to maximize their potential power output. The Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) technique is employed to plan a specific location that yields the maximum amount of power. Operating dispersed alternative energy sources connected to the grid in this situation makes energy control an unavoidable task. This research article suggests designing a power electronics converter topology that links sustainable resources and electric vehicles to the power grid. There are four modes of operation for this proposed converter topology: grid-to-vehicle, vehicle-to-grid, renewable-to-vehicle, and renewable-to-grid discussed. The three power electronic converters and their uses are discussed, and their controllers are also designed to maintain the energy balance and stability in all cases. The battery characteristics indicate the operating mode. The work primarily focuses on the converter’s Triple Port Integrated Topology (TPIT) power flow and voltage control. Here, three power converters integrate the TPIT with three systems-the electric grid, renewable energy, and electric vehicles-into one system. The source battery and solar photovoltaic (PV) array cells are integrated using unidirectional and bidirectional DC-DC converters. The future scope of the work is to investigate the potential of adding additional ports for integrating other energy resources, such as hydrogen fuel cells or additional renewable sources, to create a more versatile and robust energy management system for EV charging stations.

Bibliometric Analysis of Publications on the Synthesis of Graphene and Reduced Graphene Oxide in the Scopus Research Platform

Objective: Conduct a bibliometric analysis of articles on the synthesis of graphene and graphene oxide, as well as their applications, from the documents in the last fourteen years. Method: The bibliometric analysis used data from the Scopus database to visualize the main keywords, countries, and journals, addressing the theme of graphene synthesis and its applications over the past 14 years, from 2010 to 2024. Results and Discussion: Using the Bibliometrix software combined with R programming, 1,485 documents published in English were analyzed, which includes articles in review and in their final version. The results demonstrated that despite being a widely explored theme in the scientific community, there is still a growing global relevance. Research Implications: The analysis provided significant data on the development and key trends in academic research. The study revealed a great interest in obtaining reduced graphene oxide and its application in solar cells, as well as the efficiency they produce. Originality/Value: The study aimed to contribute to academic research by demonstrating and analyzing the main trends in graphene synthesis and its applications. Demonstrating its relevance in recent years and the growth in applications in photovoltaic systems.

A Comprehensive Approach to Nearly Zero Energy Buildings and Districts: Analysis of a Region Undergoing Energy Transition

This paper explores the development of positive energy communities using Eordaia, Greece, as a case study. The approach combines building and district-level energy analysis to achieve nearly zero energy performance through retrofitting, district-level storage systems, and renewable energy technologies. A parametric analysis utilizing RETSCREEN Expert and EnergyPlan software determines the optimal mix of technologies based on technical and financial parameters, with Eordaia, a region in energy transition and part of the RESPONSE Horizon project, illustrating the practical benefits. It includes a neighborhood of 105 mixed-use properties and two municipal buildings where a range of renewable energy sources and energy efficiency measures are applied. Insulation, photovoltaic systems, LED lighting, predictive thermostats, and windows coated with nanotechnology are some of the key interventions considered. The findings show considerable reductions in CO2 emissions and energy use, with payback periods ranging from 8.7 to 9.6 years. This study underscores the value of district-level strategies over individual building retrofits, highlighting cost savings and improved energy performance. These findings offer valuable insights for urban planners and policymakers aiming to transform urban areas into sustainable, positive energy districts, supporting the EU’s 2050 net-zero emissions goals.

Thermal performance analysis of the novel medium-depth borehole heat exchanger (MDBHE) coupled photovoltaic photothermal (PV/T) heat pump domestic hot water supply system

ABSTRACT As global energy demand continues to rise and traditional energy sources increasingly fail to meet sustainability targets, conventional domestic hot water systems that rely exclusively on either geothermal or solar energy face inefficiencies and seasonal limitations. To tackle these issues, this study introduces an innovative domestic hot water supply system combining MDBHE with a PV/T heat pump and investigates its thermal performance. This system utilizes thermal energy to elevate the temperature of water extracted from the MDBHE, while supplying power through photovoltaic electricity. The results indicate that increasing the circulating water flow rate improves the heat extraction capacity of the MDBHE. However, this also leads to higher flow resistance and an increased power requirement for the circulating water pump. Additionally, at a circulating water flow rate of 32 m3/h, the system fails to extract heat from geothermal energy when the inlet temperature exceeds 34.5°C. Furthermore, with a PV/T module area of 2000 m2, solar radiation intensity of 600 W/m2, and MDBHE depth of 2000 m, the system can attain a maximum water supply temperature of 50.9°C, with solar energy contributing 63%. Moreover, the coefficient of performance (COP) of the system can reach 5.8, outperforming conventional systems.

Energy Efficiency and Economic Survivance Appraisal of a 375 kWp Rooftop Solar PV System Under Hot and Dry Indian Climate

ABSTRACTIndia's rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) installations are experiencing rapid growth due to favorable regulations. As climate change becomes a growing concern, researchers are turning their attention to the effects of weather patterns on the performance of rooftop solar panels, and also to optimize their efficiency in a changing environment. Consequently, industry players in the solar sector have been conducting performance validation and feasibility assessments of these plants. A 375 kWp rooftop PV plant is studied as a case example from April 1, 2022 to March 31, 2023, generating 543,666 kWh annually for the grid. The NMBE and MBE were assessed using simulation tools like PVGIS and PV Watts. In addition, a cost–benefit analysis of carbon credits was conducted with and without their inclusion. The energy payback time is calculated at 4.5 years post‐inclusion. Over a 25‐year lifespan, the embodied energy of the PV plant amounts to 2,552,265 kWh. This plant can mitigate CO2 emissions annually by 10,173.57 tons which is equivalent to INR 5,464,925. The current study highlights both environmental and economic benefits by incorporating carbon credits into the project. Further advancement in simulation tools, PV technologies, climate change adaptations are expected which will improve the rooftop system efficiency with shorten pay pabck periods and maximum reductions in CO2 emissions.

Developing a photovoltaic energy generation forecast system using neural networks

Developing a photovoltaic energy generation forecast system using neural networks

Studies on effective solar photovoltaic integration in distribution network with a blend of Monte Carlo simulation and artificial hummingbird algorithm

AbstractIn this paper, the two level stochastic optimisation approach has been suggested. In the lower level, the probability distribution functions (pdfs) for bus voltages and branch currents have been determined using the Monte Carlo simulation (MCS) to be employed in chance‐constrained probabilistic optimisation by taking into account solar radiation and power consumption uncertainties in the distribution networks (DNs). In the upper level, artificial hummingbird algorithm (AHA) handles the expected power loss minimisation subjected to chance constraints, which are related to bus voltages and branch currents, by optimising photovoltaic (PV) system capacities. This research examines the effect of uncertainties in PV system performing under diverse solar radiation and varying PV penetration level scenarios on expected power losses with stochastic DN limits. The stochastic optimisation approach has been compared with the deterministic method for observing the efficiency with optimal power usage. This research improves the knowledge base for optimal PV installation in DN by combining AHA with MCS and emphasising chance‐constrained methods. To indicate the efficacy of proposed strategy, the optimisation outcomes are tested utilising MCS under various uncertainty circumstances and DN parameters are assessed in terms of probabilities of exceeding limitations. The results are compared with the application of firefly algorithm (FA) using stochastic assessment and simulations. The simulation results show that the AHA technique outperforms the FA method in terms of effectively minimising power losses with less simulation time.

Trend‐Based Predictive Maintenance and Fault Detection Analytics for Photovoltaic Power Plants

Optimized predictive maintenance in photovoltaic (PV) systems is crucial for ensuring prolonged operational performance and cost‐effective operation and maintenance (O&M). Even though failure detection methods have already been developed, the main challenge remains the lack of predictive maintenance strategies to accurately forecast underperformance conditions. The scope of this work is to develop a predictive maintenance and failure detection routine for assessing the health status of PV systems. The workflow consists of the eXtreme gradient boosting algorithm for modeling the PV performance, the one‐class support vector machine algorithm for fault detection, and the Facebook Prophet algorithm for forecasting PV performance trends and generating maintenance alerts. The developed data‐driven routine analyzes performance trend deviations and it is validated using a historical dataset from a utility‐scale PV power plant in Greece. The obtained results show the effectiveness of the developed workflow in detecting fault conditions, achieving a sensitivity of 96.9%. Additionally, the results demonstrate the workflow's ability to generate predictive maintenance alerts up to 7 days in advance, yielding a sensitivity of 92.9%. Finally, the study provides useful insights that enhance operators’ efficiency in conducting O&M activities.

Thermal Performance Assessment of the Novel Solar System Using Fresnel Concentrated Solar Power System and Assessing Their Impact Towards Environment: Preliminary Study

Thermal Performance Assessment of the Novel Solar System Using Fresnel Concentrated Solar Power System and Assessing Their Impact Towards Environment: Preliminary Study

A Quantitative Method of Carbon Emission Reduction for Electrochemical Energy Storage Based on the Clean Development Mechanism

Electrochemical energy storage (EES) plays a crucial role in reducing the curtailed power from wind and solar PV power (WSP) generation and enhancing the decarbonization effects of power systems. However, research on quantifying the carbon emission reduction effects of EES methods in the engineering field is still insufficient, which constrains decision-makers from making intuitive assessments of the decarbonization effects of energy storage. Therefore, drawing on the principles of the clean development mechanism (CDM), this paper proposes a method for quantifying the carbon emission reductions of a standalone EES station. Firstly, based on the design principles of building marginal emission factor in the CDM, a method for calculating the BM weight of WSP is proposed. Secondly, three quantification methods for the carbon emission reductions of EES are presented based on the complexity of the calculations. Lastly, to analyze the impacts of different operational conditions and calculation methods on the carbon emission reduction of energy storage systems, a dispatch model is constructed for various operational scenarios. The results of the case study indicate that different calculation methods yield varying results in terms of the carbon emission reductions of energy storage systems, with the sharply value method yielding the smallest reduction and the output curve method yielding the largest reduction. Additionally, when considering the losses in the state of charge (SOC) of an energy storage system and reducing the overall output fluctuations of WSP-EES, the carbon emission reduction potential of the energy storage will decrease. This study establishes a theoretical basis for quantifying the carbon emission reductions of standalone electrochemical energy storage systems, aiding decision-makers in gaining a deeper understanding of the role of electrochemical energy storage in carbon reduction and operational value.

Correction: Evaluation of self-cleaning mechanisms for improving performance of roof-mounted solar PV panels: A comparative study

Correction: Evaluation of self-cleaning mechanisms for improving performance of roof-mounted solar PV panels: A comparative study

Optimizing EV fast charging infrastructure: integrating high-gain interleaved converter with advanced MPPT

ABSTRACT Modernizing the Electric Vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure is essential for the widespread adoption of electric mobility. This research addresses the imperative need for enhancing the power performance of photovoltaic (PV) grid-connected inverters for EV fast charging applications. The system integrates Voltage-Oriented Control (VOC) for the PV inverter, a High-Gain Interleaved (Single Ended Primary Inductance Converter) SEPIC-Cuk (HGISC) converter, and a Bald Eagle Search Optimized Adaptive Neuro Fuzzy Inference System (BESO-ANFIS)) algorithm. VOC with Proportional Resonant (PR) ensures optimized energy transfer to grid, while the HGIBC converter enhances power performance. The proposed BESO-ANFIS Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) dynamically tracks the PV array’s Maximum Power Point (MPP) under varying conditions. Additionally, a bidirectional battery converter in the energy storage system optimizes power usage. The synergistic implementation of these advanced controller results in a comprehensive solution, showcasing improved power output, grid integration, and efficient solar energy utilization for EV fast charging. MATLAB simulations and experiments demonstrate 97% efficiency and reduced Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) of 0.98%, positioning this research as an advanced solution for EV charging infrastructure enhancement.

Optimizing power output in hybrid photovoltaic/wind systems: a nonlinear back-stepping approach for enhanced efficiency and stability

Abstract This paper investigates the challenge of controlling hybrid renewable energy systems (HRES), specifically those combining wind energy and photovoltaic sources, under varying environmental conditions such as fluctuating wind speeds and partial shading. The primary objective is to develop a robust backstepping control strategy that enhances the system’s stability and energy efficiency while ensuring seamless grid integration through the use of dual-fed induction generators. The study uses advanced modeling techniques, including maximum power point tracking for wind turbines and particle swarm optimization for photovoltaic systems, to optimize energy capture. A detailed simulation framework was designed to validate the effectiveness of the control strategy under different climatic scenarios. Quantitative results show that the wind turbine achieved over 95% power recovery, the DC link voltage remained stable within 0.5% of the reference, and photovoltaic energy extraction was optimized with 98% accuracy, even under partial shading. These findings indicate that the proposed control strategy significantly enhances the performance, reliability, and adaptability of the HRES. This work offers a promising contribution to the integration of renewable energy sources into the electrical grid, supporting a more sustainable energy future.

Analysis of Optical Window for Constant Cooling Heat Flux‐Based Spectral Splitting in Concentrator Photovoltaic System

The solar cells cooled to constant temperature at different concentration ratios (CR) and spectral bands (SB) require the same cooling heat flux (CHF), but the output power varies significantly. Thus, it is necessary to clarify the relationship of CHF‐CR‐SB to provide a reference for photovoltaic systems to select the output power generation of the spectral band under constant cooling heat flux. In this article, a selecting spectra model of a centralized photovoltaic (CPV) system is established and the selection of the spectrum based on CHF and the CR is analyzed. Theory shows that the wider the spectral division of the same CR, the larger the cooling heat flux consumed. The narrower the spectrum division, the higher the CR that the cell receiver can withstand. The experiments show that the higher the photoelectric conversion efficiency (PCE), the lower the cooling heat flux to be consumed. The cooling heat flux of 650 filter consumes 22.74% more than the UV700 filter, which means the demand for CHF is more severe when the heat spectrum distribution is wide. The spectral division should be carried out according to the requirements of high‐energy flux but a small thermal energy proportion to achieve efficient PCE.

Effects of Single‐Axis and Fixed‐Tilt Photovoltaic Array Construction on the Soil Seed Bank Characteristics in Semi‐Arid Grasslands

ABSTRACTWith the rapid global development of photovoltaic power generation, research on its impact on land and ecosystems has become increasingly significant. However, its impact on soil seed bank characteristics has yet to be better assessed. In this study, monitoring plots were established in a semi‐arid grassland undergoing solar energy development. This setup allowed us, for the first time, to investigate how soil seed bank characteristics respond to the construction of two typical photovoltaic array systems: single‐axis and fixed‐tilt systems. This study demonstrated that in both single‐axis and fixed‐tilt systems, the establishment of photovoltaic arrays resulted in a significant increase in soil seed density, with seed counts rising by approximately 47.5% compared with control sites without arrays. The aggregation effect of soil seed density under the photovoltaic array primarily occurred in the 0–10 cm soil layer. The soil seed density under the single‐axis arrays was higher than that under the fixed‐tilt arrays. The construction of photovoltaic arrays resets local soil and directly changes the micro‐environment—including reductions in solar radiation, decreases in average temperature by 0.1°C, and wind speed decreases by 1.5 m/s—which negatively affected the richness and diversity of the soil seed bank, resulting in a 21.1% decrease in species richness and a 10.1% reduction in seed diversity. Furthermore, this study highlights that seed germination in semi‐arid grasslands is under pressure due to environmental changes associated with photovoltaic construction areas. Specifically, soil moisture and organic matter were the key factors affecting the vegetation restoration potential of the entire construction area. We recommend selecting the single‐axis system of photovoltaic components. This selection is crucial, which considers both energy production efficiency and supports the facilitation of future vegetation ecosystem succession. Altogether, this study provides information for future land‐use planning in photovoltaic construction areas and sustainable development of photovoltaic power generation.

Renewable Solar Energy Facilities in South America—The Road to a Low-Carbon Sustainable Energy Matrix: A Systematic Review

South America is a place on the planet that stands out with enormous potential linked to renewable energies. Countries in this region have developed private investment projects to carry out an energy transition from fossil energies to clean energies and contribute to climate change mitigation. The sun resource is one of the more abundant sources of renewable energies that stands out in South America, especially in the Atacama Desert. In this context, South American countries are developing sustainable actions/strategies linked to implementing solar photovoltaic (PV) and concentrated solar power (CSP) facilities and achieving carbon neutrality for the year 2050. As a result, this systematic review presents the progress, new trends, and the road to a sustainable paradigm with disruptive innovations like artificial intelligence, robots, and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for solar energy facilities in the region. According to the findings, solar energy infrastructure was applied in South America during the global climate change crisis era. Different levels of implementation in solar photovoltaic (PV) facilities have been reached in each country, with the region being a worldwide research and development (R&D) hotspot. Also, high potential exists for concentrated solar power (CSP) facilities considering the technology evolution, and for the implementation of the hybridization of solar photovoltaic (PV) facilities with onshore wind farm infrastructures, decreasing the capital/operation costs of the projects. Finally, synergy between solar energy infrastructures with emerging technologies linked with low-carbon economies like battery energy storage systems (BESSs) and the use of floating solar PV plants looks like a promising sustainable solution.