Photovoltaic Pumping Research Articles

Thermoelectric performance analysis of the novel direct-expansion photovoltaic thermal heat pump/power heat pipe compound cycle system in summer

Photovoltaic thermal heat pump technology has outstanding cogeneration ability by utilizing renewable energy to be accepted as a decarbonization pathway in the residential sector. However, existing photovoltaic thermal heat pumps consume higher energy under better external heat source conditions. To address this problem, a novel direct-expansion photovoltaic thermal heat pump/power heat pipe compound cycle system for heating and power generation as well as refrigeration, whose core equipment was a photovoltaic thermal module with straggled honeycomb fluid channel pattern on the serpentine arrangement, was proposed, manufactured, and studied with the method of experiment. The thermoelectric performance was compared between the heat pump and power heat pipe cycle modes, investigated under typical weather conditions, and discussed in contrast to the literature. The results showed that the average photoelectric conversion efficiency and coefficient of photothermal performance of the PVT modules, as well as COP of the novel system were 10.6%, 51.0%, and 6.19, respectively, at the average ambient temperature of 27.0 °C, average solar radiation intensity of 581 W/m2 and water temperature of 18.3–55.6 °C. And daily average COPs of the novel system under sunny, cloudy, and overcast conditions were 15.12, 7.40, and 3.17, respectively. The conclusion drawn from the experimental results is that the COP of the novel system was 10.0%–60.0% higher than that in the literature under similar outdoor conditions. The payback period of the additional cost of the novel system compared with the existing direct-expansion photovoltaic thermal heat pump was within 2.5 years. The novel system represents a practical response to the need to achieve total decarbonization of the residential sector.

Improving and evaluating the performance of a real photovoltaic pumping system for agricultural irrigation purposes in a desert environment at Ghardaia, Algeria

Algeria has one of the highest solar resources in the world. The availability of this significant solar energy can make photovoltaic (PV) water pumping applications a very attractive solution for many uses, including irrigation of agricultural areas, village water supply and domestic uses. The cost of water pumped by a PV pumping system is directly linked to the efficiency and reliability of the different elements constituting the system and also to the solar irradiation available at the installation site. Consequently, it is necessary to improve the reliability and efficiency of the PV generator in order to extract the maximum possible power at all times in order to achieve the most reliable and economic operation. On a real well of 25 m height in desert and semi-arid climate at the Sebseb site, Ghardaïa, Algeria, a typical PV pumping system for irrigation purposes is studied and optimized using two conventionels methods, a P&O method and a incremental method.These methods are essentially based on the assessment of water needs to irrigate 70 palm trees, the data on solar irradiation and the average temperature for the studied site (Sebseb, Ghardaia).

A case study of multi-energy complementary systems for the building based on Modelica simulations

The utilization of renewable energy sources and the development of energy storage technologies have enhanced the interconversion of various energy sources to slow down global warming. The building sector, as the main bearer of energy consumption, is essential for its energy saving and emission reduction. Integrating natural gas-based combined cooling, heating, and power systems with renewable energy generation facilities is an effective solution. For that, different scenarios are designed to provide energy for a specific office building and compared with the current scenario of depending only on the municipal grid. Equipment models for photovoltaic, battery, gas engine, absorption chiller-heater, and electric heat pump are created. The results show that the multi-energy complementary system has better economic and environmental characteristics, with a primary energy ratio of over 80 % and emission reduction of over 17 %; the advantages of configuring the unit capacity to meet the cooling and heating loads for 80 % of the year are obvious, and in this scenario abandoning battery storage has higher economics for users, with a static payback period from 7.3 years to 4.4 years, but the primary energy ratio decreased by 3 % and carbon emissions increased by 7.2 tCO2. It is recommended to consider the principle of gas-electricity complementarity, relying on the combined cooling, heating, and power system to meet part of the loads, with the remaining loads being supplemented by the municipal grid. The installation of batteries should be considered comprehensively based on the price of the batteries and the requirement for energy-saving and emission-reduction.

Implementation of fuzzy logic MPPT based on Arduino in small scale PV pumping system

The performance of photovoltaic (PV) affected directly by climatic changes, The controller maintain maximum potential energy conversation to operate the pimping system at nominal conditions, fuzzy logic intelligent controllers are successfully suitable and applicable in engineering and applied science. The aim of this paper is present an experimental approach in Implementation of fuzzy logic maximum power point tracking (MPPT) with boost converter based on Arduino Mega micro-controller to maximize energy production in different weather condition applied to small scale pumping system for water and chemical fluid analyses in isolated area. The system is supplied by 20 (W) solar photovoltaic (PV) panel. This paper present a real-time MATLAB/Simulink fuzzy logic method controlling and monitoring MPPT application using an low cost Arduino Mega micro-controller combined with (LV25, LP55) sensors controlling boost converter interconnected with solar panel and plastic pump.

Photovoltaic powered irrigation system applied to familiar agriculture

This paper aims to analyze the technical and financial feasibility of a stand-alone photovoltaic powered irrigation system applied to a familiar production unit. The agricultural unit was installed in the Center for Teaching and Research in Urban Agriculture (NEPAU), which operates in partnership with the Alternative Energy Laboratory (LEA), both located at the PICI campus of the Federal University of Ceará. The unit occupies a floor area of 134 m2 , with a water reservoir that simulates a pond, lake or well with capacity of 3534 liters, a 12 VDC pump motor and a photovoltaic module of 135 Wp. The efficiencies of photovoltaic module, pump and global set were 8.4%, 42% and 3.5%, respectively. The assumed service life is 25 years and the capital returns after 9,3 years.

Predictive Control for PV- Water Pumping System based of Interconnected High Gain Observer

This article presents a comprehensive evaluation of an integrated photovoltaic (PV) and water pumping system employing both Finite Set Model Predictive Control (FS-MPC) and Deat Beat Predictive Control (DB-MPC) under varying insolation levels (1000 W/m² to 700 W/m²). The system, initially tested at 1000 W/m², rapidly achieves Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT), stabilizing PV parameters at the MPP within 0.2 seconds. Notably, DB-MPC demonstrates superior dynamic response and faster settling times compared to conventional methods. The Interconnected High-Gain Observer accurately estimates motor speed, facilitating the attainment of the rated rotor speed in line with the desired reference speed. Transitioning from 1000 W/m² to 700 W/m² insolation, the system exhibits stability in Vpv and rapid Ipv adjustment at MPP. The InC algorithm extends PV array operation, showcasing a decrease in power output to 2204 W at 60% flow rate. These results affirm the efficacy and adaptability of the proposed control strategies in optimizing the performance of the PV-driven water pumping system, offering promising advancements in sustainable energy applications.

Enhancing Performance of Photovoltaic Pump Systems in Remote Areas Using a Sliding Mode Technique for Maximum Power Point Tracking

Enhancing Performance of Photovoltaic Pump Systems in Remote Areas Using a Sliding Mode Technique for Maximum Power Point Tracking

Recent Advances in Solar-powered Photovoltaic Pumping Systems for Drip Irrigation

Solar-powered photovoltaic pumping systems (SPVPSs) have emerged as a promising solution for sustainable drip irrigation in agriculture. This review article presents recent advances in SPVPSs for drip irrigation, with a focus on their design, performance and integration. The paper provides an overview of the key components and working principles of SPVPSs. Various system configurations and optimization strategies are discussed, emphasizing the importance of system sizing, energy management and water supply efficiency. The review also addresses challenges and future directions in the field. The initial investment costs, technical constraints, and the need for capacity building are identified as key challenges to widespread adoption. However, ongoing research and development efforts are focused on cost reduction, system optimization, and policy support to overcome these challenges. Technological innovations, such as advanced control algorithms and energy storage systems, are paving the way for improved system performance and reliability. The integration of SPVPSs with drip irrigation offers environmental and socio-economic benefits. These systems contribute to reduced greenhouse gas emissions and water conservation. Moreover, they enhance agricultural productivity, income generation, and food security, particularly in off-grid and rural areas. SPVPSs for drip irrigation hold great promise for sustainable agriculture and water resource management. Continued research, collaboration, and policy support are essential to further advance these systems, address challenges, and promote their widespread adoption. This review paper provides insights for researchers, policymakers, and practitioners interested in harnessing the potential of SPVPSs for sustainable drip irrigation.

A Single Stage Photovoltaic Solar Pumping System based on the Three Phase Multilevel Inverter

This paper presents a study of a single-stage DC-AC converter for a solar water pumping application. The topology was based on solar panels connected to a new structure of a three-phase multilevel inverter through DC-bus capacitors. The inverter offers simplicity, requires fewer components compared to conventional ones, and provides optimal voltage and current waveforms with reduced harmonics, eliminating the need for filters. The applied control technique aimed to stabilize the input DC-bus voltage, extract the maximum power using a simple MPPT algorithm, and enhance the efficiency of the water pump through scalar V/f control, regardless of weather changes. A simulation was conducted using the PSIM software, considering a variable daily climate scenario. The results obtained demonstrate the efficiency of the system in extracting energy with optimal torque and current for the pump compared to a classic design based on a three-phase H-bridge inverter.

Design and optimization of automatic solar irrigation-based PLC


 
 
 Irrigation is the most important step in agriculture. In order to obtain a good agricultural crop, water must be used wisely and appropriately without waste. This article presents an automatic solar irrigation system developed and designed by the authors. The system consists of two parts: a photovoltaic water pumping system and a unit of control based on programmable logic controller. The programmable logic controller (PLC) uses two sensors: one is placed in the field to measure the moisture in the soil, while the second is used to control the amount of water in the storage unit. The photovoltaic pumping system was designed to be able to irrigate one-hectare area of henna Lawsonia inermis L. with daily water need of 33 m3/day and total dynamic head (TDH) of 14 m. The region opted for this study and analysis is 34°41.1’ N latitudes and 6°29.6’ E longitudes in Zribet el Oued-biskra, Algeria.
 
 

An advanced exhausting airflow photovoltaic curtain wall system coupled with an air source heat pump for outdoor air treatment: Energy-saving performance assessment

Building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) and air source heat pump (ASHP) technologies have emerged as promising solutions for building energy conservation. However, traditional solar buildings face limitations such as overheating, limited efficiency, and singular functionality; additionally, ASHPs suffer from a low coefficient of performance (COP) due to high condensing temperatures or low evaporating temperatures; the process of outdoor air handling proves energy-intensive. To address these challenges, this study proposes an innovative exhausting ventilation PV curtain wall system coupled with ASHP units (EVPV-HP) for outdoor air treatment. This system features a fine combination of PV cooling, supply air reheating, and heat recovery from both the PV facade and exhaust air. The mathematical model of the BIPV curtain wall, based on energy balance equations, is developed and solved using Matlab programming. This model is then combined with the ASHP system model established in TRNSYS to predict the year-round energy performance of the hybrid system. The findings demonstrate that the EVPV-HP system achieves seasonal energy efficiencies of 5.08 for cooling and 4.06 for heating operation modes. Compared to a conventional system, the EVPV-HP system enhances yearly energy efficiency by 17.05 % owing to increased PV production, reduced air-conditioning load, and improved COP. Furthermore, parametric analysis suggests that the system exhibits improved performance under higher solar irradiation and hotter weather conditions during summer. Conversely, in winter, the system performs better under lower ambient temperatures with incident radiation around 800 W/m2.

Study on optimal allocation of solar photovoltaic thermal heat pump integrated energy system for domestic hot water

In recent years, solar photovoltaic thermal heat pump has become a highly concerned near-zero carbon energy technology for domestic hot water. In order to facilitate the optimal configuration design of the system for domestic hot water, following studies were carried out in this paper: Firstly, the photovoltaic thermal heat pump integrated energy system was established and the operation study of the system was carried out. During the operation, the average coefficient of system heating performance was 2.76 in winter, 3.55 in transition season and 4.10 in summer. Afterwards, the prediction model of system operation performance was established and hourly system performance prediction of the system in the whole year was conducted. Then, the system for domestic hot water with a total installed photovoltaic capacity of 1 MW was taking as a case study to establish the calculation model. Finally, the optimal allocation of the system was carried out with the goal of minimizing the dynamic investment payback period, then the standard cell method was proposed to facilitate the optimal allocation design. The results showed that the minimum dynamic investment payback period of the system was 3.9 years and the daily hot water supply of the standard cell was 9.2tons.

Photovoltaic Thermal Heat Pump Assessment for Power and Domestic Hot Water Generation

The efficient utilization of solar energy significantly contributes to energy efficiency in buildings. Solar photovoltaic thermal (PVT) heat pumps, a hybrid of photovoltaic and solar-assisted heat pumps, have demonstrated a significant development trend due to their multi-generational capacity for heating, power, and cooling with reliable operational performance. This research work presents and investigates a single-stage compression PVT heat pump system, along with the operation principle of the system’s heating and power co-generation throughout the winter and transitional season. The construction of the testing facility, data reduction, error analysis, and performance evaluation indices of the system are all explained theoretically. A continuous experiment research project focusing on system heating and power performance was carried out in Dalian during the transition season (November in this study) and winter season (December in this study) as part of our investigation into the potential uses for space heating, residential hot water, and power supply in northern China. The findings of the experimental research demonstrate that the proposed system can generate electricity and heat at high efficiency during the winter and transitional seasons, with long-term stable performance. The system’s average heating COPt is 5 during the transitional season and 4.4 during the winter season. Meanwhile, the average photovoltaic power efficiency under both weather conditions is 11.9% and 10.2%, with a peak value of 15.7% and 12.0%, respectively. Additionally, the system compression ratio’s variation range is 2 to 3.88, which is lower than the standard heat pump system. As a result, the entire system heating operating process remains constant.

Designing a Model of Solar Photovoltaic Water Pumping System for Off-Grid Localities in Tanzania

Modeling of photovoltaic (PV) water pumping system for rural water localities is vital especially in these modern days, in Tanzania. This is due to the rise of high number of solar-powered rural water projects constructed lacking appropriate design. The fate result into poor and substandard projects delivering below expectations. Kikombo Solar Water Project situated in Dodoma; Tanzania is one among poorly designed solar project chosen as a case study to validate proposed model. The main problem of Kikombo project is unsatisfactory amount of water from domestic points to satisfy population demand. This matter has been raised by pumping-station attendants and the Kikombo village community. The Kikombo water project can only deliver 14.21 m3/day while required demand is 50 m3/day. In order to solve the existing problem, solar water pumping model was developed. It consists of PV array, a motor-pump (AC), inverters (DC–AC converter), maximum power point tracker (MPPT) integrated with a controller and a storage water tank. Analysis was done in MATLAB to estimate which parameters should be upgraded to meet the water requirements. Moreover, the input and output variable for each model component were identified and simulated in MATLAB software. Finally, PV model was validated and system capacity improvement to rectify designs limitation for Kikombo is proposed. The model results were validated through real measurement data at Kikombo water pumping station. The differential error of 0.04062 was observed as a system error. PV model displayed an error of 0.0509 for power output, 0.0383 for current and 0.0131 for voltage; inverter displayed error of 0.0686 and 0.0406 for motor pump. In order to acquire sufficient water demand of 50 m3 /day, the PV panel and pump capacities should be increased to 8.82 kW and 7.35 kW respectively from the existing PV panel’s power of 2.5 kW and motor-pump of 4 kW.

Theoretical Evaluation of Photovoltaic Thermal Water Source Heat Pump, Application Potential and Policy Implications: Evidence from Yangtze River Economic Belt, China

In the context of carbon neutrality, making full use of renewable energy is the key to further improve China’s development index. Within China’s Yangtze River Economic Belt, solar energy and river water, as clean and abundant sources of renewable energy, have garnered increasing. In this paper, a solar energy and surface water driven cogeneration system model is developed by TRNSYS to provide users with heat, cold and electricity. Six representative cities located along the upper, middle, and lower reaches of the Yangtze River Economic Belt were selected to evaluate and analyze the energy-saving, emission reducing, and economic and environmental benefits of solar energy and river water heat utilization in the aspects of energy, economy, and environment. The results shows that the annual power output of PV/T-GSHP system, from the west to the east of the Yangtze River, shows a phase growth trend, which is related to the light intensity. The annual heat output of PV/T plate gradually decreases from the lower reaches of the Yangtze River to the upper reaches. The research findings confirm the application potential of new energy sources in the Yangtze River Economic Belt and quantify the emission reduction effects of new environmental protection actions such as solar energy and river water heat sources. It provides valuable guidance for the utilization of new energy sources, including solar energy and surface water heat energy in the Yangtze River Economic Belt, as well as for optimizing energy policies.

Techno-economic and environmental assessment of solar photovoltaic, diesel, and electric water pumps for irrigation in Assam, India

This study assesses the techno-economic and environmental aspects of solar photovoltaic (PV), diesel, and electric water pumps for irrigation in Assam, India. Two practical crop rotations are considered: Sali rice, strawberry, and Ahu rice; and Sali rice, mustard, and Boro rice. A comprehensive analysis, including performance, cost-effectiveness, and CO2 emissions, was conducted through field surveys and data analysis. The findings highlight the advantages of solar photovoltaic water pumps (SPVWP), including reduced CO2 emissions, lower operational costs, and the potential revenue from selling surplus electricity generated and participating in carbon trading. The study explores the sensitivity to varying subsidy rates, emphasizing the potential to promote SPVWP adoption through revised policies. Factors like crop rotation, energy costs, and groundwater availability are also considered. SPVWP emerges as a viable and sustainable irrigation solution in Assam and similar regions with appropriate financial incentives and support. The research offers valuable insights for policymakers and advances the understanding of renewable energy-based irrigation systems.

Sliding mode controller with fuzzy supervisor for MPPT of photovoltaic pumping system

<p>This paper focuses on a photovoltaic system for pumping water. The control strategy for this water pumping system is based on Takagi-Sugeno type fuzzy supervisors and sliding mode controller. The first generates the maximum power point current under varying climatic condition whereas the second allows tracking the reference signal produced by the fuzzy supervisor. The system includes a photovoltaic generator (PVG) followed by a DC-DC Converter, DC bus, an AC/DC inverter which is connected to the induction motor. This latter is coupled with a centrifuge pump. The induction motor is driven based on field-oriented control strategy. The Takagi-Sugeno type fuzzy supervisor predicts, depending on the variations of climatic variables such as irradiation and temperature, the optimum operating point for the photovoltaic source. The simulation results show the effectiveness of the proposed approach in transient and stationary regimes for different values of climatic variables.</p>

RESEARCH ON THE OPERATION OF THE ELECTROMECHANICAL SYSTEM OF AN AUTONOMOUS PHOTOELECTRIC PUMPING STATION

The work is dedicated to the investigation and analysis of the operation of the electromechanical system of an autonomous photovoltaic pumping station. Photovoltaic pumping stations are essential components of sustainable development, enabling efficient utilization of solar energy for independent water pumping. The study provides a detailed analysis of the structure and operation principles of the photovoltaic pumping station. Key components of the system, such as solar panels, electronic controllers, electromechanical pumps, and energy storage, were studied. Various methods for maximizing energy output from solar panels and optimizing the efficiency of pumping systems were examined. The research results revealed that the effective functioning of the photovoltaic pumping station depends on the precise balance of electromechanical components, optimal utilization of solar energy, and efficient management of electronic systems. Recommendations were put forth for improving the system's efficiency and reliability. Within the study, it was established that a crucial factor in the successful function of the photovoltaic pumping station is the selection of the optimal type of solar panels and their positioning to ensure maximum solar energy collection. The issue of storing excess energy to maintain system stability during periods of limited solar irradiation was also addressed. Moreover, the study included modeling and experimental research of various operational modes of the pumping station, including load variation and solar activity fluctuations. This provided crucial data regarding the dynamics and compliance of system operation with planned parameters. An important aspect of the research was evaluating the efficiency and economic viability of the photovoltaic pumping station in comparison with traditional energy sources for water supply. It was found that in some cases, the use of photovoltaic energy could be a more economically advantageous and environmentally cleaner solution. Overall, the results of this scientific work hold significant practical value for sustainable energy development and the utilization of renewable energy sources. The investigation of the operation of the electromechanical system of an autonomous photovoltaic pumping station contributes to a deeper understanding of the technological, economic, and environmental aspects of such systems. In conclusion, this research provides a deeper insight into the functioning principles of autonomous photovoltaic pumping stations and can serve as a foundation for further studies in the field of renewable energy utilization.

Performance prediction on a novel dual-mode heat pump with a hybrid photovoltaic/micro-channel heat pipe/fin heat exchanger

In traditional photovoltaic heat pumps, the photovoltaic (PV) cells and condenser would hinder each other’s heat dissipation in the reverse cooling mode, resulting in a drop in both cooling and electrical performance. Besides, it also has an excessive dependence on irradiance in the heating mode. To address these problems, a novel dual-mode heat pump with a hybrid photovoltaic/micro-channel heat pipe/fin heat exchanger is proposed in this paper. The novel system utilizes micro-channel heat pipe and double-circuit to adjust the heat transfer direction of refrigerant and PV, so that the refrigerant could absorb heat from PV when heating and not release heat to it when cooling. The mathematical model is established and validated. The system performance in cooling and heating modes is investigated in dynamic condition. Additionally, a study on the impact of solar irradiance, ambient temperature, wind speed, and water temperature is conducted. On a typical summer day, the novel system can provide 1993 W cooling capacity and generate electricity at 127.9 W with 22.73 °C PV temperature averagely. On a typical winter day, its mean heating capacity, electricity generation, and comprehensive coefficient of performance are 1756 W, 148.6 W, and 5.28 respectively. In the cooling mode, with the irradiance increasing from 200 W/m2 to 1000 W/m2, the PV output is lifted by 182.5 W, and the cooling capacity drops by only 0.11%. In the heating mode, the ambient temperature has a more obvious influence on heating capacity than other factors. Results show that the novel system demonstrates an excellent comprehensive performance, especially improving the cooling and electrical capacity in the clear summer day.

A sustainable and efficient alternative for water pumping in electrically isolated rural areas of Ecuador

The main economic activities in rural areas of Ecuador are agriculture and livestock rearing, with water being the primary resource for these activities. Approximately 3% of the rural population lacks access to the conventional electrical grid, so photovoltaic pumping systems can fulfil the need to capture and distribute water without emitting greenhouse gases. This research aims to study the appropriate technologies to develop a photovoltaic pumping system for future implementation in rural areas of Ecuador, based on a centrifugal pump, induction motor, variable speed drive, and powered by a photovoltaic array. Simulink/MATLAB R2019B is used for system modelling and simulation. Additionally, two maximum power point tracking methods are studied, the perturb and observe algorithm and the artificial neural network algorithm. The simulation results show that when using the artificial neural network maximum power point tracking technique, the system performs better, being faster in transitions and presenting fewer oscillations in the steady state. The EN50530 standard is also employed to test the performance of the maximum power point tracker, and as a result, the artificial neural network-based algorithm achieves the highest efficiency of 99.5%. Finally, it is shown how the automatic regulation of speed allows adjustment of the pumping capacity in response to variations in irradiation and temperature. Even in unfavourable levels of irradiation and temperature, the water supply is not interrupted, and the pump capacity is adjusted to the maximum power supplied by the photovoltaic array.