Photovoltaic System Research Articles

Large-Scale Renewable Energy Integration: Tackling Technical Obstacles and Exploring Energy Storage Innovations

The global transition to renewable energy sources (RESs) is accelerating to combat the rapid depletion of fossil fuels and mitigate their devastating environmental impact. However, the increasing integration of large-scale intermittent RESs, such as solar photovoltaics (PVs) and wind power systems, introduces significant technical challenges related to power supply stability, reliability, and quality. This paper provides a comprehensive review of these challenges, with a focus on the critical role of energy storage systems (ESSs) in overcoming them by evaluating their technical, economic, and environmental performance. Various types of energy storage systems, including mechanical, electrochemical, electrical, thermal, and chemical systems, are analyzed to identify their distinct strengths and limitations. This study further examines the current state and potential applications of ESSs, identifying strategies to enhance grid flexibility and the increased adoption of RESs. The findings reveal that while each ESS type has specific advantages, no single technology can tackle all grid challenges. Consequently, hybrid energy storage systems (HESSs), which combine multiple technologies, are emphasized for their ability to improve efficiency and adaptability, making them especially suitable for modern power grids.

Arc Fault Location for Photovoltaic Distribution Cables Based on Time Reversal

The direct current (DC) cable serves as the link for energy output in photovoltaic (PV) systems. Its degradation can cause arcs, which easily lead to fire accidents. Locating arc faults, however, is challenging. To cope with it, this paper proposes an arc location method based on time reversal. The method has been tried to locate system fault. However, its application in the arc fault location of photovoltaic systems is seldom discussed and needs further research. For this purpose, the voltage waveforms of an arc fault collected at one of the cable ends is reversed. This transformation derives a symmetrical arc fault signal. Afterwards, the reversed signal is injected back into the cable to trace the fault location, which is a symmetrical process of the arc fault signal travelling from its origin to the detection point. Utilizing the energy-focusing characteristics of time reversal, the position with the highest energy in the derived waveform corresponds to the actual fault location. To verify the proposed method, a DC arc fault test is performed to obtain the wave characteristics. The Paukert arc model is chosen based on the tested result. A PV system containing a DC cable with an arc fault is simulated with Simulink with the affecting factors, i.e., grounded resistance, cable length, fault location and sampling frequency. The simulated results demonstrate that the localization error is within 5% in the worst case.

Enhancing solar pv efficiency through comprehensive component-level understanding

This study examines the efficiency of photovoltaic (PV) systems connected to the electric grid, identifying key factors from solar irradiation capture to energy injection. Using PVSyst, various scenarios were analyzed, focusing on module orientation, tilt angle, shading, soiling, inverter efficiency, electrical losses and availability. Results highlight that understanding local system conditions is essential for maximizing efficiency. The research underscores the importance of monitoring, preventive measures, and advanced technologies to enhance PV system reliability and financial returns, contributing to the sustainable energy transition.

Enhancing Renewable Energy Integration and Implementing EV Charging Stations for Sustainable Electricity in Crete’s Supermarket Chain

In current times, sustainability is paramount, and businesses are increasingly adopting renewable energy sources (RESs) and electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure to minimise their environmental impact and operational costs. Such a transition can prove challenging to multi-location businesses since each chain store functions under different constraints; therefore, the implementation of a corporate policy requires adaptations. The increased electricity demand associated with EV charging stations and their installation cost could prove to be a significant financial burden. Therefore, this study aims to investigate and develop strategies for effectively incorporating RES and EV charging stations into the operations of a supermarket chain in Crete. Monthly electricity consumption data, parking availability, and premise dimensions were collected for 20 supermarkets under the same brand. To achieve a more tailored approach to custom energy system sizing, the integration of energy storage coupled with a photovoltaic (PV) system was investigated, using the Moth–Flame Optimiser (MFO) to maximise the Net Present Value (NPV) of 20 years. The algorithm managed to locate optimal solutions that yield profitable installations for all supermarkets by installing the necessary number of PV units. Manual exploration around the solutions led to the optimal integration of energy storage systems with a total upfront cost of EUR 856,477.00 and a total profit for the entire brand equal to EUR 6,426,355.14.

Feasibility and performance evaluation of solar photovoltaic systems in diverse climatic regions of Algeria: energy, exergy, environmental, and economic approaches

Feasibility and performance evaluation of solar photovoltaic systems in diverse climatic regions of Algeria: energy, exergy, environmental, and economic approaches

Hermit Crab Optimizer Approach: Harmonics Reduction of Hybrid Renewable Energy Sources

Micro Grids (MGs) have gained a lot of popularity recently because of their benefits in terms of high transmission efficiency and efficient power conversion. However, the nonlinear properties of renewable energy sources (RESs), the increased usage of power electronic devices, and unanticipated fluctuations in load are what lead to the formation of stability issues in the MG. This manuscript presents the optimization approach to improve the performance of microgrid with renewable energy sources (RES). The proposed method is the Hermit Crab Optimizer (HCO) Algorithm. Here, Solar PV and Wind Turbine is utilized as power sources, supported by DC/DC and AC/DC converters for efficient energy conversion. The main objective of proposed technique is to minimize the THD and maximize the efficiency of system. The HCO algorithm is used to optimize the duty cycle of the DC to DC converters within the system. By then, the proposed method's performance is put into practice using the MATLAB platform, and it is contrasted with a number of existing methods, including Salp Swarm Algorithm (SSA), Ant Lion Optimizer (ALO), and Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO). From the result, the THD of proposed method is -17.75. The THD of existing PSO is 17.81465, ALO is -17.81469 and SSA is -17.81545.

A modified energy management strategy for PV/diesel hybrid system to reduce diesel consumption based on artificial protozoa optimizer

The photovoltaic (PV)/diesel hybrid system (PV/D-HS) combines solar PV panels with a diesel generator (DG) to meet energy demands, especially in industrial operations. This study introduces an improved energy management strategy designed to optimize the performance of PV/D-HS by reducing diesel consumption, increasing solar energy utilization, and minimizing environmental impact. The strategy dynamically manages power distribution between the PV panels and the DG, adapting to changing solar conditions and energy demands. Doing so reduces the system’s reliance on diesel, improves operational efficiency, and supports the integration of cleaner energy sources. Simulation results show significant improvements over traditional approaches: carbon emissions decreased from 62 kg/day with a standalone diesel generator to 38 kg/day, representing a 38% reduction. The solar energy fraction (SEF) increases from 12 to 35%, a 23% improvement in solar energy utilization. These results demonstrate the potential of the proposed strategy to enhance sustainability by lowering greenhouse gas emissions, reducing dependence on fossil fuels, and advancing global efforts to combat climate change. In addition to environmental benefits, the approach reduces operational costs and improves the system’s reliability, making it a practical solution for industrial energy needs.

Mitigating the Impact of Partial Shading Conditions on Photovoltaic Arrays Through Modified Bridge-Linked Configuration

Global reliance on depleting energy resources is driving the urgent need for alternative solutions to address escalating energy demands. Solar energy, a prominent renewable resource, leverages various configurations and techniques to maximize power output, even under challenging environmental conditions. In photovoltaic (PV) arrays, partial shading conditions (PSCs) significantly hinder efficiency by reducing power extraction across solar panels. Traditionally, configurations such as series, parallel, series-to-parallel, and bridge-linked (BL) are employed to optimize power output; however, each has limitations under PSCs. Here, we introduce a modified bridge-linked (Modified BL) configuration designed to mitigate the adverse effects of partial shading on PV arrays. This approach allows for interconnected solar modules that reduce shading impact across an entire array, thus preserving efficiency by isolating shaded sections and minimizing power loss. The Modified BL configuration not only supports maximum power point tracking (MPPT) but also enhances resilience against shading, ensuring stable power output. Our simulation results underscore the critical influence of irradiance levels on PV electricity generation, suggesting that incorporating irradiance variability as a design parameter is essential in selecting optimal PV interconnection schemes under PSCs. This study contributes to advancing solar array design by providing a robust method to maintain power output in partial shading conditions, ultimately supporting broader efforts in renewable energy optimization.

Synthesis and Light-Matter Interaction of Low-Dimension Ordered-Disordered Layered Semiconductors.

Well-structured and ordered 2D layered semiconducting materials have excellent optical properties but limited advanced optoelectronic applications in their natural state. Altering their natural arrangement, through artificial heterostructures, strain and pressure engineering, chemical doping, intercalation, and alloying, can impart them with unusual optical properties and potentially enhance their performance in various applications. Among these approaches, alloying is generally difficult to control and disrupts the well-ordered homophilic crystal phase of these 2D crystals, albeit with the capability to control materials as thin as a single atomic layer. In this work, the synthesis of a low-dimension ordered-disordered layered 2D alloy of Mo(1-x)WxSe2 with clearly ordered in-plane segregations of nano-sized islands of individual MoSe2 and WSe2 across the material surface is reported. The optical analysis of this ordered-disordered layered Mo(1-x)WxSe2 reveals unique interfacial and interlayer coupling physics, such as the co-existence of intralayer (interfacial) and interlayer excitons and enhanced valley polarization of up to 50%, which is traditionally absent in ordered MoSe2, WSe2, or their heterostructures. Furthermore, the structure exhibits implies open circuit voltage (up to 1130mV), signifying its excellent open-circuit voltage potential if employed in photovoltaic devices. Overall, the reported low-dimension ordered-disordered semiconductor alloys can be useful in various optoelectronic applications.

Solar Stirling for Renewable Energy Multigeneration Systems

This study explores the feasibility and potential of integrating dish–Stirling systems (DSSs) into multigeneration energy systems, focusing on their ability to produce both thermal and electrical energy. By leveraging the concentrated solar power capabilities of DSSs, this research examines their performance relative to alternative solutions such as photovoltaic (PV) systems and solar heating. A 25 kW Stirling Energy Systems (SES) DSS served as the basis for the analysis. Simulations were performed for local 2022 weather conditions in Germany. The study employed a detailed modeling approach using the NREL System Advisor Model (SAM) to quantify the energy outputs and evaluate the system efficiencies. The results indicate that the DSS achieved an electrical efficiency of 25% and a combined efficiency of 78% when accounting for the maximum thermal energy generated. Seasonal analysis highlights the adaptability to fluctuating energy demands, with advantages in winter heating applications. Comparative evaluations revealed DSSs as a viable cogeneration alternative to standalone PV systems and solar heaters, offering reduced environmental impacts and enhanced energy efficiency. Future work will address real-world operational conditions, including thermal storage and multigeneration integration, positioning the DSS as a sustainable solution for renewable energy generation.

Enhanced grey wolf optimization for maximum power point tracking in photovoltaic systems with hybrid battery-supercapacitor storage

ABSTRACT This paper proposes an enhanced Grey Wolf Optimization algorithm integrated with a stochastic Cauchy-Gaussian mutation to improve maximum power point tracking in standalone photovoltaic systems. The system incorporates a hybrid energy storage solution combining a lithium-ion battery and a supercapacitor to address energy fluctuations and ensure stable power management. The proposed method was compared with conventional and metaheuristic optimisation techniques, including Particle Swarm Optimization, Ant Colony Optimization, and the standard Grey Wolf Optimization algorithm. Simulation results demonstrate faster convergence, higher tracking efficiency, and improved stability under varying solar and load conditions. The enhanced approach significantly improves energy extraction and reduces tracking time compared to traditional methods. Additionally, the hybrid storage system ensures a balanced and stable operation between the battery and supercapacitor, extending the lifespan of the energy storage components. These findings underscore the algorithm’s reliability and effectiveness in optimising and enhancing system performance, making it suitable for real-world applications.

Integrating Renewable Fuels and Sustainable Practices in Equestrian Centers: A Model for Carbon Footprint Reduction and Environmental Impact Mitigation

This research investigates the feasibility of utilizing anaerobic digestion to produce biogas from organic waste generated at an equestrian center, emphasizing energy savings and environmental sustainability. The biogas system produces an estimated 85,495 kWh annually, surpassing the center’s electricity consumption of 18,644 kWh. This reduces greenhouse gas emissions by 2753 kg of CO2. Photovoltaic systems, which meet 70.77% of the energy demand, further contribute to a reduction of 1178 kg of CO2. Substituting fossil fuels with biofuels and planting 1700 trees achieved reductions of 26,263 kg of CO2 and 51,033 kg of CO2, respectively, resulting in a 49% overall carbon footprint reduction. This study evaluates the economic viability of biogas systems in the equestrian sector and optimal feedstock characteristics for efficient production. Additionally, complementary strategies, including photovoltaic solar panels and water management systems, are analyzed for their roles in promoting sustainable resource management. These integrated solutions support a transition to a circular economy while reducing environmental impacts and fostering energy independence in the equestrian industry.

Structural and optoelectronic properties of CuS nano particles prepared by Co-precipitation method

Metal chalcogenide copper sulfide nanoparticles exhibit a broad spectrum of applications, encompassing solar cells, photovoltaics, optical devices, ionic materials and more. In this investigation, CuS nanoparticles were synthesized through a facile co-precipitation method. The synthesis involved employing copper sulfate and thiourea as precursors for Cu and S, respectively. Quantitative analysis, confirming the presence of Cu–S and S–S bonds, was conducted through Raman spectroscopy. X-ray diffraction (XRD) was employed to ascertain the structural phases. The semiconducting behavior of the synthesized CuS nanoparticles was studied through UV–Vis spectroscopy, correlating optical absorption and energy bandgap. The comprehensive findings suggest that the prepared CuS nanoparticles hold promise for advancements in photovoltaic technology and optical devices.

Real‐Time Implementation of Double‐Tied Cross‐Link and Series–Parallel Reconfiguration in a Solar Tree Integrated With Adaptive Voltage Interval Search Maximum Power Tracking Algorithm

ABSTRACTThis paper presents a dual method for enhancing power output using reconfigurable solar tree through array reconfiguration and rapid global maximum power point tracking (GMPPT). An in‐depth literature review on maximum power point tracking (MPPT) reveals that existing algorithms—encompassing conventional, meta‐heuristic, and selective logical algorithms—primarily utilize voltage and/or current search for peak power tracking, often at the expense of tracking time. This work introduces a new method for maximizing power extraction by addressing two key areas: improving power through photovoltaic (PV) array reconfiguration double‐tied cross‐link (DTCL) and utilizing a novel adaptive voltage interval search (AVIS)–based MPPT technique. The effectiveness of the DTCL configuration compared with the conventional series–parallel (SP) configuration is verified through MATLAB/simulation studies. Additionally, the proposed array reconfiguration with AVIS MPPT is validated on an experimental prototype using a low‐cost digital signal processor, TMS320F289D, under various conditions including partial shading and uniform irradiance. The results, which are presented and analyzed, stands on significant power savings along rapid reaching of operating point with proposed AVIS Algorithm.

Photovoltaic tracking technologies for sustainable electrification: A techno-economic analysis on Western Pelee Island, Canada

This article investigates the economic and technical feasibility of employing various photovoltaic (PV) tracking systems to electrify Western Pelee Island. The systems under consideration include horizontal-axis monthly adjustment (HMA), horizontal-axis continuous adjustment (HCA), vertical-axis continuous adjustment (VCA), and dual-axis tracker (DAT). The analysis includes a techno-economic assessment of these trackers, considering solar, bio, and diesel operation and two dispatch strategies: cycle charging (CC) and load following (LF). The results indicate that the optimal solution is a CC-controlled system equipped with a VCA tracker. The LF-controlled system with this tracker has a higher net present cost (NPC), cost of energy (COE), and renewable fraction by ∼$0.02 M, ∼$0.002/kWh, and 7.6%, respectively. NPC of HMA and COE of HVA-based systems with CC strategies are the most sensitive cases to SOCmin. In load variation, the largest and lowest decrease in COE, respectively, is observed in HVA and DA trackers controlled by CC dispatch strategy. In order for DA trackers to match the performance of VCA trackers, their costs must decrease by approximately 41% and 43% in CC and LF systems, respectively. The financial sensitivity of DA-based systems is higher due to albedo effects. This study provides valuable insights into optimizing PV tracking for the electrification of Western Pelee Island and enhances our understanding of the economic implications associated with dispatch strategies and tracking technologies in sustainable energy planning.

Optical and Structural Properties of Rutile Nanoparticles Prepared Via Ball Milling

This study centered on determining the optical characteristics of Rutile nanoparticles and synthesizing them using a ball milling process. A top-down approach was utilized to obtain nanoparticles from the bulk materials utilizing high intensity ball milling technique. The crystalline size of the nanoparticle was ascertained using the Debye-Scherer formula. The Energy Band gap, optical conductivity, extinction coefficient, transmittance, and refractive index were among the optical characteristics that were identified. The average crystalline size obtained, was 87.440 nm. The computed dislocation density varied between (0.109x10-3 to 0.0359x10-3 ) nm-2. As the wavelength range shifted from the ultraviolet to the visible and near-infrared regions, the absorbance value was observed to decrease simultaneously. The refractive index of the particle showed a uniform result from 1eV to 4eV but sharply increased at 4.1eV and also dropped sharply at 4.3eV and then maintained a uniform outcome as the photon energy increased. The transmittance value was also observed to gradually increase from the ultraviolet region, to the visible region, hence reaching 99.9% in the near-infrared region. Furthermore, the band energy gap was obtained to be 3.88 eV. The unique properties of the Rutile nanoparticles revealed potential uses in photovoltaic and optoelectronic systems.

Investigation of Nb2O5/SiO2 short-wave pass filters for beam-splitting application in a PV/CSP solar hybrid system

Multilayer thin-film filters for beam-splitting applications were designed, fabricated, and characterized. Optimized 13- and 35-layer Nb2O5/SiO2 filters on K9 substrates achieved wideband transmission in the range of [580–1100 nm]. Optical and structural characterizations were performed using spectrometry, atomic force microscopy (AFM), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The Nb2O5/SiO2/K9 glass filter exhibited sensitivity to deposition conditions, especially in the very short wavelengths. Post-deposition annealing improved the filters’ morphology and optical performance, particularly in short wavelengths. Both filters demonstrated efficient performance with average transmittance values of 87.56% and 83.72%, respectively. Additionally, the highest reflectance and average reflectance in the remaining range were measured as 62.42% and 98%, respectively, making them suitable for hybrid photovoltaic thermal systems under optimized deposition and annealing conditions.

Navigating market entry decisions in the solar PV industry: The role of founders' pre‐entry experience across the value chain

AbstractResearch SummaryIn emerging industries characterized by several technological generations giving rise to multiple submarkets that emerge at different points in time, start‐ups entering with novel technologies encounter markets at varying development stages and are confronted with the choice to enter either a nascent or an established market. We study the solar photovoltaic industry between 1985 and 2017 to examine how founders' pre‐entry experience along the industry value chain helps them navigate this complex decision. We find that founders with upstream industry experience possess operational acumen and manufacturing knowledge, prompting them to favor established markets. Conversely, founders with focal industry experience, guided by their unique insights into new applications and the limitations of existing technologies in fulfilling emerging customer needs, are more inclined to enter nascent markets.Managerial SummaryNew technologies often enable fulfillment of new user needs. In emerging industries witnessing successive waves of technologies, new markets materialize at different point in times. When firms enter these industries with fungible technologies, they can target markets in the early phases of formation or markets that are more mature and well developed. Evidence from the solar PV industry shows that the experience that entrepreneurs gained before founding their start‐up in this industry influences the choice of market: founders with prior experience developing solar technologies enter markets addressing new and undefined user needs while founders with prior experience in upstream industries that supply components to the solar industry gravitate toward mature markets, which place greater value on value efficiency enhancements.

Optimizing bus charging infrastructure by incorporating private car charging demands and uncertain solar photovoltaic generation

Abstract Integrating solar photovoltaic (PV) and battery energy storage (BES) into bus charging infrastructure offers a feasible solution to the challenge of carbon emissions and grid burdens. The deployment costs and uncertain power outputs of solar PV and BES need to be considered by public transportation agencies. This study presents a data-driven approach to optimize bus charging infrastructure and incorporates sharing charging and uncertain solar PV generation using the Latin Hypercube Sampling method. A case study in Yinchuan, China, reveals that integrating solar PV and BES at a single bus depot reduces total costs by 37.35%, carbon emissions by 41.46%, and grid loads by 49.35% over the 10-year lifetime of BES. Sharing this infrastructure with private cars offers further economic benefits. Global analysis shows this approach’s varying economic and environmental advantages. The proposed model offers practical implications for developing cost-effective and environmentally friendly electric bus charging infrastructure to advance sustainable transport.

Economic Viability and Environmental Benefits of Integrating Solar Photovoltaics in Public Community Buildings

Saudi Arabia relies heavily on fossil fuels for electricity generation, leading to significant environmental challenges, including high levels of greenhouse gas emissions. This study evaluates the environmental and financial impacts of integrating solar PV systems in public buildings, specifically mosques and schools, in the central region of Saudi Arabia. Using machine learning-based forecasting, we analyzed power consumption and solar generation patterns. The results show that the integration of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems could lead to a reduction of 1.02 million tons of CO2 emissions annually and a 48% decrease in net present cost. These findings highlight the potential of solar PV to mitigate environmental harm while offering financial benefits in alignment with Saudi Arabia’s renewable energy objectives