Energy Generation Potential Research Articles

Co-adjustable guide vane and diffuser vane to improve the energy generation potential of an axial-flow pump as turbine

Operating an axial-flow pump as turbine (APAT) with a high head can be a cost-effective solution for energy recovery applications. However, axial-flow pumps are characterized by a low head, which makes it difficult for an APAT to achieve high efficiency. In this study, computational fluid dynamics–based numerical simulations were performed using steady and unsteady Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stocks equations and a shear stress transport reattachment modification turbulence model to investigate how the energy performance and operating range of an APAT can be improved under low-head conditions. The experiment was conducted to evaluate the accuracy and reliability of the numerical results. Adjusting the diffuser vane (DV) and guide vane (GV) were identified as candidate solutions. The adjusting mechanism was designed and presented in both 2D drawings and 3D model. Further simulations were performed to evaluate the effect of the clearances at the hub and shroud of the GV and DV. While the clearances at the GV had no adverse effect on the energy performance, clearances at the DV greatly reduced the energy performance because of the formation and growth of leakage vortex flows. Adjusting the DV improved the energy performance more than adjusting the GV. A co-adjustable GV and DV is a comprehensive solution that was found to increase the efficiency of the APAT by 40.15 % under low-head conditions and weaken vibration and noise by suppressing the separation flow in the GV domain.

Large-scale photovoltaic solar farms in the Sahara affect solar power generation potential globally

Globally, solar projects are being rapidly built or planned, particularly in high solar potential regions with high energy demand. However, their energy generation potential is highly related to the weather condition. Here we use state-of-the-art Earth system model simulations to investigate how large photovoltaic solar farms in the Sahara Desert could impact the global cloud cover and solar generation potential through disturbed atmospheric teleconnections. The results indicate negative impacts on solar potential in North Africa (locally), Middle East, Southern Europe, India, Eastern China, Japan, Eastern Australia, and Southwestern US, and positive impacts in Central and South America, the Caribbean, Central & Eastern US, Scandinavia and South Africa, reaching a magnitude of ±5% in remote regions seasonally. Diagnostics suggest that large-scale atmospheric circulation changes are responsible for the global impacts. International cooperation is essential to mitigate the potential risks of future large-scale solar projects in drylands, which could impact energy production.

Briquetting process optimization of poultry litter and urban wood waste

Urban wood waste and poultry litter are solid wastes with potential for energy generation. A well-modeled briquetting process can be used to find an ideal relationship between the control and response variables. This study aimed to investigate the energy potential of biomass and the relationship between the following input variables: compression load (L), compaction time (T), granulometry (G), and the proportion of poultry litter mass and urban wood waste (Pl, 0:100; 25:75; 50:50; 75:25; 100:0) on the response variables, that is, higher heating value (HHV), density (D), and moisture content (MC) of the briquettes. The modeling process was based on central composite design of the response surface methodology. Multi-objective optimization of the process was performed using the normalized global criterion method. From the experimental results, the highest HHV obtained was equal to 24.18 MJ/kg, the highest D found was 1252.02 kg/m³ and the lowest MC was 9.05 %. Using the optimization method, the ideal Pl is 50:50, with G of 30 mesh, with L of 10 t being applied, with T of 194 s. Under these conditions, it is expected to achieve a briquette with an HHV of 22.75 MJ/kg, D of 1180.4 kg/m³, and MC of 9.16 %.

Prediction and efficient installation of solar panel using machine learning

Utilizing a comprehensive dataset featuring daily information such as sunrise time, sunset time, minimum and maximum temperatures, this study's primary aim is to ascertain the duration necessary for a solar panel installation to become profitable and reach the breakeven point. Users provide input parameters, including the solar panel area to be installed, location, cost per unit of current, and installation charges. Employing time series analysis and forecasting techniques, the system takes into account various environmental factors, energy generation potential, and local energy prices. The ultimate goal is to predict when the cumulative income from the solar panel installation will surpass the initial installation costs, facilitating an estimation of the point at which the solar panel system will break even and commence generating a net profit. This solar panel profitability analysis holds considerable significance individuals and organizations for contemplating investments in renewable energy. It equips stakeholders with the information required to make informed decisions regarding the feasibility and financial viability of solar panel installations at specific locations. This, in turn, promotes a sustainable and cost-effective transition to renewable energy sources, aligning with the broader goal of reducing our reliance on non-renewable energy and fostering environmentally responsible practices.

Dual Axis Solar Tracking System with Weather Monitoring System

This paper presents the design and implementation of a solar tracking system integrated with weather monitoring capabilities. The system is designed to maximize the efficiency of solar panels by continuously adjusting their orientation to track the sun's position throughout the day. In addition to solar tracking, the system incorporates weather monitoring sensors to collect real-time data on environmental conditions such as cloud cover, wind speed, temperature and light intensity. This data is utilized to dynamically adjust the solar panel's position to optimize energy production and system performance in varying weather conditions. The integration of dual-axis tracking with weather monitoring enhances the overall efficiency and reliability of solar energy systems, making them more adaptable to changing environmental factors and increasing their potential for renewable energy generation.

Modelling and analysis of jute fiber reinforced epoxy composite in the development of wind blade for low intensity winds

Natural fibers show an increasing potential as reinforcement of polymeric composites, representing a promising concurrent to glass and carbon fibers extensively used in the construction of wind turbine blades synthetic fibers recyclability/disposability and high production energy cost have already been discussed in the main turbine producing centres. In particular, the development of wind turbines for low wind speed areas can increase the energy generation potential of regions not originally eligible for the installation of large turbines. This study proposes the evaluation of the use of jute fiber (Corchorus capsularis) reinforced epoxy composite in the construction of S1210 airfoil profile, of a small-scale wind turbine for low wind speed regions, considering the structural parameters, developed incorporating the Classical Laminate Theory (CLT) and Extended Bredt-Batho Shear Flow Theory (EBSFT).In order to raise the elastic properties and enable the use of the failure criteria, the composite blades were characterized according to ASTM standards. The mechanical properties surveyed, together with the elastic parameters of the cross section, torsional stiffness, axial stiffness, GJ 1873.6 N m2, EI 9.47 × 104 N m2, and flexural rigidity, Ely 4.97 × 104 N m2, Elz 1.45 × 106 N m2, respectively, demonstrated the feasibility of using the jute fiber reinforced epoxy composite in the blade construction, evaluated according to the maximum tension failure criterion.

Hydro thermal carbonization (HTC) of sewage sludge: process optimization through RSM and assessing its energy potential

Sewage sludge is a by-product of municipal wastewater treatment, and its production is increasing with population growth and urbanization. Hydrothermal carbonization (HTC) is a promising method for managing sewage sludge due to its applicability and cost-effectiveness. The HTC process produces hydrochar, a stabilized carbon material derived from sewage sludge. In this study, sewage sludge was subjected to HTC at optimized conditions of 200 °C and 6 h using the response surface methodology (RSM) statistical tool. The structural morphology of the hydrochar was analyzed using Scanning Electron Microscopy and Transmission Electron Microscopy, which revealed a fluffy and coarse surface with deeper fragments, indicating the presence of carbon microspheres. Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectra showed that the hydrochar retained similar functional groups as the original sewage sludge, such as hydroxyl, aliphatic methyl, amino, ketonic, amide, and ether groups, with minimal shifts and reductions in vibrational peaks. The higher heating value (HHV) of the sewage sludge increased from 16.24 to 19.41 MJ kg−1 after HTC, indicating energy densification with a factor of 1.07. However, when hydrochar was blended with coal, the HHV gradually decreased. Thermo-gravimetric analysis was performed to assess the co-combustion effectiveness, and it showed that a blend of 50% coal and 50% sewage sludge-derived hydrochar exhibited extended heat generation with minimal reduction in HHV compared to other blends, reaching a value of 23.16 MJ kg−1. These findings suggest that hydrochar produced from sewage sludge through HTC could serve as an alternative energy source in industries, reducing the reliance on coal. Furthermore, the combustion behavior of hydrochar was significantly altered after the HTC process, highlighting its potential for energy generation. By utilizing hydrochar, the industry can contribute to the sustainable management of sewage sludge while reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions associated with coal combustion.

Prediction of methane emissions and electrical energy generation potential from MSW landfill in Khulna city of Bangladesh: a model-based approach

Prediction of methane emissions and electrical energy generation potential from MSW landfill in Khulna city of Bangladesh: a model-based approach

To Enhance the Efficiency of PV Solar Panel by Integrating Materials such as Copper or Aluminium behind Solar Panel

Photovoltaic (PV) solar panels play a pivotal role in the global transition to sustainable and clean energy sources. To maximize the potential of solar energy generation, it is imperative to enhance the efficiency of these panels. This study focuses on the integration of materials such as copper and aluminum behind the solar panel, aiming to boost its overall performance. The research presents a novel approach to improving the efficiency of PV solar panels by introducing copper and aluminum backsheets. The incorporation of these metallic materials offers several advantages, including enhanced heat dissipation, reduced electrical losses, and increased mechanical strength. Copper and aluminum's exceptional thermal conductivity helps dissipate excess heat more efficiently, reducing the risk of hotspots and improving overall panel reliability. Additionally, the lower electrical resistivity of these materials minimizes energy losses during the transmission of generated electricity.

Cracking the Code: Process Parameter Effects on Khaya senegalensis Energy Pellet Moisture Content

The production of energy pellets from biomass sources holds immense potential for sustainable renewable energy generation. This study investigates the influence of key process parameters on the moisture content of energy pellets derived from Khaya senegalensis, a promising biomass feedstock in Malaysia. With a focus on unlocking the relationship between process variables and pellet moisture, a systematic experimental approach was adopted. The objective of this study is to investigate the effects of raw material moisture, feedstock particle size, compression pressure, and pelletization temperature on the manufactured biomass energy pellet's moisture content. By employing a comprehensive design of experiments and statistical analysis, the nuanced effects of these parameters are revealed on the moisture content of Khaya senegalensis energy pellets. The results illuminate the complex interplay between these process variables and the final moisture characteristics of the pellets. Understanding how these parameters impact moisture content is crucial for optimizing pellet quality, combustion efficiency, and storage stability. The study found a quadratic relationship between particle size, compression pressure, and pelletization temperature, indicating that larger particle sizes correlate with higher moisture content. Excessive pressure led to elevated levels while increasing temperature showed a decreasing trend. This research contributes valuable insights that advance the knowledge frontier of biomass pelletization, paving the way for enhanced utilization of Khaya senegalensis as a renewable energy resource.

Green Energy Prospects of Electricity Generated from Short-Rotation Woody Crops—Quantifying the EROIg of Bioelectricity

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change’s sixth assessment report (AR6) allocates 15% to 43% of global primary energy to biomass in 2050 across multiple mitigation scenarios. The report also emphasizes the importance of electrification. For increased reliance on electricity and on biomass, bioelectricity is expected to play a major role. It is therefore vital to know whether the energy generation potential of biomass electricity can support the removal of its environmental impact, particularly as generation at large scale is expected to rely almost solely on energy crops. This paper evaluates the potential of short-rotation woody crops in generating green electricity. This is performed using the “Green Energy Return on Investment (EROIg)” methodology, which indicates the net energy generated after investing in ecosystem maintenance energy (ESME). This study found that the EROIg of bioelectricity is marginally larger than unity when converted to its primary equivalent form (EROIg-PE). Three design options were proposed to improve bioenergy’s EROIg. Among these options, pelletizing wood chips has the largest advantage with an EROIg of 1.11 and an EROIg-PE of 3.17. We conclude with a discussion of the indirect advantages of growing energy crops, and discuss how this technique can be used alongside others to help generate cleaner energy.

Biomass Energy Potential of Agricultural Residues in the Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic has significant potential for energy generation from residual biomass, with sugarcane, rice, and coconut waste having the highest energy potential. The Eastern, Northeastern, and Southern regions were identified as the areas with the most significant potential for energy generation. This potential can be harnessed to complement intermittent or unmanageable renewable energies in distributed generation networks. Biomass generation plants can be hybridized with other sources, such as wind and solar, to provide a more stable and reliable electricity supply. The methodology developed to evaluate the energy potential of residual biomass in the Dominican Republic integrates a rigorous review of the literature and agricultural databases, incorporating criteria such as annual production, residue-to-product ratio, higher calorific value, and dry matter content, culminating in a formula that synthesizes normalized data to optimize the selection and projection of biomass sources based on their potential energy contribution. The study found that the Dominican Republic has significant potential for energy generation from residual biomass, which can be leveraged to provide a more stable and reliable electricity supply.

Brazilian wind energy generation potential using mixtures of Weibull distributions

As concerns about the greenhouse effect and the resulting increase in carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere continue to mount, there is an increasing need to curtail the use of fossil fuels for energy generation, especially given the ever-growing energy demands of the population. In this work, we applied the Weibull–Weibull distribution mixture to adjust the wind speed series of all 575 weather stations at six different heights for the 12 months of the year in the period from 01-01-2000 to 03-31-2022 measured in the hourly interval. We present the main results for the month with the lowest and the month with the highest incidence of wind speed in Brazil for the height of 120 m, which are the months of May and September, respectively. In estimating the Weibull–Weibull parameters, the Expectation–Maximization algorithm was used. Using the results obtained at each meteorological station and the Inverse Distance Weighting method, we predicted wind energy generation at points without information about wind speed. We observed that the Weibull–Weibull distribution mixture proved excellent for estimating wind energy density distribution over large areas We were able to provide a suitable fit for the different regions of Brazil. The findings indicate that the model employed has the potential to serve as a strong contender for adoption in other nations, enabling the integration of alternative energy sources in a complementary fashion. This measure could prove instrumental in mitigating the use of environmentally hazardous energy sources.

SYSTEMATIC REVIEW OF SOLAR PHOTOVOLTAICS AND AUTOMOTIVE APPLICATIONS

Photovoltaic (P.V.) solar cells convert sunlight into electricity. The conversion of available sunlight to electricity leads to investigations focused on technologies that reduce reliance on fossil fuels and reduce carbon emissions. Investigative work in this area leads to several improvements, increasing efficiencies, cleaner processes, new materials, and reduces cost. With increasing awareness and growing need for sustainable development, P.V.'s have made their way into various applications in the Energy, Industrial, Commercial, Residential, and Transportation sectors of the world. The migration of P.V.’s is reducing reliance on fossil fuels for energy while combating carbon emissions and climate change. The oil embargo of the 1970s led many governments and researchers to investigate alternative and cleaner technologies of vehicle propulsion in the transportation industry, including hydrogen, ethanol, natural gas, methane, and various forms of electric vehicles (E.V.'s). Of these technologies, electric vehicles have gained popularity in the market with improvements continuing to advance the field in energy efficiency, storage, and management with a potential of energy generation using P.V.'s mounted to vehicles. The utilization of vehicle integrated P.V. solar cells presents possibilities for improving the range of electric vehicles demonstrated throughout various solar race challenges worldwide. Many of these solar electric vehicles (S.E.V.'s) were on the individual, research-based scale, and little use of this technology has made it to market vehicles. Further improvements and investigations in P.V. and E.V. technology continue to improve consumer level adoption to address their challenges and limitations. As a result of examining these facts, the researchers present a summary systemic review of existing research on the use of solar energy to power an automobile. It will lightly cover solar energy collectors and then provide a more in-depth examination of existing literature.

Wind Speed Characteristics and Energy Potentials in Lafia, Nasarawa State, Nigeria

Renewable energy, specifically wind power, is vital for reducing fossil fuel dependency, greenhouse gas emissions, and improving energy security. With advancements in technology, wind energy has become cost-effective and competitive. Wind energy research in Lafia is essential to developing solutions in harnessing its potential as a significant renewable energy source for Nigeria, which has abundant but untapped wind energy resources. This study investigates the wind energy potential in Lafia, Nasarawa State, using daily averaged wind speed data from MERRA-2 measured at 2, 10, and 50-metre altitudes. The Weibull distribution function was applied to determine Lafia's wind energy potential, and the outcomes revealed that the highest yield for wind harvest occurred during the peak of the dry season in February, while the lowest yield for wind harvest occurred during the beginning of the dry season in October. Moreover, the monthly mean power densities peaked in February, 2001 at 341.87 W/m2 (class 3: 300 < PD ≤ 399), indicating moderate potential, and in January, 2002 at 454.12 W/m2 (class 4: 400 < PD ≤ 499), indicating good potential. However, the peak monthly mean power densities in December, 2003 and February, 2004 were poor and marginal, respectively, according to the Wind Resource Potential (WRP) classification. Furthermore, at 50 metres altitude, the recorded wind speeds were above the recommended minimum (3.00 – 4.00 m/s) for most wind turbines to start producing electricity. The findings indicate significant wind resource potential at high altitudes (50 metres) in Lafia, which suggests great potential for wind energy generation.

Analisis Teknis dan Ekonomi dalam Pemanfaatan Area Sekitar Anjungan Lepas Pantai di Laut Jawa untuk Memproduksi Listrik Hijau dengan Turbin Angin Lepas Pantai

Green electricity production with offshore wind turbines is a potential option to increase renewable energy penetration in Indonesia. Indonesia's geographical condition which has 70 percent of the ocean makes the offshore wind turbines interesting for further research. In this study, the area of the ocean that will be used is Papa's offshore platform, which from an operational economic point of view has decreased so that it can be converted into an offshore sub-station for an electricity substation before being sent to a sub-station on land with distance of 40 km and sea depth of 35 m. The study begins with an analysis of the meteo data conditions of the area around the offshore platform which produces an average wind speed of 5.5 m/s (for a height of 119 meters) and the greatest frequency of wind directions from the East Southeast (ESE) direction. Furthermore, the wind farm analysis shows that the best wind farm direction with the Vestas V162-7.2 MW turbine is in the East Northeast (ENE) - West Southwest (WSW) direction with an energy generation potential of 141,656.9 MWh/year and a wake loss of 10% for a generating capacity of 100 .8MW. To determine the economy, an analysis was carried out using LCOE and NPV which resulted in a green electricity production value (LCOE) of $0.192/kWh and in determining investment feasibility an NPV analysis was carried out which produced a selling value of green electricity with an offshore wind turbine of $0.271/kWh.

From sunlight to power: Enhancing 4E performance with two-stage segmented thermoelectric generators in concentrated solar applications

This research investigates the Concentrated Solar Two-Stage Segmented Thermoelectric Generator (TSTEG) for efficient solar energy conversion. Through numerical optimization, the TSTEG's geometry parameters are fine-tuned to maximize performance under varying solar irradiances and heat transfer coefficients. A comprehensive 4E analysis evaluates key performance indicators: power output, exergy efficiency, entropy generation, CO2 savings per year, and dollar per watt. The results reveal optimized parameters, unlocking the TSTEG's full potential. The system achieves remarkable power generation of 41.12 W at a concentrated solar flux of 95 kWm−2, with a heat transfer coefficient of 4 kWm−2 K−1. Significant CO2 savings of 19.53 kgyr−1 are achieved. Furthermore, the peak exergy efficiency of 9.52% was attained at a concentrated solar flux of 20 kWm−2 and optimal semiconductor cross-sectional area of 0.01 mm2. Moreover, for optimal economic operation, the lowest dollar per watt value of 0.16 $/W is obtained at an optimal skutterudite amount of 92.59% under 40 kWm−2. These findings highlight the TSTEG's capacity for efficient power production and substantial carbon dioxide reduction, demonstrating its potential for sustainable and environmentally-friendly energy generation.

Analytical solutions to evaluate the geothermal energy generation potential from sedimentary-basin reservoirs

Sedimentary basins are attractive for geothermal development due to their ubiquitous presence, high permeability, and extensive lateral extent. Geothermal energy from sedimentary basins has mostly been used for direct heating purposes due to their relatively low temperatures, compared to conventional hydrothermal systems. However, there is an increasing interest in using sedimentary geothermal energy for electric power generation due to the advances in conversion technologies using binary cycles that allow electricity generation from reservoir temperatures as low as 80 °C. This work develops and implements analytical solutions for calculating reservoir impedance, reservoir heat depletion, and wellbore heat loss in sedimentary reservoirs that are laterally extensive, homogeneous, horizontally isotropic and have uniform thickness. Reservoir impedance and wellbore heat loss solutions are combined with a power cycle model to estimate the electricity generation potential. Results from the analytical solutions are in good agreement with numerically computed reservoir models. Our results suggest that wellbore heat loss can be neglected in many cases of electricity generation calculations, depending on the reservoir transmissivity. The reservoir heat depletion solution shows how reservoir temperature and useful lifetime behave as a function of flow rate, initial heat within the reservoir, and heat conduction from the surroundings to the reservoir. Overall, our results suggest that in an exploratory sedimentary geothermal field, these analytical solutions can provide reliable first order estimations without incurring intensive computational costs.

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.

Performance and Economical Analysis of Solar Roof Plant with and without Reflectors

Abstract: This thesis aims to explore the feasibility and potential benefits of implementing a solar roof plant in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh. The escalating demand for energy, coupled with the urgent need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, calls for innovative and sustainable solutions. Solar energy has emerged as a viable alternative to conventional power sources, offering significant environmental and economic advantages. This research focuses on Gwalior, a city with abundant sunlight and ample roof space, making it an ideal candidate for solar energy harnessing. The study begins with a comprehensive assessment of the current energy scenario in Gwalior, analyzing the energy consumption patterns and the existing power infrastructure. This analysis establishes a baseline for evaluating the impact and potential of a solar roof plant in the region. Key areas of investigation include the technical feasibility of installing solar panels on rooftops, the economic viability of the project, and the environmental benefits it would bring. The thesis also addresses the regulatory framework and policy support necessary to encourage solar power adoption in Gwalior. Key stakeholders, such as government bodies, utility companies, and local communities, will be involved in the research process to ensure a holistic approach. By utilizing advanced simulation tools and data analysis techniques, this thesis will quantify the energy generation potential of a solar roof plant in Gwalior. Factors such as solar irradiance, panel efficiency, and rooftop suitability will be considered to determine the optimal configuration and capacity of the plant. Furthermore, financial models will be developed to assess the return on investment and the long-term cost-effectiveness of the project. The findings of this study are expected to demonstrate the significant advantages of a solar roof plant in Gwalior. These advantages include reduced reliance on fossil fuels, decreased carbon emissions, and improved energy security. The research outcomes will contribute to the body of knowledge on solar energy implementation and serve as a valuable reference for policymakers, urban planners, and renewable energy enthusiasts.