Renewable Energy Options Research Articles

Applying machine learning to electricity price forecasting in simulated energy market scenarios

Policy packages, such as the “European Green Deal”, call for a substantial restructuring of the power plant park. This, in combination with more flexible demand, will result in novel electricity price dynamics. These can be studied using, e.g., agent-based models which simulate bidding decisions of market actors, thereby uncovering emergent market phenomena. For their bidding decisions, simulated actors – just like real-world actors – require accurate market price forecasts. Techniques to obtain such forecasts need to be applicable to vastly different future electricity market scenarios, ideally without the need of scenario-specific retraining. This is a major difference compared to real-world electricity market forecasting, which is based on minimal variations in the underlying energy system. Despite the long track record in this field, it is not sufficiently clear which methods are suitable for forecasting simulated future electricity markets in greatly varying scenarios and technology mixes. To address this gap, we assess the applicability of different forecasting techniques to price time series generated by simulations of the future electricity market. We then evaluate the forecast accuracy of two recent machine learning architectures, namely N-BEATS and Temporal Fusion Transformers, based on parameter combinations with significant expansions of renewable energy and flexibility option capacity. As expected, the results demonstrate that machine learning exhibits superior accuracy compared to naïve benchmarks. Particularly, when future covariates, such as residual load, are employed, the mean absolute error consistently remains below 1.40 EUR/MWh. This may be attributed to reduced inner complexity of simulated electricity prices compared to real-world market dynamics. Our findings demonstrate that machine learning can provide reliable forecasts of future electricity prices and that retraining may not be necessary even with widely varying shares of renewable energy and flexibility capacity. These forecasting methods could therefore be effectively employed in electricity market simulations in the context of the energy transition.

Adoption of Rooftop Solar Power as an Energy Option: A Household Level Study in Pune Smart City

Power generation using fossil fuels on a large scale contributes to global greenhouse gases and, therefore, impacts climate change. Renewable energy sources like solar power are needed to overcome such adverse impacts. Solar energy has received attention in the recent years due to both technological improvements resulting in cost reductions as well as the government policy push for renewable energy development and utilization. This research concerns with the adoption of rooftop solar power as an energy option at household level in the context of smart cities. We conducted a questionnaire survey on a sample of resident households in Pune smart city and analysed various parameters concerning households’ adoption. It has been found that the respondents are less willing to adopt rooftop solar power option for the lack of awareness of energy conservation and climate change issues, lack of financial incentives for the adoption and concern for operational issues that arise after the adoption; the respondents who are aware are more likely to adopt it in a timeframe of 1–3 years. Statistical analysis of various important relationships may be useful for future research on household adoption of renewable energy options, such as rooftop solar power.

Spent tea leaves and tea bags - Promising biofuels?

The spent tea leaves used after the extraction of liquid from processed tea are insufficiently utilized waste, rich in essential amino acids, polyphenols, alkaloids, and minerals, produced in large quantities, e.g., in tea houses, hospitals, school canteens, etc. Therefore, this study is aimed at characterizing this waste, how it is processed into pellets and how it subsequently increases its energy potential by torrefaction. The influence of the method of tea packaging, i.e., loose tea leaves or tea bags, was also considered. Several types of tea waste were processed using a pilot plant pelletizing press and torrefaction stand. The prepared pellets were characterized by mechanical parameters, such as the pellet durability index, the wettability index, water resistance, hardness, or specific bulk density, and were integrated by FTIR measurements. Furthermore, pellet's energy parameters, such as higher heating value, lower heating value, and elemental analysis, were compared. The results show that non-torrefied pellets have an average combustion heat of 19 kJ kg−1, while torrefied pellets have a value of 9 kJ kg−1 higher. Overall, the study demonstrates that spent tea leaves can be converted into a sustainable source of bioenergy and presents a solution for the treatment of this waste, as well as a renewable energy option.

Innovative Study on Solar Energy Conversion and Storage Through Malachite Green + Ascorbic Acid + Sodium Lauryl Sulphate For Photogalvanics

Objective: To improve the output of photogalvanics (PG) cell. Methods: The specially designed H shaped PG cell was studied for better electrical outcomes. The PG cell setup consists of two electrode, digital pH meter, resistance key, carbon pot, and microammeter. The system consisting of Malachite Green (MCG), Ascorbic acid (AA), and Sodium Lauryl Sulphate (SLS) was examined in terms of photopotential (PP) and photocurrent (PC). Findings: The measured PC was 391.00 µA, while the observed PP was 926.00 mV. The finest and most dependable renewable energy option to help the world's population meet their energy requirements is solar energy. Novelty: Better results on Photo Galvanic (PG) cells are reported in the present research, helping to achieve the goal providing clean and sustainable energy. The intended electrical outcomes were obtained by using the MCG + AA + SLS, PG cell arrangement. Keywords: Malachite Green, Photogalvanics, Sodium Lauryl Sulphate, Ascorbic acid, Photopotential

Current scenario of machine learning applications to hydrothermal liquefaction via bibliometric analysis

Background Energy shortages and global warming have been significant issues throughout history. Therefore, the search for environmentally friendly renewable energy sources is crucial for achieving sustainability. Biomass energy is gaining global attention as a renewable energy option, particularly through the process of hydrothermal liquefaction, which converts biomass into bio-crude oil. Methods Hydrothermal liquefaction is a complex process that is challenging to explain, leading to research on machine learning models for this process. These models aim to predict values and investigate the impact of variables on the hydrothermal liquefaction process. However, the development of machine learning in hydrothermal liquefaction is still limited due to its novelty and the time required for comprehensive study. Thus, the objective of this study was to analyze relevant publications in the Scopus database, focusing on indexed ML and HTL keywords, to understand keyword associations and co-citations. Results The results reveal an increasing trend in the study of ML in the HTL process, with a growing interest from various countries. Conclusion Notably, China currently holds the largest share of ML research in HTL processes, with most published works falling within the field of engineering. The keyword “liquefaction” emerges as the most popular term in these publications.

Enhancing renewable energy evaluation: Utilizing complex picture fuzzy frank aggregation operators in multi-attribute group decision-making

Renewable energy resources are pivotal in addressing global energy challenges and achieving sustainable development goals. In this context, the complex picture fuzzy sets (CPFS) theory provides a robust framework for handling complex and uncertain information. This article presents innovative strategies based on Frank aggregation tools to evaluate and prioritize renewable energy resources. By incorporating the concepts of abstinence value, membership value, and non-membership values in the CPFS framework, the characteristics and capabilities of the CPFS are extended to represent a broader range of information. Specifically, we introduce novel operators such as the CPF Frank weighed average (CPFFWA) and CPF Frank weighed geometric (CPFFWG) operators, effectively handling insufficient and unpredictable information during the aggregation process. Moreover, we explore specialized variants of these operators, such as the CPF Frank order weighed average (CPFFOWA) and CPF Frank order weighed geometric (CPFFOWG) operators, which possess distinct characteristics suitable for specific decision-making scenarios. The proposed methodologies are applied within the framework of multi-attribute group decision-making (MAGDM) to evaluate and identify optimal renewable energy options from a group of alternatives. Through comparative analyses and validation against existing approaches, the advantages and consistency of our developed operators are demonstrated. The findings highlight the effectiveness of the CPF-based Frank aggregation operators in evaluating renewable energy resources, providing decision-makers with a comprehensive and reliable framework for renewable energy planning and decision-making.

Energy harvesting by car-tire using piezoelectric polymer films blended with carbon-nanotubes

Energy harvesting through harnessing mobile cars is possible by combining mechanicals systems with advanced materials. Piezoelectric polymer blends with excellent mechanical properties facilitate energy harvesting using the car-tire as a source. Furthermore, by adding simplicity of preparation to the blends with multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT), an increase of energy conversion can lead to improved existing polyvinylidene fluoride/polymethylmethacrylate (PVDF/PMMA), films. This work focuses on investigating the best concentration of MWCNT to achieve car-tire energy harvesting as a sustainable and renewable energy option. The results show that 0.05 wt% of MWCNT is the best concentration among several values. A test set-up applying normal stress, simulating car-tire deformation indicated enhanced voltage generation. Compared to the energy consumption of combustion cars, the enriched films generate up to 4.3kWh. This energy is harvested over a car trip of 100 km. A higher nanotube concentration caused saturation of the blend film and poor output. The novel enriched polymer must be tested for resisting cyclic loads to encourage sustainable energy harvesting using car tires.

Prioritization of investment order in Brazil among renewable energy sources: an analysis using the SWARA-MOORA-3NAG method

Purpose This paper aims to comprehensively analyze renewable energy alternatives in Brazil, focusing on identifying the most suitable option for investment in the country’s sustainable development. Design/methodology/approach The study adopts the step-wise weight assessment ratio analysis-multiobjective optimization by ratio analysis −3NAG (a combination of three normalization methods) methodology, a multicriteria decision-making approach, to evaluate and rank renewable energy sources based on key criteria such as resource availability, cost-effectiveness, job creation potential and environmental impact. Findings The analysis reveals that solar energy emerges as the preferred choice for Brazil, offering significant advantages over other alternatives such as hydroelectric, wind and biomass energy. Solar energy’s distributed generation capability, cost reduction trends and positive environmental impact contribute to its favorable position in meeting Brazil’s energy needs. Research limitations/implications While the study provides valuable insights into renewable energy selection, there are limitations regarding the criteria’ scope and the exclusion of specific renewable energy options. Future research could explore sensitivity analyses and incorporate additional criteria to enhance the study’s comprehensiveness. Originality/value This research contributes to the existing literature by thoroughly analyzing renewable energy alternatives in Brazil using a robust multicriteria decision-making methodology. The study’s findings provide actionable guidance for policymakers, businesses and stakeholders seeking to promote sustainable energy development in the country.

Analysis of the efficiency of a Solar Photovoltaic Power Plant linked to the electrical grid

The growing need for energy in emerging nations gives rise to apprehensions over energy security, so underscoring the criticality of harnessing the potential of renewable resources. Empirical evidence has demonstrated that photovoltaic systems integrated into the network are the optimal options for large-scale renewable energy. The analysis of the performance of these network-connected centrals can enhance the design, operation, and maintenance of new systems. The commissioning of a 12 MW photovoltaic solar power plant in Sidi Bel Abbès, located in the Dhaya region, has established it as one of the largest solar power plants in Algeria. The site yields a mean solar radiation of 5.21 kilowatt-hours per square metre per day and an average yearly temperature of 18.9 degrees Celsius. The present work provides an analysis of the yearly performance and conceptual aspects of the photovoltaic central unit. We compare the performance outcomes of the power plant with the simulated values generated by the SolarGis PvPlanner program. Analysis of real-world performance in relation to simulations allows for the detection of inconsistencies and the enhancement of future initiatives. SolarGis PvPlanner is an essential modelling program for accurately forecasting performance and effectively strategising solar projects, therefore guaranteeing sustainable and dependable energy for the future.

A model fitting approach for the investigation of thermo-kinetic parameters of rice straw: a viable renewable energy resources in Bangladesh

This study investigates the potential of renewable energy sources to address the growing energy demands of developing nations while ensuring environmental sustainability. Here, a model-based analysis to assess the feasibility of utilizing rice straw pyrolysis as a renewable energy source is investigated. The thermogravimetric analysis identified the optimal temperature range for pyrolysis (230–400 °C) and the Coats–Redfern model was employed for kinetic analysis. Diffusion models, particularly D3, exhibited the best fit with an activation energy of 16–18 kJ/mol. Thermodynamic analysis confirmed the endothermic nature of the process, with positive enthalpy and negative entropy changes indicating an increase in energy and a more ordered product. These findings suggest that rice straw pyrolysis holds promise as a viable renewable energy option. This study contributes to understanding the rice straw pyrolysis mechanism which could be helpful for its effective utilization at commercial scale.

Site selection of floating photovoltaic systems on hydropower reservoirs using fuzzy sine trigonometric decision-making model: Turkey as a case study

Floating photovoltaic systems are a promising option for renewable energy by mitigating the drawbacks of land-based photovoltaic systems. However, renewable energy systems are designed in a site-specific way, therefore, the performance of renewable energy alternatives substantially depends on the selected site characteristics. In this study, a comprehensive assessment was performed to identify the optimal hydroelectric power plant reservoir for floating photovoltaic system deployment in Turkey using the Geographical Information System and Multi-Criteria Decision Making method. A two-staged methodology was used to evaluate the results of questionnaires including several expert opinions. In the first stage, a nonlinear fuzzy Aczel-Alsina functions based Ordinal Priority Approach method was employed to weigh the fourteen sub-criteria based on technical, environmental, economic and social considerations. In the second stage, fuzzy sine Trigonometric based Additive Ratio Assessment method was used to rank the fifteen hydroelectric power plant reservoirs all across Turkey. Despite the global horizontal irradiation being the most important criterion, Sarıyar hydroelectric power plant reservoir, with one of the lowest global horizontal irradiation values among alternatives, was determined as the most suitable dam reservoir for floating photovoltaic installation in Turkey. Therefore, the findings of this study highlight the importance of comprehensive analysis that considers the several assessment criteria from fundamental aspects to achieve reliable site selection for floating photovoltaic systems.

Multi-criteria Decision Making Methods and sustainable Appliations in the Digital Age

Abstract: Designing a sustainable electrification system for remote places in developing countries is very complex while considering various factors such as technical, economic, environmental and social (TEES). Development of an efficient, rational, coherent and a translucent framework is required to address issues related to the requirement of energy needs based on the end user. The main goal of this research is to design a methodological framework based on decision analysis and optimized model with locally available energy sources. The new optimal renewable energy options are required to be used to minimize the fossil fuel dependency of electrical generation. Initially, suitable energy alternatives are selected by considering different criterion with multiple scenarios for decision analysis. The further optimal combination of energy sources evaluated for different possibilities. The new methodology of hybrid renewable optimization is applied to a rural place, Himachal Pradesh to illustrate its effectiveness based on metrological data

Evaluation of maximum power point tracking methods for a marine current energy converter

AbstractMarine current power is attracting more attention as a renewable energy option. Similar to wind power, marine current power often requires a maximum power point tracking (MPPT) method to optimize power extraction from the free‐flowing water. Research into MPPT methods for marine current power remains limited. Therefore, this paper presents a comprehensive investigation of MPPT methods for marine current power, building upon similar research in wind power. Three methods, namely the optimal tip speed ratio (OTSR), optimal torque (OT), and two variants of the perturb and observe (P&O) method, are explored. Using a simulation model developed for a specific marine current energy converter, where hydrodynamic calculations are coupled with electrical simulations, the study demonstrates that the OTSR method achieves MPPT with a comparably fast convergence time. After a change in water speed, the OTSR method achieves optimal operation within two turbine rotations. Additionally, the P&O methods are shown to achieve MPPT, albeit with a significantly longer convergence time. However, the P&O methods can be more convenient since no model of the system is required, and no water speed measurements are necessary. The proposed implementation of the OT method underperforms but positions the system close to the optimal operational point.

Highly efficient broadband solar thermal absorber for domestic renewable energy solutions

With the invention of the photonics techniques, a new structural design for thermal energy absorber is designed which uses the multilayer structure to absorb the solar energy and this solar energy is converted to thermal energy which is possible to be utilized in industrial heating applications. The use of solar energy makes it a sustainable option to meet the high growing industrial output energy. Materials like Titanium (Ti), Titanium Carbide (TiC), Silicon (Si) are used for this purpose. The use of these materials makes it more cost-friendly compared to the other similar options. The higher absorption rate is achieved by optimizing the design layers. The flowchart for the optimization in materials as well as design is also shown in this research. The optimization makes the design more compact and handy for industrial use. The advantage of these designs over the other designs is the choice of materials as well as their compact size. The results are also analyzed for the wide angle of incidence and polarization. All the results obtained show that the design is highly efficient in the solar spectral range and can be a renewable energy option for industrial and domestic heating applications.

Physicochemical properties of lard oil and rubber seed oil blends and their comprehensive characterization

Physicochemical properties of lard oil and rubber seed oil blends and their comprehensive characterization

Energy transition as a way to improve the welfare of Indonesian society

The shift towards energy is now a priority in Indonesia's efforts to promote sustainable development. With a growing recognition of the effects of climate change and the limitations of energy sources, the urgency to transition to clean and renewable energy options is on the rise. This study aims to investigate how transitioning to energy can enhance the well-being of communities. We aim to highlight critical insights by examining and thoroughly reviewing the literature. Firstly, ensuring energy practices is crucial for attaining development objectives. Energy plays a role in providing services like electricity, transportation, and household heating. Secondly, challenges related to infrastructure and energy accessibility remain hurdles in Indonesia's journey towards an energy transition. Despite advancements in energy initiatives, many remote areas still need access to electricity. Lastly, governmental intervention plays a role in steering a transition towards sustainable energy solutions. Private sector investment in renewable energy sources must be supported and directed through relatively strict policies, fiscal incentives, and regulations. Finally, the energy transition is an essential social and economic event, and appropriate policies need to be developed to promote a just transition and ensure the best outcomes for all stakeholders and society. To conclude, the energy transition in Indonesia requires a combination of government, private sector, civil society, and international stakeholder involvement. By working together across sectors, investing in renewable energy gen technology, and implementing advanced policies, Indonesia promotes transitioning to a more sustainable energy system and improving the overall welfare of society.

Mapping air quality variations in industrial and agricultural zones: Understanding spatial and temporal patterns of selected air pollutants

With the escalating threat of air pollution on the biota, the need for research on pollutants has become imperative in industrial, urbanized and heavily populated cities. This study aimed to determine the level of major outdoor atmospheric pollutants (PM10, PM2.5, TVOCs, and HCHO) in specific locations including industrial and agricultural zones. Field measurements for this research, spanning 52 locations, were collected in the spring season using a portable instrument, and spatial variation maps were developed using ArcGIS software. The study measured PM10 concentrations ranging from 31 μg/m3 to 267 μg/m3 and PM2.5 concentrations ranging from 27 μg/m3 to 253 μg/m3. PM2.5 levels at most sites exceeded USEPA, WHO, and PEQS standards, while PM10 levels generally met these standards. The highest values of coarse and fine particulate matter were observed in areas dominated by emissions from the textile industry. Furthermore, particulate matter concentrations showed spatial variations, increasing towards the North and East directions. The Total Volatile Organic Compounds (TVOCs) concentrations, ranging from 0 mg/m3 to 4.019 mg/m3, exceeded Hong Kong SAR standards at five locations, thereby elevating health risks for residents in these areas. Similarly, formaldehyde levels, ranging from 0 mg/m3 to 0.754 mg/m3, surpassed the Hong Kong SAR standard at seven locations, indicating a substantial threat of exposure for the local population. In general, air quality at most field sampling sites was registered as UNQUALIFIED but was also observed to be FRESH at a few locations. This research is significant for understanding the levels of major pollutants so that the concerned authorities can take appropriate measures to tackle air pollution by introducing pollution control technologies in industries, switching to renewable energy options, and managing road dust.

Harnessing the Potential of (Quasi) Solid‐State Na‐Air/O₂ Batteries: Strategies and Future Directions for Next‐Generation Energy Storage Solutions

AbstractThis perspective points out the potential of solid‐state Na‐air/O2 batteries for powering next‐generation storage devices, highlighting their high energy density, efficiency, and cost‐effectiveness. The challenges faced by Na‐air/O2 batteries, including liquid electrolyte instability, O2/O2− crossover, Na anode passivation, and dendritic growth are addressed. Strategies such as exploring solid‐state electrolytes (SSE), mitigating O2/O2− crossover, protecting the Na anode, and enhancing the solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) are discussed as potential solutions. Future challenges in advancing the technology are reviewed, emphasizing the need for addressing and understanding the fundamental mechanisms of (quasi)solid‐state Na‐air/O2 batteries (i.e., discharge product chemistry, dendritic growth, O2 crossover, the electrolyte properties, the stabilization of battery chemistry and Na+ transport). A roadmap outlining future directions is presented to overcome these challenges, with the goal of fully harnessing the potential of Na‐air/O2 batteries as a viable option for renewable energy and industrial‐scale commercialization.

Renewable energy options for seaport cargo terminals with application to mega port Singapore

PurposeThis paper reviews and analyses renewable energy options, namely underground thermal, solar, wind and marine wave energy, in seaport cargo terminal operations.Design/methodology/approachFour renewable energy options that are deployed or tested in different ports around the world are qualitatively examined for their overall implementation potential and characteristics, and their cost and benefits. An application to the port of Singapore is discussed.FindingsGeophysical conditions are key criteria in assessing renewable energy options. In the case of Singapore, solar power is the only suitable renewable energy option.Research limitations/implicationsBeing a capital-intensive establishment with high intensities of cargo operations, seaports usually involve a high level of energy consumption. The study of renewable energy options contributes to seaport sustainability.Practical implicationsA key recommendation is to implement a smart energy management system that enables the mixed use of renewable energy to match energy demand and supply optimally and achieve higher energy efficiency.Originality/valueThe use of renewable energy as an eco-friendlier energy source is underway in various ports. However, there is almost no literature that analyses and compares various renewable energy options potentially suitable for cargo terminal operations in ports. This paper narrows the knowledge gaps.

Feasible synergy between hybrid solar PV and wind system for energy supply of a green building in Kota (India): A case study using iHOGA

This research article analyses the optimal feasible synergy options of renewable energy sources combined into a hybrid PV panel and wind energy power producing system to deliver green energy for the Renewable Energy Department building at Rajasthan Technical University Kota, India. The configuration of the modeled system is optimized to be estimated with improved hybrid optimization by genetic algorithm (iHOGA). This study generates operational conditions for this hybrid solar-wind energy system which simulates the energy usage process over one year. The optimal synergy configured between solar and wind hybrid systems provides peak-demand energy to the green office building with little surplus energy. The whole year’s production of energy was 6988 kWh and the energy used by the building was 6759 kWh. The energy loss estimated is 276 kWh/year. The CO2 mitigated by using the integrated renewable energy option is evaluated and observed at 5273.14 kg/year. The other pollutants like SO2 and NOx are also being mitigated by 9601.512 kg/year and NOx 32424.32 kg/year respectively.