Solar Energy Technologies Research Articles

Renewable energy integration impact on power quality of supply of transmission system

Electrical energy is known as an essential part of our day-to-day lives. Renewable energy resources can be regenerated through the natural method within a reasonably short time and can be used to bridge the gap in extended power outages. Achieving more renewable energy (RE) than the low levels typically found in today’s energy supply network will entail continuous additional integration efforts into the future. This study examined the impacts of integrating renewable energy on the power quality of transmission networks. This work considered majorly two prominent renewable technologies (solar photovoltaic and wind energy). To examine the effects, IEEE 9-bus (a transmission network) was used. The transmission network and renewable sources (solar photovoltaic and wind energy technologies) were modelled with MATLAB/SIMULINK®. The Newton-Raphson iteration method of solution was employed for the solution of the load flow owing to its fast convergence and simplicity. The effects of its integration on the quality of the power supply, especially the voltage profile and harmonic content, were determined. It was discovered that the optimal location, where the voltage profile is improved and harmonic distortion is minimal, was at Bus 8 for the wind energy and then Bus 5 for the solar photovoltaic source.

Sustainability and availability prioritization of solar thermal energy technologies for enhanced oil recovery using T-spherical fuzzy set-based ordinal priority approach

Sustainability and availability prioritization of solar thermal energy technologies for enhanced oil recovery using T-spherical fuzzy set-based ordinal priority approach

Exploration of the application of solar energy technology in the field of new energy vehicles

Due to the harsh effects of fossil fuels on the world, researchers are paying more attention to the application of new energy sources. This paper explores the possibility to support electric vehicles with solar energy by demonstrating the design of a solar cooling system and a solar parking lot in a large flat area and workspace. The use of solar energy in electric vehicles can help control some systems such as cooling systems. Solar panels are used in some large flat parking area to collect and invert solar energy for parking electric vehicles’ charging. Solar panels are able to help charge electric vehicles during the workday by setting them on the surface of working area. However, due to the limitations of solar energy, solar panels are very much in need of good weather and direct sunlight. Therefore, solar energy cannot be the only source to support other powered vehicles. In the future, developments in other areas such as inverters and converters, solar panels, and nanotechnology may make the use of solar energy in green energy vehicles possible.

Study of Photodegradation of Organic Solar Cells Under Brazilian Climate Conditions

The increasing technical and economic viability of photovoltaic solar energy technologies includes modules with organic photovoltaic (OPV) cells, which have shown significant efficiency increases, reaching 20% for research devices. This study investigated the photodegradation and associated loss mechanisms in OPV devices under tropical conditions in Brazil. The electrical and optical characteristics of the modules were correlated with chemical and structural changes when exposed to sunlight. Electrical parameters were monitored over time on external test benches and measured in solar simulators, while changes in the optical transmission and absorption of the films were analyzed. Scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive spectroscopy, and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy were used to study the physical and chemical properties of the materials. We found that photodegradation causes bound breakage in the active layer, altering the carbon structure and consequently reducing the module’s output power. The primary reasons for the activation and progression of this mechanism are high temperature and elevated solar irradiance. Therefore, we demonstrate that understanding these mechanisms is essential for the development of more sustainable OPVs in tropical climates.

Short-term forecast of solar irradiance components using an alternative mathematical approach for the identification of cloud features

Solar energy technologies require precise solar forecasting to reduce power generation losses and protect equipment from irradiance fluctuations. This study introduces an alternative methodology for short-term forecasting of direct normal irradiance (DNI) and global horizontal irradiance (GHI) utilizing ground-based sky images captured by a single device. A low-cost all-sky imager (ASI) was developed, which implements an angular transformation and an optical flow technique to extract cloud features such as shape and velocity. A mathematical model calculates cloud transmittance based on pixel intensity, eliminating complex training steps. Results from a 30-day experimental campaign, incorporating diverse meteorological conditions, were compared against a secondary standard solarimetric station, a smart persistence model, and state-of-the-art approaches. The DNI forecast achieved an RMSE (relative error) of 46.79 W/m2 (11.99%) for 1-min intervals and 90.21 W/m2 (17.54%) for 10-min intervals, while GHI ranged from 31.73 W/m2 (4.68%) to 75.02 W/m2 (13.63%). Pearson correlation coefficients exceeded 0.9 overall, reaching 0.98 and 0.99 for the 1-min DNI and GHI forecasts, and 0.91 and 0.96 for the 10-min DNI and GHI forecasts, respectively, underscoring the system’s accuracy and robustness in complex meteorological scenarios.

ENHANCING EFFICIENCY AND SUSTAINABILITY: GREEN ENERGY SOLUTIONS FOR WATER SUPPLY COMPANIES

Water supply enterprises significantly impact local communities by providing essential services. These companies face high electricity costs for water extraction, purification, and transportation, affecting efficiency and reliability. Therefore, implementing innovative technologies to enhance sustainability in the water supply sector is crucial. This article explores the opportunities and strategies for renewable energy transition at water supply companies. Using investment, sensitivity, and strategic analyses, as well as a case study approach, the research examines technologies, conceptual frameworks, mechanisms, and approaches to integrate green power into water supply operations, addressing high energy costs and promoting sustainability. The article identifies solar, wind, hydroelectric, biomass, and geothermal energy technologies as the most prominent renewable power solutions for water supply enterprises. The developed conceptual framework for implementing these technologies includes needs assessment and goal setting; resource assessment and technology selection; system design and integration; financing and investment; regulatory compliance and permitting; stakeholder engagement and capacity building; and monitoring, evaluation, and continuous improvement. The mechanisms and approaches to integrate green energy solutions within the developed framework can involve on-site renewable energy generation, power purchase agreements, energy storage and microgrid systems, energy efficiency and demand management, and collaborative and community-based models. As a case study, the article examines a 120-kW solar power plant project for a water supply enterprise, demonstrating profitability with a net present value of 60,370 USD and an internal rate of return exceeding 21%. The project's payback period is estimated at 8.38 years, acceptable within industry standards. Sensitivity analysis indicates the project's financial resilience. Increasing electricity prices will boost profitability, justifying the solar power plant investment amid inflation and economic instability. Additionally, the project ensures reliable water transport and environmental benefits by reducing CO2 emissions through solar energy use. Thus, transitioning to renewable energy at water supply enterprises is feasible and essential for long-term sustainability, transforming operations to be more resilient, efficient, and environmentally friendly.

AN EXPERT SYSTEM FOR SOLAR-POWERED AQUAPONICS SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS AND ECONOMIC ANALYSIS

Aquaponics system is an alternative solution for food generation in urban areas where there is a scarcity of land for food production. With the advent of solar energy technologies, the energy requirement of the system will not be added to the existing power consumption of the house hold. This paper presents an expert system for solar-powered aquaponics that provides users the aquaponics system dimensions, power requirements, bills of materials, cost-benefit analysis and payback period given land area available and the type of plants and fishes to culture.

Present and Future Actions of CETYS University to Mitigate Climate Action

The strategic location of CETYS University, in Baja California state in the northwest of Mexico, gives it exceptional conditions for the use of renewable energies. With an installed photovoltaic solar energy capacity of 1.37 MW, it is the academic institution with the greatest generation potential in Latin America. The importance that CETYS University gives to the subject has stimulated the institution since 2015 to offer a degree and master's degree in renewable energy to have greater and better collaboration with solar and wind energy technology companies located in the state. With a vision of the future, in 2023 the CETYS Institute for Sustainability Studies (ISS) was created to promote and coordinate, among other actions, those related to energy and climate change. With a planning horizon until 2036, the ISS, looking forward, has proposed the following actions: a) an internal audit to increase the energy efficiency of their buildings and classrooms; b) support for research projects to build on-campus operational small-scale wind energy systems; c) the deployment of the 300 x 500 program, which seeks to plant at least 300 native trees in the region with low water consumption each year, to offset the atmospheric emissions of 500 vehicles; d) a policy to achieve 80% carbon neutrality, and e) the incorporation of CETYS to the network of Mexican universities for climate action. Among many others, these actions position CETYS as a leading institution in sustainable development at the regional level.

Hybrid solar and hydrogen energy system 0-D model for off-grid sustainable power system: A case in Italy

Off-grid solar systems are one of the most promising solutions for achieving complete grid independence. However, the storage of large amounts of energy produced in the summer through solar panels becomes crucial to reach this goal and hydrogen, as a zero-CO2 energy carrier, could play a pivotal role. This paper presents a case study on the integration and simulation of solar energy and hydrogen technologies in an off-grid energy plant for a teaching buildings complex in Italy. A 0-D virtual energy plant model has been developed aimed at estimating the net energy production and hydrogen consumption/production rates using different inputs of irradiance (monthly average, daily) and energy demand (constant and variable daily consumption levels) in the buildings. The outcome of the analysis identifies the most convenient configuration of the plant in terms of sizing and device interactions for achieving complete grid independence, and the impact of different inputs on the plant performance.

Development of Titanium Dioxide Coating for Self-Cleaning Photovoltaic Panels

Amid escalating global energy demands and environmental concerns, the transition to renewable sources like solar power is imperative. Despite the advancements in photovoltaic (PV) technology promising increased efficiency, soiling on PV panels—composed of dust, bird droppings, and contaminants—poses a significant challenge, obstructing sunlight and reducing energy conversion efficiency. Building upon existing research on titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticle coatings, our study investigates their super-hydrophilic and anti-soiling characteristics to enhance self-cleaning capabilities in solar applications. Furthermore, our research investigates the application of (3-aminopropyl)trimethoxy silane as an interlayer to reinforce the adherence of the TiO2 coating to PV panel glass, thereby enhancing its durability. Preliminary results highlight the coating’s exceptional super-hydrophilic properties, with water contact angle measurements less than 10°, indicative of TiO2’s strong water affinity. Spectrophotometer measurements show that the developed coating maintains high optical transmittances for the wavelength range from 350 to 800 nm, which is the most crucial factor for energy conversion in solar panels. Our contributions aim to advance solar energy technologies and support the shift towards more sustainable energy solutions, highlighting the role of innovative materials science in addressing solar power’s operational challenges.

Solar Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC) Systems: A Review of Technologies, Parameters, and Applications

The Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC) is a widely utilized technology for generating electricity from various sources, including geothermal energy, waste heat, biomass, and solar energy. Harnessing solar radiation to drive ORC is a promising renewable energy technology due to the high compatibility of solar collector operating temperatures with the thermal requirements of the cycle. The aim of this review article is to present and discuss the principles of solar-ORC technology and the broad range of solar-ORC systems that have been explored in the literature. Various solar energy technologies capable of powering ORC are investigated, including flat plate collectors, vacuum tube collectors, compound parabolic collectors, and parabolic trough collectors. The review places significant emphasis on the operating parameters of technology.

Analysis and Optimization of a s-CO2 Cycle Coupled to Solar, Biomass, and Geothermal Energy Technologies

This paper presents an analysis and optimization of a polygeneration power-production system that integrates a concentrating solar tower, a supercritical CO2 Brayton cycle, a double-flash geothermal Rankine cycle, and an internal combustion engine. The concentrating solar tower is analyzed under the weather conditions of the Mexicali Valley, Mexico, optimizing the incident radiation on the receiver and its size, the tower height, and the number of heliostats and their distribution. The integrated polygeneration system is studied by first and second law analyses, and its optimization is also developed. Results show that the optimal parameters for the solar field are a solar flux of 549.2 kW/m2, a height tower of 73.71 m, an external receiver of 1.86 m height with a 6.91 m diameter, and a total of 1116 heliostats of 6 m × 6 m. For the integrated polygeneration system, the optimal values of the variables considered are 1437 kPa and 351.2 kPa for the separation pressures of both flash chambers, 753 °C for the gasification temperature, 741.1 °C for the inlet temperature to the turbine, 2.5 and 1.503 for the turbine pressure ratios, 0.5964 for the air–biomass equivalence ratio, and 0.5881 for the CO2 mass flow splitting fraction. Finally, for the optimal system, the thermal efficiency is 38.8%, and the exergetic efficiency is 30.9%.

Investigation of perovskite materials for solar cells using scanning tunneling microscopy.

The issue of energy scarcity has become more prominent due to the recent scientific and technological advancements. Consequently, there is an urgent need for research on sustainable and renewable resources. Solar energy, in particular, has emerged as a highly promising option because of its pollution-free and environment-friendly characteristics. Among the various solar energy technologies, perovskite solar cells have attracted much attention due to their lower cost and higher photoelectric conversion efficiency (PCE). However, the inherent instability of perovskite materials hinders the commercialization of such devices. The utilization of scanning tunneling microscopy/spectroscopy (STM/STS) can provide valuable insights into the fundamental properties of different perovskite materials at the atomic scale, which is crucial for addressing this challenge. In this review, we present the recent research progress of STM/STS analysis applied to various perovskites for solar cells, including halide perovskites, two-dimensional Ruddlesden-Popper perovskites, and oxide perovskites. This comprehensive overview aims to inspire new ideas and strategies for optimizing solar cells.

Comparative Evaluation of Traditional and Advanced Algorithms for PV Systems in Partial Shading Conditions

The optimization of photovoltaic (PV) systems is vital for enhancing efficiency and economic viability, especially under Partial Shading Conditions (PSCs). This study focuses on the development and comparison of traditional and advanced algorithms, including Perturb and Observe (P&O), Incremental Conductance (IC), Fuzzy Logic Control (FLC), Grey Wolf Optimization (GWO), Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO), and Artificial Neural Networks (ANN), for efficient Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT). Simulations conducted in the MATLAB/Simulink software package evaluated these algorithms’ performances under various shading scenarios. The results indicate that, while traditional methods like P&O and IC are effective under uniform conditions, advanced techniques, particularly ANN-based MPPT, exhibit superior efficiency and faster convergence under PSCs. This study concludes that integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) into MPPT algorithms significantly enhances the reliability and efficiency of PV systems, paving the way for a broader adoption of solar energy technologies in diverse environmental conditions. These findings contribute to advancing renewable energy technology and supporting green energy transition.

Advanced Maximum Power Point Tracking Technique for Photovoltaic Reverse Osmosis Systems

Abstract The paper presents a novel control algorithm for a standalone Photovoltaic Reverse-Osmosis (PV-RO) system without a battery. It highlights the importance of tracking the maximum power tracking points in the photovoltaic panels. The development of new methods has become more urgent than before. The PV-RO system combines solar energy and reverse osmosis technology to provide reliable and sustainable access to clean drinking water in remote areas. Traditional PV-RO systems often require energy storage solutions such as batteries to maintain a constant water supply during periods of low solar irradiation. However, the integration of batteries adds complexity, cost, and environmental impact to the system. The paper presents the development of different MPPT techniques, which are better than traditional techniques (more accurate and faster). The paper also provides a comparison with the studied methods (P&O and Incremental Conductance) and the proposed one.

Modelling of Control Strategy for Sun Tracking of Concentrated Photovoltaic (CPV) Systems and Performance Analysis of Optical Losses Due to Tracking Errors.

Abstract Among the wide range of solar energy technologies, CPV remains a promising technology worldwide. The photovoltaic concentrator maximizes its efficiency through the use of optical concentration systems. But since optical concentration depends on direct solar radiation, maximizing the quantity of useful solar radiation received requires using a solar tracker that tracks the direction of the sun. To maximize collector efficiency, it’s crucial to choose tracking systems that align with the optical concentration factor. Inadequate focusing of direct solar radiation on the concentrator’s receiver can result in high optical losses, regardless of quality. This paper focuses on improving the accuracy and lowering the cost of the tracker trajectory generation strategy. A sun tracker simulator is first developed, allowing for the investigation of the impact of sun tracking performance a traditional control strategy is initially implemented that uses an astronomical calculation to follow the path of the sun. This strategy uses a sun position algorithm from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory to generate the tracker trajectory and track the sun’s path. When tested on the simulator, as a result, this strategy demonstrated a level of accuracy that ensured a good balance between intricacy and accuracy. Then, An investigation study was conducted to determine how this solar tracker’s precision might affect its optical efficiency. the optical losses resulting from the tracking were calculated using the provided location, The optical loss calculated for this collector’s maximum tracking error is approximately 9%. The research methodology showed that the tracker precision satisfied the requirements of the optical system under study.

Development and optimization of dual-objective PVT modules for a smart residential building using inclined fins

According to the sustainable development strategy, air-based photovoltaic-thermal (PVT) modules integrated with smart buildings are an effective and environmentally safe option for producing electricity and heating purposes to overcome the problem of scarcity and environmental pollution resulting from fossil fuels. Despite the importance of PVT modules, this technology has not achieved the required diffusion rates compared to other solar energy technologies due to its low overall efficiency. Therefore, the present study aims to develop the design of a heat transfer system integrated with PVT modules. To achieve this goal, the design of a heat transfer system was developed by adding 45° inclined fins integrated with the cooling channel to generate swirling movement near the back surface of PVT modules and increase the heat transfer area. To illustrate the best location for installing 45° inclined fins that achieve the highest performance improvement of PVT modules, we suggested two positions for installing 45° inclined fins and compared them with the dual-objective classical PVT modules (DO-CPVT) without fins. The first case is dual-objective PVT modules with top-inclined fins (DO-PVT&TIF). The second case is the dual-objective PVT modules with bottom-inclined fins (DO-PVT&BIF). The results presented that, dual-objective PVT modules with top-inclined fins (DO-PVT&TIF) represent a good design that achieves the highest performance. The improvement in thermal efficiency, electricity generation, overall energy efficiency, total exergy efficiency, and sustainability index for using DO-PVT&TIF modules reached 231 %, 11.5 %, 133.8 %, 19.3 %, and 4.3 %, respectively compared to classical DO-CPVT.

Achieving behavioral intention to renewable energy through perceived costs and benefits and environmental concern

Due to the high pollution caused by the consumption of energy from fossil fuels, governments have implemented policies that allow the transition to renewable sources, but this depends on many factors associated with the costs and attitudes of the population. This study examines the influence of perceived costs, benefits, and environmental concerns on the behavioral intentions toward renewable energy (RE) adoption in Ciudad Juarez, Mexico. A structural equation model is used to validate five hypotheses and information from 511 responses to a survey to explore how perceived costs (PCO) as an independent variable, perceived benefits (PBE), and environmental concerns (ECO) as mediators support intentions to adopt solar energy technologies. Findings reveal that PCO impacts PBE and ECO directly and influences behavioral intentions (BIN) indirectly. This underscores the importance of analyzing PCO in the context of developing countries due to the low per capita income. The study identifies ECO as the most significant factor affecting BIN and PBE as the primary influencer of ECO, suggesting that promoting the benefits of RE could enhance environmental concerns and, consequently, adoption intentions. Sensitivity analysis indicates the necessity of effectively disseminating cost-related information, as costs often overshadow perceived benefits. The findings advocate for clear communication regarding RE costs and benefits and the formulation of supportive policies to facilitate RE adoption in Mexico, highlighting the crucial role of comprehensive awareness strategies in improving public perception and acceptance of RE technologies, providing valuable insights for policymakers, stakeholders, and educators to promote sustainable energy practices.

Effectiveness of 2-Terminal Perovskite/Perovskite/c-Si Triple-Junction Solar Cells: An Integrated Study with an Emphasis on Methylammonium Bismuth Iodide.

The growing interest in high-efficiency solar energy technologies has driven research on multijunction solar cells to flourish over the last several years. This study sheds light on the optical, structural, and morphological aspects of the (CH3NH3)3Bi2I9 ((MA)3Bi2I9) film by fabricating and analyzing it experimentally. This thorough investigation lays the groundwork for more research into the film's possible uses in solar cell technology. We performed simulations to enhance the efficiency of two-terminal (2T) perovskite/perovskite double junction and perovskite/perovskite/c-Si triple-junction solar cells (TJSC) by using the MA3Bi2I9 material. The power conversion efficiency was greatly increased by using 2T triple-junction solar cells; the increase was around 116.59% from single junction (13.80-29.89%) and 31.91% from double junction (22.66-29.89%). As far as we know, this is the first investigation of the efficacy of MA3Bi2I9 as a top layer in multijunction tandem configurations. This revolutionary approach allows both academics and industry experts to produce cost-effective and efficient tandem solar cells, thereby enhancing earth-based solar energy development.

Thermal Energy Resource Potentials of the Kara-Bogaz-Gol Gulf as a “Solar Pond”

Introduction. The use of environmentally-friendly engineering systems including solar energy technologies makes it possible to reduce energy costs and therefore to lower production costs and anthropogenic stress on the environment.Aim of the Study. The authors used innovative techniques to assess the thermal resource potential of solar radiation, to analyze the salt deposits of the Kara-Bogaz-Gol Gulf as thermal accumulators for the development, introduction and use of solar thermal technologies and to justify the technical and economic feasibility of their use in engineering systems in the Kara-Bogaz-Gol Gulf (Caspian region).Meterials and Methods. The study design is based on systematic theoretical calculations of the gross, technical, economic and ecological potentials of solar radiation taking into account environmental conditions. For calculating there were used the methods of mathematical modeling of heat and mass transfer processes in active solar energy systems when converting solar energy into thermal energy in the salty reservoir of the Kara-Bogaz-Gol Gulf as a “solar pond”.Results. There have been assessed the solar energy characteristics for the introduction of various engineering storage systems and technologies. There have been determined the results of energy storage on the reservoir salt surface during the day: in winter – 1 009.0 W/m2 per day, in summer – 1 574.7 W/m2 per day. It has been proven that the potential of solar energy conversion into thermal energy varies from 40 to 70% depending on the season. Aaccording to theoretical calculations, the solar pond efficiency in winter is 11.4% and in summer – 14.6%. In summer, there was measured the average temperature on the salt surface of the reservoir bottom, it ranges from 55.04 to 79.8 ºC, in winter from 20.0 to 25.6 ºC.Discussion and Conclusion. The results obtained can be used for strengthening energy security, developing energy systems and producing autonomous thermal power devices based on solar energy that will reduce the energy consumption of fossil fuels and improve the environmental situation in the region. The materials of the article can be used in preparing design estimates and feasibility study for developing various solar energy systems and technologies in the Caspian region.