Solar Energy Technologies Research Articles

Durable Quantum Dot‐Based Luminescent Solar Concentrators Enabled by a Photoactive Block Copolymer

AbstractQuantum dot (QD)‐based luminescent solar concentrators (LSCs) promise to revolutionize solar energy technology by replacing building materials with energy‐harvesting devices. However, QDs degrade under air, limiting the long‐term performance of QD‐LSCs. This study introduces an innovative approach to prevent QDs degradation by utilizing a photoactive polymer matrix (maleic anhydride‐grafted poly(styrene‐b‐ethylene‐co‐butylene‐b‐styrene, SEBS‐g‐MA). This strategy has been tested outdoors over a 2‐year period on five LSCs, followed by characterization of the weathered devices. The tested LSCs consist of three QD‐LSCs (CuInS2/ZnS, InP/ZnSe/ZnS, CdSe/CdS/ZnS core/shell QDs), alongside a Lumogen dye‐based LSC and a luminophore‐free LSC. The study yields several findings: 1) SEBS‐g‐MA undergoes photochemistry outdoors, 2) SEBS‐g‐MA accelerates the photodegradation of Lumogen, 3) the power conversion efficiency of CdSe‐based QD‐LSC drops by 80% due to reduction of the photoluminescence quantum yield, and 4) under illumination SEBS‐g‐MA protects CuInS2 and InP‐based QDs from degradation, ensuring a stable performance during the entire study. This work thus demonstrates for the first time that the interaction between the luminophores and the matrix is a critical determinant of the long‐term success of LSCs. Leveraging on the fact that this is the longest outdoor study to date, we propose design rules for highly efficient and stable QD‐LSCs.

Achieving beyond 30% efficiency for hole-transport-layer-free CsSnI3 perovskite solar cell: a comprehensive simulation study

In recent years, the growing significance of lead-free CsSnI3 perovskite can be credited to its outstanding optoelectronic properties and environmentally friendly nature. Nevertheless, the photovoltaic potential of CsSnI3 is limited due to challenges in achieving defect-free device structures. The current study thoroughly analyzed the performance of CsSnI3-based perovskite solar cells (PSCs) using the SCAPS-1D software. An in-depth investigation was performed on multiple physical parameters, including the thickness of perovskites layer, acceptor density (NA), operating temperature, defect densities, shunt resistance (RSh) and series resistance (RS). This comprehensive study aimed to identify the optimal device configuration that yields the highest power conversion efficiency (PCE) for the hole-transport-layer (HTL)-free CsSnI3-based PSCs. The obtained results confirmed that it is crucial to decrease the number of defects (Nt) at the perovskites/electron transport layer (ETL) interface to improve the efficiency of CsSnI3-based PSCs. The optimized device demonstrated exceptional performance, achieving an open-circuit voltage (VOC) of 1.12 V, a fill factor (FF) of 85.08%, a short-circuit current density (JSC) of 33.29 mA cm−2 and an efficiency of 31.87%. This high efficiency simulated result provide valuable insights into the design of high-performance CsSnI3-based PSCs, paving the way for potential breakthroughs in cost-effective and eco-friendly solar energy technologies.

Tin oxides@stannous pyrophosphate colloidal quantum dots as multifunctional electron transporting layer for efficient and stable perovskite solar cells

Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) are anticipated to spearhead the revolution in solar energy technology. Engineering the electron transporting layer (ETL)/perovskite heterointerface is known to be a key point for further high-performance PSCs because it determines the main charge transporting and energy losses. However, the most advanced SnO2 colloidal precursors tend to exhibit agglomeration and structural flaws, thereby deteriorating the morphology and electronic mass of the obtained ETL. Here, we polished the microstructure of the SnO2 surface by self-assembling SnO2@Sn2P2O7 quantum dots (SPOS), which is synthesized by the chemical reaction between hypophosphoric acid (H3PO2) and SnO2. The Sn2P2O7 was synthesized on the SnO2 surface, terminating the surface dangling bonds and resulting in steady SPOS quantum dots with smooth microstructure. The SPOS ETL with good optical and electrical properties as well as matched bandgap alignment with perovskite, yielding an improved power conversion efficiency of 23.35% for PSCs. Moreover, due to the suppression of defect-induced deprotonation reactions, the SPOS-PSCs exhibit favorablelongstability than the SnO2-PSCs. This work demonstrates that the surface reconstruction of the ETL is crucial for enhancing the power conversion efficiency and stability of PSCs.

Revealing elastic, thermophysical, optoelectronic, and transport characteristics of halide double perovskites Na2TlSbZ6 (Z = Cl/Br/I) for eco-friendly technologies: DFT analysis

Halide double perovskites (HDPs) exhibit advantageous functional characteristics, making them extremely suitable for utilization in photovoltaics and thermoelectrics. The current investigation utilized the WIEN2k simulation code, which is based on the principle of density functional theory (DFT), to analyze the structural, elastic, thermophysical, electro-optic, and transport properties of Na2TlSbZ6 (Z = Cl/Br/I). The cubic phase and chemical stability have been verified by calculating the tolerance factor and formation energy. The elastic features that exhibit flexibility, ductility, and mechanical stability for studied HDPs have been demonstrated. Three-dimensional Young’s modulus plots confirm the anisotropy in all examined HDPs. The electronic characteristics have been estimated to determine the band gap and details regarding the distribution of electronic states across bands. The band gap values of examined HDPs ranging between 1.40 and 0.78 eV confirm their semiconductor nature. The optical attributes, including dielectric function, absorption, reflectivity, and loss function, have been studied in detail. The reported optical absorption spectrum indicates that Na2TlSbZ6 (Z = Cl/Br/I) perovskites can be utilized in optoelectronic and solar energy technologies. Transport parameters have been comprehensively elucidated to predict the thermal energy conversion capability. The anticipated merit values of 0.84, 0.88, and 0.92 at room temperature validate their higher thermoelectric response for technological applications. These theoretical findings indicate the significant potential of these HDPs for solar cells and thermoelectric devices.

Discovery of novel silicon allotropes with optimized band gaps to enhance solar cell efficiency through evolutionary algorithms and machine learning

In the pursuit of advancing solar energy technologies, this study presents 20 direct and quasi-direct band gap silicon crystalline semiconductors that satisfy the Shockley-Queisser limit, a benchmark for solar cell efficiency. Employing two evolutionary algorithm-based searches, we optimize structures and calculate fitness function using the DFTB method and Gaussian approximation potential. Following the preselection of structures based on energy considerations, we further optimize them using PBEsol DFT. Subsequently, we screen the structures based on their band gap, employing a DFTB method tailored for band gap calculation of silicon crystals. To ensure accurate band gap determination, we employ HSE and GW methods. To validate the structural stability, we employ phonon analysis via linear regression algorithm applied to PBEsol DFT data. Significantly, the structures unveiled in this study are of great importance due to their proven stability from both mechanical and dynamic perspectives. Furthermore, the ductility and low density of certain structures enhance their potential application. We examine the optical properties by studying the imaginary part of the dielectric function by solving the Bethe–Salpeter Equation on top of GW approximation. By calculating the SLME, we achieve an efficiency of 32.7% for Si22 at a thickness of 500 nm. Moreover, the study harnesses various machine learning algorithms to develop a predictive model for the band gap energy of these silicon structures. Input data for machine learning models are derived from structural MBTR and SOAP descriptors, as well as DFT outputs. Notably, the results reveal that features extracted from DFT outperform the MBTR and SOAP descriptors.

Energy transition strategies in the Gulf Cooperation Council countries

During the last two decades, Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries have seen their population, economies and energy production growing steeply with a substantial increase in Gross Domestic Product. As a result of this growth, GCC consumption-based carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions increased from 540.79 Metric tons of CO2 equivalent (MtCO2) in 2003 to 1090.93 MtCO2 in 2020. The assumptions and strategies that have driven energy production in the past are now being recast to achieve a more sustainable economic development. The aim of this study is to review and analyze ongoing energy transition strategies that characterize this change to identify challenges and opportunities for bolstering the effectiveness of current strategic orientations. The ensuing analysis shows that since COP26, GCC countries have been pursuing a transition away from carbon-based energy policies largely characterized by the adoption of solar PV with other emerging technologies including energy storage, carbon capture, and hydrogen generation and storage. While as of 2022 renewable energy adoption in the GCC only represented 0.15 % of global installed capacity, GCC countries are making strong efforts to achieve their declared 2030 energy targets that average about 26 % with peaks of 50 % in Saudi Arabia and 30 % in the UAE and Oman. With reference to solar energy, plans are afoot to add 42.1 GW of solar photovoltaics and concentrated solar power which will increase 8-fold the current installed renewable capacity (5.1 GW). At the same time, oil and gas production rates remain stable and fossil fuel subsidies have grown in the last few years. Also, there is a marked preference for the deployment of CCUS and utility-scale solar energy technology vs. distributed solar energy, energy efficiency and nature-based solutions. The pursuit of energy transition in the GCC will require increased efforts in the latter and other overlooked strategic endeavors to achieve a more balanced portfolio of sustainable energy solutions, with stronger emphasis on energy efficiency (as long as rebound effects are mitigated) and nature-based solutions. Increased efforts are also needed in promoting governance practices aimed to institutionalize regulatory frameworks, incentives, and cooperation activities that promote the reduction of fossil fuel subsidies and the transition away from fossil fuels.

Review on Solar Charged Batteries with Inbuilt Reverse Current Protection

Solar energy is environmentally friendly technology, a great energy supply, and one of the most significant renewable and green energy sources. It plays a substantial role in achieving sustainable development energy solutions. Therefore, the massive amount of solar energy attainable daily makes it an attractive resource for generating electricity. Both technologies, applications of concentrated solar power or solar photovoltaics, are always under continuous development to fulfill our energy needs. Hence, a large installed capacity of solar energy applications worldwide, in the same context, supports the energy sector and meets the employment market to gain sufficient development. This paper highlights solar energy applications and their role in sustainable development and considers renewable energy’s overall employment potential. Thus, it provides insights and analysis on solar energy sustainability, including environmental and economic development. Furthermore, it has identified the contributions of solar energy applications in sustainable development by providing energy needs, creating job opportunities, and enhancing environmental protection. Finally, the perspective of solar energy technology is drawn up in the application of the energy sector and affords a vision of future development in this domain.

Polymer encapsulation impact on potential-induced degradation in PV modules revealed by a multi-modal field study

Potential-induced degradation is a significant issue affecting the performance and reliability of photovoltaic systems, particularly in large-scale installations. Understanding the mechanisms underlying the formation of potential-induced degradation is crucial for developing effective mitigation strategies and ensuring the long-term sustainability of solar energy technologies. During the inspection of a 1.2 MWp photovoltaic power plant, various imaging methods, electrical measurements, spectroscopic characterization methods, and monitoring data analyses were utilized and combined. We observed that two percent of the photovoltaic modules at the string ends exhibited the characteristic checkerboard pattern in infrared or electroluminescence imaging, implicating issues on twelve percent of all strings. This uneven distribution of potential-induced degradation-affected modules suggests additional key factors are at play. Investigations of the backsheet and ethylene-vinyl acetate using near-infrared reflectance analysis revealed that one backsheet type and two different ethylene-vinyl acetate types were present in the installed solar panels. Yet, only one type of ethylene-vinyl acetate correlated with potential-induced degradation. The same type also exhibited a higher rate of oxidative degradation. Scanning electron microscopy and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy revealed a significantly increased sodium ion content in the ethylene-vinyl acetate and glass of the potential-induced degradation-affected modules. Our findings highlight the crucial role of polymer encapsulation in the development of potential-induced degradation and underscore the importance of careful polymer selection in the design of photovoltaic module technologies.

Multi-Objective optimal scheduling of energy Hubs, integrating different solar generation technologies considering uncertainty

For a few decades, operators of energy systems have sought to achieve appropriate frameworks due to energy crises and rapid growth in energy requirements. In this regard, this study presents a multi-objective optimization model for an energy hub (EH) designed to manage a diverse energy portfolio. The EH receives electricity, natural gas, hydrogen, seawater, and solar energy as inputs, aiming to satisfy electricity, heating, and freshwater demands at the output port while considering a limited available area. The model incorporates the selection of the optimal solar energy technology (photovoltaics, parabolic dish, or parabolic trough collector) through a comprehensive evaluation encompassing technical, economic, and environmental aspects. To achieve optimal scheduling of the EH’s production units, the model factors in forecasts of solar energy availability alongside electrical, heat, and water load demands. The evaluation of the EH’s performance is conducted through a multi-objective framework considering social welfare, CO2 emissions, voltage stability margin (VSM), a newly proposed simplified fast temperature stability index (SFTSI), and a similarly novel simplified fast pressure stability index (SFPSI). The optimization problem is formulated within a MATLAB environment and solved using a multi-objective Archimedes optimization algorithm across five distinct case studies, each characterized by a varying designated area for solar energy generation. The effectiveness of the proposed model and optimization technique is validated through test systems, with the obtained results demonstrating significant improvements compared to a baseline scenario. These improvements include a 36.18% reduction in CO2 emissions, a 14.22% increase in total social welfare, and reductions in the average values of VSM, SFTSI, and SFPSI when incorporating all solar energy technologies.

A Study on the Impact of Different PV Model Parameters and Various DC Faults on the Characteristics and Performance of the Photovoltaic Arrays

PV systems play a vital role in the global renewable energy sector, and they require accurate modeling and reliable performance to maximize the output power. This research presents a thorough analysis and discussions on the effects of different PV models’ parameters and certain specific faults on the performance and behavior of the photovoltaic systems under different temperature and irradiation conditions. It provides a detailed analysis of how several parameters affect the performance of the PV arrays, for instance, the series resistance, shunt resistance, photocurrent, reverse saturation current, and the diode ideality factor. These parameters were extracted mathematically and verified with the help of wide-ranging simulations and practical experiments. Additionally, the investigation of the effect of DC faults, including line-to-line, line-to-ground, partial shading, and complete shading faults on PV arrays, provides important fundamentals for fault detection and classification, thus improving the efficiency and protection of PV systems. It can, therefore, be stated that the outcomes of this research will assist in the enhancement of PV systems in terms of design, operation, and maintainability of photovoltaic plants, as well as contribute positively to the advancement of sustainable solar energy technology.

Theoretical exploration of a di-carbazole based dye for 3rd generation dye-sensitized solar cells

Dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) are known for their large potential in green, efficient and cost-effective solar energy technology. Therefore, investigating the solar-to-electricity conversion mechanism of photosensitizers in DSSCs can open up a new way for highly effective and stable solar cell devices. In this study, we used different molecular design strategies to develop various D-π-A photosensitizers based on dicarbazole. These approaches involved changing the positions of auxiliary acceptors and π-spacers as well as introducing new π-spacer units. To calculate the physical and electronic properties of these sensitizers, density functional theory (DFT) and time dependent density functional theory (TDDFT) were adopted. FMO analysis showed a significant charge transfer from the donor through the spacer to the acceptor which was also supported by DOS analysis. Energy gap of designed dyes have less than experimental Cz dye. NBO analysis has carried out the bond strength assessment and the studied molecule’s central nitrogen atoms related MOs. All the designed dyes exhibited good nonlinear optical (NLO) properties with maximum linear polarizability 〈α〉 amplitudes higher than first (βtotal) compared to the reference chromophore. Photovoltaic efficiency has been evaluated to electronic (Egap), open circuit voltage (VOC), short circuit current density (JSC), electron injection ability (∆Ginj), electron regeneration (∆Greg) and light harvesting efficiency.

Harnessing Solar Energy for Sustainable Urban Street Lighting

Public street lighting plays an important role in enhancing safety and comfort in urban areas. However, the use of conventional energy for public street lighting significantly contributes to greenhouse gas emissions. This research aims to study the optimization of solar energy usage in public street lighting systems to reduce urban emissions. The methods used include energy efficiency analysis, case studies of solar energy-based public street lighting implementation, and environmental impact evaluation. The results of the study show that the application of solar energy technology in public street lighting can increase energy efficiency by up to 30% and reduce CO2 emissions by 25% compared to conventional systems. In the case study of public street lighting in the city of Binjai, the reduction in carbon emissions reached 99.96%. Additionally, this study also identifies key factors affecting the success of implementation, such as technical design, initial costs, and government policy support. Therefore, optimizing solar energy-based public street lighting not only has the potential to reduce negative environmental impacts but also supports sustainable urban development.

Investigating the influence of nanofluid on photovoltaic-thermal systems concerning photovoltaic panel performance

Solar energy has much promise to replace the planet's finite supply of fossil fuels as it is sustainable and eco-friendly. Photovoltaic (PV) panels are one example of the proper technology that may transform solar energy into electrical energy. On the other hand, high temperatures may reduce photovoltaic cells' ability to produce power efficiently. As a result, a study was carried out to use the PV/T (Photovoltaic Thermal) collector system and evaluate the effects of CuO, TiO2, and Al2O3 nanofluids as cooling agents on the performance and operating temperature of PV panels. In Surakarta, Indonesia, an experimental study was conducted with nanoparticle concentrations of 0.2 vol% and a flow rate of 3 L/m at an intensity of radiation of 1000 W/m2. The results showed that, in comparison to uncooled PV panels, employing CuO, TiO2, and Al2O3 nanofluids in the PV/T system resulted in temperature reductions of 18.84 °C, 18.12 °C, and 17.62 °C, respectively. Moreover, measurements of the electrical efficiency produced by PV and PV/T panels using CuO, TiO2, and Al2O3 nanofluids showed that the respective values were 10.98%, 13.92%, 13.65%, and 13.39%. This study contributes to the development of solar energy technology by demonstrating the potential of nanofluid-based cooling devices to improve solar panel performance in hot conditions.

Research on English Teaching of Solar Energy and Photovoltaic Power Generation Technology

As an emerging energy development industry, solar-photovoltaic power generation technology has the problems of inaccurate translation and translation bias, which affects its long-term development. Therefore, improving the English teaching level of solar-photovoltaic power generation technology majors is an urgent problem to be solved. In order to explore the relationship between solar-photovoltaic power generation technology and the professional practice of English teaching, this paper establishes a vocabulary set of English teaching based on the Clicker calculation model to match the needs of solar-photovoltaic power generation technology majors. Then, combined with teaching theory and intelligent algorithm, the translation constraint feature was used to call and extract data, so as to verify the matching accuracy of solar-photovoltaic power generation technology and English teaching practice. The results show that the matching adjustment coefficients t=-2.822 and df=0.23, and the professional adjustment coefficients t=-3.011 and df=0.85 in the proposed model have significant changes, which are significantly better than those of the manual algorithm. Moreover, the matching accuracy of the Clicker calculation model is more than 95%. The results show that there is a positive correlation between solar-photovoltaic power generation technology and English teaching practice, and the Clicker calculation model can provide support for the matching of solar-photovoltaic power generation technology and English teaching practice.

Comprehensive study on the efficiency of vertical bifacial photovoltaic systems: a UK case study

This paper presents the first comprehensive study of a groundbreaking Vertically Mounted Bifacial Photovoltaic (VBPV) system, marking a significant innovation in solar energy technology. The VBPV system, characterized by its vertical orientation and the use of high-efficiency Heterojunction cells, introduces a novel concept diverging from traditional solar panel installations. Our empirical research, conducted over a full year at the University of York, UK, offers an inaugural assessment of this pioneering technology. The study reveals that the VBPV system significantly outperforms both a vertically mounted monofacial PV (VMPV) system and a conventional tilted monofacial PV (TMPV) system in energy output. Key findings include a daily power output increase of 7.12% and 10.12% over the VMPV system and an impressive 26.91% and 22.88% enhancement over the TMPV system during early morning and late afternoon hours, respectively. Seasonal analysis shows average power gains of 11.42% in spring, 8.13% in summer, 10.94% in autumn, and 12.45% in winter compared to the VMPV system. Against the TMPV system, these gains are even more substantial, peaking at 24.52% in winter. These results underscore the VBPV system's exceptional efficiency in harnessing solar energy across varied environmental conditions, establishing it as a promising and sustainable solution in solar energy technology.

Analysis of the spatial variations in the adoption of solar energy technologies among households in rural and urban areas of Konoin sub-County, Kenya

Globally, the overall demand and cost of energy and particularly, for fossil fuels is on the rise due to increasing population and overall development process. The increasing use of fossil fuels has significant ramifications to the environment, such as increase in carbon emissions. There is need, therefore, to adopt the use of green energy technologies like solar energy so as to minimize the negative effects of fossil fuels on the environment. Despite these, there is paucity of information on factors influencing the spatial variations in the adoption of solar energy technologies among households in the study area, which this study sought to investigate. The study was informed by the Diffusion of Innovation theory and Technology Adoption Model. A a descriptive survey research design was employed. A stratified random sample of 387 households was surveyed and data collected analyzed using descriptive statistics and multiple linear regression. The findings reveal significant spatial variations in solar energy adoption rates. Proximity to renewable energy sources and fluctuations in energy costs positively influenced adoption levels. Also, social factors, including: household size; and community support had a positive influence in adoption of solar energy. Further, economic considerations, such as perceived installation costs and anticipated long-term savings, played a significant role in influencing adoption levels. Moreover, geographic variables, particularly access to areas with abundant sunshine, significantly influenced adoption levels.

An in-depth study of the principles and technologies of wind-solar complementary systems: Optimization strategies and future development trends

In the face of the global energy crisis and the challenges of climate change in the 21st century, there is an urgent need to shift to sustainable energy solutions. Wind-solar hybrid systems, renewable energy technologies that combine wind and solar energy, are particularly important because they improve the stability and efficiency of energy supply. Through the analysis of technological innovation and system optimization strategies, this study explores ways to enhance system performance and economy by relying on the latest research on wind and solar energy technology development as well as empirical studies of wind-solar complementary systems in different application scenarios. The results of the study show that wind-solar hybrid systems can effectively reduce the dependence on fossil fuels and reduce environmental pollution, and they play an increasingly important role in the transformation of the global energy structure. Continued technological innovation and policy support are key to advancing the widespread deployment of the system.

Perception Influence on Adoption of Solar Energy Technologies at Household Level in Konoin Sub-County, Bomet County, Kenya

Perception Influence on Adoption of Solar Energy Technologies at Household Level in Konoin Sub-County, Bomet County, Kenya

An Application of Closest Pair of Points Algorithm to Detect the Outliers on the Fixed Solar System

Renewable energy resources are regarded as clean energy sources and effective utilization of these resources reduces ecological effects, produces little secondary waste and they are feasible in light of present and future economic and social societal demands. Solar energy is a radiant light and heat from the sun that may be harvested through a variety of methods, including solar power for producing electricity, solar thermal energy, and solar architecture. Solar technologies generate electricity from the sun, which is considered to be a clean energy source. Solar energy technologies offer a tremendous chance for mitigating greenhouse gas emissions and lowering global warming by replacing traditional energy sources. However, the technologies are not exempted from the operational challenges such as the ever-fluctuating ambient conditions. The intention of this study is to present the experimental outcomes of an application of the closest pair of points algorithm to detect outliers on the fixed solar system. The closest pair of points algorithm is used to find outliers in the system based on the measured voltage from the photovoltaic (PV) panel. The algorithm examines the PV panel’s immediate voltage and compares it to earlier voltage samples to assess whether there is a significant voltage variation that might turn into outliers. The algorithm proved to be extremely precise and efficient in detecting outliers on the fixed solar system. However, the efficiency of the algorithm should yet be verified for larger PV arrays to determine whether it will withstand the test.

Solar Azo-Switches for Effective E→Z Photoisomerization by Sunlight.

Natural photoactive systems have evolved to harness broad-spectrum light from solar radiation for critical functions such as light perception and photosynthetic energy conversion. Molecular photoswitches, which undergo structural changes upon light absorption, are artificial photoactive tools widely used for developing photoresponsive systems and converting light energy. However, photoswitches generally need to be activated by light of specific narrow wavelength ranges for effective photoconversion, which limits their ability to directly work under sunlight and to efficiently harvest solar energy. Here, focusing on azo-switches-the most extensively studied photoswitches, we demonstrate effective solar E→Z photoisomerization with photoconversions exceeding 80 % under unfiltered sunlight. These sunlight-driven azo-switches are developed by rendering the absorption of E isomers overwhelmingly stronger than that of Z isomers across a broad ultraviolet to visible spectrum. This unusual type of spectral profile is realized by a simple yet highly adjustable molecular design strategy, enabling the fine-tuning of spectral window that extends light absorption beyond 600 nm. Notably, back-photoconversion can be achieved without impairing the forward solar isomerization, resulting in unique light-reversible solar switches. Such exceptional solar chemistry of photoswitches provides unprecedented opportunities for developing sustainable light-driven systems and efficient solar energy technologies.