Solar Power Plants Research Articles

Viability of hybrid and alkali-activated slag materials for thermal energy storage: Analysis of the evolution of mechanical and thermal properties

Technological progress is needed to develop renewable energies. Improvements should be especially focused on the energy storage element to help correct the mismatch between energy supply and demand. In concentrated solar power (CSP) plants, ordinary concrete made of Portland cement (PC) has been proven to be a good thermal energy storage (TES) medium. However, the substantial environmental impact of PC manufacturing makes it necessary to develop new materials. Thus, in this work, alternative alkali-activated mortars (AAM) and hybrid materials (HM) have been developed using blast furnace slag to replace PC. This has been done in order to study their stability at high temperature (up to 500 °C) and their viability to operate as TES, undergoing thermal cycles between 200 °C and 400 °C, as they would in CSP technologies. Studying the mechanical and thermal properties after the thermal treatments has revealed that the alternative materials offer improved mechanical properties as well as very good thermal conductivity and storage capacity values. In particular, the best results in terms of mechanical properties were achieved by the AAM system, where the compressive strength value is increased with respect to the reference PC sample by 195% after exposure to 500 °C and by almost 97% after 20 thermal cycles between 200 °C and 400 °C. Furthermore, in terms of thermal properties, the AAM system showed a 31% increase in thermal conductivity after thermal exposure compared to PC. In addition, both AAM and HM systems demonstrated substantial improvements in specific heat and thermal storage capacity, outperforming PC by up to 46% during CSP-like thermal cycles. These promising results open new doors to the study of these alternative materials, such as TES, as they are more suitable than PC from an operational point of view.

Feasibility study of hybridizing a solar power plant with a small modular reactor for seawater desalination

The article discusses the technical and economic analysis of a seawater desalination plant, where the power source is a hybrid of solar and nuclear energy, as they are considered the cleanest energy sources compared to fossil fuel power plants. The source of nuclear energy in this study is a small modular reactor (SMR). This plant also uses a hybrid of seawater desalination systems: either a reverse osmosis plant with a multi-effect distillation (RO + MED) unit, or a reverse osmosis plant with a multi-stage flash distillation (RO + MSF) unit. Small modular reactors can be used for other applications besides generating electricity, as they produce high-temperature steam which can be used in many industrial processes such as hydrogen production and seawater desalination. Small modular reactors are also considered to be more cost effective, safer, more flexible and have a greater number of applications compared to high power reactors. The analysis is based on calculating the cost of producing of one cubic meter of fresh water using this hybrid desalination plant and comparing the results with those of desalination plant integrated with a power plant that uses exclusively nuclear energy as a source of thermal and electrical power, which uses the VVER-1200 reactor. Also, this study studies the impact of the degree of hybridization, that is, the ratio of power used from solar energy to power used from nuclear energy, on the cost of desalination of one cubic meter of water, as well as on the quality of the desalinated water.

Computational investigation of methanol-based hybrid nanofluid flow over a stretching cylinder with Cattaneo–Christov heat flux

Abstract This study investigates heat transfer rates in (AA7075-AA7072/Methanol) hybrid nanofluid flows, considering non-uniform heat sources and Cattaneo–Christov heat flux, with significant implications for aerospace engineering by enhancing thermal management in aircraft engines. The findings could revolutionize automotive cooling system efficiency, optimize heat dissipation in electronic devices, and advance the design of renewable energy systems such as concentrated solar power plants. The study aims to conduct a comparative analysis of (AA7075/Methanol) nanofluid and (AA7075-AA7072/Methanol) hybrid nanofluid flow, examining heat transfer rates, non-uniform heat sources, and Cattaneo–Christov heat flux theory around a stretching cylinder. Thermal radiation and the Biot number are also evaluated. Two different nanoparticles, AA7072 and AA7075, are used with methanol to create AA7075/Methanol nanofluid and AA7075-AA7072/Methanol hybrid nanofluid. The study compresses the resultant non-linear partial differential equation system and applies suitable similarity transformations to reduce the governing partial differential equations with boundary conditions to dimensionless form. The BVP4C shooting method in MATLAB is employed to numerically and graphically solve these dimensionless ordinary differential equations. The results indicate that higher curvature parameter values correlate with increased velocity and temperature distribution profiles. A rise in nanoparticle volume fraction reduces the radial velocity profile but increases the temperature profile. Temperature distribution profiles increase with higher thermal radiation parameter and Biot number values, while higher thermal relaxation parameter values decrease temperature. Additionally, thermal distribution profiles rise with increasing values of both the time-dependent heat source constant and space-dependent heat source parameter.

Multivariate federated tree-based forecasting combining resilience and privacy: Application to distributed energy resources

Using spatiotemporal data can increase forecasting accuracy for distributed energy resources such as wind farms, solar power plants, and electric vehicle charging stations. The underlying forecasting models assume that data are shared by the different data owners, which is not always feasible because of privacy and confidentiality constraints. Existing methods for privacy-preserving data-sharing are based mainly on linear or non-linear univariate models. This is quite limiting concerning the potential of non-linear multivariate forecasting approaches, since these models can be computationally more efficient than univariate approaches and can learn non-linear relationships. This paper introduces a new federated forecasting approach implementing a multivariate non-linear learning scheme based on decision trees while enabling fully decentralized computation. Results show higher predictive performance than existing linear or univariate energy forecasting models while preserving privacy.

Thermal storage investigation of a two-layered latent-sensible packed bed with PCM and rock spheres

To improve the thermal performance of concentrated solar power (CSP) plants, this study establishes a novel two-layered latent-sensible packed bed to extend the application scope. The major innovation lies in the combination of nitrate-encapsulated phase change material (PCM) capsules and rock spheres in a two-layered configuration, which enhances operational efficiency and minimizes heat transfer temperature differences. A transient concentric-dispersion model is used for numerical simulations to study temperature evolution, thermocline temperature configurations, liquid fraction, sensible and latent energy storage, exergy rate, and exergy efficiency. Four configurations were evaluated: two-layered packed beds with PCM and rock spheres (Cases A and B) and single-layered packed beds with either PCM or rock spheres (Cases C and D). The analysis focuses on the dynamic behavior of thermal energy exchange within the PCM and rock sphere layers, highlighting the advantages and limitations of each configuration. The results show that the two-layered configurations have lower thermocline degradation and higher thermal efficiency. Specifically, the heat storage capacity increased by 15.18 MJ in the two-layered configurations. The exergy input time extended to 350 min in Case A and 342 min in Case B, compared to 260 min in Case C. Results indicate that this hybrid approach significantly reduces thermocline degradation and enhances the overall energy storage capacity and efficiency. The proposed two-layered latent-sensible TES showed higher exergy efficiency and energy storage density than both single-layered LHTES and SHTES, demonstrating improved thermal storage performance.

Kinetic investigation and numerical simulation of reactor with prepared diatomite/CaCO3 for high-temperature thermal energy storage application

Calcium looping (CaL) thermochemical energy storage (TCES) gradually appears in high temperature concentrating solar power (CSP) plants. However, the CSP-Cal integrated system has encountered challenges related to the high temperature stability of calcium-based materials and reactor design. Firstly, the wet ball milling-impregnation method was used to experimentally prepare the diatomite calcium-based thermal storage materials, and a natural diatomite skeleton matrix was obtained. A modified diatomite/CaCO3 composite thermochemical energy storage material was synthesized. The material can keep maintaining an effective conversion rate of up to 85 % by repeating charging and discharging heat storage processes for 20 times. At the same time, the 3-dimensional diffusion model was applied to investigate the reaction kinetics during the heat storage process. Secondly, numerical studies were carried out to simulate the decarbonization process of the packed bed reactor used in CSP, illustrating the complex coupling mechanism of the multiple physical processes. The results reveal that increasing the temperature and velocity of heat transfer fluid (HTF) can accelerate the heat storage process and changing porosity can modify the reaction pattern. Finally, in order to enhance the heat transfer and flow rate of HTF inside the reactor, spiral metal porous channels of large permeability with high thermal conductivity are embedded in the reactor, which promotes CO2 emission and reduces the completion time during a decarbonization reaction. This study not only proposes a novel approach to prepare the calcium-based heat storage materials but optimizes the energy storage performance of packed bed reactors.

Bidding zero? An analysis of solar power plants’ price bids in the electricity day-ahead market

Typically, solar power is offered for price bids at the level of their near zero marginal costs to electricity markets. While aggregate effects of this behaviour on prices (merit-order effect) and profits (cannibalisation effect) have been studied extensively, potential deviations from this strategy still lack an understanding. We observe a group of firms to offer solar power for prices larger than zero to the Iberian electricity day-ahead market. Based on a literature review and analysing incentives set for solar power by the Spanish electricity market design, we suggest these price bids to result from revenue opportunities in sequential markets. Results of our regression analyses confirm that the observed group of firms is more likely to conduct arbitrage. This motive also allows for explaining the level of a case-study firm’s price bids.

Design of Prototype of Solar Power Based Waste Water Treatment Plant

This research aims to find out an overview of the prototype solar power-based Waste Water Treatment Plant (WWTP), the component requirements of the PLTS system as an energy source for the WWTP, and level of efficiency in using solar power plants in IPAL operations. The type of research used is experimental research. Based on the research results a prototype solar power-based IPAL system has been produced with a capacity of 800 liters per hour or 11,200 liters per day (14 operational hours) with a Biotech/biofilter type modified by adding a water filter after the chloronization process. Besides of that, a source of electrical energy for all electrical components of the WWTP with a solar panel and battery capacity of 200 wattpeak and 100 Ah respectively. The efficiency level of the solar panels used reached 88.36% at 12.00 (very sunny weather conditions) with input power above output power in the range 09.00-16.00. With this efficiency, electrical energy can be stored to operate the WWTP at night.

PROSPECTS FOR THE IMPLEMENTATION OF BIOLOGICAL METHANATION TECHNOLOGIES IN UKRAINE

The search and development of alternative energy sources as a substitute for scarce natural gas is an extremely important task for the Ukrainian economy. Methanation, that is, the reaction of converting carbon dioxide and hydrogen to produce synthetic renewable methane, is one way to solve this problem. The directions and features of methanation technologies implemented today in the world are considered. The structural diagram and production of components of biological methanation technology as the most promising for Ukraine are described. Two concepts of biomethanation are considered: in-situ and ex-situ. In-situ methanation is a combination of anaerobic digestion and biological methanation processes in a single digester. However, when implementing such methanation, difficulties arise due to differences in the optimal conditions for the occurrence of these processes. Ex-situ methanation occurs in separate reactors, where it is possible to autonomously establish optimal conditions for acetogenesis and methanogenesis. Thus, the in-situ concept, compared to the ex-situ concept, is much cheaper and easier to implement, but is still much more difficult to implement the methanation process. The relevance of introducing methanation technologies in Ukraine is due to the active development and implementation of bioenergy technologies using large bioresources existing in the country. A promising direction for the implementation of methanation technologies in Ukraine is the use of biological methanation technologies for the production of biomethane and synthetic renewable methane. Establishing the production of biomethane and synthetic renewable methane will also help solve such pressing problems as accumulating unstable electricity from solar and wind power plants, which can become a powerful stimulator for the development of these areas of alternative energy. In addition, methanation protects the environment from CO2, converting it from a greenhouse gas into a fuel. Bibl. 18, Fig. 2.

Impact of Social Movements on Renewable Energy Policy in Indonesia: Study of Solar Power Plants

Anthropogenic-induced warming has altered the climate of the Earth, causing significant impacts on urban areas such as compromised water supplies and detrimental health effects. This paper employs a case study approach to analyse the causal relationship between energy consumption and social activities. Such an approach is well-suited to unraveling complex cause-and-effect relationships or pathways. System mapping is a method used in case study research to analyse cause-and-effect relationships in complex systems, such as energy systems. The primary literature was searched utilising the reverse snowball technique, with a focus on renewable energy, particularly solar power. Its importance is highlighted in global efforts to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and mitigate the effects of climate change. Indonesia has extensive solar potential and is preparing to utilise solar energy as a clean power source. Nonetheless, effective policy implementation necessitates more than governmental intention; active participation from social movements is required. Two prominent movements - the Solar Electricity Initiative Movement and the Million Solar Roof National Movement - are significant driving forces in this pursuit. The Role of Social Movements in Environmental Policy Transition to Renewable Energy Sources. Social Movements are instrumental in promoting renewable energy policies through public awareness campaigns, advocacy, and concrete actions. They are essential in accelerating policy changes and facilitating a transition towards clean energy. In light of the challenges posed by climate change, the hard work of social movements has become increasingly significant in achieving Indonesia's goal of becoming a sustainable country that does not rely on fossil fuels.

A Case Study and Scientific Nexus of a Hybrid Solar and Wind Power Plant with a Heat Pump for Emission Decarbonization

During the operation of any source of electrical energy, thermal energy is also generated. The heating of generator parts is accompanied by the loss of the efficiency of the entire system as a whole and eventually leads to failure. In order to remove the heat load from generators based on renewable energy, such as wind turbines and solar panels, it is possible to use heat pumps based on various refrigerants. This article presents a comparative analysis of methods for evaluating the efficiency of the technological process, using the example of increasing the efficiency of the heat pump based on the heat produced by renewable energy installations. An example of improving the efficiency of a laboratory stand is used. Exergetic calculation, fluid selection, an analysis of external sources and emission reduction were performed. This thermal energy transmission system uses a solar panel as an additional low-potential source of heat. Options for increasing the energy efficiency of the installation are considered. An assessment of the reduction in emissions when using an equivalent diesel power plant was carried out using the developed mathematical model.

Waste solar panel generation in Viet Nam: waste estimation and management orientation

Solar energy has emerged as a prominent solution to address the rising energy needs of expanding populations and combat climate change. While the advancement and proliferation of solar photovoltaics have significantly contributed to the decarbonization of energy systems, the improper disposal of end-of-life solar panels could potentially result in significant environmental impacts. Moreover, lack of or inadequate information on the quantity of the obsolete solar panels and their related environmental impacts, as well as proper incentives, and regulatory policies on waste solar panel management are major hinderances for the safe disposal of waste solar panels their materials. In this case study, surveys at solar panel manufacturers, solar power plants and rooftop solar systems have been conducted. The collected information and data are then used to derive solar panel’s lifespan and estimate the amount of waste solar panel till 2050. It is estimated that the cumulative amount of waste solar panel generated in 2022 is about 148 thousand tonnes and is projected to increase to 1.7 million tonnes by 2050. Based on that, sound management solutions toward circular economy have been proposed to properly manage waste solar panel in Vietnam.

Smart Reserve Planning Using Machine Learning Methods in Power Systems with Renewable Energy Sources

Estimation of the power obtained from intermittent renewable energy sources (IRESs) is an important issue for the integration of these power plants into the power system. In this study, the expected power not served (EPNS) formula, a reliability criterion for power systems, is developed with a new method that takes into consideration the power generated from IRESs and the consumed power (CP) estimation errors. In the proposed method, CP, generated wind power (GWP), and generated solar power (GSP) predictions made with machine learning methods are included in the EPNS formulation. The most accurate prediction results were obtained with the Multi Layer Perceptron (MLP), Long-Short Term Memory (LSTM), and Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) algorithms used for prediction, and these results were compared. Using different forecasting methods, the relation between forecast accuracy, reserve requirement, and total cost was examined. Reliability, smart reserve planning (SRP), and total cost analysis for power systems were carried out with the CNN algorithm, which provides the most successful prediction result among the prediction algorithms used. The effect of increasing the limit EPNS value allowed by the power system operator, that is, reducing the system reliability, on the reserve requirement and total cost has been revealed. This study provides a useful proposal for the integration of IRESs, such as solar and wind power plants, into power systems.

Heat transport and load response characteristics of a molten salt solar tower power station engaged in peak regulation

Power system flexibility can be improved effectively, if the advantages of the peak shaving ability of molten salt solar tower power (STP) plant can be developed and utilized. In this paper, the heat transport and load response characteristics of the molten salt STP plant in the regulation process are studied, aiming at serving the development of the regulation method in the rapid peak regulation process. The steam generation system and turbine system models of a 50 MW STP station are established. Two load regulation methods and operation modes are used to investigate the inertia and delay effects of heat transfer and evaporation, as well as load response characteristics during the actual regulation operation, including steam generation system following (SF), turbine following (TF), constant pressure operation (CP), and sliding pressure operation (SP). The results show that when the plant load is reduced by 10% Pe at the rate of 3% Pe/min, the heat transfer of salt/water and the evaporation process of water in the whole regulation process have a 250 s delay compared with the load. The larger heat storage characteristics of the plant help to improve the load response speed. The load response speed of the plant is faster in SF mode. TF mode is beneficial to the safe operation of the plant. Considering the operational safety of thick-wall component, the recommended running mode is the collocation of SF and SP mode, TF and CP mode. The results show that the load change rate of 10% Pe/min is permittable under TF and CP modes. The conclusion of this paper lays a foundation for the formulation of a peak regulation strategy for molten salt STPs.

Efficiency enhancement of solar cell using mirror concentrator

This research is done to find out a method by which the efficiency of a solar cell can be increased by using mirror concentrator to get a higher power and optimum efficiency. At first the sun lights are incident on the mirror concentrator made of plane glass and then the reflected rays are incident to the solar cell. Flat mirror concentrator (FMC) has been used to increase the incident irradiance on solar panel system by concentrating the sun light ray on it and then to improve the cell performance. A comparison is made for the same PV solar panel systems using single and triple flat mirror concentrator. It is a beneficial and important theory of solar power plant sector. It can be used in household and any kind of industrial area. The FMC consists of two flat mirrors made of glass, with dimensions (170cm × 80cm) enclosed by aluminum frame and inclined to an angle 55° with a solar panel (160cm × 120cm) tilted at 45° from the horizon. The results indicated that when the concentrator is used with the solar panel the efficiency increased by a factor of 4.52% to 11.34%. So, the increase in efficiency of the solar cell is 6.82%.

Integrating geothermal energy and a solar chimney to maximize renewable energy production: An analytical investigation of a novel hybrid system

Hybrid renewable energy systems, which utilize multiple renewable sources, are becoming increasingly popular due to the need for sustainable energy. In this study, a new hybrid power plant that combines a solar chimney power plant with geothermal energy is investigated. The new system that can be activated when solar radiation is inadequate is called “geothermal pipe” and can produce up to 71 kW of electricity using a 1000-m-deep well. A geothermal pipe power plant was designed to be integrated with a system similar to the Manzanares solar chimney with a well depth of 200 m, generating an average of 15 kW of power. By increasing the distance between wells to 1.5 km, the output power can reach 20 kW. The study analyzed the impact of different parameters, such as well array, size, and temperature, on the output power. The results indicate that a new type of geothermal pipe with six inlets has the potential to increase the performance of the conventional geothermal pipe (with one well) by 26 %. This hybrid renewable energy system benefits from the combination of more than one renewable source, allowing for year-round energy production despite weather conditions.

An assessment of the performance of heat transfer enhancement for optimizing high-temperature thermal energy storage

Background: High-temperature phase change materials (PCMs) are increasingly recognized for their potential in applications such as solar energy utilization, industrial waste heat recovery, and power load regulation. These materials can store and release significant amounts of latent heat, making them highly efficient for thermal energy storage. Purpose: This study aims to propose and analyze a novel structure to enhance latent heat energy storage using a graphite sheet combined with a PCM (KNO3-NaNO3) with a melting point of 220 K. The focus is on improving heat transfer efficiency and understanding the parameters affecting the exothermic process. Research Design: A numerical simulation approach was employed, using Fluent 7.1 software to analyze the exothermic process. The simulation method was validated with two examples before being applied to study the energy storage system incorporating graphite sheets. Study Sample: The study analyzed the performance of a high-temperature thermtotal energy storage (HTTES) system using graphite sheets of varying thicknesses, tube spacing, tube temperatures, and PCM thermal conductivities. Data Collection and/or Analysis: The study utilized numerical simulations to examine how different parameters i.e. thickness of graphite sheets, spacing between tubes, tube temperatures, and the thermal conductivity of PCM—affect heat transfer efficiency and exothermic time. Results: The integration of graphite sheets with a thickness of 2 mm was found to significantly improve heat transfer efficiency. The results indicated that increasing the spacing between graphite sheets and tube diameter influenced the total exothermic time. A logarithmic relationship was observed between the thermal conductivity coefficient and exothermic time, suggesting diminishing returns beyond 3.5 W/(m·K). Additionally, increasing the quantity of graphite sheets enhanced heat transmission and overall system efficiency. Conclusions: The study provides valuable insights into the performance of HTTES systems, demonstrating that incorporating graphite sheets can significantly enhance heat transfer and system efficiency. These findings guide the design of more effective thermal energy storage systems, supporting the broader adoption of HTTES technologies and contributing to the transition toward sustainable energy solutions. Further research and development in this field are essential to drive advancements and promote the widespread implementation of high-temperature thermal energy storage systems. Practical applications The enhanced heat transfer techniques developed in this research offer practical applications across various sectors. These techniques, utilizing PCMs and innovative graphite structures, enhance the efficiency and reliability of high-temperature thermal energy storage systems. This advancement enables continuous power generation in concentrated solar power (CSP) plants, optimizes energy utilization in district heating and cooling systems, and improves industrial waste heat recovery. By implementing these techniques, energy costs can be reduced, system performance can be optimized, and greenhouse gas emissions can be lowered, contributing to a more sustainable energy future.

Unleashing India's Solar Potential: A Review of the National Solar Mission and the Path to Sustainable Energy in India

India possesses vast potential for generating clean energy from Renewable Energy Sources (RES), specifically hydro, wind, and solar. This potential has been appropriately recognized, indicating India's commitment to reducing its carbon footprint as a developing nation. The significance of this endeavor is becoming increasingly evident worldwide. The objectives of this review study are to provide an overview of the abundant solar energy resources in India, including availability, current status, strategies, perspectives, challenges, achievements, and future prospects. The review study examines the Government of India's Jawaharlal Nehru National Solar Mission (JNNSM), launched in 2009 to promote clean energy. This mission, initiated on January 11, 2010, is one of the eight missions under the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC–2008). The JNNSM aims to deploy 22,000 MW of solar power through grid-connected and off-grid solar power plants. The review results show that as of August 2023, India has achieved a cumulative installed solar power capacity of 63,000 MW, exceeding the initial target of 22,000 MW set under the JNNSM. The country has seen a significant increase in solar energy deployment, with an average annual growth rate of 18% over the past five years. India's solar energy potential is estimated to be around 750 GW, indicating vast untapped resources. The review study recommends that India should continue to strengthen its policy and regulatory frameworks, incentivize private sector participation, and invest in research and development to further harness its solar energy potential. Addressing challenges related to grid integration, storage, and financing will be crucial for the sustainable growth of the solar energy sector in India.

Performance assessment of large-scale rooftop solar PV system: a case study in a Malaysian Public University

Adopting rooftop solar PV systems in various domestic and non-domestic sectors (including commercial, industrial, and agricultural) exhibits their commitment to green energy ventures. This study intends to evaluate the effectiveness of a grid-connected solar system that has been installed so far: a 6.9 MWp photovoltaic (PV) system implemented at University Tun Hussein Onn (UTHM) in Batu Pahat, Johor. This green energy system was installed as a part of the Self-Consumption (SELCO) program utilizing a Supply Agreement for Renewable Energy (SARE) contract. To assess the mounted energy system's efficiency, performance monitoring was carried out between December 2021 and November 2022. By evaluating the enactment of the 6.9 MWp solar system at UTHM, this present work has attempted to compile the achievement of implementation of self-consumption in terms of performance analysis and financial benefits to consumer. Based on International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) 61724 standard, this study also investigates several performance characteristics of the PV system, such as final yield, clearness index (CI), array yield, PV module efficiency, inverter efficiency, reference yield, and capacity factor (CF) performance ratio (PR). Moreover, an assessment of Carbon Dioxide (CO2)\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$${CO}_{2})$$\\end{document} avoidance was also conducted to quantify the amount of CO2\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$${CO}_{2}$$\\end{document} reduction achieved. In addition, the self-consumption ratio and self-sufficiency ratio pattern for solar power plant in UTHM has been assessed. The monthly clearness index at the project location from December 2021 to November 2022 ranges from 0.63 to 0.66. The PV system was monitored throughout this time and generated 8529 MWh of energy. The installed PV system has shown an efficiency of 11.86%, a final yield of 108.28%, and a PR of 0.78, respectively. Further, the installed 6.9 MWp PV system at UTHM will cut CO2\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$${CO}_{2}$$\\end{document} emissions by 5450 tons annually. The 6.9 MWp solar PV system is also estimated to reduce 25.1 RM mil in 25 years. Making the system larger to 6.9 MWp would reduce the consumption from the grid during the week, makes it possible to achieve self-consumption levels of up to 100% and self-sufficiency of this solar plant is relatively low ranges from 22 to 35%. The research finding bridges the gap between policy makers, investors, and the public regarding acceptance of the large-scale Self-Consumption (SELCO) and strengthen the strategic collaborations between solar service provider and educational bodies to support of the government’s agenda to achieve carbon emission intensity reduction in Malaysia.Graphical

Solar irradiance variability around Asia Pacific: Spatial and temporal perspective for active use of solar energy

This study discusses solar irradiance variability in the spatial and temporal domains for the active use of solar energy. The spatial domain was calculated using the difference between one location and another in a focused small tile area. The principal component analysis (PCA) was used for this analysis in the spatial and temporal domain. The Umbrella Effect Index (UI) was calculated to determine the probability of an umbrella effect event within a specific time range. This study discusses solar irradiance variability using solar irradiance data analyzed every 10 min from high-temporal observations of geostationary satellites in the Asia-Pacific region. This study shows that solar heterogeneity around the Asia-Pacific ranges from 0–135 W/m2 with a high tendency in the area around the equator and highlands. In addition, this study also shows that the Asia Pacific region has umbrella effect events of approximately 50–2224 h/year with an index ranging approximately 0–0.34. This study presents the annual analysis and seasonal trends of solar irradiance variability over the entire study area. Determining seasonal trends is important because electricity demand fluctuates significantly as seasons progress. An integrated analysis of heterogeneity and UI revealed trends in spatiotemporal variations in solar irradiance. This approach provides useful information for optimizing and managing the locations for installing solar power plants. Moreover, an evaluation of existing solar power plants is presented. Evaluations based on spatiotemporal data reveal impossible characteristics using traditional approaches that use long-term simple averages or typical solar irradiance data. This research shows the distributed photovoltaic (PV) system in wide area can increase the stability of solar energy supply to the grid.