Solar Power Research Articles

Investigating and Analyzing the Influence of a Solar Power Plant’s Life Cycle on the Depletion of Natural Materials and Mineral Resources

The production process requires massive amounts of minerals, fossil fuels, and energy. The efficient use of energy and natural resources appears to be crucial to the state of affairs. It should be noted that the post-consumer management of solar power plant elements results in a certain amount of power and matter, as well as harmful effects on the natural world. The major goal of this study was to examine the environmental effect of the solar power plant throughout its life cycle, taking into consideration the depletion of natural materials and mineral resources, using the ReCiPe 2016 model. A life cycle study was performed on an actual 2 MW solar power facility located in northern Poland. This study was conducted using the ReCiPe 2016 model and the Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) methodology. The analyzed renewable energy system’s impact was assessed utilizing 22 impact categories, focusing mostly on the depletion of natural resources. A Life Cycle Assessment was conducted for two post-consumer development scenarios (landfill and recycling). This research focuses on the full solar power plant, not just the photovoltaic panels. Recycling, as a kind of post-consumer development, can provide major environmental benefits and minimize negative environmental consequences throughout the solar power plant’s life cycle. The exceedingly harmful effects can be evident in losses related to water and the aquatic environment. The obtained study findings enabled the development of sustainable-friendly recommendations towards the continuous advancement of the life cycle of solar power plants, thereby reducing the use of rare earth minerals.

A review of the state of the art in solar photovoltaic output power forecasting using data-driven models

A review of the state of the art in solar photovoltaic output power forecasting using data-driven models

Variation of Heliostat Wind Loads in a Radial Field Array Model

The design of heliostats throughout a concentrated solar power (CSP) plant are currently of uniform design, however, research into the variation in heliostat wind loading within a radially staggered field array can provide insight into potential material cost savings in heliostat field design. Experimental investigation was carried out on a field array model in the University of Adelaide large wind tunnel. A total of 64 heliostat models of size 0.1 × 0.1 m were radially arranged over four surround rows. Four 3-axis load cells were utilized to analyze field array cases of morning (0700 hours), noon (1200 hours), and evening (1700 hours) configurations. Angle calculations for beam reflection were made for the 21st March (equinox). Results show mean and peak drag force coefficients reduce with distance into the field for a 1700 hour case due to high upstream blockage. Comparing the downstream drag and lift force coefficients against each test configuration, when heliostats are at steep elevation angles, high flow blockage leads to a reduction of coefficients downstream (0700 hour and 1700 hour cases). When elevation angles are reduced (1200 hours), drag and lift coefficients increase with distance from the central tower in the downstream direction. Results also show the central tower increases load coefficients on downstream heliostats, and therefore should be considered in heliostat wind loading and field design.

Power quality improvement of grid‐connected solar power plant systems using a novel fractional order proportional integral derivative controller technique

AbstractRecently, there has been a push to integrate renewable energy system (RES) into grid‐connected load system in enhancing reliability and reducing losses. However, integrating these systems introduces power quality (PQ) issues, especially with non‐linear, critical, and imbalanced loads. Addressing this, a hybrid mantis search‐reptile search algorithm (HMS‐RSA) combined with a unified power quality conditioner (UPQC) to mitigate PQ problems related to current and voltages in RES systems. In other words, the UPQC, enhanced by fractional order proportional integral derivative controller parameters tuned using the proposed HMS‐RSA assists in enhancing the power quality. The approach has been validated by connecting a non‐linear load to the system, which typically creates PQ issues. The proposed method is implemented in MATLAB/Simulink and their performance is analysed in three scenarios, such as sag, swell, and disturbance, and the total harmonic distortion is evaluated to quantify improvements in PQ. Finally, the proposed method is compared with existing approaches, such as ant colony optimization (ACO), artificial bee colony optimization (ABC), and bacterial foraging optimization (BFO). The method also outperforms ACO, ABC, and BFO in terms of convergence speed and effectiveness in mitigating PQ issues.

Multi-Criteria Decision-Making Approach for Optimal Energy Storage System Selection and Applications in Oman

This research aims to support the goals of Oman Vision 2040 by reducing the dependency on non-renewable energy resources and increasing the utilization of the national natural renewable energy resources. Selecting appropriate energy storage systems (ESSs) will play a key role in achieving this vision by enabling a greater integration of solar and other renewable energy. ESSs allow for solar power generated during daylight hours to be stored for use during peak demand periods. Additionally, the proposed framework provides guidance for large-scale ESS infrastructure planning and investments to support Oman’s renewable energy goals. As the global renewable energy market grows rapidly and Oman implements economic reforms, the ESS market is expected to flourish in Oman. In the near future, ESS is expected to contribute to lower electricity costs and enhance stability compared to traditional energy systems. While ESS technologies have been studied broadly, there is a lack of comprehensive analysis for optimal ESS selection tailored to Oman’s unique geographical, technical, and policy context. The main objective of this study is to provide a comprehensive evaluation of ESS options and identify the type(s) most suitable for integration with Oman’s national grid using a multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) methodology. This study addresses this gap by applying the Hesitate Fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process (HF-AHP) and Hesitate Fuzzy VIKOR methods to assess alternative ESS technologies based on technical, economic, environmental, and social criteria specifically for Oman’s context. The analysis reveals pumped hydro energy storage (PHES) and compressed air energy storage (CAES) as the most appropriate solutions. The tailored selection framework aims to guide policy and infrastructure planning to determine investments for large-scale ESSs and provide a model for comprehensive ESS assessment in energy transition planning for countries with similar challenges.

A robust sliding mode control strategy for DC voltage stabilization in solar powered electric vehicle charging station

ABSTRACT Integrating DC power sources and AC grid in an electric vehicle charging station through converters can introduce oscillations, potentially leading to system instability. This paper explored the utilization of a sliding mode controller in a bidirectional DC-DC buck-boost converter for DC bus voltage control within the charging station. This controller aims to promptly respond to power fluctuations, offering robustness against variations in system parameters, external disturbances, and uncertainties. Control strategies play a critical role in mitigating DC link voltage fluctuations and ensuring power stability. The system entails a photovoltaic array employing maximum power point tracking for optimal energy harnessing. In addition, a bidirectional buck-boost converter is employed to effectively manage battery charging in buck mode and discharging in boost mode. A comparative analysis between Proportional-Integral control and sliding mode control incorporating a washout filter was conducted. This assessment is simulated and validated using MATLAB/Simulink, and the Sim Power System toolbox. The proposed model offers a comprehensive solution for integrating solar power, battery storage, and grid-based charging by enhancing overall system efficiency and reliability.

Investigation of the Automatic Monitoring System of a Solar Power Plant with Flexible PV Modules

Investigation of the Automatic Monitoring System of a Solar Power Plant with Flexible PV Modules

The Interplay of Strongly and Weakly Exchange-Coupled Triplet Pairs in Intramolecular Singlet Fission.

Singlet fission (SF) and triplet-triplet annihilation upconversion (TTA-UC) nominally enable the interconversion of higher-energy singlet states with two lower-energy triplet states and vice versa, with both processes having envisaged application for enhanced solar power devices. The mechanism of SF/TTA-UC involves a complex array of different multiexcitonic triplet-pair states that are coupled by the exchange interaction to varying extents. In this work a family of bounded intramolecular SF materials, based upon the chromophore 1,6-diphenyl-1,3,5-hexatriene, were designed and synthesized. Their SF behavior was characterized using fluorescence lifetime, transient absorption, and magnetic field dependence studies. The capacity for the formation of weakly exchange-coupled triplet pairs, and subsequent spin-evolution, is shown to be strongly dependent upon the combined factors of oligomer size and geometry. By contextualizing these results with the wider SF literature, we present a general schematic model for SF/TTA-UC of greater completeness than portrayed elsewhere.

The Impact of Abrupt Sunlight Reduction Scenarios on Renewable Energy Production

To combat global warming, energy systems are transitioning to generation from renewable sources, such as wind and solar, which are sensitive to climate conditions. While their output is expected to be little affected by global warming, wind, and solar electricity generation could be affected by more drastic climatic changes, such as abrupt sunlight reduction scenarios (ASRSs) caused by nuclear war (“nuclear winter”) or supervolcanic eruptions (“volcanic winter”). This paper assesses the impacts of an ASRS on global energy supply and security in a 100% renewable energy scenario. National generation mixes are determined according to roadmaps for a global transition to renewable energy, with wind and solar contributing a combined 94% of the global energy supply. Wind and solar generation are determined for a baseline climate and an ASRS following a large-scale nuclear exchange. While effects vary by country, overall wind and solar generation are expected to reduce by 59% in the first year following an ASRS, requiring over a decade for full recovery. Ensuring sufficient energy for everyone’s critical needs, including water, food, and building heating/cooling, would require international trade, resilient food production, and/or resilient energy sources, such as wood, geothermal, nuclear power, tidal power, and hydropower.

A method for configuring hybrid electrolyzers based on joint wind and photovoltaic power generation modeling using copula functions

Considering the specific wind and photovoltaic power characteristics of a certain region, this study investigates the optimal ratio of Alkaline Electrolysis Cells (AEL) to Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) electrolyzers in a hybrid electrolysis system for hydrogen production. A flexible model for configuring the hybrid electrolysis system is proposed, based on a copula function for joint wind and solar power modeling. This model generates wind and photovoltaic power generation scenarios using the copula function, incorporating a selection mechanism to ensure that the output scenarios are more representative of the actual data characteristics of wind and photovoltaic power output. Consequently, considering both the fluctuation and amplitude, the wind and photovoltaic power data are decomposed using the Ensemble empirical mode decomposition method. The decomposed components are then allocated to the two types of electrolyzers. Furthermore, the optimal configuration of the hybrid electrolysis system is determined by minimizing the costs associated with wasted power, electricity purchases, and other expenses. Finally, a case study of a 100 MW wind farm and a 50 MW photovoltaic power station in Northwest China is presented, concluding that the optimal configuration ratio of AEL to PEM electrolyzers is 2:1. In a Matlab/Simulink platform, the performance metrics of the hybrid electrolysis system were validated. It was found that the hydrogen production rate of the hybrid electrolyzer is comparable to that of the PEM electrolyzer, but with a lower required cost. Additionally, the hydrogen production rate and volume of the optimal configuration for the hybrid electrolyzer determined by the model proposed in this paper are higher than those obtained through the optimization algorithm's optimal configuration.

Storing Excess Solar Power in Hot Water on Household Level as Power-to-Heat System

PV technology has become widespread in the Netherlands, reaching a cumulative installed capacity of 22.4 GWp in 2023 and ranking second in the world for solar PV per capita at 1268 W/capita. Despite this growth, there is an inherent discrepancy between energy supply and demand during the day. While the netting system in the Netherlands can currently negate the economic drawbacks of this discrepancy, grid congestion and imbalanced electricity prices show that improvements are highly desirable for the sustainability of electricity grids. This research analyzes the effectiveness of a Power-to-Domestic-Hot-Water (P2DHW) system at improving the utilization of excess PV electricity in Dutch households and compares it to similar technologies. The results show that the example P2DHW system, the WaterAccu, compares favorably as a low cost and flexible solution. In particular, for twelve different households differing in size (1–6 occupants), PV capacity (2.4–8 kWp), and size of hot water storage boiler (50–300 L), it is shown that the total economic benefits for the period 2024–2032 vary from −€13 to €3055, assuming the current net metering scheme is abolished in 2027. Only for large households with low PV capacity are the benefits a little negative. Based on a multi-criteria analysis, it is found that the WaterAccu is the cheapest option compared to other storage options, such as a home battery, a heat pump boiler, and a solar boiler. A sensitivity study demonstrated that these results are overall robust. Furthermore, the WaterAccu has a positive societal impact owing to its peak shaving potential. Further research should focus on the potential of the technology to decrease grid congestion when implemented on a neighborhood scale.

Locating the suitable large-scale solar farms in China's deserts with environmental considerations

Desert areas offer rich solar resources and low land use costs, ideal for large-scale new energy development. However, desert ecosystems are fragile, and large-scale photovoltaic (PV) power facilities pose ecological risks. Current assessments of PV plant sites in deserts lack consideration of wind-sand hazards and ecological impacts. In this study, we have developed a new large-scale photovoltaic (PV) site selection model that integrates the analytic hierarchy process with geographic information system technology, and applies it to the desert regions of China. The results show that the potential for large-scale PV power plants in China's deserts is significant, with 69.4 % of the region assessed as medium or higher. The most suitable area is 12.7 × 104 km2 (7.6 % of the overall study area), mainly centered in the Tibetan Plateau's Qaidam Basin Desert and the deserts of northern China, characterized by favorable solar resources, climate, and terrain. Across all regions, gravel deserts are recognized as more suitable for the construction of large-scale PV power projects than sandy deserts. Considering varying PV installation density scenarios with an installed capacity potential of 36.4–84.9 TW and system costs ranging from 10.0 to 33.5 trillion USD, the study estimates an annual solar power generation potential of 47–110 PWh which is 1.7–3.9 times the global electricity demand. Carbon emissions could be reduced by 26.8–62.6 gigatons annually, offsetting 73–170 % of global emissions. Covering just 4.8–11.5 % of China's desert area (8 × 104–19.4 × 104 km2) would meet the projected 2025 electricity needs of the country. This study lays the groundwork for spatial planning and benefit assessment of large-scale PV projects in desert regions, and reduces conflicts between PV plant construction and local ecosystem.

Optimization of Electricity Supply in East Nusa Tenggara Through Communal Solar Power Plants: A Case Study of Kupang City Using PVSyst

Certain regions in Indonesia face challenges related to inadequate electricity supply. To address this, it is essential to model and simulate potential solutions before implementation. This study focuses on optimizing electricity provision to resolve a 4 MW deficit in Kupang, East Nusa Tenggara, particularly at night, through the development of a communal Solar Power Plant. PVsyst software is used for analysis to determine the most economical and optimal solar system configuration. The Oelnasi site, selected for its solar radiation levels, land availability, and proximity to the grid, will house 17,411 solar panels covering 28,360 m², with 196 inverters. The system will generate 4.005 kWp of PV power, with a maximum DC power of 3.583 kWDC, and an AC power of 2.940 kWAC. Simulation results indicate that the Oelnasi Solar Power Plant can supply stable nighttime electricity and reduce CO2 emissions by approximately 7,200 tons annually.

High‐efficiency solar selective absorber: Using the high‐entropy nitride MoTaTiCrN nanoceramics as a perspective strategy

AbstractHigh‐entropy materials have sparked significant interest in varied applications, particularly in solar‐thermal technologies such as solar‐driven desalination and concentrating solar power (CSP) systems. In this context, high‐entropy nitrides, as novel solar selective absorbers (SSAs) materials, play a crucial role in these applications, demonstrating excellent spectral selectivity and strong thermal and chemical stability at high temperatures and in harsh environments. However, the underlying sunlight absorption mechanisms, atomic‐level structures, and programmatic design route of these SSAs still need further investigation. Herein, a high‐entropy alloy (MoTaTiCr) target was used to construct gradient high‐entropy nitride films via magnetron sputtering in the nitrogen atmosphere. The atomic‐level microstructure study revealed the crystal structure characteristics in the MoTaTiCrN layer. Computer simulations and density functional theory calculations aided in the design and understanding of the possible solar absorption mechanisms. The as‐deposited SSA exhibited impressive optical properties (α = 95.2%; ε = 6.8%) and demonstrated excellent thermal robustness, maintaining performance after long‐term annealing at 600°C for 300 h. Its photothermal conversion efficiency reached 87.9% at 600°C under 100 suns. As a proof‐of‐concept demonstration, the SSA, used in a solar‐powered photothermal desalination unit, showed a high evaporation efficiency since the excellent optical performance as well as the thermal management.

Green Management for Disasters Using an Inflatable Tent Prototype with a Solar Power Plant

Given the ever-increasing number of natural disasters, disaster management must be understood and implemented by all parties in a manner that includes green management and technology. This research begins with the problem of disaster preparedness management which currently uses less environmentally friendly facilities and infrastructure, including using tents with conventional structures and technological systems that are less flexible and require electricity with a gasoline-fueled generator. The aim of this research is to create a green technology-based disaster response facility in the form of an inflatable tent prototype for disaster preparedness using solar electricity. The method used in this study is experimental, designing and manufacturing prototype inflatable tents that use solar power plants. Tests are carried out on several variables: strength of tarpaulins, speed in construction and disassembly, comfort of air temperature, and performance of solar power generation. The results are of the experimental method are: the design and application of two prototype inflatable tents dimensions 6x9 square meters with a capacity of 20 patients, a 3,600 WP power plant using solar power, and a VRLA battery with a voltage capacity of 48 volts and a current of 200 Ah that is capable storing 4,800 watts of electricity. Thus, these devices meet electricity needs for air conditioning, lighting, and medical equipment in inflatable tents without using electricity from the state electricity company or gasoline generators. Keywords: disaster, inflatable tent, solar power generation

The Simulator of China General Nuclear Power Group (CGNPC) Delingha 50 MW Parabolic Trough Solar Thermal Power Plant

CGN Delingha 50MW parabolic trough solar power plant is China's first commercial trough solar power station. There are 190 heat collecting loops in the solar field of the power plant. Due to the mutual coupling of heat collecting loops layout location, environmental conditions, medium flow, working medium physical property changes and other factors, the hydrodynamic characteristics of the solar field are complex. In practical operation, balancing the flow of the heat absorbing medium in each loop of the large-scale trough solar thermal power plant and stabilizing the outlet medium temperature are difficult problems. Taking CGN Delingha 50MW parabolic trough solar power plant as the research object, this paper adopts the idea of modular modeling to establish the mathematical model of the main equipment in different systems of the power plant, to build the dynamic model of its solar field, steam generation system, heat storage system and steam turbine system. Based on the parallel computing function of the real-time dynamic simulation platform STAR-90, the real-time coupling calculation between different systems is realized. The error of the built model in steady-state is less than 2%, and the dynamic results of the model are in good agreement with the actual operation data. The modeling method in this paper is universal and can be a reference for dynamic modeling of other large-scale trough solar thermal power plants.

Solar Field and Receiver Model Validation of the Next-CSP MW-Scale Prototype

This study presents a comparison of both modelling and experimental results obtained on the solar field and the receiver of the MW-scale particle driven CSP unit implemented at the Themis solar tower (France) in the framework of the Next-CSP H2020 European project. At partial load, ~900 kW, the simulated data concerning the incident power at the receiver aperture are consistent with the measured values with less than 5% difference from the experimental results. The difference is higher for the particle temperature and the thermal efficiency as a function of particle mass flow rate. It ranges between 12 and 98°C for measured particle temperature of 430 and 300°C respectively. For the thermal efficiency, the difference varies strongly with the experiments from approximately 12% to 50% (relative). The main cause of discrepancy between the experimental and the calculated results is attributed to the heterogeneity of the solar flux distribution on the receiver tubes.

High-Temperature Electrolysis with Superheated Steam Provided by Volumetric-Type Steam Generator

High-temperature steam is essential for operating solid oxide electrolysis cells (SOEC). This paper demonstrated a new type of high-temperature solar steam generator that uses ceramic foam as a porous absorber. Water is sprayed into the porous absorber as microdroplets by using a nozzle. Experiments show that the solar steam generator is capable of generating superheated steam beyond 800 oC. The peak thermal efficiency in the steady state can reach 60.92% under a mass flow rate of 2.359 kg/h corresponding to an outlet temperature of 877.3 oC. The superheated steam will be supplied to a SOEC system to generate hydrogen. Thus, a comprehensive model is developed in this paper to research the performance of the solar SOEC system under fluctuated solar irradiation

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.

The Role and Impact of Rooftop Photovoltaics in the Norwegian Energy System under Different Energy Transition Pathways

This study focuses on investigating the impact and cost‐competitiveness of solar power in a highly hydropower‐driven northern energy system. The goal is to assess the role of rooftop photovoltaics (PV) in the Norwegian energy system toward 2050 under different energy transition pathways. Energy system analysis is conducted using the IFE‐TIMES‐Norway model, with an integrated detailed representation of rooftop PV based on the tilt and azimuth of existing rooftops in Norway. A thorough sensitivity analysis is conducted to illustrate how investment in rooftop PV varies under different system and parameter conditions and to disclose important barriers for PV in similar energy systems. The results show that when PV investments are facilitated, solar power can potentially stand for 56% of all new investments, resulting in a share of 10% of the total electricity generation. With less competition from onshore wind power and favorable investment parameters, especially lowering the demand for the rate of return, the investments in PV will be four times higher and reach their full potential in commercial and apartment buildings by 2050. Additionally, the results highlight that the cost parameter functions as a barrier to other solutions that facilitate increased PV investments, such as flexibility and energy storage.