Next Issue
Volume 4, December
Previous Issue
Volume 4, June
 
 

Solar, Volume 4, Issue 3 (September 2024) – 9 articles

Cover Story (view full-size image): This study explores the electrification of steam generation for major industrial operations in southwest Western Australia, considering varying levels of renewable energy inputs. The system is designed with thermal storage to maintain continuous steam generation. The optimized mix of technologies—wind, PV, and concentrated solar thermal (CST) systems—is presented for each renewable energy input target. Additionally, the optimization process determines the best locations for new renewable energy plants. View this paper
  • Issues are regarded as officially published after their release is announced to the table of contents alert mailing list.
  • You may sign up for e-mail alerts to receive table of contents of newly released issues.
  • PDF is the official format for papers published in both, html and pdf forms. To view the papers in pdf format, click on the "PDF Full-text" link, and use the free Adobe Reader to open them.
Order results
Result details
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:
17 pages, 2844 KiB  
Article
An Analytical Approach to Power Optimization of Concentrating Solar Power Plants with Thermal Storage
by Andrii Cheilytko, Spiros Alexopoulos, Andriy Pozhuyev and Oliver Kaufhold
Solar 2024, 4(3), 509-525; https://doi.org/10.3390/solar4030024 - 21 Sep 2024
Viewed by 641
Abstract
This paper deals with the problem of determining the optimal capacity of concentrated solar power (CSP) plants, especially in the context of hybrid solar power plants. This work presents an innovative analytical approach to optimizing the capacity of concentrated solar plants. The proposed [...] Read more.
This paper deals with the problem of determining the optimal capacity of concentrated solar power (CSP) plants, especially in the context of hybrid solar power plants. This work presents an innovative analytical approach to optimizing the capacity of concentrated solar plants. The proposed method is based on the use of additional non-dimensional parameters, in particular, the design factor and the solar multiple factor. This paper presents a mathematical optimization model that focuses on the capacity of concentrated solar power plants where thermal storage plays a key role in the energy source. The analytical approach provides a more complete understanding of the design process for hybrid power plants. In addition, the use of additional factors and the combination of the proposed method with existing numerical methods allows for more refined optimization, which allows for the more accurate selection of the capacity for specific geographical conditions. Importantly, the proposed method significantly increases the speed of computation compared to that of traditional numerical methods. Finally, the authors present the results of the analysis of the proposed system of equations for calculating the levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) for hybrid solar power plants. The nonlinearity of the LCOE on the main calculation parameters is shown. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 2838 KiB  
Review
New Approaches in Finite Control Set Model Predictive Control for Grid-Connected Photovoltaic Inverters: State of the Art
by Shakil Mirza and Arif Hussain
Solar 2024, 4(3), 491-508; https://doi.org/10.3390/solar4030023 - 12 Sep 2024
Viewed by 698
Abstract
Grid-connected PV inverters require sophisticated control procedures for smooth integration with the modern electrical grid. The ability of FCS-MPC to manage the discrete character of power electronic devices is highly acknowledged, since it enables direct manipulation of switching states without requiring modulation techniques. [...] Read more.
Grid-connected PV inverters require sophisticated control procedures for smooth integration with the modern electrical grid. The ability of FCS-MPC to manage the discrete character of power electronic devices is highly acknowledged, since it enables direct manipulation of switching states without requiring modulation techniques. This review discusses the latest approaches in FCS-MPC methods for PV-based grid-connected inverter systems. It also classifies these methods according to control objectives, such as active and reactive power control, harmonic suppression, and voltage regulation. The application of FCS-MPC particularly emphasizing its benefits, including quick response times, resistance to changes in parameters, and the capacity to manage restrictions and nonlinearities in the system without the requirement for modulators, has been investigated in this review. Recent developments in robust and adaptive MPC strategies, which enhance system performance despite distorted grid settings and parametric uncertainties, are emphasized. This analysis classifies FCS-MPC techniques based on their control goals, optimal parameters and cost function, this paper also identifies drawbacks in these existing control methods and provide recommendation for future research in FCS-MPC for grid-connected PV-inverter systems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Smart Solar Energy Systems)
Show Figures

Figure 1

20 pages, 7100 KiB  
Article
Decarbonizing Industrial Steam Generation Using Solar and Wind Power in a Constrained Electricity Network
by Mehdi Aghaei Meybodi and Andrew C. Beath
Solar 2024, 4(3), 471-490; https://doi.org/10.3390/solar4030022 - 4 Sep 2024
Viewed by 834
Abstract
Australia aims to achieve net zero emissions by 2050, with an interim target of reducing emissions to 43% below 2005 levels by 2030. Electrification of industry processes currently reliant on fossil fuels is a necessary step to achieve these emission reduction goals. This [...] Read more.
Australia aims to achieve net zero emissions by 2050, with an interim target of reducing emissions to 43% below 2005 levels by 2030. Electrification of industry processes currently reliant on fossil fuels is a necessary step to achieve these emission reduction goals. This study investigates electrification of steam generation relevant to major industrial operations in the southwest of Western Australia using different renewable energy input levels. The designed system incorporates thermal storage to ensure continuous steam generation. The optimized technology mix, including wind, PV, and concentrated solar thermal (CST) systems for each renewable energy input target, is presented. The optimization process also identifies optimal locations for new renewable energy plants. In summary, the optimization tends towards favouring the development of large CST plants near a demand point. This avoids the use of the transmission network by direct use of the CST system for heating of the storage media, to address the costs and efficiency reductions arising from electrical heating, but the scope of CST use is expected to be limited by site constraints. The levelized cost of heat (LCOH) for the studied renewable energy input targets (i.e., 30–90%) ranges from 15.34 to 36.92 AUD/GJ. This is promising for the 30% renewable energy target, as future natural gas prices in Western Australia are likely to match or exceed the expected LCOH. Cost reductions for renewable generation and storage technologies with further implementation at a large scale in the future may result in more competitive LCOH at higher decarbonization levels, but it is likely that additional technologies will be required for cost competitiveness at very high decarbonization levels. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 3659 KiB  
Article
Applying and Improving Pyranometric Methods to Estimate Sunshine Duration for Tropical Site
by Tovondahiniriko Fanjirindratovo, Didier Calogine, Oanh Chau and Olga Ramiarinjanahary
Solar 2024, 4(3), 455-470; https://doi.org/10.3390/solar4030021 - 29 Aug 2024
Viewed by 577
Abstract
The aim of this paper is to apply all the existing pyranometric methods to estimate the sunshine duration from global solar irradiation in order to find the most suitable method for a tropical site in its original form. Then, in a second step, [...] Read more.
The aim of this paper is to apply all the existing pyranometric methods to estimate the sunshine duration from global solar irradiation in order to find the most suitable method for a tropical site in its original form. Then, in a second step, one of these methods will be optimized to effectively fit tropical sites. Five methods in the literature (Step algorithm, Carpentras Algorithm, Slob and Monna Algorithm, Slob and Monna 2 Algorithm, and linear algorithm) were applied with eleven years of global and diffuse solar radiation data. As a result, with regard to its original form, the step algorithm is in the first rank. But in the second step, after improving its main coefficients, the Carpentras Algorithm was found to be the best algorithm for tropical sites in the southern hemisphere. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 1735 KiB  
Article
EduSolar: A Remote-Controlled Photovoltaic/Thermal Educational Lab with Integrated Daylight Simulation
by Talha Batuhan Korkut and Ahmed Rachid
Solar 2024, 4(3), 440-454; https://doi.org/10.3390/solar4030020 - 22 Aug 2024
Viewed by 842
Abstract
This study presents a compact educational photovoltaic/thermal (PV/T) system designed for thorough performance assessment under simulated weather conditions. As an affordable educational tool, the system offers significant pedagogical value. The PV/T system features two photovoltaic modules: a thermally enhanced module and a standard [...] Read more.
This study presents a compact educational photovoltaic/thermal (PV/T) system designed for thorough performance assessment under simulated weather conditions. As an affordable educational tool, the system offers significant pedagogical value. The PV/T system features two photovoltaic modules: a thermally enhanced module and a standard one. The thermally enhanced module uses water as a coolant, which transfers heat from the PV cells to a fan-operated heat exchanger, with the coolant being recirculated to maintain optimal conditions. A halogen lamp, placed between the modules, simulates solar radiation to ensure effective electrical current generation. The system’s remote-control capabilities, managed via the Message Queuing Telemetry Transport (MQTT) protocol, enable real-time adjustments to the coolant flow rate, heat exchanger efficiency, and lamp brightness, as well as monitoring of electrical parameters. Experimental findings indicate that the PV/T module achieves a 7.71% increase in power output compared to the standard PV module and offers a 17.41% improvement in cooling efficiency over scenarios without cooling. Additionally, the numerical methods used in the study show a maximum deviation of 4.29% from the experimental results, which is considered acceptable. This study showcases a best practice model for solar training, applicable from elementary to university levels, and suggests innovative approaches to enhancing solar energy education. Full article
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

18 pages, 2005 KiB  
Article
Presenting a Model to Predict Changing Snow Albedo for Improving Photovoltaic Performance Simulation
by Christopher Pike, Daniel Riley, Henry Toal and Laurie Burnham
Solar 2024, 4(3), 422-439; https://doi.org/10.3390/solar4030019 - 16 Aug 2024
Viewed by 962
Abstract
As photovoltaic (PV) deployment increases worldwide, PV systems are being installed more frequently in locations that experience snow cover. The higher albedo of snow, relative to the ground, increases the performance of PV systems in northern and high-altitude locations by reflecting more light [...] Read more.
As photovoltaic (PV) deployment increases worldwide, PV systems are being installed more frequently in locations that experience snow cover. The higher albedo of snow, relative to the ground, increases the performance of PV systems in northern and high-altitude locations by reflecting more light onto the PV modules. Accurate modeling of the snow’s albedo can improve estimates of PV system production. Typical modeling of snow albedo uses a simple two-value model that sets the albedo high when snow is present, and low when snow is not present. However, snow albedo changes over time as snow settles and melts and a binary model does not account for transitional changes, which can be significant. Here, we present and validate a model for estimating snow albedo as it changes over time. The model is simple enough to only require daily snow depth and hourly average temperature data, but can be improved through the addition of site-specific factors, when available. We validate this model to quantify its ability to more accurately predict snow albedo and compare the model’s performance against satellite imagery-based methods for obtaining historical albedo data. In addition, we perform modeling using the System Advisor Model (SAM) to show the impact of changes in albedo on energy modeling for PV systems. Overall, our albedo model has a significantly improved ability to predict the solar insolation on PV modules in real time, especially on bifacial PV modules where reflected irradiance plays a larger role in energy production. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

21 pages, 10016 KiB  
Article
Enhancing Industrial Buildings’ Performance through Informed Decision Making: A Generative Design for Building-Integrated Photovoltaic and Shading System Optimization
by Neri Banti, Cecilia Ciacci, Frida Bazzocchi and Vincenzo Di Naso
Solar 2024, 4(3), 401-421; https://doi.org/10.3390/solar4030018 - 25 Jul 2024
Viewed by 3032
Abstract
The Italian industrial sector contains 22% of the final energy demand due to the poor energy performance of manufacturing buildings. This proposed study aimed to evaluate retrofit interventions for existing industrial buildings integrating photovoltaic solutions into the external envelope to improve both the [...] Read more.
The Italian industrial sector contains 22% of the final energy demand due to the poor energy performance of manufacturing buildings. This proposed study aimed to evaluate retrofit interventions for existing industrial buildings integrating photovoltaic solutions into the external envelope to improve both the environmental sustainability and the facade performance. The methodology is based on an innovative procedure including BIM and generative design tools. Starting from the Revit model of a representative case study, interoperability with energy analysis plugins via Grasshopper were exploited to optimize the differently oriented facade layout of photovoltaic modules to maximize the electricity production. In the case of comparable facade sizes, the building orientation had a minor impact on the results, although a southern exposure was preferable. The optimized configuration involved the installation of PV panels with a tilt angle ranging from −35° to −75°. The best compromise solution between the panel surface area and energy production during the summer solstice involves 466 m2 of PV modules. The design-optioneering approach was used to define possible alternatives to be explored for the possible installation of solar shading systems on existing windows. In this case, the impact on visual comfort within the working environment was chosen as a reference parameter, along with the value of the indoor air temperature. A decrease in this parameter equal to 0.46 was registered for the solution with horizontal (or nearly horizontal) shaders and a spacing ranging between 0.2 and 0.4. The integration of the BIM environment with generative design tools effectively assists decision-making processes for the selection of technological solutions in the building sector. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Sustainable Energy Technology, 2nd Edition)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

14 pages, 3431 KiB  
Article
Limits of Harmonic Stability Analysis for Commercially Available Single-Phase Inverters for Photovoltaic Applications
by Elias Kaufhold, Jan Meyer, Johanna Myrzik and Peter Schegner
Solar 2024, 4(3), 387-400; https://doi.org/10.3390/solar4030017 - 18 Jul 2024
Viewed by 952
Abstract
The growth of renewables in public energy networks requires suitable strategies to assess the stable operation of the respective power electronic devices, e.g., inverters. Different assessment methods can be performed with regard to the available knowledge and the assessment objective, e.g., a specific [...] Read more.
The growth of renewables in public energy networks requires suitable strategies to assess the stable operation of the respective power electronic devices, e.g., inverters. Different assessment methods can be performed with regard to the available knowledge and the assessment objective, e.g., a specific frequency range or the input signal characteristics that are typically classified into small-signal and large-signal disturbances. This paper addresses the limits of the measurement-based small-signal stability analysis in the harmonic frequency range of commercially available single-phase inverters for photovoltaic applications. The harmonic stability is analyzed, and the results for a sinusoidal background voltage and distorted background voltages are assessed based on measurements. The measurements prove that even in the harmonic frequency range, the harmonic stability analysis can only provide a sufficient but not a necessary condition in terms of the statement towards an instable operation. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

36 pages, 1204 KiB  
Review
In-Depth Review of YOLOv1 to YOLOv10 Variants for Enhanced Photovoltaic Defect Detection
by Muhammad Hussain and Rahima Khanam
Solar 2024, 4(3), 351-386; https://doi.org/10.3390/solar4030016 - 26 Jun 2024
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 5617
Abstract
This review presents an investigation into the incremental advancements in the YOLO (You Only Look Once) architecture and its derivatives, with a specific focus on their pivotal contributions to improving quality inspection within the photovoltaic (PV) domain. YOLO’s single-stage approach to object detection [...] Read more.
This review presents an investigation into the incremental advancements in the YOLO (You Only Look Once) architecture and its derivatives, with a specific focus on their pivotal contributions to improving quality inspection within the photovoltaic (PV) domain. YOLO’s single-stage approach to object detection has made it a preferred option due to its efficiency. The review unearths key drivers of success in each variant, from path aggregation networks to generalised efficient layer aggregation architectures and programmable gradient information, presented in the latest variant, YOLOv10, released in May 2024. Looking ahead, the review predicts a significant trend in future research, indicating a shift toward refining YOLO variants to tackle a wider array of PV fault scenarios. While current discussions mainly centre on micro-crack detection, there is an acknowledged opportunity for expansion. Researchers are expected to delve deeper into attention mechanisms within the YOLO architecture, recognising their potential to greatly enhance detection capabilities, particularly for subtle and intricate faults. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

Previous Issue
Next Issue
Back to TopTop