Search for Articles:
Title / Keyword
Author / Affiliation / Email
Journal
Article Type
 
 
Advanced Search
 
Section
Special Issue
Volume
Issue
Number
Page
 
7.3
3.2
Journals
Energies
Special Issues
Solar Energy and Resource Utilization—2nd Edition
energies-logo
Submit to Special Issue Submit Abstract to Special Issue Review for Energies Propose a Special Issue

Journal Menu

► Journal Menu

Journal Browser

► Journal Browser
share announcement

Solar Energy and Resource Utilization—2nd Edition

A special issue of Energies (ISSN 1996-1073). This special issue belongs to the section "A2: Solar Energy and Photovoltaic Systems".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 25 February 2026 | Viewed by 5158

Special Issue Editors

Prof. Dr. Fabio Montagnaro

E-Mail Website1 Website2
Guest Editor
Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy
Interests: chemical processes in fluidised bed reactors; thermochemical solar energy storage; reactivation aimed at the re-use of solid wastes of different nature; solids (e.g., traditional and biomass) thermoconversion processes aimed at the production of energy, with removal of pollutants (e.g., CO2, SO2); synthesis of non-traditional binders; liquid–solid and gas–solid adsorption processes; fractal dynamics in heterogeneous processes; design and modelling of chemical reactors and plants
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Roberto Solimene

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Institute of Sciences and Technologies for Sustainable Energy and Mobility (STEMS), National Research Council (CNR), 80125 Napoli, Italy
Interests: combustion, gasification and pyrolysis of solid fuels with a high content of volatile materials; development of new configurations of multiple fluidized bed systems aimed at chemical looping with oxygen uncoupling process; development of new fluidized bed configurations aimed at converting concentrated solar energy into electrical energy and/or materials (chemical storage, solar fuels)
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Reducing the release of greenhouse gas into the atmosphere is challenging the energy world to decrease CO2 emissions and increase the share of renewable energies, particularly in light of recent geo-social events. Concentrating solar power (CSP) technologies may play a key role in the rich and diversified portfolio of renewable energy sources. These technologies, coupled with energy storage, can greatly enhance the dispatchability and the exploitation of solar energy in various applications. In this context, for instance, coupling CSP with calcium looping can help to accomplish the following: (a) carbon capture and sequestration or utilisation (CCSU) and (b) thermochemical energy storage (TCES). In the near future, solar TCES is bound to play a major role, as it enables a larger storage density and a virtually unlimited time scale for energy storage and dispatchability, as it is based on the storage of concentrated solar energy in the noble and stable form of chemical bonds.

This Special Issue is open to contributions from the wide and exciting spectrum of topics concerning solar TCES (possibly coupled with means for CO2 capture), from material properties to experimental/modelling investigations, from studies focusing on the design/operation of chemical reactors, to those more devoted to energy/environmental analyses. Please join us on this new journey by contributing your expertise and knowledge to studies in this emerging field.

Prof. Dr. Fabio Montagnaro
Dr. Roberto Solimene
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Energies is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2600 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • solar energy
  • energy and environment
  • renewable energy
  • sustainability energy

Benefits of Publishing in a Special Issue

  • Ease of navigation: Grouping papers by topic helps scholars navigate broad scope journals more efficiently.
  • Greater discoverability: Special Issues support the reach and impact of scientific research. Articles in Special Issues are more discoverable and cited more frequently.
  • Expansion of research network: Special Issues facilitate connections among authors, fostering scientific collaborations.
  • External promotion: Articles in Special Issues are often promoted through the journal's social media, increasing their visibility.
  • Reprint: MDPI Books provides the opportunity to republish successful Special Issues in book format, both online and in print.

Further information on MDPI's Special Issue policies can be found here.

Related Special Issue

Published Papers (6 papers)

Download All Papers
Order results
Result details
Show export options expand_more Show export options expand_less
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:

Research

21 pages, 2125 KB  
Article
Optimizing Solar-Powered EV Charging: A Techno-Economic Assessment Using Horse Herd Optimization
by Krishan Chopra, M. K. Shah, K. R. Niazi, Gulshan Sharma and Pitshou N. Bokoro
Energies 2025, 18(17), 4556; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18174556 - 28 Aug 2025
Viewed by 889
Abstract
Mass market adoption of EVs is critical for decreasing greenhouse gas emissions and dependence on fossil fuels. However, this transition faces significant challenges, particularly the limited availability of public charging infrastructure. Expanding charging stations and renewable integrated EV parking lots can accelerate the [...] Read more.
Mass market adoption of EVs is critical for decreasing greenhouse gas emissions and dependence on fossil fuels. However, this transition faces significant challenges, particularly the limited availability of public charging infrastructure. Expanding charging stations and renewable integrated EV parking lots can accelerate the adoption of EVs by enhancing charging accessibility and sustainability. This paper introduces an integrated optimization framework to determine the optimal siting of a Residential Parking Lot (RPL), a Commercial Parking Lot (CPL), and an Industrial Fast Charging Station (IFCS) within the IEEE 33-bus distribution system. In addition, the optimal sizing of rooftop solar photovoltaic (SPV) systems on the RPL and CPL is addressed to enhance energy sustainability and reduce grid dependency. The framework aims to minimize overall power losses while considering long-term technical, economic, and environmental impacts. To solve the formulated multi-dimensional optimization problem, Horse Herd Optimization (HHO) is used. Comparative analyses on IEEE-33 bus demonstrate that HHO outperforms well-known optimization algorithms such as genetic algorithm (GA) and particle swarm optimization (PSO) in achieving lower energy losses. Case studies show that installing a 400-kW rooftop PV system can reduce daily energy expenditures by up to 51.60%, while coordinated vehicle scheduling further decreases energy purchasing costs by 4.68%. The results underscore the significant technical, economic, and environmental benefits of optimally integrating EV charging infrastructure with renewable energy systems, contributing to more sustainable and resilient urban energy networks. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Solar Energy and Resource Utilization—2nd Edition)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

21 pages, 1406 KB  
Article
Energy and Exergy Assessment of a Solar Driven Single Effect H2O-LiBr Absorption Chiller Under Moderate and Hot Climatic Conditions
by Mamadou Sow and Lavinia Grosu
Energies 2025, 18(17), 4553; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18174553 - 27 Aug 2025
Viewed by 910
Abstract
This work mainly focuses on the energy and exergy analysis of a single-effect absorption cooling system operating with the couple H2O-LiBr, under different climatic conditions in Senegal and France. A simulation model was developed, using the Engineering Equation Solver V10 (EES) [...] Read more.
This work mainly focuses on the energy and exergy analysis of a single-effect absorption cooling system operating with the couple H2O-LiBr, under different climatic conditions in Senegal and France. A simulation model was developed, using the Engineering Equation Solver V10 (EES) software. Results indicate that the system can achieve a maximum COP of 0.76 and an exergy efficiency of 56%, which decreases as the generator temperature increases. Increasing the generator temperature from 87 to 95 °C significantly improves COP, but gains become marginal beyond 100 °C. The highest exergy destruction occurs in the generator, followed by the absorber, condenser, and evaporator. A temperature difference above 44 °C between the generator and the absorber is required to maintain H2O-LiBr solution stability. Optimal temperatures for hot climates like Senegal are 90 °C (generator), 42 °C (absorber/condenser), and 7 °C (evaporator), while maximum exergy efficiency (56%) is reached at 81 °C, typical of moderate climates (France). Evaporator exergy efficiency increases from 16 to 52% with rising ambient temperature, while absorber and condenser efficiencies drop. Increasing the cooling water flow rate from 0.2 to 1.4 kg/s reduces exergy losses in the absorber and the condenser by up to 36%. The solution heat exchanger (SHE) optimal effectiveness of 0.75 reduces exergy consumption in the absorber and the generator. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Solar Energy and Resource Utilization—2nd Edition)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 2834 KB  
Article
Experimental Study of Solar Hot Water Heating System with Adaptive Control Strategy
by Pawel Znaczko, Norbert Chamier-Gliszczynski and Kazimierz Kaminski
Energies 2025, 18(15), 3904; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18153904 - 22 Jul 2025
Viewed by 979
Abstract
The efficiency of solar water heating systems is strongly influenced by variable weather conditions, making the optimization of control strategies essential for maximizing energy performance. This study presents the development and evaluation of a rule-based adaptive control strategy that dynamically selects one of [...] Read more.
The efficiency of solar water heating systems is strongly influenced by variable weather conditions, making the optimization of control strategies essential for maximizing energy performance. This study presents the development and evaluation of a rule-based adaptive control strategy that dynamically selects one of three predefined control modes—ON–OFF, proportional, or indirect proportional control (IPC)—based on real-time weather classification. The classification algorithm assigns each day to one of four solar irradiance categories, enabling the controller to respond appropriately to current environmental conditions. The proposed adaptive controller was implemented and tested under real operating conditions and compared with a conventional commercial solar controller. Over a 40-day testing period, the adaptive system achieved a 12.7% increase in thermal energy storage efficiency. Specifically, despite receiving 4.8% less solar radiation (719 kWh vs. 755 kWh), the adaptive controller stored 453 kWh of heat in the water tank compared to 416 kWh with the traditional system. This corresponds to an efficiency improvement from 0.55 to 0.63. These results demonstrate the adaptive controller’s superior ability to utilize available solar energy across all weather scenarios. The findings confirm that intelligent control strategies not only enhance technical performance but also improve the economic and environmental value of solar thermal systems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Solar Energy and Resource Utilization—2nd Edition)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 3515 KB  
Article
Analysis of Heat Transfer and Fluid Flow in a Solar Air Heater with Sequentially Placed Rectangular Obstacles on the Fin Surface
by Byeong-Hwa An, Kwang-Am Moon, Seong-Bhin Kim and Hwi-Ung Choi
Energies 2025, 18(14), 3811; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18143811 - 17 Jul 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 673
Abstract
A solar air heater (SAH) converts solar energy into heated air without causing environmental pollution. It features a low initial cost and easy maintenance due to its simple design. However, owing to air’s poor thermal conductivity, its thermal efficiency is relatively low compared [...] Read more.
A solar air heater (SAH) converts solar energy into heated air without causing environmental pollution. It features a low initial cost and easy maintenance due to its simple design. However, owing to air’s poor thermal conductivity, its thermal efficiency is relatively low compared to that of other solar systems. To improve its thermal performance, previous studies have aimed at either enlarging the heat transfer surface or increasing the convective heat transfer coefficient. In this study, a novel SAH with fins and sequentially placed obstacles on the fin surface—designed to achieve both surface extension through a finned channel and enhancement of the heat transfer coefficient via the obstacles—was investigated using computational fluid dynamics analysis. The results confirmed that the obstacles enhanced heat transfer performance by up to 2.602 times in the finned channel. However, the obstacles also caused a pressure loss. Therefore, the thermo-hydraulic performance was discussed, and it was concluded that the obstacles with a relative height of 0.12 and a relative pitch of 10 yielded the maximum THP values among the investigated conditions. Additionally, correlations for the Nusselt number and friction factor were derived and predicted the simulation values with good agreement. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Solar Energy and Resource Utilization—2nd Edition)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 5093 KB  
Article
Enhancing Solar Thermal Energy Storage via Torsionally Modified TPMS Structures Embedded in Sodium Acetate Trihydrate
by Martin Beer and Radim Rybár
Energies 2025, 18(13), 3234; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18133234 - 20 Jun 2025
Viewed by 615
Abstract
This study focuses on the numerical analysis of the impact of geometric modifications of sheet-gyroid structures on heat transfer in thermal energy storage systems utilizing sodium acetate trihydrate as a phase change material. The aim was to enhance the thermal conductivity of SAT, [...] Read more.
This study focuses on the numerical analysis of the impact of geometric modifications of sheet-gyroid structures on heat transfer in thermal energy storage systems utilizing sodium acetate trihydrate as a phase change material. The aim was to enhance the thermal conductivity of SAT, which is inherently low in the solid phase, by embedding a thermally conductive metallic structure made of aluminum alloy 6061. The simulations compared four gyroid configurations with different degrees of torsional deformation (0°, 90°, 180°, and 360°) alongside a reference model without any structure. Using numerical analysis, the study evaluated the time required to heat the entire volume of SAT above its phase transition temperature (58 °C) as well as the spatial distribution of the temperature field. The results demonstrate that all gyroid configurations significantly reduced the charging time compared with the reference case, with the highest efficiency achieved by the 360° twisted structure. Temperature maps revealed a more uniform thermal distribution within the phase change material and a higher heat flux into the volume. These findings highlight the strong potential of TPMS-based structures for improving the performance of latent heat thermal energy storage systems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Solar Energy and Resource Utilization—2nd Edition)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 2301 KB  
Article
Unveiling the Hydrogen Diffusion During Degradation of Silicon Solar Cells
by MyeongSeob Sim, Yejin Gu, Donghwan Kim and Yoonmook Kang
Energies 2025, 18(12), 3090; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18123090 - 12 Jun 2025
Viewed by 719
Abstract
We investigated monocrystalline passivated emitter rear contact cells for light- and elevated-temperature-induced degradation. Among the cell performance factors, a short current density results in a significant decrease in the short term. The quantum efficiency is also affected by carrier recombination-active defects, especially in [...] Read more.
We investigated monocrystalline passivated emitter rear contact cells for light- and elevated-temperature-induced degradation. Among the cell performance factors, a short current density results in a significant decrease in the short term. The quantum efficiency is also affected by carrier recombination-active defects, especially in the case of the reference cell, which has a decreased quantum efficiency across the wavelength, unlike the commercial cell. The front side of the cell has a diffuse hydrogen distribution, and it is related to LeTID. We observe how the hydrogen changes during each process and the changes in the profile during the degradation. The hydrogen appears to redistribute within the silicon wafer and saturate at a certain equilibrium state. The hydrogen distribution is correlated with the changes in the lifetime and, finally, short current density. Regeneration occurs depending on the hydrogen concentration within the emitter, and the closer the concentration is to saturation, the less degradation occurs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Solar Energy and Resource Utilization—2nd Edition)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

Show export options expand_more Show export options expand_less
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:
 
Displaying articles 1-6
Back to TopTop