Research

15 pages, 251 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Business Perspectives of Distributed System Operators for Solar Rooftop-as-a-Service

by Chavid Leewiraphan, Nipon Ketjoy and Prapita Thanarak

Energies 2024, 17(1), 52; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17010052 - 21 Dec 2023

Viewed by 741

Rising fossil energy prices and the significantly decreasing prices of energy technology have resulted in electricity consumers having the option to install solar PV rooftops to rely on the self-consumption of clean energy. However, the increase in this amount is affecting the revenue [...] Read more.

Rising fossil energy prices and the significantly decreasing prices of energy technology have resulted in electricity consumers having the option to install solar PV rooftops to rely on the self-consumption of clean energy. However, the increase in this amount is affecting the revenue of electricity as a utility, which must adapt and develop its business model to accommodate the situation. If the utility cannot be adapted in time, it may lead to a loss of income from services and the sale of electricity from fossil energy. The utility in Thailand’s electricity market that acts as the distribution system operator (DSO) is known as the Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA), and the Metropolitan Electricity Authority (MEA) is responsible for managing distribution networks and customers. There are four types of solar rooftop-as-a-service (RaaS) business perspectives they could consider as opportunities through which to minimize revenue impact. The business services were designed for the DSO customer as follows: Consulting, Design, and Installation (CDI); Operation and Maintenance (O&M); Energy Service Company (ESCO); and Power Purchase Agreement (PPA). The model comprises four customer segments: residential buildings and small-, medium-, and large-scale commercial buildings. This paper applies SWOT, Five Forces, 4P marketing, and economic impact analyses to identify the possibilities when using the DSO business model. The SWOT analysis demonstrates that ESCO and PPA are strengths in the DSO’s performance characteristics and existing customer data. In the electricity industry, both models offer enormous customer bargaining power in terms of a Five Forces analysis. The main reason is that there is currently high competition in the installation service. In the 4P analysis result, the price per unit is found to be significantly lower than in residential scenarios. Therefore, there is a format for presenting promotions with an advantage over competitors. Deploying an after-sales service that brings convenience to all customer segments is needed. The economic analysis conducted using Cournot competition game theory shows a significant differential in the Medium (M) and Large (L) customer sectors’ competition due to lower technology prices. In conclusion, with the current regulatory framework and criteria, the ESCO and PPA show the best practical model from a utility business perspective. The recommendation for DSO is to create a strategic ecosystem and to link it with private companies as their partnership business. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Materials and Energy in Negative and Neutral Carbon Society)

26 pages, 6954 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Optimal Placement of Electric Vehicle Charging Stations in an Active Distribution Grid with Photovoltaic and Battery Energy Storage System Integration

by Saksit Deeum, Tossaporn Charoenchan, Natin Janjamraj, Sillawat Romphochai, Sergej Baum, Hideagi Ohgaki, Nadarajah Mithulananthan and Krischonme Bhumkittipich

Energies 2023, 16(22), 7628; https://doi.org/10.3390/en16227628 - 17 Nov 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2686

Abstract

This article presents the optimal placement of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations in an active integrated distribution grid with photovoltaic and battery energy storage systems (BESS), respectively. The increase in the population has enabled people to switch to EVs because the market price [...] Read more.

This article presents the optimal placement of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations in an active integrated distribution grid with photovoltaic and battery energy storage systems (BESS), respectively. The increase in the population has enabled people to switch to EVs because the market price for gas-powered cars is shrinking. The fast spread of EVs depends solely on the rapid and coordinated growth of electric vehicle charging stations (EVCSs). Since EVCSs can cause power losses and voltage variations outside the permissible limits, their integration into the current distribution grid can be characterized by the growing penetration of randomly dispersed photovoltaic (PV) and battery energy storage (BESS) systems, which is complicated. This study used genetic algorithm (GA) optimization and load flow (accommodation of anticipated rise in the number of electric cars on the road) analysis with a forward and backward sweep methodology (FBSM) to locate, scale and optimize EVCSs from a distribution grid where distributed PV/BESSs are prevalent. Power optimization was demonstrated to be the objective issue, which included minimizing active and reactive power losses. To verify the proposed optimal objective solutions from the active distribution grid, an IEEE 33 bus distribution grid was considered for EVCSs’ optimization under the penetration of photovoltaic and BESS systems. MATLAB simulations for the integrated EVCS-PV-BESS system on the distribution grid for five different zones were performed using detection from zone 1 (ranging from 301.9726 kW to 203.3872 kW), reducing the power losses (accounting for 33%) in the system to a minimum level. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Materials and Energy in Negative and Neutral Carbon Society)

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25 pages, 48571 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Varied-Frequency CC–CV Inductive Wireless Power Transfer with Efficiency-Regulated EV Charging for an Electric Golf Cart

by Jutturit Thongpron, Uthen Kamnarn, Anon Namin, Thanet Sriprom, Ekkachai Chaidee, Suchart Janjornmanit, Samart Yachiangkam, Chanyut Karnjanapiboon, Phatiphat Thounthong and Noureddine Takorabet

Energies 2023, 16(21), 7388; https://doi.org/10.3390/en16217388 - 01 Nov 2023

Viewed by 1003

Abstract

Wireless electric vehicle (EV) charging is an important operation for valuable EV options in modern life. Inductive wireless EV charging needs constant current and voltage (CC–CV) charge controllers. This paper presents 750 W variable frequency CC–CV inductive wireless charging for an e-golf cart [...] Read more.

Wireless electric vehicle (EV) charging is an important operation for valuable EV options in modern life. Inductive wireless EV charging needs constant current and voltage (CC–CV) charge controllers. This paper presents 750 W variable frequency CC–CV inductive wireless charging for an e-golf cart 50 Ah 72 V Li-ion battery. Due to this system’s low power, the system’s efficiency may be weak; the secondary-side (SS) maximum efficiency-controlled (MEC) converter was validated. The golf cart’s battery characteristics were evaluated to design and experiment with inductive wireless power transfer (IPT) coils and an integration system for a 42 kHz resonant frequency. The CC–CV charged control is an infrastructural part of the H-bridge inverter at varied frequencies from 50 kHz to 56 kHz when the DC input voltage is 310 V, and in the range of 44 kHz to 46 kHz at the 155 V input. The results found the charging of 9 A CC, 82 V CV and 730 W. The 310 V input voltage system without the SS MEC converter’s efficiencies was 62% to 72% and it was improved to 65% to 81% using the SS MEC converter. Finally, the best cases were validated at the 155 V DC input voltage and the system with the SS MEC converter had 76% to 86% efficiency. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Materials and Energy in Negative and Neutral Carbon Society)

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16 pages, 3832 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Thermal Effects of Electromagnetic Energy on Skin in Contact with Metal: A Numerical Analysis

by Teerapot Wessapan, Phadungsak Rattanadecho, Nisakorn Somsuk, Manop Yamfang, Manaporn Guptasa and Prempreeya Montienthong

Energies 2023, 16(16), 5925; https://doi.org/10.3390/en16165925 - 10 Aug 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1112

Abstract

It has been well recognized that interactions between electromagnetic fields and metals are very strong. The consequence of human tissue in contact with metal, when subjected to an alternating electromagnetic field, is an increase in tissue temperature, which results from metals absorbing the [...] Read more.

It has been well recognized that interactions between electromagnetic fields and metals are very strong. The consequence of human tissue in contact with metal, when subjected to an alternating electromagnetic field, is an increase in tissue temperature, which results from metals absorbing the energy obtained through induction. However, the electromagnetic induction characteristics and tissue energy absorbed caused by various electromagnetic field exposure conditions have not been well understood. A computational model was developed and employed in this study to assess the temporal and spatial temperature increases in skin due to contact with a highly conductive metallic plate while subjected to a high-intensity electromagnetic field. The effects of plate material, plate thickness, coil distance, and exposure time on temperature increase in the skin were computationally investigated. The electromagnetic and temperature distributions in skin layers during exposure to electromagnetic fields were achieved using models of electromagnetic wave propagation and an unsteady bioheat transfer. The modeling approach used indicates that the plate thickness, plate material, coil distance, and exposure time have a significant impact on the temperature change in the skin. The most important parameter was found to be the metal type. Iron has the greatest effect on skin temperature increase when subjected to external electromagnetic induction. These results allow the researchers to estimate more precisely the exposure limits for induction coils. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Materials and Energy in Negative and Neutral Carbon Society)

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31 pages, 7566 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Energy Storage Management of a Solar Photovoltaic–Biomass Hybrid Power System

by Oluwaseun Olanrewaju Akinte, Boonyang Plangklang, Boonrit Prasartkaew and Taiwo Samuel Aina

Energies 2023, 16(13), 5122; https://doi.org/10.3390/en16135122 - 03 Jul 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1412

Abstract

Remote areas that are not within the maximum breakeven grid extension distance limit will not be economical or feasible for grid connections to provide electrical power to the community (remote area). An integrated autonomous sustainable energy system is a feasible option. We worked [...] Read more.

Remote areas that are not within the maximum breakeven grid extension distance limit will not be economical or feasible for grid connections to provide electrical power to the community (remote area). An integrated autonomous sustainable energy system is a feasible option. We worked on a novel multi optimization electrical energy assessment/power management system of a microgrid network that adopted combined dispatch, load-following, and cycle-charging strategies (control system) that acted as a power interface module over the hybrid configuration of energy sources (grid network/downdraft biomass generator/solar photovoltaic), thermal load controller-boiler systems, and hybrid energy-storage technologies (lithium, iron flow, sodium sulfur, and flywheel) to enable the microgrid network to operate in the island (off grid), grid, and island-able (ability to isolate itself when it is connected to the grid network) modes efficiently and effectively. An optimal multitask control algorithm and the storage units of modeled power generation sources were executed with the HOMER software application to improve the energy system’s efficiency, promote effective storage management, minimize energy loss, and improve the lifespan of the microgrid network. The integrated energy system can work for both rural and urban areas. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Materials and Energy in Negative and Neutral Carbon Society)

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19 pages, 3421 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Modification of the Aeration-Supplied Configuration in the Biodrying Process for Refuse-Derived Fuel (RDF) Production

by Abhisit Bhatsada, Suthum Patumsawad, Sirintornthep Towprayoon, Chart Chiemchaisri, Awassada Phongphiphat and Komsilp Wangyao

Energies 2023, 16(7), 3235; https://doi.org/10.3390/en16073235 - 04 Apr 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1453

Abstract

Biodrying is an essential part of the mechanical–biological treatment process that minimizes moisture content and simultaneously maximizes heating value for refuse-derived fuel (RDF) production. Although the mechanical separation process operates effectively in Thailand’s RDF production, high organic content levels and their degradation cause [...] Read more.

Biodrying is an essential part of the mechanical–biological treatment process that minimizes moisture content and simultaneously maximizes heating value for refuse-derived fuel (RDF) production. Although the mechanical separation process operates effectively in Thailand’s RDF production, high organic content levels and their degradation cause moisture contamination in RDF, producing wet RDF. Aeration is essential for an effective biodrying process, and can reduce RDF’s moisture content as well as increase its heating value. To maximize the biodrying effect, aeration should be optimized based on the waste conditions. This study proposes a modified aeration-supplied configuration for wet RDF biodrying. The aeration rate was modified based on the period within the biodrying operation; the first period is from the beginning until day 2.5, and the second period is from day 2.5 to day 5. The optimal aeration supply configuration was 0.5 m³/kg/day in the first period and then 0.3 m³/kg/day until the end of the process; this configuration yielded the greatest moisture content decrease of 35% and increased the low heating value of the biodried product by 11%. The final moisture content and low heating value were 24.07% and 4787 kcal/kg, respectively. Therefore, this optimal aeration-supplied configuration could be applied to meet the moisture content and low heating value requirements of the RDF production standard for Thailand’s local cement industry. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Materials and Energy in Negative and Neutral Carbon Society)

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23 pages, 5794 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Best Practice in Battery Energy Storage for Photovoltaic Systems in Low Voltage Distribution Network: A Case Study of Thailand Provincial Electricity Authority Network

by Pairach Kitworawut, Nipon Ketjoy, Tawat Suriwong and Malinee Kaewpanha

Energies 2023, 16(5), 2469; https://doi.org/10.3390/en16052469 - 05 Mar 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1542

Abstract

This research investigated the increases of the voltage profile on the Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA)’s low voltage (LV) network due to the solar photovoltaic (PV) penetration. This study proposed the solution to maintain the voltage profile within the PEA’s standard limitation by using [...] Read more.

This research investigated the increases of the voltage profile on the Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA)’s low voltage (LV) network due to the solar photovoltaic (PV) penetration. This study proposed the solution to maintain the voltage profile within the PEA’s standard limitation by using battery energy storage system (BESS) application. The algorithm using bisection method to figure out the optimal size and location of BESS was examined and simulated in different scenarios such as summer/winter and weekend/weekday behaviors. Furthermore, the allocation of a battery in various locations was also considered. DIgSILENT power factory with DPL script and Python are the tools used to cover diverse scenario cases. The results showed that the best practice of how to implement BESS to solve the voltage rise problem was the BESS installation at the distribution transformer and the BESS installation separately at the end of each feeder near the loads. However, the optimal size of BESS installation at the distribution transformer was almost double that of installation at the end of each feeder. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Materials and Energy in Negative and Neutral Carbon Society)

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19 pages, 1391 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Barriers Analysis for Waste-to-Energy Project Development in Thailand: Using an Interpretive Structural Modeling Approach

by Nitad Jaisue, Nipon Ketjoy, Malinee Kaewpanha and Prapita Thanarak

Energies 2023, 16(4), 1941; https://doi.org/10.3390/en16041941 - 15 Feb 2023

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1837

Abstract

Waste-to-energy (WtE) is national policy. From this view, WtE technology has been promoted. Many WtE projects in Thailand were unsuccessful due to several problems. This research aimed to analyze the key barriers impacting the WtE project development in Thailand. The Interpretive Structural Model [...] Read more.

Waste-to-energy (WtE) is national policy. From this view, WtE technology has been promoted. Many WtE projects in Thailand were unsuccessful due to several problems. This research aimed to analyze the key barriers impacting the WtE project development in Thailand. The Interpretive Structural Model (ISM) and Cross-Impact Matrix Multiplication Applied to Classification (MICMAC) analysis tool have been used to evaluate the barriers that significantly in the development of WtE projects. In this study, WtE projects focused on electricity power generation in order to correspond to the Alternative Energy Development Plan (AEDP) target and power purchase agreement constrain of the government. The barriers were obtained from six sections consisting of social issues, environment, national policy, technology, economy, and project management. From six sections, there are 20 barriers that were identified. The ISM and MICMAC analysis showed that the key barriers impacting the WtE projects development were insufficient amount of waste and poor waste management planning. These two barriers correspond with many studies in Thailand and other countries. The project developers or investors must take these two barriers and other barriers with less impact mentioned in this study into account before developing the WtE projects in Thailand. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Materials and Energy in Negative and Neutral Carbon Society)

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