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Renewable Energy Power Generation and Power Demand Side Management

A special issue of Energies (ISSN 1996-1073). This special issue belongs to the section "A: Sustainable Energy".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (31 March 2025) | Viewed by 10956

Special Issue Editors


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Guest Editor
School of Electrical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing 210096, China
Interests: modeling and control of nonlinear systems; robotics and automation; renewable energy generation and power demand side management

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Guest Editor
Department of Electrical Engineering, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210046, China
Interests: demand response; game theory; electricity market
School of Electrical and Power Engineering, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, China
Interests: control and optimization of electric power electronic converter; renewable energy generation; power system safety and stability

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

With the growing global emphasis on environmental protection and sustainable development, renewable energy power generation technologies have become crucial in mitigating energy crises and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Concurrently, power demand side management has emerged as an effective means to enhance energy efficiency and optimize resource allocation, playing an increasingly significant role in promoting energy structure transformation and ensuring the safe and stable operation of power grids. To deeply explore the latest advancements in renewable energy generation and demand side management, we are excited to announce a call for papers for the Special Issue titled "Renewable Energy Power Generation and Power Demand Side Management".

We invite scholars, researchers, and practitioners to contribute their insights and findings to this Special Issue, covering a range of topics, including but not limited to the following:

  • Renewable energy power generation
  • Renewable energy integration and scheduling
  • Wind energy
  • Solar energy
  • Energy storage
  • Market trading for renewable energy
  • Power demand side management
  • Energy consumption scheduling
  • Renewable energy and/or load demand forecasting
  • Smart homes and cities
  • Review articles focusing on renewable energy and/or demand side management

Your participation would be greatly appreciated.

Prof. Dr. Bingtuan Gao
Dr. Xiaofeng Liu
Dr. Lixia Sun
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

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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

  • renewable energy
  • demand side management
  • energy consumption
  • optimization

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Published Papers (11 papers)

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Research

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19 pages, 7343 KiB  
Article
Development of a Visualization Platform for Power Generation Analysis in Urban Building-Integrated Photovoltaic Systems
by Xi Chen, Hai Long and Ye Xia
Energies 2025, 18(10), 2409; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18102409 - 8 May 2025
Viewed by 299
Abstract
Urban high-density planning and the rise of super-high-rise buildings have significantly limited the development of distributed photovoltaic (PV) systems, creating an urgent need for optimized three-dimensional (3D) layout strategies within urban building spaces. Given that PV power generation is influenced by environmental factors [...] Read more.
Urban high-density planning and the rise of super-high-rise buildings have significantly limited the development of distributed photovoltaic (PV) systems, creating an urgent need for optimized three-dimensional (3D) layout strategies within urban building spaces. Given that PV power generation is influenced by environmental factors and building spatial configurations, a 3D panoramic visualization tool is essential to intuitively display relevant data and support decision-making for government planners and PV operators. To address this, we developed a visualization platform to assess the integrated PV power generation potential of buildings at both city and single-building levels. The platform enables a 3D spatial panoramic display, where building surfaces are color-coded to clearly represent key performance metrics, such as power generation capacity, installation costs, and potential electricity savings. This intuitive visualization allows stakeholders to identify optimal PV installation areas and evaluate economic benefits effectively. This article details the implementation of the visualization platform across four key aspects: data generation and input, power generation and economic calculation, building model creation and data mapping, and visual interface design, aiming to facilitate the efficient planning and deployment of distributed photovoltaic systems in complex urban environments. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Renewable Energy Power Generation and Power Demand Side Management)
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23 pages, 1783 KiB  
Article
Day-Ahead Scheduling of IES Containing Solar Thermal Power Generation Based on CNN-MI-BILSTM Considering Source-Load Uncertainty
by Kun Ding, Yalu Sun, Boyang Chen, Jing Chen, Lixia Sun, Yingjun Wu and Yusheng Xia
Energies 2025, 18(9), 2160; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18092160 - 23 Apr 2025
Viewed by 227
Abstract
The fluctuating uncertainty of load demand as an influencing factor for day-ahead scheduling of an integrated energy system with photovoltaic (PV) power generation may cause an imbalance between supply and demand, and to solve this problem, this paper proposes a day-ahead optimal scheduling [...] Read more.
The fluctuating uncertainty of load demand as an influencing factor for day-ahead scheduling of an integrated energy system with photovoltaic (PV) power generation may cause an imbalance between supply and demand, and to solve this problem, this paper proposes a day-ahead optimal scheduling model considering uncertain loads and electric heating appliance (EH)–PV energy storage. The model fuses the multi-interval uncertainty set with the CNN-MI-BILSTM neural network prediction technique, which significantly improves the accuracy and reliability of load prediction and overcomes the limitations of traditional methods in dealing with load volatility. By integrating the EH–photothermal storage module, the model achieves efficient coupled power generation and thermal storage operation, aiming to optimize economic targets while enhancing the grid’s peak-shaving and valley-filling capabilities and utilization of renewable energy. The validity of the proposed model is verified by algorithm prediction simulation and day-ahead scheduling experiments under different configurations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Renewable Energy Power Generation and Power Demand Side Management)
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28 pages, 7386 KiB  
Article
Reduced-Order Modeling and Stability Analysis of Grid-Following and Grid-Forming Hybrid Renewable Energy Plants
by Yue Ma, Ning Chen and Luming Ge
Energies 2025, 18(7), 1752; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18071752 - 31 Mar 2025
Viewed by 296
Abstract
The control methods of energy systems can be categorized into grid-following and grid-forming types. The grid-following control method relies on grid synchronization and is prone to stability issues in weak grid conditions. By contrast, the grid-forming control method exhibits synchronous machine characteristics, providing [...] Read more.
The control methods of energy systems can be categorized into grid-following and grid-forming types. The grid-following control method relies on grid synchronization and is prone to stability issues in weak grid conditions. By contrast, the grid-forming control method exhibits synchronous machine characteristics, providing voltage support to the system, but potentially introducing stability risks under strong grid conditions. Constructing a grid-following and grid-forming hybrid renewable energy plant can effectively enhance the system’s support capability and ensure reliable operation. However, the interactions among multiple inverters are complex, and traditional modeling methods are inadequate to meet the modeling requirements for such systems. To effectively address this problem, this paper presents a reduced-order modeling method that simplifies the complex system into a simple system consisting of an equivalent grid-following, an equivalent grid-forming, and grid impedance through frequency decoupling and the aggregation of similar inverters. Furthermore, this study employs both the Nyquist stability criterion and the harmonic characteristic analysis method to elucidate how the capacity ratio between grid-following and grid-forming affects system stability. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Renewable Energy Power Generation and Power Demand Side Management)
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25 pages, 3834 KiB  
Article
Stochastic Capacity Expansion Model Accounting for Uncertainties in Fuel Prices, Renewable Generation, and Demand
by Naga Srujana Goteti, Eric Hittinger and Eric Williams
Energies 2025, 18(5), 1283; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18051283 - 6 Mar 2025
Viewed by 1092
Abstract
Capacity expansion models for electricity grids typically use deterministic optimization, addressing uncertainty through ex-post analysis by varying input parameters. This paper presents a stochastic capacity expansion model that integrates uncertainty directly into optimization, enabling the selection of a single strategy robust across a [...] Read more.
Capacity expansion models for electricity grids typically use deterministic optimization, addressing uncertainty through ex-post analysis by varying input parameters. This paper presents a stochastic capacity expansion model that integrates uncertainty directly into optimization, enabling the selection of a single strategy robust across a defined range of uncertainties. Two cost-based risk objectives are explored: “risk-neutral” minimizes expected total system cost, and “risk-averse” minimizes the most expensive 5% of the cost distribution. The model is applied to the U.S. Midwest grid, accounting for uncertainties in electricity demand, natural gas prices, and wind generation patterns. While uncertain gas prices lead to wind additions, wind variability leads to reduced adoption when explicitly accounted for. The risk-averse objective produces a more diverse generation portfolio, including six GW more solar, three GW more biomass, along with lower current fleet retirements. Stochastic objectives reduce mean system costs by 4.5% (risk-neutral) and 4.3% (risk-averse) compared to the deterministic case. Carbon emissions decrease by 1.5% under the risk-neutral objective, but increase by 3.0% under the risk-averse objective due to portfolio differences. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Renewable Energy Power Generation and Power Demand Side Management)
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18 pages, 3679 KiB  
Article
Evaluating the Impact of Dirt Accumulation on Photovoltaic Performance: Insights from an Experimental Plant in Brazil
by Mylena Cruzinha da Silva, Dener A. de L. Brandao and Igor A. Pires
Energies 2025, 18(5), 1214; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18051214 - 1 Mar 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 829
Abstract
In recent decades, the use of photovoltaic (PV) modules as a source of electricity has grown significantly, driven largely by government incentives and regulatory advancements. However, merely installing these systems does not ensure optimal energy production, as maximizing solar energy capture requires additional [...] Read more.
In recent decades, the use of photovoltaic (PV) modules as a source of electricity has grown significantly, driven largely by government incentives and regulatory advancements. However, merely installing these systems does not ensure optimal energy production, as maximizing solar energy capture requires additional measures. This study examines the impact of dirt accumulation on PV modules, focusing on a system installed at the School of Engineering of the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) in Belo Horizonte, Brazil. The research involved visual and thermographic analyses, as well as an evaluation of the I–V and P–V curve behavior for specific system arrays, which were cleaned during the 2024 dry season. Electrical parameters were compared between the dirty and cleaned states of the system, and the soiling ratio (SR) was calculated, ranging from 0.91 in the most affected case to 0.93 in the least affected. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Renewable Energy Power Generation and Power Demand Side Management)
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18 pages, 5516 KiB  
Article
Performance Analysis of a Parabolic Trough Collector with Photovoltaic—Thermal Generation: Case Study and Parametric Study
by Benjamín Chavarría-Domínguez, Susana Estefany De León-Aldaco, Mario Ponce-Silva, Nicolás Velázquez-Limón, Jesús Armando Aguilar-Jiménez, Fernando Chavarría-Domínguez, Ernesto Raúl Rodríguez-García, Heriberto Adamas-Pérez, Ricardo Eliu Lozoya-Ponce and Eligio Flores-Rodriguez
Energies 2025, 18(2), 356; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18020356 - 15 Jan 2025
Viewed by 2001
Abstract
This study presents a mathematical model of a parabolic trough solar collector with photovoltaic cells integrated into its solar receiver. A case study is presented, utilizing meteorological data obtained from the localities of Cuernavaca and Mexicali in Mexico. The results demonstrate moderately variable [...] Read more.
This study presents a mathematical model of a parabolic trough solar collector with photovoltaic cells integrated into its solar receiver. A case study is presented, utilizing meteorological data obtained from the localities of Cuernavaca and Mexicali in Mexico. The results demonstrate moderately variable electrical and thermal energy production for Cuernavaca (387.93 kWh to 239.38 kWh and 1036.11 kWh to 641.26 kWh, respectively). In contrast, the production of electrical and thermal energy in Mexicali exhibited considerably greater fluctuations (515.16 kWh to 177.69 kWh and 1424.39 kWh to 448.88 kWh, respectively). Furthermore, a parametric study is presented, which analyzes the impact of solar receiver geometry and mass flow on the model’s behavior. The results demonstrate that the pipe length exerts the most significant influence on the electrical and thermal power output (1.21 kW to 2.22 kW and 3.7 kW to 6.9 kW, respectively). Additionally, the diameter has an impact on the thermal power output (5.23 kW to 7.1 kW) and the electrical and thermal efficiency (0.18 to 0.15 and 0.54 to 0.74, respectively). Modifying the mass flow facilitates the enhancement of electrical power and efficiency (1.54 kW to 1.72 kW and 0.16 to 0.18, respectively) while concurrently preventing a significant reduction in thermal power and efficiency (5.4 kW to 5.3 kW and 0.56 to 0.55, respectively). A script with the developed model is provided. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Renewable Energy Power Generation and Power Demand Side Management)
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19 pages, 2363 KiB  
Article
Research on Safe-Economic Dispatch Strategy for Renewable Energy Power Stations Based on Game-Fairness Empowerment
by Zhen Zhang, Wenjun Xian, Weijun Tan, Jinghua Li and Xiaofeng Liu
Energies 2024, 17(23), 6146; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17236146 - 6 Dec 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 655
Abstract
The optimal dispatching of renewable energy power stations is particularly crucial in scenarios where the stations face energy rationing due to the large proportion of renewable energy integrated into the power system. In order to achieve safe, economical, and fair scheduling of renewable [...] Read more.
The optimal dispatching of renewable energy power stations is particularly crucial in scenarios where the stations face energy rationing due to the large proportion of renewable energy integrated into the power system. In order to achieve safe, economical, and fair scheduling of renewable energy power stations, this paper proposes a two-stage scheduling framework. Specifically, in the initial stage, the maximum consumption space of renewable energy for the system can be optimized by optimizing the formulated safe-economic dispatch model. In the second stage, the fair allocation mechanism of renewable energy power stations is proposed based on the game-fairness empowerment approach. In order to obtain a comprehensive evaluation of renewable energy power stations, an evaluation index system is constructed considering equipment performance, output characteristics, reliability, flexibility, and economy. Subsequently, the cooperative game weighting method is proposed to rank the performance of renewable energy power stations as the basis for fair dispatching. Simulation results show that the proposed scheduling strategy can effectively ensure the priority of renewable energy power stations based on their comprehensive ranking, and improve the safety, economy, and fairness of power station participation in scheduling. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Renewable Energy Power Generation and Power Demand Side Management)
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17 pages, 5657 KiB  
Article
An Equivalent Model for Frequency Dynamic Analysis of Large Power Grids Based on Regulation Performance Weighting Method
by Junlong Zhang, Junchao Ma, Xuchen Yang, Jiajia Wang, Chenxu Wang and Yiping Yu
Energies 2024, 17(22), 5733; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17225733 - 15 Nov 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1130
Abstract
With the construction of the UHV (Ultra High Voltage) AC/DC hybrid power grid and the large-scale access to renewable energy such as wind power, frequency dynamic fluctuation has become a prominent problem affecting the safe and stable operation of large power grids. The [...] Read more.
With the construction of the UHV (Ultra High Voltage) AC/DC hybrid power grid and the large-scale access to renewable energy such as wind power, frequency dynamic fluctuation has become a prominent problem affecting the safe and stable operation of large power grids. The expansion of the scale of the power system makes it impossible to use traditional fine modeling to analyze the power system. In order to reduce the calculation scale and storage capacity of power system frequency dynamic simulation, it is necessary to make appropriate equivalent simplification of the external system, so the appropriate dynamic equivalent method is of great significance. This paper mainly studies the equivalent model suitable for frequency dynamic analysis of large power grids. Firstly, the typical models of generator set and load are simplified, and the parameters that have a great influence on frequency in the simplified model are obtained through characteristic analysis. Then, a dynamic aggregation method of generator governor and prime mover parameters and load parameters based on regulation performance weighting (the parameters of the generator or load are weighted and summed according to its regulation ability on the system) is proposed. This method is applied to the simulation example of the East China Power Grid. The simulation proves that the frequency of the East China Power Grid before and after equivalence can be consistent under four different faults, which verifies the effectiveness of the equivalent method proposed in this paper in the frequency dynamic analysis of large power grids. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Renewable Energy Power Generation and Power Demand Side Management)
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23 pages, 544 KiB  
Article
Optimal Configuration of Electricity-Heat Integrated Energy Storage Supplier and Multi-Microgrid System Scheduling Strategy Considering Demand Response
by Yuchen Liu, Zhenhai Dou, Zheng Wang, Jiaming Guo, Jingwei Zhao and Wenliang Yin
Energies 2024, 17(21), 5436; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17215436 - 31 Oct 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 918
Abstract
Shared energy storage system provides an attractive solution to the high configuration cost and low utilization rate of multi-microgrid energy storage system. In this paper, an electricity-heat integrated energy storage supplier (EHIESS) containing electricity and heat storage devices is proposed to provide shared [...] Read more.
Shared energy storage system provides an attractive solution to the high configuration cost and low utilization rate of multi-microgrid energy storage system. In this paper, an electricity-heat integrated energy storage supplier (EHIESS) containing electricity and heat storage devices is proposed to provide shared energy storage services for multi-microgrid system in order to realize mutual profits for different subjects. To this end, electric boiler (EB) is introduced into EHIESS to realize the electricity-heat coupling of EHIESS and improve the energy utilization rate of electricity and heat storage equipment. Secondly, due to the problem of the uncertainty in user-side operation of multi-microgrid system, a price-based demand response (DR) mechanism is proposed to further optimize the resource allocation of shared electricity and heat energy storage devices. On this basis, a bi-level optimization model considering the capacity configuration of EHIESS and the optimal scheduling of multi-microgrid system is proposed, with the objectives of maximizing the profits of energy storage suppliers in upper-level and minimizing the operation costs of the multi-microgrid system in lower-level, and solved based on the Karush-Kuhn-Tucker (KKT) condition and Big-M method. The simulation results show that in case of demand response, the total operation cost of multi-microgrid system and the total operation profit of EHIESS are 51,687.73 and 11,983.88 CNY, respectively; and the corresponding electricity storage unit capacity is 9730.80 kWh. The proposed model realizes the mutual profits of EHIESS and multi-microgrid system. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Renewable Energy Power Generation and Power Demand Side Management)
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Review

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33 pages, 5789 KiB  
Review
Concentrated Solar Thermal Power Technology and Its Thermal Applications
by Chunchao Wu, Yonghong Zhao, Wulin Li, Jianjun Fan, Haixiang Xu, Zhongqian Ling, Dingkun Yuan and Xianyang Zeng
Energies 2025, 18(8), 2120; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18082120 - 20 Apr 2025
Viewed by 440
Abstract
The industrial sector accounts for approximately 65% of global energy consumption, with projections indicating a steady annual increase of 1.2% in energy demand. In the context of growing concerns about climate change and the need for sustainable energy solutions, solar thermal energy has [...] Read more.
The industrial sector accounts for approximately 65% of global energy consumption, with projections indicating a steady annual increase of 1.2% in energy demand. In the context of growing concerns about climate change and the need for sustainable energy solutions, solar thermal energy has emerged as a promising technology for reducing reliance on fossil fuels. With its ability to provide high-efficiency heat for industrial processes at temperatures ranging from 150 °C to over 500 °C, solar thermal power generation offers significant potential for decarbonizing energy-intensive industries. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of various solar thermal technologies, including parabolic troughs, solar towers, and linear Fresnel reflectors, comparing their effectiveness across different industrial applications such as process heating, desalination, and combined heat and power (CHP) systems. For instance, parabolic trough systems have demonstrated optimal performance in high-temperature applications, achieving efficiency levels up to 80% for steam generation, while solar towers are particularly suitable for large-scale, high-temperature operations, reaching temperatures above 1000 °C. The paper also evaluates the economic feasibility of these technologies, showing that solar thermal systems can achieve a levelized cost of energy (LCOE) of USD 60–100 per MWh, making them competitive with conventional energy sources in many regions. However, challenges such as high initial investment, intermittency of solar resource, and integration into existing industrial infrastructure remain significant barriers. This review not only discusses the technical principles and economic aspects of solar thermal power generation but also outlines specific recommendations for enhancing the scalability and industrial applicability of these technologies in the near future. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Renewable Energy Power Generation and Power Demand Side Management)
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22 pages, 2500 KiB  
Review
Demand-Side Flexibility in Power Systems, Structure, Opportunities, and Objectives: A Review for Residential Sector
by Hessam Golmohamadi, Saeed Golestan, Rakesh Sinha and Birgitte Bak-Jensen
Energies 2024, 17(18), 4670; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17184670 - 19 Sep 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2245
Abstract
The integration of renewable energy sources (RESs) is rapidly increasing within energy systems worldwide. However, this shift introduces intermittency and uncertainty on the supply side. To hedge against RES intermittency, demand-side flexibility introduces a practical solution. Therefore, further studies are required to unleash [...] Read more.
The integration of renewable energy sources (RESs) is rapidly increasing within energy systems worldwide. However, this shift introduces intermittency and uncertainty on the supply side. To hedge against RES intermittency, demand-side flexibility introduces a practical solution. Therefore, further studies are required to unleash demand-side flexibility in power systems. This flexibility is relevant across various sectors of power systems, including residential, industrial, commercial, and agricultural sectors. This paper reviews the key aspects of demand-side flexibility within the residential sector. To achieve this objective, a general introduction to demand flexibility across the four sectors is provided. As a contribution of this paper, and in comparison with previous studies, household appliances are classified based on their flexibility and controllability. The flexibility potential of key residential demands, including heat pumps, district heating, electric vehicles, and battery systems, is then reviewed. Another contribution of this paper is the exploration of demand-side flexibility scheduling under uncertainty, examining three approaches: stochastic programming, robust optimization, and information-gap decision theory. Additionally, the integration of demand flexibility into short-term electricity markets with high-RES penetration is discussed. Finally, the key objective functions and simulation software used in the study of demand-side flexibility are reviewed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Renewable Energy Power Generation and Power Demand Side Management)
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