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Search Results (382)

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Keywords = built in photovoltaics

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12 pages, 1167 KiB  
Article
Experimental Studies on Partial Energy Harvesting by Novel Solar Cages, Microworlds, to Explore Sustainability
by Mohammad A. Khan, Brian Maricle, Zachary D. Franzel, Gabe Gransden and Matthew Vannette
Solar 2025, 5(3), 36; https://doi.org/10.3390/solar5030036 - 1 Aug 2025
Viewed by 145
Abstract
Sources of renewable energy have attracted considerable attention. Their expanded use will have a substantial impact on both the cost of energy production and climate change. Solar energy is one efficient and safe option; however, solar energy harvesting sites, irrespective of the location, [...] Read more.
Sources of renewable energy have attracted considerable attention. Their expanded use will have a substantial impact on both the cost of energy production and climate change. Solar energy is one efficient and safe option; however, solar energy harvesting sites, irrespective of the location, can impact the ecosystem. This experimental study explores the energy available inside and outside of novel miniature energy harvesting cages by measuring light intensity and power generated. Varying light intensity outside the cage has been utilized to study the remaining energy inside the cage of a flexible design, where the heights of the harvesting panels are parameters. Cages are built from custom photovoltaic panels arranged in a staircase manner to provide access to growing plants. The balance between power generation and biological development is investigated. Two different structures are presented to explore the variation of illumination intensity inside the cages. The experimental results show a substantial reduction in energy inside the cages. The experimental results showed up to 24% reduction in illumination inside the cages in winter. The reduction is even larger in summer, up to 57%. The results from the models provide a framework to study the possible impact on a biological system residing inside the cages, paving the way for practical farming with sustainable energy harvesting. Full article
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14 pages, 2454 KiB  
Article
A Comparative Study of Storage Batteries for Electrical Energy Produced by Photovoltaic Panels
by Petru Livinti
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(15), 8549; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15158549 (registering DOI) - 1 Aug 2025
Viewed by 191
Abstract
This article presents a comparative study of the storage of energy produced by photovoltaic panels by means of two types of batteries: Lead–Acid and Lithium-Ion batteries. The work involved the construction of a model in MATLAB-Simulink for controlling the loading/unloading of storage batteries [...] Read more.
This article presents a comparative study of the storage of energy produced by photovoltaic panels by means of two types of batteries: Lead–Acid and Lithium-Ion batteries. The work involved the construction of a model in MATLAB-Simulink for controlling the loading/unloading of storage batteries with energy produced by photovoltaic panels through a buck-type DC-DC convertor, controlled by means of the MPPT algorithm implemented through the method of incremental conductance based on a MATLAB function. The program for the MATLAB function was developed by the author in the C++ programming environment. The MPPT algorithm provides maximum energy transfer from the photovoltaic panels to the battery. The electric power taken over at a certain moment by Lithium-Ion batteries in photovoltaic panels is higher than the electric power taken over by Lead–Acid batteries. Two types of batteries were successively used in this model: Lead–Acid and Lithium-Ion batteries. Based on the results being obtained and presented in this work it may be affirmed that the storage battery Lithium-Ion is more performant than the Lead-Acid storage battery. At the Laboratory of Electrical Machinery and Drives of the Engineering Faculty of Bacau, an experimental stand was built for a storing system for electric energy produced by photovoltaic panels. For controlling DC-DC buck-type convertors, a program was developed in the programming environment Arduino IDE for implementing the MPPT algorithm for incremental conductance. The simulation part of this program is similar to that of the program developed in C++. Through conducting experiments, it was observed that, during battery charging, along with an increase in the charging voltage, an increase in the filling factor of the PWM signal controlling the buck DC-DC convertor also occurred. The findings of this study may be applicable to the storage of battery-generated electrical energy used for supplying electrical motors in electric cars. Full article
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21 pages, 1558 KiB  
Article
Total Performance in Practice: Energy Efficiency in Modern Developer-Built Housing
by Wiktor Sitek, Michał Kosakiewicz, Karolina Krysińska, Magdalena Daria Vaverková and Anna Podlasek
Energies 2025, 18(15), 4003; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18154003 - 28 Jul 2025
Viewed by 224
Abstract
Improving the energy efficiency of residential buildings is essential for achieving global climate goals and reducing environmental impact. This study analyzes the Total Performance approach using the example of a modern semi-detached house built by a Polish developer, as an example. The building [...] Read more.
Improving the energy efficiency of residential buildings is essential for achieving global climate goals and reducing environmental impact. This study analyzes the Total Performance approach using the example of a modern semi-detached house built by a Polish developer, as an example. The building is designed with integrated systems that minimize energy consumption while maintaining resident comfort. The building is equipped with an air-to-water heat pump, underfloor heating, mechanical ventilation with heat recovery, and automatic temperature control systems. Energy efficiency was assessed using ArCADia–TERMOCAD 8.0 software in accordance with Polish Technical Specifications (TS) and verified by monitoring real-time electricity consumption during the heating season. The results show a PED from non-renewable sources of 54.05 kWh/(m2·year), representing a 23% reduction compared to the Polish regulatory limit of 70 kWh/(m2·year). Real-time monitoring conducted from December 2024 to April 2025 confirmed these results, indicating an actual energy demand of approximately 1771 kWh/year. Domestic hot water (DHW) preparation accounted for the largest share of energy consumption. Despite its dependence on grid electricity, the building has the infrastructure to enable future photovoltaic (PV) installation, offering further potential for emissions reduction. The results confirm that Total Performance strategies are not only compliant with applicable standards, but also economically and environmentally viable. They represent a scalable model for sustainable residential construction, in line with the European Union’s (EU’s) decarbonization policy and the goals of the European Green Deal. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section G: Energy and Buildings)
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21 pages, 2568 KiB  
Article
Research on the Data-Driven Identification of Control Parameters for Voltage Ride-Through in Energy Storage Systems
by Liming Bo, Jiangtao Wang, Xu Zhang, Yimeng Su, Xueting Cheng, Zhixuan Zhang, Shenbing Ma, Jiyu Wang and Xiaoyu Fang
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(15), 8249; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15158249 - 24 Jul 2025
Viewed by 222
Abstract
The large-scale integration of wind power, photovoltaic systems, and energy storage systems (ESSs) into power grids has increasingly influenced the transient stability of power systems due to their dynamic response characteristics. Considering the commercial confidentiality of core control parameters from equipment manufacturers, parameter [...] Read more.
The large-scale integration of wind power, photovoltaic systems, and energy storage systems (ESSs) into power grids has increasingly influenced the transient stability of power systems due to their dynamic response characteristics. Considering the commercial confidentiality of core control parameters from equipment manufacturers, parameter identification has become a crucial approach for analyzing ESS dynamic behaviors during high-voltage ride-through (HVRT) and low-voltage ride-through (LVRT) and for optimizing control strategies. In this study, we present a multidimensional feature-integrated parameter identification framework for ESSs, combining a multi-scenario voltage disturbance testing environment built on a real-time laboratory platform with field-measured data and enhanced optimization algorithms. Focusing on the control characteristics of energy storage converters, a non-intrusive identification method for grid-connected control parameters is proposed based on dynamic trajectory feature extraction and a hybrid optimization algorithm that integrates an improved particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm with gradient-based coordination. The results demonstrate that the proposed approach effectively captures the dynamic coupling mechanisms of ESSs under dual-mode operation (charging and discharging) and voltage fluctuations. By relying on measured data for parameter inversion, the method circumvents the limitations posed by commercial confidentiality, providing a novel technical pathway to enhance the fault ride-through (FRT) performance of energy storage systems (ESSs). In addition, the developed simulation verification framework serves as a valuable tool for security analysis in power systems with high renewable energy penetration. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering)
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16 pages, 2975 KiB  
Article
Control Strategy of Distributed Photovoltaic Storage Charging Pile Under Weak Grid
by Yan Zhang, Shuangting Xu, Yan Lin, Xiaoling Fang, Yang Wang and Jiaqi Duan
Processes 2025, 13(7), 2299; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr13072299 - 19 Jul 2025
Viewed by 311
Abstract
Distributed photovoltaic storage charging piles in remote rural areas can solve the problem of charging difficulties for new energy vehicles in the countryside, but these storage charging piles contain a large number of power electronic devices, and there is a risk of resonance [...] Read more.
Distributed photovoltaic storage charging piles in remote rural areas can solve the problem of charging difficulties for new energy vehicles in the countryside, but these storage charging piles contain a large number of power electronic devices, and there is a risk of resonance in the system under weak grid conditions. Firstly, the topology of a photovoltaic storage charging pile is introduced, including a bidirectional DC/DC converter, unidirectional DC/DC converter, and single-phase grid-connected inverter. Then, the maximum power tracking control strategy based on improved conductance micro-increment is derived for a photovoltaic power generation system, and a constant voltage and constant current charge–discharge control strategy is derived for energy storage equipment. Additionally, a segmented reflective charging control strategy is introduced for charging piles, and the quasi-PR controller is introduced for single-phase grid-connected inverters. In addition, an improved second-order general integrator phase-locked loop (SOGI-PLL) based on feed-forward of the grid current is derived. Finally, a simulation model is built to verify the performance of the solar–storage charging pile and lay the technical groundwork for future integrated control strategies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Energy Systems)
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28 pages, 5408 KiB  
Article
Optimization and Evaluation of the PEDF System Configuration Based on Planning and Operating Dual-Layer Model
by Tianhe Li, Pei Ye, Haiyang Wang, Weiyu Liu, Xinyue Huang and Ji Ke
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(14), 7776; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15147776 - 11 Jul 2025
Viewed by 274
Abstract
The photovoltaic, energy storage, direct current, and flexibility (PEDF) system represents a crucial innovation for transforming buildings into low-carbon energy sources. Although it is still in the early stages of scalable demonstration, current research and practice related to PEDF lack comprehensive studies on [...] Read more.
The photovoltaic, energy storage, direct current, and flexibility (PEDF) system represents a crucial innovation for transforming buildings into low-carbon energy sources. Although it is still in the early stages of scalable demonstration, current research and practice related to PEDF lack comprehensive studies on optimizing and evaluating system capacity configuration across various scenarios. Capacity configuration and energy scheduling are crucial components that are often treated separately, leading to a missing opportunity to leverage the synergy among key interactive devices. To address this issue, this paper proposes an optimization and evaluation framework for the PEDF system that employs a dual-layer model for planning and operating. This framework precisely configures the PEDF topology, load, photovoltaic, energy storage, and critical interactive devices, while integrating economic, environmental, and reliability objectives. The effectiveness of the proposed model has been validated in optimizing capacity configurations for newly built office buildings and existing commercial settings. The results indicate that for new office buildings, schemes that prioritize low-carbon initiatives are more effective than those that focus on reliability and economy. In existing commercial buildings, reliability-focused schemes outperform those that prioritize economy and low carbon, and all three are significantly better than pre-configuration schemes. The proposed framework enhances the theoretical understanding of PEDF system planning and evaluation, thereby promoting broader adoption of sustainable energy technologies. Full article
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18 pages, 2429 KiB  
Article
Management of Energy Production in a Hybrid Combination of a Heat Pump and a Photovoltaic Thermal (PVT) Collector
by Wojciech Luboń, Artur Jachimowski, Michał Łyczba, Grzegorz Pełka, Mateusz Wygoda, Dominika Dawiec, Roger Książek, Wojciech Sorociak and Klaudia Krawiec
Energies 2025, 18(13), 3463; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18133463 - 1 Jul 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 354
Abstract
The purpose of the study is to investigate the energy performance of a PVT collector in combination with a heat pump. First, a test system combining a heat pump and PVT module is built, and then its performance is carefully measured, assessing the [...] Read more.
The purpose of the study is to investigate the energy performance of a PVT collector in combination with a heat pump. First, a test system combining a heat pump and PVT module is built, and then its performance is carefully measured, assessing the electricity and heat production. The paper focuses on increasing the efficiency of a photovoltaic (PV) panel (as part of the PVT module) by cooling it with a heat pump. The main idea is to use the heat generated by the warming panels as a low-temperature source for the heat pump. The research aims to maximize the use of solar energy in the form of both electricity and heat. In traditional PV systems, the panel temperature rise reduces the solar-to-electric conversion efficiency. Therefore, cooling with a heat pump is increasingly used to keep panels at optimal temperatures and improve performance. The tests confirm that cooling the panels with a heat pump results in an 11.4% improvement in electrical efficiency, an increase from 10.8% to 12.0%, with an average system efficiency of 11.81% and a temperature coefficient of –0.37%/°C. The heat pump achieves a COP of 3.45, while thermal energy from the PVT panel accounts for up to 60% of the heat input when the air exchanger is off. The surface temperature of the PVT panels varies from 11 °C to 70 °C, and cooling enables an increase in electricity yield of up to 20% during sunny periods. This solution is especially promising for facilities with year-round thermal demand (e.g., swimming pools, laundromats). Full article
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14 pages, 3936 KiB  
Article
Atums Green Conjugated Polymer Heterojunction Films as Blue-Sensitive Photodiodes
by Zahida Batool, Razieh Firouzihaji, Mariia Babiichuk, Aria Khalili, John C. Garcia, Jau-Young Cho, Preeti Gahtori, Lukas Eylert, Karthik Shankar, Sergey I. Vagin, Julianne Gibbs and Alkiviathes Meldrum
Polymers 2025, 17(13), 1770; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym17131770 - 26 Jun 2025
Viewed by 459
Abstract
Conjugated polymers (CPs) offer many attractive features for photodiodes and photovoltaics, including solution processability, ease of scale-up, light weight, low cost, and mechanical flexibility. CPs have a wide range of energy gaps; thus, the choice of the specific polymer determines the optimum operational [...] Read more.
Conjugated polymers (CPs) offer many attractive features for photodiodes and photovoltaics, including solution processability, ease of scale-up, light weight, low cost, and mechanical flexibility. CPs have a wide range of energy gaps; thus, the choice of the specific polymer determines the optimum operational wavelength range. However, there are relatively few CPs with a strong absorption in the blue region of the spectrum where the human eye is most sensitive (440 to 470 nm) and none with an energy gap at 2.75 eV (450 nm), which corresponds to the peak of the CIE-1931 z(λ) color-matching function and the dominant blue light emission wavelength in computer and smartphone displays. Blue-light detectors in this wavelength range are important for light hazard control, sky polarization studies, and for blue-light information devices, where 450 nm corresponds to the principal emission of GaN-based light sources. We report on a new CP called Atums Green (AG), which shows promising characteristics as a blue-light photodetection polymer optimized for exactly this range of wavelengths centered around 450 nm. We built and measured a simple photodetector made from spin-coated films of AG and showed that its photosensitivity can be improved by the addition of asphaltene, a low-cost carbonaceous waste product. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Polymer Membranes and Films)
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16 pages, 1449 KiB  
Article
Techno-Economic Analysis of an Air–Water Heat Pump Assisted by a Photovoltaic System for Rural Medical Centers: An Ecuadorian Case Study
by Daniel Icaza, Paul Arévalo and Francisco Jurado
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(12), 6462; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15126462 - 8 Jun 2025
Viewed by 702
Abstract
Air–water heat pumps are gaining interest in modern architectures, and they are a suitable option as a replacement for fossil fuel-based heating systems. These systems consume less electricity by combining solar panels, a heat pump, thermal storage, and a smart control system. This [...] Read more.
Air–water heat pumps are gaining interest in modern architectures, and they are a suitable option as a replacement for fossil fuel-based heating systems. These systems consume less electricity by combining solar panels, a heat pump, thermal storage, and a smart control system. This study was applied to a completely ecological rural health sub-center built on the basis of recycled bottles, and that, for its regular operation, requires an energy system according to the needs of the patients in the rural community. Detailed analyses were performed for heating and hot water preparation in two scenarios with different conditions (standard and fully integrated). From a technical perspective, different strategies were analyzed to ensure its functionality. If the photovoltaic system is sized to achieve advanced control, the system can even operate autonomously. However, due to the need to guarantee the energy efficiency of the center, the analyses were performed with a grid connection, and it was determined that the photovoltaic system guarantees at least two-thirds of the energy required for its autonomous operation. The results show that the system can operate normally thanks to the optimal size of the photovoltaic system, which positively influences the rural population in the case under analysis. Full article
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15 pages, 2320 KiB  
Article
A Comparative Analysis of Solar Thermal and Photovoltaic Systems with Heat-Pump Integration in a New-Build House Under Controlled Conditions
by Christopher Tsang, Ljubomir Jankovic, William Swan, Richard Fitton and Grant Henshaw
Energies 2025, 18(11), 2988; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18112988 - 5 Jun 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 569
Abstract
This study investigates the relative benefits of solar thermal (ST) and photovoltaic (PV) systems integrated with air-source heat pumps for domestic hot water production in newly built residential buildings. Using calibrated DesignBuilder simulations of “The Future Home” located in Energy House 2.0, an [...] Read more.
This study investigates the relative benefits of solar thermal (ST) and photovoltaic (PV) systems integrated with air-source heat pumps for domestic hot water production in newly built residential buildings. Using calibrated DesignBuilder simulations of “The Future Home” located in Energy House 2.0, an environmental chamber, the study analyzes energy performance and carbon emissions for eight scenarios: (1) baseline heat pump only, (2) heat pump with 4 m2 PV panels, (3) heat pump with 4 m2 ST panels, (4) heat pump with 2 m2 PV + 2 m2 ST panels, and (5–8) variants with increased hot water demand. While ST systems directly heat water through thermal energy transfer, PV systems contribute to water heating indirectly by providing electricity to power the heat pump. The results show that the ST system provides 964.6 kWh of thermal energy annually, increasing to 1528 kWh with enhanced hot water demand, while a similarly sized PV system generates 532.5 kWh of electricity. The research reveals that Standard Assessment Procedure methodology’s fixed hot water demand assumptions could significantly underpredict solar thermal benefits, potentially discouraging UK house builders from adopting this technology. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section G: Energy and Buildings)
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13 pages, 3594 KiB  
Article
A Study on the Characterization of Novel Silicon-Based Heterojunctions for Optically Controlled Microwave Switching
by Li Li, Weidong Mu, Jun Jiang, Linglong Zhang, Xiaoxing Fang, Hang Yuan and Qunsheng Cao
Sensors 2025, 25(11), 3531; https://doi.org/10.3390/s25113531 - 4 Jun 2025
Viewed by 483
Abstract
This paper proposes a structural silicon heterojunction photosensitive element with a simple form, low manufacturing cost, and efficient performance, which has a high-intensity photoelectric effect and a high frequency range of use. It can be applied as microwave switches to active frequency selective [...] Read more.
This paper proposes a structural silicon heterojunction photosensitive element with a simple form, low manufacturing cost, and efficient performance, which has a high-intensity photoelectric effect and a high frequency range of use. It can be applied as microwave switches to active frequency selective surfaces (AFSSs) to replace PIN diodes. Meanwhile, we explore the crucial role of pentacene/silicon heterojunction in the photoelectric conversion process. It is found that due to the inherent photovoltaic effect and the built-in electric field interaction between the two materials, the insertion loss of the heterojunction formed is reduced to 4.5 dB, which is 2.5 dB lower than that of the high-resistivity silicon wafer. In order to further reduce the insertion loss, the surface of the silicon wafer is etched and then heterojunction is prepared, which can further reduce insertion loss to within 2.5 dB, and the bandwidth difference between the presence and absence of pump excitation exceeds 10 dB extends to 12 GHz, indicating that the light collecting ability of structural silicon significantly enhances its photoelectric effect. The research results demonstrate the potential of using structural silicon heterojunctions in photoelectric devices, providing new technology for high-performance microwave switches and implementing optically controlled FSSs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Microwave Components in Sensing Design and Signal Processing)
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21 pages, 2023 KiB  
Article
Experimental Investigation of Wind Effect on Roof Configurations with Photovoltaic Panel Systems for Sustainable Building Design
by Răzvan-Andrei Polcovnicu, Sebastian-Valeriu Hudișteanu, Nicolae Ţăranu, Dragoș Ungureanu, Marius Alexa, Iuliana Hudișteanu, Cătălin Onuțu and Alexandru-Florin Mustiață
Sustainability 2025, 17(10), 4739; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17104739 - 21 May 2025
Viewed by 536
Abstract
This study investigates the aerodynamic behavior of roof structures under wind-induced forces, focusing on buildings equipped with photovoltaic panels. Experimental data were obtained through wind tunnel testing of three 1:100 scale models, each representing a distinct roof geometry: gabled, hipped, and multi-pitched. Measurements [...] Read more.
This study investigates the aerodynamic behavior of roof structures under wind-induced forces, focusing on buildings equipped with photovoltaic panels. Experimental data were obtained through wind tunnel testing of three 1:100 scale models, each representing a distinct roof geometry: gabled, hipped, and multi-pitched. Measurements of dynamic pressure and pressure coefficients were conducted for various wind incidence angles, ranging from 0° to ±150°. The results highlight the impact of roof geometry and PV panel placement on the pressure distribution, with notable variations due to flow separation and vortex formation around the panels. Gabled roofs exhibited pronounced pressure gradients, while hipped roofs showed more uniform distributions. Multi-pitched roofs demonstrated the most complex aerodynamic behavior due to their variable slopes. These findings enhance the understanding of wind-structure interactions for buildings with roof photovoltaic panels, contributing to the development of more resilient and energy-efficient structures. The research supports sustainable construction practices by improving wind load predictions and informing design decisions that promote the safe integration of renewable energy systems into the built environment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Harnessing Renewable Energy: A Sustainable Path to Carbon Neutrality)
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19 pages, 948 KiB  
Article
Convex Optimization and PV Inverter Control Strategy-Based Research on Active Distribution Networks
by Jiachuan Shi, Sining Hu, Rao Fu and Quan Zhang
Energies 2025, 18(7), 1793; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18071793 - 2 Apr 2025
Viewed by 370
Abstract
Optimizing the operation of active distribution networks (ADNs) has become more challenging because of the uncertainty created by the high penetration level of distributed photovoltaic (PV). From the convex optimization perspective, this paper proposes a two-layer optimization model to simplify the solution of [...] Read more.
Optimizing the operation of active distribution networks (ADNs) has become more challenging because of the uncertainty created by the high penetration level of distributed photovoltaic (PV). From the convex optimization perspective, this paper proposes a two-layer optimization model to simplify the solution of the ADN optimal operation problem. Firstly, to pick out the ADN “key” nodes, a “key” nodes selection approach that used improved K-means clustering algorithm and two indexes (integrated voltage sensitivity and reactive power-balance degree) is introduced. Then, a two-layer ADN optimization model is built using various time scales. The upper layer is a long-time-scale model with on-load tap-changer transformer (OLTC) and capacitor bank (CB), and the lower layer is a short-time-scale optimization model with PV inverters and distributed energy storages (ESs). To take into account the PV users’ interests, maximizing PV active power output is added to the objective. Afterwards, under the application of the second-order cone programming (SOCP) power-flow model, a linearization method of OLTC model and its tap change frequency constraints are proposed. The linear OLTC model, together with the linear models of the other equipment, constructs a mixed-integer second-order cone convex optimization (MISOCP) model. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed method is verified by solving the IEEE33 node system using the CPLEX solver. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section A: Sustainable Energy)
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18 pages, 8929 KiB  
Article
Concept of Adapting the Liquidated Underground Mine Workings into High-Temperature Sand Thermal Energy Storage
by Kamil Szewerda, Dariusz Michalak, Piotr Matusiak and Daniel Kowol
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(7), 3868; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15073868 - 1 Apr 2025
Viewed by 513
Abstract
In Europe, renewable energy sources such as photovoltaic panels and wind power plants are developing dynamically. The growth of renewable energy is driven by rising energy prices, greenhouse gas emission restrictions, the European Union’s Green Deal policy, and decarbonization efforts. Photovoltaic farms generate [...] Read more.
In Europe, renewable energy sources such as photovoltaic panels and wind power plants are developing dynamically. The growth of renewable energy is driven by rising energy prices, greenhouse gas emission restrictions, the European Union’s Green Deal policy, and decarbonization efforts. Photovoltaic farms generate energy intermittently, depending on weather conditions. Given the increasing number of new installations, ensuring the power balance and transmission capacity of the electrical grid has become a major challenge. To address this issue, the authors propose a technical solution that allows the energy generated by photovoltaic systems to be stored in the form of heat. Thermal energy from solar power and wind energy offers significant potential for energy storage. It can be accumulated during summer in specially designed sand-based heat storage systems and then used for heating purposes in winter. This approach not only reduces heating costs but also decreases greenhouse gas emissions and helps balance the power grid during sunny periods. Post-industrial areas, often located near city centers, are suitable locations for large-scale heat storage facilities supplying, among others, public utility buildings. Therefore, this article presents a concept for utilizing high-temperature sand-based heat storage systems built in decommissioned underground mining excavations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Surface and Underground Mining Technology and Sustainability)
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14 pages, 3873 KiB  
Article
UV-Vis-NIR Broadband Dual-Mode Photodetector Based on Graphene/InP Van Der Waals Heterostructure
by Mingyang Shen, Hao Liu, Qi Wang, Han Ye, Xueguang Yuan, Yangan Zhang, Bo Wei, Xue He, Kai Liu, Shiwei Cai, Yongqing Huang and Xiaomin Ren
Sensors 2025, 25(7), 2115; https://doi.org/10.3390/s25072115 - 27 Mar 2025
Viewed by 778
Abstract
Dual-mode photodetectors (DmPDs) have attracted considerable interest due to their ability to integrate multiple functionalities into a single device. However, 2D material/InP heterostructures, which exhibit built-in electric fields and rapid response characteristics, have not yet been utilized in DmPDs. In this work, we [...] Read more.
Dual-mode photodetectors (DmPDs) have attracted considerable interest due to their ability to integrate multiple functionalities into a single device. However, 2D material/InP heterostructures, which exhibit built-in electric fields and rapid response characteristics, have not yet been utilized in DmPDs. In this work, we fabricate a high-performance DmPD based on a graphene/InP Van der Waals heterostructure in a facile way, achieving a broadband response from ultraviolet-visible to near-infrared wavelengths. The device incorporates two top electrodes contacting monolayer chemical vapor deposition (CVD) graphene and a bottom electrode on the backside of an InP substrate. By flexibly switching among these three electrodes, the as-fabricated DmPD can operate in a self-powered photovoltaic mode for energy-efficient high-speed imaging or in a biased photoconductive mode for detecting weak light signals, fully demonstrating its multifunctional detection capabilities. Specifically, in the self-powered photovoltaic mode, the DmPD leverages the vertically configured Schottky junction to achieve an on/off ratio of 8 × 103, a responsivity of 49.2 mA/W, a detectivity of 4.09 × 1011 Jones, and an ultrafast response, with a rising time (τr) and falling time (τf) of 2.8/6.2 μs. In the photoconductive mode at a 1 V bias, the photogating effect enhances the responsivity to 162.5 A/W. This work advances the development of InP-based multifunctional optoelectronic devices. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Optoelectronic Sensors)
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