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Search Results (11,167)

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Keywords = electricity costs

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18 pages, 1567 KiB  
Article
A Distributed Multi-Microgrid Cooperative Energy Sharing Strategy Based on Nash Bargaining
by Shi Su, Qian Zhang and Qingyang Xie
Electronics 2025, 14(15), 3155; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics14153155 (registering DOI) - 7 Aug 2025
Abstract
With the rapid development of energy transformation, the proportion of new energy is increasing, and the efficient trading mechanism of multi-microgrids can realize energy sharing to improve the consumption rate of new energy. A distributed multi-microgrid cooperative energy sharing strategy is proposed based [...] Read more.
With the rapid development of energy transformation, the proportion of new energy is increasing, and the efficient trading mechanism of multi-microgrids can realize energy sharing to improve the consumption rate of new energy. A distributed multi-microgrid cooperative energy sharing strategy is proposed based on Nash bargaining. Firstly, by comprehensively considering the adjustable heat-to-electrical ratio, ladder-type positive and negative carbon trading, peak–valley electricity price and demand response, a multi-microgrid system with wind–solar-storage-load and combined heat and power is constructed. Then, a multi-microgrid cooperative game optimization framework is established based on Nash bargaining, and the complex nonlinear problem is decomposed into two stages to be solved. In the first stage, the cost minimization problem of multi-microgrids is solved based on the alternating direction multiplier method to maximize consumption rate and protect privacy. In the second stage, through the established contribution quantification model, Nash bargaining theory is used to fairly distribute the benefits of cooperation. The simulation results of three typical microgrids verify that the proposed strategy has good convergence properties and computational efficiency. Compared with the independent operation, the proposed strategy reduces the cost by 41% and the carbon emission by 18490kg, thus realizing low-carbon operation and optimal economic dispatch. Meanwhile, the power supply pressure of the main grid is reduced through energy interaction, thus improving the utilization rate of renewable energy. Full article
18 pages, 4155 KiB  
Article
Economic-Optimal Operation Strategy for Active Distribution Networks with Coordinated Scheduling of Electric Vehicle Clusters
by Guodong Wang, Huayong Lu, Xiao Yang, Haiyang Li, Xiao Song, Jiapeng Rong and Yi Wang
Electronics 2025, 14(15), 3154; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics14153154 (registering DOI) - 7 Aug 2025
Abstract
With the continuous increase in the proportion of distributed energy output in the distribution network and the limited equipment on the management side of the active distribution network, it is very important to give full play to the regulating role of the dispatchable [...] Read more.
With the continuous increase in the proportion of distributed energy output in the distribution network and the limited equipment on the management side of the active distribution network, it is very important to give full play to the regulating role of the dispatchable potential of large-scale electric vehicles for the economic operation of the distribution network. To deal with this issue, this paper proposes an optimal dispatching model of the distribution network considering the combination of the dispatchable potential of electric vehicle clusters and demand response. Firstly, the active distribution network dispatching model with the demand response is introduced, and the equipment involved in the active distribution network dispatching is modeled. Secondly, the bidirectional long short-term memory network algorithm is used to process the historical data of electric vehicles to reduce the uncertainty of the model. Then, the shared energy-storage characteristics based on the dispatchable potential of electric vehicle clusters are fully explored and the effect of peak shaving and valley filling after the demand response is fully explored. This approach significantly reduces the network loss and operating cost of the active distribution network. Finally, the modified IEEE-33 bus test system is utilized for test analysis in the case analysis, and the test results show that the established active distribution network model can reduce the early construction cost of the system’s energy-storage equipment, improve the energy-utilization efficiency, and realize the economic operation of the active distribution network. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Circuit and Signal Processing)
18 pages, 4370 KiB  
Article
The Multi-Objective Optimization of a Dual C-Type Gold Ribbon Interconnect Structure Considering Its Geometrical Parameter Fluctuation
by Guangmi Li, Song Xue, Jinyang Mu, Shaoyi Liu, Qiongfang Zhang, Wenzhi Wu, Zhihai Wang, Zhen Ma, Dongchao Diwu and Congsi Wang
Micromachines 2025, 16(8), 914; https://doi.org/10.3390/mi16080914 - 7 Aug 2025
Abstract
With the increasing demand for high integration, low cost, and large capacities in satellite systems, integrating the antenna and microwave component into the same system has become appealing to the satellite engineer. The dual C-type gold ribbon, performing as the key electromagnetic signal [...] Read more.
With the increasing demand for high integration, low cost, and large capacities in satellite systems, integrating the antenna and microwave component into the same system has become appealing to the satellite engineer. The dual C-type gold ribbon, performing as the key electromagnetic signal bridge between the microwave component and the antenna, has a significant impact on the electrical performance of satellite antennas. However, during its manufacturing and operating, the interconnection geometry undergoes deformation due to mounting errors and environmental loads. Consequently, these parasitic geometry parameters can significantly increase energy loss during the signal transmission. To address this issue, this paper has proposed a method for determining the design range of the geometrical parameters of the dual C-type gold ribbon, and applied it to the performance prediction of the microstrip antennas and the parameter optimization of the gold ribbon. In this study, a mechanical response analysis of the antennas in the operating environment has been carried out and the manufacturing disturbance has been considered to calculate the geometry fluctuation range. Then, the significance ranking of the geometry parameters has been determined and the key parameters have been selected. Finally, the chaos feedback adaptive whale optimization algorithm–back propagation neural network has been used as a surrogate model to establish the relationship between the geometry parameters and the antenna electromagnetic performance, and the multi-objective red-billed blue magpie optimization algorithm has been combined with the surrogate model to optimize the configuration parameters. This paper provides theoretical guidance for the interconnection geometry design and the optimization of the integration module of the antennas and microwave components. Full article
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21 pages, 2930 KiB  
Article
Wake Losses, Productivity, and Cost Analysis of a Polish Offshore Wind Farm in the Baltic Sea
by Adam Rasiński and Ziemowit Malecha
Energies 2025, 18(15), 4190; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18154190 - 7 Aug 2025
Abstract
This study presents a comprehensive analysis of the long-term energy performance and economic viability of offshore wind farms planned for locations within the Polish Exclusive Economic Zone of the Baltic Sea. It focuses on the impact of wind farm layout, aerodynamic wake effects, [...] Read more.
This study presents a comprehensive analysis of the long-term energy performance and economic viability of offshore wind farms planned for locations within the Polish Exclusive Economic Zone of the Baltic Sea. It focuses on the impact of wind farm layout, aerodynamic wake effects, and rotor blade surface degradation. Using the Jensen wake model, modified Weibull wind speed distributions are computed for various turbine spacing configurations (5D, 8D, and 10D) and wake decay constants kw{0.02;0.03;0.05}. The results reveal a trade-off between turbine density and individual turbine efficiency: tighter spacing increases the total annual energy production (AEP) but also intensifies wake-induced losses. The study shows that cumulative losses due to wake effects can range from 16.5% to 38%, depending on the scenario considered. This corresponds to capacity factors ranging from 33.4% to 45.2%. Finally, lifetime productivity scenarios over 20 and 25 years are analyzed, and the levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) is calculated to assess the economic implications of design choices. The analysis reveals that, depending on the values of the considered parameters, the LCOE can range from USD 116.3 to 175.7 per MWh produced. The study highlights the importance of early stage optimization in maximizing both the energy yield and cost-efficiency in offshore wind farm developments. Full article
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21 pages, 15471 KiB  
Article
Tribology of EDM Recast Layers Vis-À-Vis TIG Cladding Coatings: An Experimental Investigation
by Muhammad Adnan, Waqar Qureshi and Muhammad Umer
Micromachines 2025, 16(8), 913; https://doi.org/10.3390/mi16080913 - 7 Aug 2025
Abstract
Tribological performance is critical for the longevity and efficiency of machined components in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and biomedical. This study investigates whether electrical discharge machining recast layers can serve as a cost-effective and time-efficient alternative to conventional tungsten inert gas cladding [...] Read more.
Tribological performance is critical for the longevity and efficiency of machined components in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and biomedical. This study investigates whether electrical discharge machining recast layers can serve as a cost-effective and time-efficient alternative to conventional tungsten inert gas cladding coatings for enhancing surface properties. The samples were prepared using electrical discharge machining and tungsten inert gas cladding. For electrical discharge machining, various combinations of electrical and non-electrical parameters were applied using Taguchi’s L18 orthogonal array. Similarly, tungsten inert gas cladding coatings were prepared using a suitable combination of current, voltage, powder size, and speed. The samples were characterized using, scanning electron microscopy, optical microscopy, microhardness testing, tribological testing, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction analysis and profilometry. The electrical discharge machining recast layers exhibited superior tribological performance compared to tungsten inert gas cladding coatings. This improvement is attributed to the formation of carbides, such as TiC and Ti6C3.75. The coefficient of friction and specific wear rate were reduced by 11.11% and 1.57%, respectively, while microhardness increased by 10.93%. Abrasive wear was identified as the predominant wear mechanism. This study systematically compares electrical discharge machining recast layers with tungsten inert gas cladding coatings. The findings suggest that optimized electrical discharge machining recast layers can serve as effective coatings, offering cost and time savings. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Developments in Electrical Discharge Machining Technology)
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22 pages, 5152 KiB  
Article
Grain Boundary Regulation in Aggregated States of MnOx Nanofibres and the Photoelectric Properties of Their Nanocomposites Across a Broadband Light Spectrum
by Xingfa Ma, Xintao Zhang, Mingjun Gao, Ruifen Hu, You Wang and Guang Li
Coatings 2025, 15(8), 920; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings15080920 - 6 Aug 2025
Abstract
Improving charge transport in the aggregated state of nanocomposites is challenging due to the large number of defects present at grain boundaries. To enhance the charge transfer and photogenerated carrier extraction of MnOx nanofibers, a MnOx/GO (graphene oxide) nanocomposite was [...] Read more.
Improving charge transport in the aggregated state of nanocomposites is challenging due to the large number of defects present at grain boundaries. To enhance the charge transfer and photogenerated carrier extraction of MnOx nanofibers, a MnOx/GO (graphene oxide) nanocomposite was prepared. The effects of GO content and bias on the optoelectronic properties were studied. Representative light sources at 405, 650, 780, 808, 980, and 1064 nm were used to examine the photoelectric signals. The results indicate that the MnOx/GO nanocomposites have photocurrent switching behaviours from the visible region to the NIR (near-infrared) when the amount of GO added is optimised. It was also found that even with zero bias and storage of the nanocomposite sample at room temperature for over 8 years, a good photoelectric signal could still be extracted. This demonstrates that the MnOx/GO nanocomposites present a strong built-in electric field that drives the directional motion of photogenerated carriers, avoids the photogenerated carrier recombination, and reflect a good photophysical stability. The strength of the built-in electric field is strongly affected by the component ratios of the resulting nanocomposite. The formation of the built-in electric field results from interfacial charge transfer in the nanocomposite. Modulating the charge behaviour of nanocomposites can significantly improve the physicochemical properties of materials when excited by light with different wavelengths and can be used in multidisciplinary applications. Since the recombination of photogenerated electron–hole pairs is the key bottleneck in multidisciplinary fields, this study provides a simple, low-cost method of tailoring defects at grain boundaries in the aggregated state of nanocomposites. These results can be used as a reference for multidisciplinary fields with low energy consumption. Full article
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19 pages, 1242 KiB  
Article
Integration of Renewable Energy Sources to Achieve Sustainability and Resilience of Mines in Remote Areas
by Josip Kronja and Ivo Galić
Mining 2025, 5(3), 51; https://doi.org/10.3390/mining5030051 - 6 Aug 2025
Abstract
Mining (1) operations in remote areas (2) face significant challenges related to energy supply, high fuel costs, and limited infrastructure. This study investigates the potential for achieving energy independence (3) and resilience (4) in such environments through the integration of renewable energy sources [...] Read more.
Mining (1) operations in remote areas (2) face significant challenges related to energy supply, high fuel costs, and limited infrastructure. This study investigates the potential for achieving energy independence (3) and resilience (4) in such environments through the integration of renewable energy sources (5) and battery–electric mining equipment. Using the “Studena Vrila” underground bauxite mine as a case study, a comprehensive techno-economic and environmental analysis was conducted across three development models. These models explore incremental scenarios of solar and wind energy adoption combined with electrification of mobile machinery. The methodology includes calculating levelized cost of energy (LCOE), return on investment (ROI), and greenhouse gas (GHG) reductions under each scenario. Results demonstrate that a full transition to RES and electric machinery can reduce diesel consumption by 100%, achieve annual savings of EUR 149,814, and cut GHG emissions by over 1.7 million kg CO2-eq. While initial capital costs are high, all models yield a positive Net Present Value (NPV), confirming long-term economic viability. This research provides a replicable framework for decarbonizing mining operations in off-grid and infrastructure-limited regions. Full article
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34 pages, 1294 KiB  
Perspective
Electromagnetic Radiation Shielding Using Carbon Nanotube and Nanoparticle Composites
by Bianca Crank, Brayden Fricker, Andrew Hubbard, Hussain Hitawala, Farhana Islam Muna, Olalekan Samuel Okunlola, Alexandra Doherty, Alex Hulteen, Logan Powers, Gabriel Purtell, Prakash Giri, Henry Spitz and Mark Schulz
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(15), 8696; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15158696 - 6 Aug 2025
Abstract
This paper showcases current developments in the use of carbon nanotube (CNT) and nanoparticle-based materials for electromagnetic radiation shielding. Electromagnetic radiation involves different types of radiation covering a wide spectrum of frequencies. Due to their good electrical conductivity, small diameter, and light weight, [...] Read more.
This paper showcases current developments in the use of carbon nanotube (CNT) and nanoparticle-based materials for electromagnetic radiation shielding. Electromagnetic radiation involves different types of radiation covering a wide spectrum of frequencies. Due to their good electrical conductivity, small diameter, and light weight, individual CNTs are good candidates for shielding radio and microwaves. CNTs can be organized into macroscale forms by dispersing them in polymers or by wrapping CNT strands into fabrics or yarn. Magnetic nanoparticles can also be incorporated into the CNT fabric to provide excellent shielding of electromagnetic waves. However, for shielding higher-frequency X-ray and gamma ray radiation, the situation is reversed. Carbon’s low atomic number means that CNTs alone are less effective than metals. Thus, different nanoparticles such as tungsten are added to the CNT materials to provide improved shielding of photons. The goal is to achieve a desired combination of light weight, flexibility, safety, and multifunctionality for use in shielding spacecraft, satellites, nuclear reactors, and medical garments and to support lunar colonization. Future research should investigate the effect of the size, shape, and configuration of nanoparticles on radiation shielding. Developing large-scale low-cost methods for the continuous manufacturing of lightweight multifunctional nanoparticle-based materials is also needed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nanotechnology and Applied Nanosciences)
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41 pages, 7308 KiB  
Review
Challenges and Opportunities for Extending Battery Pack Life Using New Algorithms and Techniques for Battery Electric Vehicles
by Pedro S. Gonzalez-Rodriguez, Jorge de J. Lozoya-Santos, Hugo G. Gonzalez-Hernandez, Luis C. Felix-Herran and Juan C. Tudon-Martinez
World Electr. Veh. J. 2025, 16(8), 442; https://doi.org/10.3390/wevj16080442 - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
The shift from Internal Combustion Engine Vehicles (ICEVs) to Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) has accelerated global efforts to decarbonize transportation. However, battery degradation, high costs, and limited lifespan remain critical barriers. This review synthesizes recent innovations to extend Li-ion battery life in BEVs [...] Read more.
The shift from Internal Combustion Engine Vehicles (ICEVs) to Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) has accelerated global efforts to decarbonize transportation. However, battery degradation, high costs, and limited lifespan remain critical barriers. This review synthesizes recent innovations to extend Li-ion battery life in BEVs by exploring advances in degradation modeling, adaptive Battery Management Systems (BMSs), electronic component simulations, and real-world usage profiling. The authors have systematically analyzed over 80 recent studies using a PRISMA-guided review protocol. A novel comparative framework highlights gaps in current literature, particularly regarding real-world driving impacts, ripple current effects, and second-life battery applications. This review article critically compares model-driven, data-driven, and hybrid model approaches, emphasizing trade-offs in interpretability, accuracy, and deployment feasibility. Finally, the review links battery life extension to broader sustainability metrics, including circular economy models and predictive maintenance algorithms. This review offers actionable insights for researchers, engineers, and policymakers aiming to design longer-lasting and more sustainable electric mobility systems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Electric Vehicle Battery Pack and Electric Motor Sizing Methods)
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28 pages, 3960 KiB  
Article
Electric Bus Battery Energy Consumption Estimation and Influencing Features Analysis Using a Two-Layer Stacking Framework with SHAP-Based Interpretation
by Runze Liu, Jianming Cai, Lipeng Hu, Benxiao Lou and Jinjun Tang
Sustainability 2025, 17(15), 7105; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17157105 - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
The widespread adoption of electric buses represents a major step forward in sustainable transportation, but also brings new operational challenges, particularly in terms of improving their efficiency and controlling costs. Therefore, battery energy consumption management is a key approach for addressing these issues. [...] Read more.
The widespread adoption of electric buses represents a major step forward in sustainable transportation, but also brings new operational challenges, particularly in terms of improving their efficiency and controlling costs. Therefore, battery energy consumption management is a key approach for addressing these issues. Accurate prediction of energy consumption and interpretation of the influencing factors are essential for improving operational efficiency, optimizing energy use, and reducing operating costs. Although existing studies have made progress in battery energy consumption prediction, challenges remain in achieving high-precision modeling and conducting a comprehensive analysis of the influencing features. To address these gaps, this study proposes a two-layer stacking framework for estimating the energy consumption of electric buses. The first layer integrates the strengths of three nonlinear regression models—RF (Random Forest), GBDT (Gradient Boosted Decision Trees), and CatBoost (Categorical Boosting)—to enhance the modeling capacity for complex feature relationships. The second layer employs a Linear Regression model as a meta-learner to aggregate the predictions from the base models and improve the overall predictive performance. The framework is trained on 2023 operational data from two electric bus routes (NO. 355 and NO. W188) in Changsha, China, incorporating battery system parameters, driving characteristics, and environmental variables as independent variables for model training and analysis. Comparative experiments with various ensemble models demonstrate that the proposed stacking framework exhibits superior performance in data fitting. Furthermore, XGBoost (Extreme Gradient Boosting, version 2.1.4) is introduced as a surrogate model to approximate the decision logic of the stacking framework, enabling SHAP (SHapley Additive exPlanations) analysis to quantify the contribution and marginal effects of influencing features. The proposed stacked and surrogate models achieved superior battery energy consumption prediction accuracy (lowest MSE, RMSE, and MAE), significantly outperforming benchmark models on real-world datasets. SHAP analysis quantified the overall contributions of feature categories (battery operation parameters: 56.5%; driving characteristics: 42.3%; environmental data: 1.2%), further revealing the specific contributions and nonlinear influence mechanisms of individual features. These quantitative findings offer specific guidance for optimizing battery system control and driving behavior. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Transportation)
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21 pages, 3334 KiB  
Article
Market Research on Waste Biomass Material for Combined Energy Production in Bulgaria: A Path Toward Enhanced Energy Efficiency
by Penka Zlateva, Angel Terziev, Mariana Murzova, Nevena Mileva and Momchil Vassilev
Energies 2025, 18(15), 4153; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18154153 - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
Using waste biomass as a raw material for the combined production of electricity and heat offers corresponding energy, economic, environmental and resource efficiency benefits. The study examines both the performance of a system for combined energy production based on the Organic Rankine Cycle [...] Read more.
Using waste biomass as a raw material for the combined production of electricity and heat offers corresponding energy, economic, environmental and resource efficiency benefits. The study examines both the performance of a system for combined energy production based on the Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC) utilizing wood biomass and the market interest in its deployment within Bulgaria. Its objective is to propose a technically and economically viable solution for the recovery of waste biomass through the combined production of electricity and heat while simultaneously assessing the readiness of industrial and municipal sectors to adopt such systems. The cogeneration plant incorporates an ORC module enhanced with three additional economizers that capture residual heat from flue gases. Operating on 2 t/h of biomass, the system delivers 1156 kW of electric power and 3660 kW of thermal energy, recovering an additional 2664 kW of heat. The overall energy efficiency reaches 85%, with projected annual revenues exceeding EUR 600,000 and a reduction in carbon dioxide emissions of over 5800 t/yr. These indicators can be achieved through optimal installation and operation. When operating at a reduced load, however, the specific fuel consumption increases and the overall efficiency of the installation decreases. The marketing survey results indicate that 75% of respondents express interest in adopting such technologies, contingent upon the availability of financial incentives. The strongest demand is observed for systems with capacities up to 1000 kW. However, significant barriers remain, including high initial investment costs and uneven access to raw materials. The findings confirm that the developed system offers a technologically robust, environmentally efficient and market-relevant solution, aligned with the goals of energy independence, sustainability and the transition to a low-carbon economy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section B: Energy and Environment)
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22 pages, 1646 KiB  
Article
Stochastic Optimization Scheduling Method for Mine Electricity–Heat Energy Systems Considering Power-to-Gas and Conditional Value-at-Risk
by Chao Han, Yun Zhu, Xing Zhou and Xuejie Wang
Energies 2025, 18(15), 4146; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18154146 - 5 Aug 2025
Viewed by 73
Abstract
To fully accommodate renewable and derivative energy sources in mine energy systems under supply and demand uncertainties, this paper proposes an optimized electricity–heat scheduling method for mining areas that incorporates Power-to-Gas (P2G) technology and Conditional Value-at-Risk (CVaR). First, to address uncertainties on both [...] Read more.
To fully accommodate renewable and derivative energy sources in mine energy systems under supply and demand uncertainties, this paper proposes an optimized electricity–heat scheduling method for mining areas that incorporates Power-to-Gas (P2G) technology and Conditional Value-at-Risk (CVaR). First, to address uncertainties on both the supply and demand sides, a P2G unit is introduced, and a Latin hypercube sampling technique based on Cholesky decomposition is employed to generate wind–solar-load sample matrices that capture source–load correlations, which are subsequently used to construct representative scenarios. Second, a stochastic optimization scheduling model is developed for the mine electricity–heat energy system, aiming to minimize the total scheduling cost comprising day-ahead scheduling cost, expected reserve adjustment cost, and CVaR. Finally, a case study on a typical mine electricity–heat energy system is conducted to validate the effectiveness of the proposed method in terms of operational cost reduction and system reliability. The results demonstrate a 1.4% reduction in the total operating cost, achieving a balance between economic efficiency and system security. Full article
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23 pages, 5135 KiB  
Article
Strategic Multi-Stage Optimization for Asset Investment in Electricity Distribution Networks Under Load Forecasting Uncertainties
by Clainer Bravin Donadel
Eng 2025, 6(8), 186; https://doi.org/10.3390/eng6080186 - 5 Aug 2025
Viewed by 79
Abstract
Electricity distribution systems face increasing challenges due to demand growth, regulatory requirements, and the integration of distributed generation. In this context, distribution companies must make strategic and well-supported investment decisions, particularly in asset reinforcement actions such as reconductoring. This paper presents a multi-stage [...] Read more.
Electricity distribution systems face increasing challenges due to demand growth, regulatory requirements, and the integration of distributed generation. In this context, distribution companies must make strategic and well-supported investment decisions, particularly in asset reinforcement actions such as reconductoring. This paper presents a multi-stage methodology to optimize reconductoring investments under load forecasting uncertainties. The approach combines a decomposition strategy with Monte Carlo simulation to capture demand variability. By discretizing a lognormal probability density function and selecting the largest loads in the network, the methodology balances computational feasibility with modeling accuracy. The optimization model employs exhaustive search techniques independently for each network branch, ensuring precise and consistent investment decisions. Tests conducted on the IEEE 123-bus feeder consider both operational and regulatory constraints from the Brazilian context. Results show that uncertainty-aware planning leads to a narrow investment range—between USD 55,108 and USD 66,504—highlighting the necessity of reconductoring regardless of demand scenarios. A comparative analysis of representative cases reveals consistent interventions, changes in conductor selection, and schedule adjustments based on load conditions. The proposed methodology enables flexible, cost-effective, and regulation-compliant investment planning, offering valuable insights for utilities seeking to enhance network reliability and performance while managing demand uncertainties. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Electrical and Electronic Engineering)
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29 pages, 5242 KiB  
Article
Low Carbon Economic Dispatch of Power System Based on Multi-Region Distributed Multi-Gradient Whale Optimization Algorithm
by Linfei Yin, Yongzi Ye, Xiaoping Xiong, Jiajia Chai, Hanzhong Cui and Haoyuan Li
Energies 2025, 18(15), 4143; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18154143 - 5 Aug 2025
Viewed by 73
Abstract
The rapid development of the modern power system puts forward high requirements for economic dispatch, and the defects of the traditional centralized economic dispatch method with low security and poor optimization effect have been difficult to adapt to the development of power system. [...] Read more.
The rapid development of the modern power system puts forward high requirements for economic dispatch, and the defects of the traditional centralized economic dispatch method with low security and poor optimization effect have been difficult to adapt to the development of power system. Therefore, finding an economic dispatch method that reduces electricity generation costs and CO2 emissions is important. This study establishes a multi-region distributed optimization model and combines the multi-region distributed optimization model with a multi-gradient optimization algorithm to propose a multi-region distributed multi-gradient whale optimization algorithm (MRDMGWOA). In this study, MRDMGWOA is simulated on the IEEE 39 system and 118 system, and its performance is compared with other heuristic algorithms. The results show that: (1) in the IEEE 39 system, MRDMGWOA reduces the power generation cost and CO2 emission by 17% and 22%, respectively, and reduces the computation time by 16.14 s compared with the centralized optimization; (2) in the IEEE 118 system, the two metrics are further optimized, with a 20% and 17% reduction in the cost and emission, respectively, and an improvement in the computational efficiency by 45.46 s; (3) in the spacing, hypervolume, and Euclidian metrics evaluation, MRDMGWOA outperforms other algorithms; (4) compared with the existing DMOGWO and DMOMFO, the computation time of MRDMGWOA is reduced by 177.49 s and 124.15 s, respectively, and the scheduling scheme obtained by MRDMGWOA is more optimal than DMOGWO and DMOMFO. Full article
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18 pages, 7363 KiB  
Article
Agronomic Evaluation of Compost Formulations Based on Mining Tailings and Microbial Mats from Geothermal Sources
by María Jesús Puy-Alquiza, Miren Yosune Miranda Puy, Raúl Miranda-Avilés, Pooja Vinod Kshirsagar and Cristina Daniela Moncada Sanchez
Recycling 2025, 10(4), 156; https://doi.org/10.3390/recycling10040156 - 5 Aug 2025
Viewed by 86
Abstract
This study, conducted in Mexico, evaluates the agricultural potential of three compost formulations BFS1, BFS2, and BFS3 produced from mining tailings and thermophilic microbial mats and collected from geothermal environments. The physicochemical characterization included pH, electrical conductivity (EC), macronutrients (N, P, K, Ca, [...] Read more.
This study, conducted in Mexico, evaluates the agricultural potential of three compost formulations BFS1, BFS2, and BFS3 produced from mining tailings and thermophilic microbial mats and collected from geothermal environments. The physicochemical characterization included pH, electrical conductivity (EC), macronutrients (N, P, K, Ca, Mg, and S), micronutrients (Fe, Zn, B, Cu, Mn, Mo, and Ni), organic matter (OM), and the carbon-to-nitrogen (C/N) ratio. All composts exhibited neutral pH values (7.38–7.52), high OM content (38.5–48.4%), and optimal C/N ratios (10.5–13.9), indicating maturity and chemical stability. Nitrogen ranged from 19 to 21 kg·t−1, while potassium and calcium were present in concentrations beneficial for crop development. However, EC values (3.43–3.66 dS/m) and boron levels (>160 ppm) were moderately high, requiring caution in saline soils or with boron-sensitive crops. A semi-quantitative Compost Quality Index (CQI) ranked BFS3 highest due to elevated OM and potassium content, followed by BFS1. BFS2, while rich in nitrogen, scored lower due to excessive boron. One-way ANOVA revealed no significant difference in nitrogen (p > 0.05), but it did reveal significant differences in potassium (p < 0.01) and boron (p < 0.001) among formulations. These results confirm the potential of mining tailings—microbial mat composts are low-cost, nutrient-rich biofertilizers. They are suitable for field crops or as components in nursery substrates, particularly when EC and boron are managed through dilution. This study promotes the circular reuse of geothermal and industrial residues and contributes to sustainable soil restoration practices in mining-affected regions through innovative composting strategies. Full article
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