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Search Results (692)

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Keywords = energy storage projects

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25 pages, 961 KiB  
Review
Mobile Thermal Energy Storage—A Review and Analysis in the Context of Waste Heat Recovery
by Marta Kuta, Agata Mlonka-Mędrala, Ewelina Radomska and Andrzej Gołdasz
Energies 2025, 18(15), 4136; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18154136 (registering DOI) - 4 Aug 2025
Abstract
The global energy transition and increasingly rigorous legal regulations aimed at climate protection are driving the search for alternative energy sources, including renewable energy sources (RESs) and waste heat. However, the mismatch between supply and demand presents a significant challenge. Thermal energy storage [...] Read more.
The global energy transition and increasingly rigorous legal regulations aimed at climate protection are driving the search for alternative energy sources, including renewable energy sources (RESs) and waste heat. However, the mismatch between supply and demand presents a significant challenge. Thermal energy storage (TES) technologies, particularly mobile thermal energy storage (M-TES), offer a potential solution to address this gap. M-TES can not only balance supply and demand but also facilitate the transportation of heat from the source to the recipient. This paper reviews the current state of M-TES technologies, focusing on their technology readiness level, key operating parameters, and advantages and disadvantages. It is found that M-TES can be based on sensible heat, latent heat, or thermochemical reactions, with the majority of research and projects centered around latent heat storage. Regarding the type of research, significant progress has been made at the laboratory and simulation levels, while real-world implementation remains limited, with few pilot projects and commercially available systems. Despite the limited number of real-world M-TES implementations, currently existing M-TES systems can store up to 5.4 MWh in temperatures ranging from 58 °C to as high as 1300 °C. These findings highlight the potential of the M-TES and offer data for technology selection, simultaneously indicating the research gaps and future research directions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Highly Efficient Thermal Energy Storage (TES) Technologies)
15 pages, 571 KiB  
Article
Exploring the Material Feasibility of a LiFePO4-Based Energy Storage System
by Caleb Scarlett and Vivek Utgikar
Energies 2025, 18(15), 4102; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18154102 (registering DOI) - 1 Aug 2025
Viewed by 107
Abstract
This paper analyzes the availability of lithium resources required to support a global decarbonized energy system featuring electrical energy storage based on lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries. A net-zero carbon grid consisting of existing nuclear and hydro capacity, with the balance being a [...] Read more.
This paper analyzes the availability of lithium resources required to support a global decarbonized energy system featuring electrical energy storage based on lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries. A net-zero carbon grid consisting of existing nuclear and hydro capacity, with the balance being a 50/50 mix of wind and solar power generation, is assumed to satisfy projected world electrical demand in 2050, incorporating the electrification of transportation. The battery electrical storage capacity needed to support this grid is estimated and translated into the required number of nominal 10 MWh LFP storage plants similar to the ones currently in operation. The total lithium required for the global storage system is determined from the number of nominal plants and the inventory of lithium in each plant. The energy required to refine this amount of lithium is accounted for in the estimation of the total lithium requirement. Comparison of the estimated lithium requirements with known global lithium resources indicates that a global storage system consisting only of LFP plants would require only around 12.3% of currently known lithium reserves in a high-economic-growth scenario. The overall cost for a global LFP-based grid-scale energy storage system is estimated to be approximately USD 17 trillion. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Renewable Energy and Energy Storage Systems)
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20 pages, 2327 KiB  
Article
From Climate Liability to Market Opportunity: Valuing Carbon Sequestration and Storage Services in the Forest-Based Sector
by Attila Borovics, Éva Király, Péter Kottek, Gábor Illés and Endre Schiberna
Forests 2025, 16(8), 1251; https://doi.org/10.3390/f16081251 - 1 Aug 2025
Viewed by 155
Abstract
Ecosystem services—the benefits humans derive from nature—are foundational to environmental sustainability and economic well-being, with carbon sequestration and storage standing out as critical regulating services in the fight against climate change. This study presents a comprehensive financial valuation of the carbon sequestration, storage [...] Read more.
Ecosystem services—the benefits humans derive from nature—are foundational to environmental sustainability and economic well-being, with carbon sequestration and storage standing out as critical regulating services in the fight against climate change. This study presents a comprehensive financial valuation of the carbon sequestration, storage and product substitution ecosystem services provided by the Hungarian forest-based sector. Using a multi-scenario framework, four complementary valuation concepts are assessed: total carbon storage (biomass, soil, and harvested wood products), annual net sequestration, emissions avoided through material and energy substitution, and marketable carbon value under voluntary carbon market (VCM) and EU Carbon Removal Certification Framework (CRCF) mechanisms. Data sources include the National Forestry Database, the Hungarian Greenhouse Gas Inventory, and national estimates on substitution effects and soil carbon stocks. The total carbon stock of Hungarian forests is estimated at 1289 million tons of CO2 eq, corresponding to a theoretical climate liability value of over EUR 64 billion. Annual sequestration is valued at approximately 380 million EUR/year, while avoided emissions contribute an additional 453 million EUR/year in mitigation benefits. A comparative analysis of two mutually exclusive crediting strategies—improved forest management projects (IFMs) avoiding final harvesting versus long-term carbon storage through the use of harvested wood products—reveals that intensified harvesting for durable wood use offers higher revenue potential (up to 90 million EUR/year) than non-harvesting IFM scenarios. These findings highlight the dual role of forests as both carbon sinks and sources of climate-smart materials and call for policy frameworks that integrate substitution benefits and long-term storage opportunities in support of effective climate and bioeconomy strategies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Forest Economics, Policy, and Social Science)
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10 pages, 1555 KiB  
Article
Lithium-Decorated C26 Fullerene in DFT Investigation: Tuning Electronic Structures for Enhanced Hydrogen Storage
by Jiangang Yu, Lili Liu, Quansheng Li, Zhidong Xu, Yujia Shi and Cheng Lei
Molecules 2025, 30(15), 3223; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30153223 - 31 Jul 2025
Viewed by 182
Abstract
Hydrogen energy holds immense potential to address the global energy crisis and environmental challenges. However, its large-scale application is severely hindered by the lack of efficient hydrogen storage materials. This study systematically investigates the H2 adsorption properties of intrinsic C26 fullerene [...] Read more.
Hydrogen energy holds immense potential to address the global energy crisis and environmental challenges. However, its large-scale application is severely hindered by the lack of efficient hydrogen storage materials. This study systematically investigates the H2 adsorption properties of intrinsic C26 fullerene and Li-decorated C26 fullerene using density functional theory (DFT) calculations. The results reveal that Li atoms preferentially bind to the H5-5 site of C26, driven by significant electron transfer (0.90 |e|) from Li to C26. This electron redistribution modulates the electronic structure of C26, as evidenced by projected density of states (PDOS) analysis, where the p orbitals of C atoms near the Fermi level undergo hybridization with Li orbitals, enhancing the electrostatic environment for H2 adsorption. For Li-decorated C26, the average adsorption energy and consecutive adsorption energy decrease as more H2 molecules are adsorbed, indicating a gradual weakening of adsorption strength and signifying a saturation limit of three H2 molecules. Charge density difference and PDOS analyses further demonstrate that H2 adsorption induces synergistic electron transfer from both Li (0.89 |e| loss) and H2 (0.01 |e| loss) to C26 (0.90 |e| gain), with orbital hybridization between H s orbitals, C p orbitals, and Li orbitals stabilizing the adsorbed system. This study aimed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the microscopic mechanism underlying Li-enhanced H2 adsorption on C26 fullerene and offer insights into the rational design of metal-decorated fullerene-based systems for efficient hydrogen storage. Full article
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19 pages, 2137 KiB  
Article
Optimal Configuration and Empirical Analysis of a Wind–Solar–Hydro–Storage Multi-Energy Complementary System: A Case Study of a Typical Region in Yunnan
by Yugong Jia, Mengfei Xie, Ying Peng, Dianning Wu, Lanxin Li and Shuibin Zheng
Water 2025, 17(15), 2262; https://doi.org/10.3390/w17152262 - 29 Jul 2025
Viewed by 210
Abstract
The increasing integration of wind and photovoltaic energy into power systems brings about large fluctuations and significant challenges for power absorption. Wind–solar–hydro–storage multi-energy complementary systems, especially joint dispatching strategies, have attracted wide attention due to their ability to coordinate the advantages of different [...] Read more.
The increasing integration of wind and photovoltaic energy into power systems brings about large fluctuations and significant challenges for power absorption. Wind–solar–hydro–storage multi-energy complementary systems, especially joint dispatching strategies, have attracted wide attention due to their ability to coordinate the advantages of different resources and enhance both flexibility and economic efficiency. This paper develops a capacity optimization model for a wind–solar–hydro–storage multi-energy complementary system. The objectives are to improve net system income, reduce wind and solar curtailment, and mitigate intraday fluctuations. We adopt the quantum particle swarm algorithm (QPSO) for outer-layer global optimization, combined with an inner-layer stepwise simulation to maximize life cycle benefits under multi-dimensional constraints. The simulation is based on the output and load data of typical wind, solar, water, and storage in Yunnan Province, and verifies the effectiveness of the proposed model. The results show that after the wind–solar–hydro–storage multi-energy complementary system is optimized, the utilization rate of new energy and the system economy are significantly improved, which has a wide range of engineering promotion value. The research results of this paper have important reference significance for the construction of new power systems and the engineering design of multi-energy complementary projects. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research Status of Operation and Management of Hydropower Station)
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60 pages, 1535 KiB  
Review
Renewable Energy Communities (RECs): European and Worldwide Distribution, Different Technologies, Management, and Modeling
by Sandra Corasaniti, Paolo Coppa, Dario Atzori and Ateeq Ur Rehman
Energies 2025, 18(15), 3961; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18153961 - 24 Jul 2025
Viewed by 462
Abstract
Renewable energy communities (RECs) are increasingly recognized as pivotal instruments in the global energy transition, offering decentralized, participatory, and sustainable solutions for energy management, specifically regarding energy production and consumption. The present review provides a comprehensive examination of the REC concept, tracing its [...] Read more.
Renewable energy communities (RECs) are increasingly recognized as pivotal instruments in the global energy transition, offering decentralized, participatory, and sustainable solutions for energy management, specifically regarding energy production and consumption. The present review provides a comprehensive examination of the REC concept, tracing its regulatory evolution, particularly within the European Union through the renewable energy directives (RED II and RED III) and by analyzing its practical implementation across various countries. This paper explores the diverse technologies integrated into REC projects, such as photovoltaic systems, wind turbines, biogas, hydroelectric, and storage solutions, while also considering the socioeconomic frameworks, management models, and local engagement strategies that underpin their success. Key case studies from Europe, Asia, Africa, and Australia illustrate the various approaches, challenges, and outcomes of REC initiatives in different geographic and policy contexts. The analysis also highlights barriers to implementing RECs, including regulatory uncertainty and market integration issues, and identifies the best practices and policies that support REC scalability. By synthesizing current trends and lessons learned, this review aims to inform policymakers, researchers, and practitioners about the transformative role of RECs in achieving decarbonization goals and accomplishing resilient energy systems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section B: Energy and Environment)
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22 pages, 1475 KiB  
Systematic Review
A Systematic Review of Grid-Forming Control Techniques for Modern Power Systems and Microgrids
by Paul Arévalo, Carlos Ramos and Agostinho Rocha
Energies 2025, 18(14), 3888; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18143888 - 21 Jul 2025
Viewed by 371
Abstract
Looking toward the future, governments around the world have started to change their energy mix due to climate change. The new energy mix will consist mainly of Inverter-Based Resources (IBRs), such as wind and solar power. This transition from a synchronous to a [...] Read more.
Looking toward the future, governments around the world have started to change their energy mix due to climate change. The new energy mix will consist mainly of Inverter-Based Resources (IBRs), such as wind and solar power. This transition from a synchronous to a non-synchronous grid introduces new challenges in stability, resilience, and synchronization, necessitating advanced control strategies. Among these, Grid-Forming (GFM) control techniques have emerged as an effective solution for ensuring stable operations in microgrids and large-scale power systems with high IBRs integration. This paper presents a systematic review of GFM control techniques, focusing on their principles and applications. Using the PRISMA 2020 methodology, 75 studies published between 2015 and 2025 were synthesized to evaluate the characteristics of GFM control strategies. The review organizes GFM strategies, evaluates their performance under varying operational scenarios, and emphasizes persistent challenges like grid stability, inertia emulation, and fault ride-through capabilities. Furthermore, this study examines real-world implementations of GFM technology in modern power grids. Notable projects include the UK’s National Grid Pathfinder Program, which integrates GFM inverters to enhance stability, and Australia’s Hornsdale Power Reserve, where battery energy storage with GFM capabilities supports grid frequency regulation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Modern Power Systems and Units)
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16 pages, 2472 KiB  
Article
Performance Evaluation of DAB-Based Partial- and Full-Power Processing for BESS in Support of Trolleybus Traction Grids
by Jiayi Geng, Rudolf Francesco Paternost, Sara Baldisserri, Mattia Ricco, Vitor Monteiro, Sheldon Williamson and Riccardo Mandrioli
Electronics 2025, 14(14), 2871; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics14142871 - 18 Jul 2025
Viewed by 277
Abstract
The energy transition toward greater electrification leads to incentives in public transportation fed by catenary-powered networks. In this context, emerging technological devices such as in-motion-charging vehicles and electric vehicle charging points are expected to be operated while connected to trolleybus networks as part [...] Read more.
The energy transition toward greater electrification leads to incentives in public transportation fed by catenary-powered networks. In this context, emerging technological devices such as in-motion-charging vehicles and electric vehicle charging points are expected to be operated while connected to trolleybus networks as part of new electrification projects, resulting in a significant demand for power. To enable a significant increase in electric transportation without compromising technical compliance for voltage and current at grid systems, the implementation of stationary battery energy storage systems (BESSs) can be essential for new electrification projects. A key challenge for BESSs is the selection of the optimal converter topology for charging their batteries. Ideally, the chosen converter should offer the highest efficiency while minimizing size, weight, and cost. In this context, a modular dual-active-bridge converter, considering its operation as a full-power converter (FPC) and a partial-power converter (PPC) with module-shedding control, is analyzed in terms of operation efficiencies and thermal behavior. The goal is to clarify the advantages, disadvantages, challenges, and trade-offs of both power-processing techniques following future trends in the electric transportation sector. The results indicate that the PPC achieves an efficiency of 98.58% at the full load of 100 kW, which is 1.19% higher than that of FPC. Additionally, higher power density and cost effectiveness are confirmed for the PPC. Full article
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27 pages, 2333 KiB  
Article
SWOT-AHP Analysis of the Importance and Adoption of Pumped-Storage Hydropower
by Mladen Bošnjaković, Nataša Veljić, Jelena Topić Božič and Simon Muhič
Technologies 2025, 13(7), 305; https://doi.org/10.3390/technologies13070305 - 16 Jul 2025
Viewed by 288
Abstract
Energy storage technologies are becoming increasingly important when it comes to maintaining the balance between electricity generation and consumption, especially with the increasing share of variable renewable energy sources (VRES). Pumped storage hydropower plants (PSHs) are currently the largest form of energy storage [...] Read more.
Energy storage technologies are becoming increasingly important when it comes to maintaining the balance between electricity generation and consumption, especially with the increasing share of variable renewable energy sources (VRES). Pumped storage hydropower plants (PSHs) are currently the largest form of energy storage at the grid level. The aim of this study is to investigate the importance and prospects of using PSHs as part of the energy transition to decarbonize energy sources. A comparison was made between PSHs and battery energy storage systems (BESSs) in terms of technical, economic, and ecological aspects. To identify the key factors influencing the wider adoption of PSHs, a combined approach using SWOT analysis (which assesses strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats) and the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) as a decision support tool was applied. Regulatory and market uncertainties (13.54%) and financial inequality (12.77%) rank first and belong to the “Threats” group, with energy storage capacity (10.11%) as the most important factor from the “Strengths” group and increased demand for energy storage (9.01%) as the most important factor from the “Opportunities” group. Forecasts up to 2050 show that the capacity of PSHs must be doubled to enable the integration of 80% of VRES into the grids. The study concludes that PSHs play a key role in the energy transition, especially for long-term energy storage and grid stabilization, while BESSs offer complementary benefits for short-term storage and fast frequency regulation. Recommendations to policymakers include the development of clear, accelerated project approval procedures, financial incentives, and support for hybrid PSH systems to accelerate the energy transition and meet decarbonization targets. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative Power System Technologies)
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21 pages, 3422 KiB  
Article
Techno-Economic Optimization of a Grid-Tied PV/Battery System in Johannesburg’s Subtropical Highland Climate
by Webster J. Makhubele, Bonginkosi A. Thango and Kingsley A. Ogudo
Sustainability 2025, 17(14), 6383; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17146383 - 11 Jul 2025
Viewed by 388
Abstract
With rising energy costs and the need for sustainable power solutions in urban South African settings, grid-tied renewable energy systems have become viable alternatives for reducing dependence on traditional grid supply. This study investigates the techno-economic feasibility of a grid-connected hybrid photovoltaic (PV) [...] Read more.
With rising energy costs and the need for sustainable power solutions in urban South African settings, grid-tied renewable energy systems have become viable alternatives for reducing dependence on traditional grid supply. This study investigates the techno-economic feasibility of a grid-connected hybrid photovoltaic (PV) and battery storage system designed for a commercial facility located in Johannesburg, South Africa—an area characterized by a subtropical highland climate. We conducted the analysis using the HOMER Grid software and evaluated the performance of the proposed PV/battery system against the baseline grid-only configuration. Simulation results indicate that the optimal systems, comprising 337 kW of flat-plate PV and 901 kWh of lithium-ion battery storage, offers a significant reduction in electricity expenditure, lowering the annual utility cost from $39,229 to $897. The system demonstrates a simple payback period of less than two years and achieves a net present value (NPV) of approximately $449,491 over a 25-year project lifespan. In addition to delivering substantial cost savings, the proposed configuration also enhances energy resilience. Sensitivity analyses were conducted to assess the impact of variables such as inflation rate, discount rate, and load profile fluctuations on system performance and economic returns. The results affirm the suitability of hybrid grid-tied PV/battery systems for cost-effective, sustainable urban energy solutions in climates with high solar potential. Full article
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37 pages, 4004 KiB  
Article
MCDM Optimization-Based Development of a Plus-Energy Microgrid Architecture for University Buildings and Smart Parking
by Mahmoud Ouria, Alexandre F. M. Correia, Pedro Moura, Paulo Coimbra and Aníbal T. de Almeida
Energies 2025, 18(14), 3641; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18143641 - 9 Jul 2025
Viewed by 378
Abstract
This paper presents a multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) approach for optimizing a microgrid system to achieve Plus-Energy Building (PEB) performance at the University of Coimbra’s Electrical Engineering Department. Using Python 3.12.8, Rhino 7, and PVsyst 8.0.1, simulations considered architectural and visual constraints, with economic [...] Read more.
This paper presents a multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) approach for optimizing a microgrid system to achieve Plus-Energy Building (PEB) performance at the University of Coimbra’s Electrical Engineering Department. Using Python 3.12.8, Rhino 7, and PVsyst 8.0.1, simulations considered architectural and visual constraints, with economic feasibility assessed through a TOPSIS (Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution) analysis. The system is projected to generate approximately 1 GWh annually, with a 98% probability of exceeding 1076 MWh based on Gaussian estimation. Consumption is estimated at 460 MWh, while a 3.8 MWh battery ensures up to 72 h of autonomy. Rooftop panels and green parking arrays, fixed at 13.5° and 59°, minimize visual impact while contributing a surplus of +160% energy injection (or a net surplus of +60% energy after self-consumption). Assuming a battery cost of EUR 200/kWh, each hour of energy storage for the building requires 61 kWh of extra capacity with a cost of 12,200 (EUR/hr.storage). Recognizing environmental variability, these figures represent cross-validated probabilistic estimates derived from both PVsyst and Monte Carlo simulation using Python, reinforcing confidence in system feasibility. A holistic photovoltaic optimization strategy balances technical, economic, and architectural factors, demonstrating the potential of PEBs as a sustainable energy solution for academic institutions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section A1: Smart Grids and Microgrids)
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26 pages, 3957 KiB  
Article
Techno-Economic Assessment of Linear Fresnel-Based Hydrogen Production in the MENA Region: Toward Affordable, Locally Driven Deployment for Enhanced Profitability and Reduced Costs
by Abdellatif Azzaoui, Mohammed Attiaoui, Elmiloud Chaabelasri, Hugo Gonçalves Silva and Ahmed Alami Merrouni
Energies 2025, 18(14), 3633; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18143633 - 9 Jul 2025
Viewed by 398
Abstract
The MENA region, with its high solar potential and increasing investments in renewable energy, is transitioning away from fossil fuels toward more sustainable energy systems. To fully benefit from this transition and address issues such as intermittency and energy storage, “green” hydrogen is [...] Read more.
The MENA region, with its high solar potential and increasing investments in renewable energy, is transitioning away from fossil fuels toward more sustainable energy systems. To fully benefit from this transition and address issues such as intermittency and energy storage, “green” hydrogen is emerging as a key parameter. When produced using simple and cost-effective technologies like linear Fresnel reflector (LFR), it offers a practical solution. Therefore, assessing the potential of hydrogen production from LFR technology is essential to support the development of the energy sector and promote local industrial growth. This study investigates “green” hydrogen production using a 50 MW concentrated solar power (CSP) system based on LFR technology, where the CSP system generates electricity to power a proton exchange membrane electrolyzer for hydrogen production for three locations, including Ain Beni Mathar in Morocco, Assiout in Egypt, and Tabuk in Saudi Arabia. The results show that Tabuk achieved the highest annual hydrogen production (45.02 kg/kWe), followed by Assiout (38.72 kg/kWe) and Ain Beni Mathar (32.42 kg/kWe), with corresponding levelized costs of hydrogen (LCOH2) of 6.47 USD/kg, 6.84 USD/kg, and 7.35 USD/kg, respectively. In addition, several sensitivity analyses were conducted addressing the impact of thermal energy storage (TES) on the hydrogen production and costs, the effect of reduced investment costs resulting from the local manufacturing of LFR components, and the futuristic assumption of the electrolyzer cost drop. The integration of TES enhanced hydrogen output and reduced LCOH2 by up to 9%. Additionally, a future PEM electrolyzer costs projected for 2030 showed that LCOH2 could decrease by up to 1.3 USD/kg depending on site conditions. These findings demonstrate that combining TES with cost optimization strategies can significantly improve both technical performance and economic feasibility in the MENA region. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Hydrogen Energy Generation, Storage, Transportation and Utilization)
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40 pages, 3030 KiB  
Article
Optimizing Sustainable Energy Transitions in Small Isolated Grids Using Multi-Criteria Approaches
by César Berna-Escriche, Lucas Álvarez-Piñeiro, David Blanco and Yago Rivera
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(14), 7644; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15147644 - 8 Jul 2025
Viewed by 293
Abstract
The ambitious goals of decarbonization of the European economy by mid-century pose significant challenges, especially when relying heavily on resources whose nature is inherently intermittent, specifically wind and solar energy. The situation is even more serious in isolated regions with limited connections to [...] Read more.
The ambitious goals of decarbonization of the European economy by mid-century pose significant challenges, especially when relying heavily on resources whose nature is inherently intermittent, specifically wind and solar energy. The situation is even more serious in isolated regions with limited connections to larger power grids. Using EnergyPLAN software, three scenarios for 2023 were modeled: a diesel-only system, the current hybrid renewable system, and an optimized scenario. This paper evaluates the performance of the usual generation system existing in isolated systems, based on fossil fuels, and proposes an optimized system considering both the cost of the system and the penalties for emissions. All this is applied to the case study of the island of El Hierro, but the findings are applicable to any location with similar characteristics. This system is projected to reduce emissions by over 75% and cut costs by one-third compared to the current configuration. A system has been proposed that preserves the economic viability and reliability of diesel-based systems while achieving low emission levels. This is accomplished primarily through the use of renewable energy generation, supported by pumped hydro storage. The approach is specifically designed for remote regions with small isolated grids, where reliability is critical. Importantly, the system relies on appropriately sized renewable installations, avoiding oversizing, which—although it could further reduce emissions—would lead to significant energy surpluses and require even more efficient storage solutions. This emphasizes the importance of implementing high emission penalties as a key policy measure to phase out fossil fuel generation. Full article
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25 pages, 5958 KiB  
Article
Comparative Designs for Standalone Critical Loads Between PV/Battery and PV/Hydrogen Systems
by Ahmed Lotfy, Wagdy Refaat Anis, Fatma Newagy and Sameh Mostafa Mohamed
Hydrogen 2025, 6(3), 46; https://doi.org/10.3390/hydrogen6030046 - 5 Jul 2025
Viewed by 340
Abstract
This study presents the design and techno-economic comparison of two standalone photovoltaic (PV) systems, each supplying a 1 kW critical load with 100% reliability under Cairo’s climatic conditions. These systems are modeled for both the constant and the night load scenarios, accounting for [...] Read more.
This study presents the design and techno-economic comparison of two standalone photovoltaic (PV) systems, each supplying a 1 kW critical load with 100% reliability under Cairo’s climatic conditions. These systems are modeled for both the constant and the night load scenarios, accounting for the worst-case weather conditions involving 3.5 consecutive cloudy days. The primary comparison focuses on traditional lead-acid battery storage versus green hydrogen storage via electrolysis, compression, and fuel cell reconversion. Both the configurations are simulated using a Python-based tool that calculates hourly energy balance, component sizing, and economic performance over a 21-year project lifetime. The results show that the PV/H2 system significantly outperforms the PV/lead-acid battery system in both the cost and the reliability. For the constant load, the Levelized Cost of Electricity (LCOE) drops from 0.52 USD/kWh to 0.23 USD/kWh (a 56% reduction), and the payback period is shortened from 16 to 7 years. For the night load, the LCOE improves from 0.67 to 0.36 USD/kWh (a 46% reduction). A supplementary cost analysis using lithium-ion batteries was also conducted. While Li-ion improves the economics compared to lead-acid (LCOE of 0.41 USD/kWh for the constant load and 0.49 USD/kWh for the night load), this represents a 21% and a 27% reduction, respectively. However, the green hydrogen system remains the most cost-effective and scalable storage solution for achieving 100% reliability in critical off-grid applications. These findings highlight the potential of green hydrogen as a sustainable and economically viable energy storage pathway, capable of reducing energy costs while ensuring long-term resilience. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Hydrogen Production, Storage, and Utilization)
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38 pages, 3666 KiB  
Systematic Review
A Systematic Literature Review on Li-Ion BESSs Integrated with Photovoltaic Systems for Power Supply to Auxiliary Services in High-Voltage Power Stations
by Sergio Pires Pimentel, Marcelo Nogueira Bousquet, Tiago Alves Barros Rosa, Leovir Cardoso Aleluia Junior, Enes Goncalves Marra, Jose Wilson Lima Nerys and Luciano Coutinho Gomes
Energies 2025, 18(13), 3544; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18133544 - 4 Jul 2025
Viewed by 354
Abstract
The integration of lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery energy storage systems (LiBESSs) with photovoltaic (PV) generation offers a promising solution for powering auxiliary services (ASs) in high-voltage power stations. This study conducts a systematic literature review (SLR) to evaluate the feasibility, benefits, and challenges of [...] Read more.
The integration of lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery energy storage systems (LiBESSs) with photovoltaic (PV) generation offers a promising solution for powering auxiliary services (ASs) in high-voltage power stations. This study conducts a systematic literature review (SLR) to evaluate the feasibility, benefits, and challenges of this integration. The proposed SLR complies with the PRISMA 2020 statement, and it is also registered on the international PROSPERO platform (ID 1073599). The selected methodology includes the following key steps: definition of the research questions; search strategy development; selection criteria of the studies; quality assessment; data extraction and synthesis; and discussion of the results. Through a comprehensive analysis of scientific publications from 2013 to 2024, trends, advancements, and research gaps are identified. The methodology follows a structured review framework, including data collection, selection criteria, and evaluation of technical feasibility. From 803 identified studies, 107 were eligible in accordance with the assessed inclusion criteria. Then, a custom study impact factor (SIF) framework selected 5 out of 107 studies as the most representative and assertive ones on the topics of this SLR. The findings indicate that Li-ion BESSs combined with PV systems enhance reliability, reduce reliance on conventional sources, and improve grid resilience, particularly in remote or constrained environments. The group of reviewed studies discuss optimization models and multi-objective strategies for system sizing and operation, along with practical case studies validating their effectiveness. Despite these advantages, challenges related to cost, regulatory frameworks, and performance variability remain. The study concludes that further experimental validations, pilot-scale implementations, and assessment of long-term economic impacts are necessary to accelerate the adoption of BESS-PV systems in high-voltage power substations. This study was funded by the R&D program of the Brazilian National Electric Energy Agency (ANEEL) via project number PD-07351-0001/2022. Full article
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