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Search Results (679)

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Keywords = photovoltaic characterization

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27 pages, 14331 KiB  
Article
The Comprehensive Study of TiO2 Blocking Layer with Complementary Electrochemical and SPM Methods for the Application in Photovoltaics
by Evgenija Milinković, Katarina Cvetanović, Marko V. Bošković, Nastasija Conić, Vladislav Jovanov, Dragomir Stanisavljev and Dana Vasiljević-Radović
Inorganics 2025, 13(8), 270; https://doi.org/10.3390/inorganics13080270 - 17 Aug 2025
Viewed by 166
Abstract
The blocking layer is crucial for inhibiting recombination processes in photovoltaics that utilize oxide semiconductors, such as dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs), quantum-dot-sensitized solar cells (QDSSCs), and perovskite solar cells. However, its effectiveness strongly depends on the chosen deposition method. This study systematically evaluates [...] Read more.
The blocking layer is crucial for inhibiting recombination processes in photovoltaics that utilize oxide semiconductors, such as dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs), quantum-dot-sensitized solar cells (QDSSCs), and perovskite solar cells. However, its effectiveness strongly depends on the chosen deposition method. This study systematically evaluates the most suitable approach for obtaining a uniform, pinhole-free titanium dioxide (TiO2) blocking layer by using three deposition methods: radio-frequency sputtering, spin-coating, and chemical bath deposition. The electrochemical, optical, and morphological properties of blocking layers were characterized using cyclic voltammetry (CV), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), UV-VIS spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), and Kelvin probe force microscopy (KPFM). KPFM analysis, together with CV and EIS, revealed that the lower Rct values and higher CV currents observed in spin-coated (SC_11-33) and vertically deposited CBD films (CB_5, CB_6) resulted from incomplete FTO coverage. In contrast, sputtered (SP_21-24) and horizontally deposited CBD films (CB_1, CB_2) demonstrated significantly higher Rct values and improved surface coverage. Full DSSCs fabricated with SP_23, SC_33, and CB_2 confirmed the correlation between interfacial properties and photovoltaic performance. This combined approach offers a fast, material-efficient, and environmentally conscious screening method for optimizing blocking layers in solar cell technologies. Full article
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13 pages, 1892 KiB  
Article
Defect-Targeted Repair for Efficient and Stable Perovskite Solar Cells Using 2-Chlorocinnamic Acid
by Zhichun Yang, Mengyu Li, Jinyan Chen, Waqar Ahmad, Guofeng Zhang, Chengbing Qin, Liantuan Xiao and Suotang Jia
Nanomaterials 2025, 15(16), 1229; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano15161229 - 12 Aug 2025
Viewed by 350
Abstract
Metal halide perovskites have appeared as a promising semiconductor for high-efficiency and low-cost photovoltaic technologies. However, their performance and long-term stability are dramatically constrained by defects at the surface and grain boundaries of polycrystalline perovskite films formed during the processing. Herein, we propose [...] Read more.
Metal halide perovskites have appeared as a promising semiconductor for high-efficiency and low-cost photovoltaic technologies. However, their performance and long-term stability are dramatically constrained by defects at the surface and grain boundaries of polycrystalline perovskite films formed during the processing. Herein, we propose a defect-targeted passivation strategy using 2-chlorocinnamic acid (2-Cl) to simultaneously enhance the efficiency and stability of perovskite solar cells (PSCs). The crystallization kinetics, film morphology, and optical and electronic properties of the used formamidinium–cesium lead halide (FA0.85Cs0.15Pb(I0.95Br0.05)3, FACs) absorber were modulated and systematically investigated by various characterizations. Mechanistically, the carbonyl group in 2-Cl coordinates with undercoordinated Pb2+ ions, while the chlorine atom forms Pb–Cl bonds, effectively passivating the surface and interfacial defects. The optimized FACs perovskite film was incorporated into inverted (p-i-n) PSCs with a typical architecture of ITO/NiOx/PTAA/Al2O3/FACs/PEAI/PCBM/BCP/Ag. The optimal device delivers a champion power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 22.58% with an open-circuit voltage of 1.14 V and a fill factor of 82.8%. Furthermore, the unencapsulated devices retain 90% of their initial efficiency after storage in ambient air for 30 days and 83% of their original PCE after stress under 1 sun illumination with maximum power point tracking at 50 °C in a N2 environment, demonstrating the practical potential of dual-site molecular passivation for durable perovskite photovoltaics. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Solar Energy and Solar Cells)
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27 pages, 5196 KiB  
Article
Impact of Hydrogen Release on Accidental Consequences in Deep-Sea Floating Photovoltaic Hydrogen Production Platforms
by Kan Wang, Jiahui Mi, Hao Wang, Xiaolei Liu and Tingting Shi
Hydrogen 2025, 6(3), 52; https://doi.org/10.3390/hydrogen6030052 - 29 Jul 2025
Viewed by 333
Abstract
Hydrogen is a potential key component of a carbon-neutral energy carrier and an input to marine industrial processes. This study examines the consequences of coupled hydrogen release and marine environmental factors during floating photovoltaic hydrogen production (FPHP) system failures. A validated three-dimensional numerical [...] Read more.
Hydrogen is a potential key component of a carbon-neutral energy carrier and an input to marine industrial processes. This study examines the consequences of coupled hydrogen release and marine environmental factors during floating photovoltaic hydrogen production (FPHP) system failures. A validated three-dimensional numerical model of FPHP comprehensively characterizes hydrogen leakage dynamics under varied rupture diameters (25, 50, 100 mm), transient release duration, dispersion patterns, and wind intensity effects (0–20 m/s sea-level velocities) on hydrogen–air vapor clouds. FLACS-generated data establish the concentration–dispersion distance relationship, with numerical validation confirming predictive accuracy for hydrogen storage tank failures. The results indicate that the wind velocity and rupture size significantly influence the explosion risk; 100 mm ruptures elevate the explosion risk, producing vapor clouds that are 40–65% larger than 25 mm and 50 mm cases. Meanwhile, increased wind velocities (>10 m/s) accelerate hydrogen dilution, reducing the high-concentration cloud volume by 70–84%. Hydrogen jet orientation governs the spatial overpressure distribution in unconfined spaces, leading to considerable shockwave consequence variability. Photovoltaic modules and inverters of FPHP demonstrate maximum vulnerability to overpressure effects; these key findings can be used in the design of offshore platform safety. This study reveals fundamental accident characteristics for FPHP reliability assessment and provides critical insights for safety reinforcement strategies in maritime hydrogen applications. Full article
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25 pages, 8614 KiB  
Article
Shuffled Puma Optimizer for Parameter Extraction and Sensitivity Analysis in Photovoltaic Models
by En-Jui Liu, Rou-Wen Chen, Qing-An Wang and Wan-Ling Lu
Energies 2025, 18(15), 4008; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18154008 - 28 Jul 2025
Viewed by 343
Abstract
Photovoltaic (PV) systems are the core technology for implementing net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. The performance of PV systems is strongly influenced by environmental factors, including irradiance, temperature, and shading, which makes it difficult to characterize the nonlinear and multi-coupling behavior of the [...] Read more.
Photovoltaic (PV) systems are the core technology for implementing net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. The performance of PV systems is strongly influenced by environmental factors, including irradiance, temperature, and shading, which makes it difficult to characterize the nonlinear and multi-coupling behavior of the systems. Accurate modeling is essential for reliable performance prediction and lifespan estimation. To address this challenge, a novel metaheuristic algorithm called shuffled puma optimizer (SPO) is deployed to perform parameter extraction and optimal configuration identification across four PV models. The robustness and stability of SPO are comprehensively evaluated through comparisons with advanced algorithms based on best fitness, mean fitness, and standard deviation. The root mean square error (RMSE) obtained by SPO for parameter extraction are 8.8180 × 10−4, 8.5513 × 10−4, 8.4900 × 10−4, and 2.3941 × 10−3 for the single diode model (SDM), double diode model (DDM), triple diode model (TDM), and photovoltaic module model (PMM), respectively. A one-factor-at-a-time (OFAT) sensitivity analysis is employed to assess the relative importance of undetermined parameters within each PV model. The SPO-based modeling framework enables high-accuracy PV performance prediction, and its application to sensitivity analysis can accurately identify key factors that lead to reduced computational cost and improved adaptability for integration with energy management systems and intelligent electric grids. Full article
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13 pages, 10728 KiB  
Article
Climate Features Affecting the Management of the Madeira River Sustainable Development Reserve, Brazil
by Matheus Gomes Tavares, Sin Chan Chou, Nicole Cristine Laureanti, Priscila da Silva Tavares, Jose Antonio Marengo, Jorge Luís Gomes, Gustavo Sueiro Medeiros and Francis Wagner Correia
Geographies 2025, 5(3), 36; https://doi.org/10.3390/geographies5030036 - 24 Jul 2025
Viewed by 328
Abstract
Sustainable Development Reserves are organized units in the Amazon that are essential for the proper use and sustainable management of the region’s natural resources and for the livelihoods and economy of the local communities. This study aims to provide a climatic characterization of [...] Read more.
Sustainable Development Reserves are organized units in the Amazon that are essential for the proper use and sustainable management of the region’s natural resources and for the livelihoods and economy of the local communities. This study aims to provide a climatic characterization of the Madeira River Sustainable Development Reserve (MSDR), offering scientific support to efforts to assess the feasibility of implementing adaptation measures to increase the resilience of isolated Amazon communities in the face of extreme climate events. Significant statistical analyses based on time series of observational and reanalysis climate data were employed to obtain a detailed diagnosis of local climate variability. The results show that monthly mean two-meter temperatures vary from 26.5 °C in February, the coolest month, to 28 °C in August, the warmest month. Monthly precipitation averages approximately 250 mm during the rainy season, from December until May. July and August are the driest months, August and September are the warmest months, and September and October are the months with the lowest river level. Cold spells were identified in July, and warm spells were identified between July and September, making this period critical for public health. Heavy precipitation events detected by the R80, Rx1day, and Rx5days indices show an increasing trend in frequency and intensity in recent years. The analyses indicated that the MSDR has no potential for wind-energy generation; however, photovoltaic energy production is viable throughout the year. Regarding the two major commercial crops and their resilience to thermal stress, the region presents suitable conditions for açaí palm cultivation, but Brazil nut production may be adversely affected by extreme drought and heat events. The results of this study may support research on adaptation strategies that includethe preservation of local traditions and natural resources to ensure sustainable development. Full article
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25 pages, 2495 KiB  
Article
Integration Strategies for Large-Scale Renewable Interconnections with Grid Forming and Grid Following Inverters, Capacitor Banks, and Harmonic Filters
by Soham Ghosh, Arpit Bohra, Sreejata Dutta and Saurav Verma
Energies 2025, 18(15), 3934; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18153934 - 23 Jul 2025
Viewed by 352
Abstract
The transition towards a power system characterized by a reduced presence of synchronous generators (SGs) and an increased reliance on inverter-based resources (IBRs), including wind, solar photovoltaics (PV), and battery storage, presents new operational challenges, particularly when these sources exceed 50–60% of the [...] Read more.
The transition towards a power system characterized by a reduced presence of synchronous generators (SGs) and an increased reliance on inverter-based resources (IBRs), including wind, solar photovoltaics (PV), and battery storage, presents new operational challenges, particularly when these sources exceed 50–60% of the system’s demand. While current grid-following (GFL) IBRs, which are equipped with fast and rigid control systems, continue to dominate the inverter landscape, there has been a notable surge in research focused on grid-forming (GFM) inverters in recent years. This study conducts a comparative analysis of the practicality and control methodologies of GFM inverters relative to traditional GFL inverters from a system planning perspective. A comprehensive framework aimed at assisting system developers and consulting engineers in the grid-integration of wide-scale renewable energy sources (RESs), incorporating strategies for the deployment of inverters, capacitor banks, and harmonic filters, is proposed in this paper. The discussion includes an examination of the reactive power capabilities of the plant’s inverters and the provision of additional reactive power to ensure compliance with grid interconnection standards. Furthermore, the paper outlines a practical approach to assess the necessity for enhanced filtering measures to mitigate potential resonant conditions and achieve harmonic compliance at the installation site. The objective of this work is to offer useful guidelines and insights for the effective addition of RES into contemporary power systems. Full article
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23 pages, 13179 KiB  
Article
A Low-Cost Arduino-Based I–V Curve Tracer with Automated Load Switching for PV Panel Characterization
by Pedro Leineker Ochoski Machado, Luis V. Gulineli Fachini, Erich T. Tiuman, Tathiana M. Barchi, Sergio L. Stevan, Hugo V. Siqueira, Romeu M. Szmoski and Thiago Antonini Alves
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(15), 8186; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15158186 - 23 Jul 2025
Viewed by 331
Abstract
Accurate photovoltaic (PV) panel characterization is critical for optimizing renewable energy systems, but it is often hindered by the high cost of commercial tracers or the slow, error-prone nature of manual methods. This paper presents a low-cost, Arduino-based I–V curve tracer that overcomes [...] Read more.
Accurate photovoltaic (PV) panel characterization is critical for optimizing renewable energy systems, but it is often hindered by the high cost of commercial tracers or the slow, error-prone nature of manual methods. This paper presents a low-cost, Arduino-based I–V curve tracer that overcomes these limitations through fully automated resistive load switching. By integrating a relay-controlled resistor bank managed by a single microcontroller, the system eliminates the need for manual intervention, enabling rapid and repeatable measurements in just 45 s. This rapid acquisition is a key advantage over manual systems, as it minimizes the impact of fluctuating environmental conditions and ensures the resulting I–V curve represents a stable operating point. Compared to commercial alternatives, our open-source solution offers significant benefits in cost, portability, and flexibility, making it ideal for field deployment. The system’s use of fixed, stable resistive loads for each measurement point also ensures high repeatability and straightforward comparison with theoretical models. Experimental validation demonstrated high agreement with a single-diode PV model, achieving a mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) of 4.40% against the manufacturer’s data. Furthermore, re-optimizing the model with field-acquired data reduces the MAPE from 18.23% to 7.06% under variable irradiance. This work provides an accessible, robust, and efficient tool for PV characterization, democratizing access for research, education, and field diagnostics. Full article
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15 pages, 7165 KiB  
Article
Structural and Performance Studies of Lanthanum–Nitrogen Co-Doped Titanium Dioxide Thin Films Under UV Aging
by Pengcheng Cao, Li Zhang and Yanbo Yuan
Micromachines 2025, 16(8), 842; https://doi.org/10.3390/mi16080842 - 23 Jul 2025
Viewed by 588
Abstract
In this study, lanthanum–nitrogen co-doped titanium dioxide (La-N-TiO2) thin films were fabricated using Ion Beam Assisted Deposition (IBAD) and subjected to accelerated ultraviolet (UV) aging experiments to systematically investigate the impact of co-doping on the films’ resistance to UV aging. X-ray [...] Read more.
In this study, lanthanum–nitrogen co-doped titanium dioxide (La-N-TiO2) thin films were fabricated using Ion Beam Assisted Deposition (IBAD) and subjected to accelerated ultraviolet (UV) aging experiments to systematically investigate the impact of co-doping on the films’ resistance to UV aging. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis revealed that La-N co-doping inhibits the phase transition from anatase to rutile, significantly enhancing the phase stability of the films. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) characterizations indicated that co-doping increased the density and surface uniformity of the films, thereby delaying the expansion of cracks and increase in roughness induced by UV exposure. Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) results confirmed the successful incorporation of La and N into the TiO2 lattice, enhancing the chemical stability of the films. Contact angle tests demonstrated that La-N co-doping markedly improved the hydrophobicity of the films, inhibiting the rapid decay of hydrophilicity during UV aging. After three years of UV aging, the co-doped films maintained high structural integrity and photocatalytic performance, exhibiting excellent resistance to UV aging. These findings offer new insights into the long-term stability of photovoltaic self-cleaning materials. Full article
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28 pages, 19285 KiB  
Article
PV System Design in Different Climates: A BIM-Based Methodology
by Annamaria Ciccozzi, Tullio de Rubeis, Yun Ii Go and Dario Ambrosini
Energies 2025, 18(14), 3866; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18143866 - 21 Jul 2025
Viewed by 467
Abstract
One of the goals of Agenda 2030 is to increase the share of renewable energy in the global energy mix. In this context, photovoltaic systems play a key role in the transition to clean energy. According to the International Energy Agency, in 2023, [...] Read more.
One of the goals of Agenda 2030 is to increase the share of renewable energy in the global energy mix. In this context, photovoltaic systems play a key role in the transition to clean energy. According to the International Energy Agency, in 2023, solar photovoltaic alone accounted for three-quarters of renewable capacity additions worldwide. Designing a performing photovoltaic system requires careful planning that takes into account various factors, both internal and external, in order to maximize energy production and optimize costs. In addition to the technical characteristics of the system (internal factors), the positions and the shapes of external buildings and surrounding obstacles (external factors) have a significant impact on the output of photovoltaic systems. However, given the complexity of these environmental factors, they cannot be treated accurately in manual design practice. For this reason, this paper proposes a Building Information Modeling-based workflow for the design of a photovoltaic system that can guide the professional step-by-step throughout the design process, starting from the embryonic phase to the definitive, and therefore more detailed, one. The developed methodology allows for an in-depth analysis of the shading, the photovoltaic potential of the building, the performance of the photovoltaic system, and the costs for its construction in order to evaluate the appropriateness of the investment. The main aim of the paper is to create a standardized procedure applicable on a large scale for photovoltaic integration within Building Information Modeling workflows. The methodology is tested on two case studies, characterized by different architectural features and geographical positions. Full article
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22 pages, 3235 KiB  
Article
Advanced Multi-Scale CNN-BiLSTM for Robust Photovoltaic Fault Detection
by Xiaojuan Zhang, Bo Jing, Xiaoxuan Jiao and Ruixu Yao
Sensors 2025, 25(14), 4474; https://doi.org/10.3390/s25144474 - 18 Jul 2025
Viewed by 398
Abstract
The increasing deployment of photovoltaic (PV) systems necessitates robust fault detection mechanisms to ensure operational reliability and safety. Conventional approaches, however, struggle in complex industrial environments characterized by high noise, data incompleteness, and class imbalance. This study proposes an innovative Advanced CNN-BiLSTM architecture [...] Read more.
The increasing deployment of photovoltaic (PV) systems necessitates robust fault detection mechanisms to ensure operational reliability and safety. Conventional approaches, however, struggle in complex industrial environments characterized by high noise, data incompleteness, and class imbalance. This study proposes an innovative Advanced CNN-BiLSTM architecture integrating multi-scale feature extraction with hierarchical attention to enhance PV fault detection. The proposed framework employs four parallel CNN branches with kernel sizes of 3, 7, 15, and 31 to capture temporal patterns across various time scales. These features are then integrated by an adaptive feature fusion network that utilizes multi-head attention. A two-layer bidirectional LSTM with temporal attention mechanism processes the fused features for final classification. Comprehensive evaluation on the GPVS-Faults dataset using a progressive difficulty validation framework demonstrates exceptional performance improvements. Under extreme industrial conditions, the proposed method achieves 83.25% accuracy, representing a substantial 119.48% relative improvement over baseline CNN-BiLSTM (37.93%). Ablation studies reveal that the multi-scale CNN contributes 28.0% of the total performance improvement, while adaptive feature fusion accounts for 22.0%. Furthermore, the proposed method demonstrates superior robustness under severe noise (σ = 0.20), high levels of missing data (15%), and significant outlier contamination (8%). These characteristics make the architecture highly suitable for real-world industrial deployment and establish a new paradigm for temporal feature fusion in renewable energy fault detection. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Fault Diagnosis & Sensors)
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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 474
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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15 pages, 1099 KiB  
Article
Enhanced Efficiency and Mechanical Stability in Flexible Perovskite Solar Cells via Phenethylammonium Iodide Surface Passivation
by Ibtisam S. Almalki, Tamader H. Alenazi, Lina A. Mansouri, Zainab H. Al Mubarak, Zainab T. Al Nahab, Sultan M. Alenzi, Yahya A. Alzahrani, Ghazal S. Yafi, Abdulmajeed Almutairi, Abdurhman Aldukhail, Bader Alharthi, Abdulaziz Aljuwayr, Faisal S. Alghannam, Anas A. Almuqhim, Huda Alkhaldi, Fawziah Alhajri, Nouf K. AL-Saleem, Masfer Alkahtani, Anwar Q. Alanazi and Masaud Almalki
Nanomaterials 2025, 15(14), 1078; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano15141078 - 11 Jul 2025
Viewed by 738
Abstract
Flexible perovskite solar cells (FPSCs) hold great promise for lightweight and wearable photovoltaics, but improving their efficiency and durability under mechanical stress remains a key challenge. In this work, we fabricate and characterize flexible planar FPSCs on a polyethylene terephthalate (PET). A phenethylammonium [...] Read more.
Flexible perovskite solar cells (FPSCs) hold great promise for lightweight and wearable photovoltaics, but improving their efficiency and durability under mechanical stress remains a key challenge. In this work, we fabricate and characterize flexible planar FPSCs on a polyethylene terephthalate (PET). A phenethylammonium iodide (PEAI) surface passivation layer is introduced on the perovskite to form a two-dimensional capping layer, and its impact on device performance and stability is systematically studied. The champion PEAI-passivated flexible device achieves a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of ~16–17%, compared to ~14% for the control device without PEAI. The improvement is primarily due to an increased open-circuit voltage and fill factor, reflecting effective surface defect passivation and improved charge carrier dynamics. Importantly, mechanical bending tests demonstrate robust flexibility: the PEAI-passivated cells retain ~85–90% of their initial efficiency after 700 bending cycles (radius ~5 mm), significantly higher than the ~70% retention of unpassivated cells. This work showcases that integrating a PEAI surface treatment with optimized electron (SnO2) and hole (spiro-OMeTAD) transport layers (ETL and HTL) can simultaneously enhance the efficiency and mechanical durability of FPSCs. These findings pave the way for more reliable and high-performance flexible solar cells for wearable and portable energy applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Solar Energy and Solar Cells)
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24 pages, 13285 KiB  
Article
Photovoltaic Application Design for Non-Residential Areas in Existing High-Density Residential Areas in Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
by Wen Zhang, Pan Wang, Xiaohua Cheng, Shisheng Chen, Yuhan Chen and Pengfei Zhang
Buildings 2025, 15(14), 2399; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15142399 - 8 Jul 2025
Viewed by 285
Abstract
As global climate change intensifies and energy crises deepen, photovoltaic (PV) applications in cities are increasingly garnering attention worldwide. In this context, retrofitting existing high-density residential areas with PV applications is becoming a focus of urban low-carbon development. As the most densely populated [...] Read more.
As global climate change intensifies and energy crises deepen, photovoltaic (PV) applications in cities are increasingly garnering attention worldwide. In this context, retrofitting existing high-density residential areas with PV applications is becoming a focus of urban low-carbon development. As the most densely populated city in Western China, Chengdu is characterized by rapid development and high energy consumption. The widespread application of photovoltaic (PV) systems could significantly alleviate its energy consumption issues. This research investigated the PV application potentials of 27 non-residential areas in high-density residential areas in Chengdu, Sichuan Province from a design perspective and proposed design recommendations for PV applications in these spaces. In addition, this study analyzed urban morphological factors affecting the PV generation potential in non-residential areas through a Pearson correlation. The key factors influencing the PV application potential in these areas were building density (BD), non-residential area perimeter-to-area ratio (NBPAR), and maximum building height (Hmax). This research aims to provide new strategies and methods for the low-carbon transformation of future urban high-density residential areas. Full article
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19 pages, 2709 KiB  
Review
Enabling Sustainable Solar Energy Systems Through Electromagnetic Monitoring of Key Components Across Production, Usage, and Recycling: A Review
by Mahdieh Samimi and Hassan Hosseinlaghab
J. Manuf. Mater. Process. 2025, 9(7), 225; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmmp9070225 - 1 Jul 2025
Viewed by 568
Abstract
The transition to renewable energy requires sustainable solar manufacturing through optimized Production–Usage–Recycling (PUR) cycles, where electromagnetic (EM) sensing offers non-destructive monitoring solutions. This review categorizes EM methods into low- (<100 MHz) and medium-frequency (100 MHz–10 GHz) techniques for material evaluation, defect detection, and [...] Read more.
The transition to renewable energy requires sustainable solar manufacturing through optimized Production–Usage–Recycling (PUR) cycles, where electromagnetic (EM) sensing offers non-destructive monitoring solutions. This review categorizes EM methods into low- (<100 MHz) and medium-frequency (100 MHz–10 GHz) techniques for material evaluation, defect detection, and performance optimization throughout the solar lifecycle. During production, eddy current testing and impedance spectroscopy improve quality control while reducing waste. In operational phases, RFID-based monitoring enables continuous performance tracking and early fault detection of photovoltaic panels. For recycling, electrodynamic separation efficiently recovers materials, supporting circular economies. The analysis demonstrates the unique advantages of EM techniques in non-contact evaluation, real-time monitoring, and material-specific characterization, addressing critical sustainability challenges in photovoltaic systems. By examining capabilities and limitations, we highlight EM monitoring’s transformative potential for sustainable manufacturing, from production quality assurance to end-of-life material recovery. The frequency-based framework provides manufacturers with physics-guided solutions that enhance efficiency while minimizing environmental impact. This comprehensive assessment establishes EM technologies as vital tools for advancing solar energy systems, offering practical monitoring approaches that align with global sustainability goals. The review identifies current challenges and future opportunities in implementing these techniques, emphasizing their role in facilitating the renewable energy transition through improved resource efficiency and lifecycle management. Full article
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18 pages, 2458 KiB  
Article
Co-Optimized Design of Islanded Hybrid Microgrids Using Synergistic AI Techniques: A Case Study for Remote Electrification
by Ramia Ouederni and Innocent E. Davidson
Energies 2025, 18(13), 3456; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18133456 - 1 Jul 2025
Viewed by 557
Abstract
Off-grid and isolated rural communities in developing countries with limited resources require energy supplies for daily residential use and social, economic, and commercial activities. The use of data from space assets and space-based solar power is a feasible solution for addressing ground-based energy [...] Read more.
Off-grid and isolated rural communities in developing countries with limited resources require energy supplies for daily residential use and social, economic, and commercial activities. The use of data from space assets and space-based solar power is a feasible solution for addressing ground-based energy insecurity when harnessed in a hybrid manner. Advances in space solar power systems are recognized to be feasible sources of renewable energy. Their usefulness arises due to advances in satellite and space technology, making valuable space data available for smart grid design in these remote areas. In this case study, an isolated village in Namibia, characterized by high levels of solar irradiation and limited wind availability, is identified. Using NASA data, an autonomous hybrid system incorporating a solar photovoltaic array, a wind turbine, storage batteries, and a backup generator is designed. The local load profile, solar irradiation, and wind speed data were employed to ensure an accurate system model. Using HOMER Pro software V 3.14.2 for system simulation, a more advanced AI optimization was performed utilizing Grey Wolf Optimization and Harris Hawks Optimization, which are two metaheuristic algorithms. The results obtained show that the best performance was obtained with the Grey Wolf Optimization algorithm. This method achieved a minimum energy cost of USD 0.268/kWh. This paper presents the results obtained and demonstrates that advanced optimization techniques can enhance both the hybrid system’s financial cost and energy production efficiency, contributing to a sustainable electricity supply regime in this isolated rural community. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section F2: Distributed Energy System)
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