Advances in Solar Technologies

Journal Name	Impact Factor	CiteScore	Launched Year	First Decision (median)	APC
Energies energies	3.0	6.2	2008	16.8 Days	CHF 2600
Photonics photonics	2.1	2.6	2014	14.9 Days	CHF 2400
Technologies technologies	4.2	6.7	2013	21.1 Days	CHF 1600

35 pages, 5483 KiB

Open AccessReview

Transformative Impacts of AI and Wireless Communication in CSP Heliostat Control Systems

by Quanwu Liu, Zengli Dai, Yuan Wei, Dongxiang Wang and Yu Xie

Energies 2025, 18(5), 1069; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18051069 - 22 Feb 2025

Viewed by 609

In this review, the transformative impact of integrating artificial intelligence (AI) and wireless communication technologies into the heliostat control systems of concentrated solar power (CSP) plants are explored. Heliostat control systems are categorized based on wired and wireless implementations, and calibration methods are [...] Read more.

In this review, the transformative impact of integrating artificial intelligence (AI) and wireless communication technologies into the heliostat control systems of concentrated solar power (CSP) plants are explored. Heliostat control systems are categorized based on wired and wireless implementations, and calibration methods are analyzed from traditional methods, auxiliary equipment, and AI in detail. The applications of artificial intelligence, machine learning, and deep learning techniques enhance the accuracy, control ability, and prediction performance of CSP heliostat control systems. At the same time, wireless communications play an important role in reducing costs, enhancing scalability, and enabling more flexible deployment. The synergistic impact of AI and wireless technologies improves the efficiency, reliability, and economic viability of heliostat systems, and shows great potential in global energy transition. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in Solar Technologies)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

24 pages, 5868 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Advanced Performance Prediction of Triple-Junction Solar Cell Structures Using MATLAB/Simulink Under Variable Conditions

by Olfa Bel Hadj Brahim Kechiche and Habib Sammouda

Energies 2024, 17(23), 5943; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17235943 - 26 Nov 2024

Viewed by 777

Abstract

Raising the efficiency of triple-junction cells such as (GaInP/GaInAs/Ge) is an important goal for designing high-concentration photovoltaic systems. This purpose can be achieved by facing cell obstacles and acting on their configurations to sustain under highly concentrated sunlight and high operating temperatures. In [...] Read more.

Raising the efficiency of triple-junction cells such as (GaInP/GaInAs/Ge) is an important goal for designing high-concentration photovoltaic systems. This purpose can be achieved by facing cell obstacles and acting on their configurations to sustain under highly concentrated sunlight and high operating temperatures. In this paper, a prediction performance study of triple-junction solar cells with four types of structures is proposed under variable conditions. The results show that the series structure is well-validated with experimental data under standard test conditions and is presented against those under variable conditions. Then, the triple-junction cells are compared and discussed in terms of photovoltaic cell open circuit voltage, photovoltaic cell electrical efficiency, fill factor, and temperature coefficients. Consequently, the results show that the cells can be separated into two categories that are useful for Low Concentration Systems and High Concentration Systems. The Low Concentration Systems present high efficiency at 20 suns. For the High Concentration Systems, the Hybrid 2 type demonstrates an optimal efficiency of 38.48% at 118 suns with a high FF (0.873) and shows a lower temperature coefficient than the series type. So, Hybrid 2 presents a good candidate for high-concentration systems with a performance better than the conventional triple-junction cells. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in Solar Technologies)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

27 pages, 4374 KiB

Open AccessReview

Overview of Recent Solar Photovoltaic Cooling System Approach

by Yaareb Elias Ahmed, Mohammad Reza Maghami, Jagadeesh Pasupuleti, Suad Hassan Danook and Firas Basim Ismail

Technologies 2024, 12(9), 171; https://doi.org/10.3390/technologies12090171 - 19 Sep 2024

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 6185

Abstract

In recent years, research communities have shown significant interest in solar energy systems and their cooling. While using cells to generate power, cooling systems are often used for solar cells (SCs) to enhance their efficiency and lifespan. However, during this conversion process, they [...] Read more.

In recent years, research communities have shown significant interest in solar energy systems and their cooling. While using cells to generate power, cooling systems are often used for solar cells (SCs) to enhance their efficiency and lifespan. However, during this conversion process, they can generate heat. This heat can affect the performance of solar cells in both advantageous and detrimental ways. Cooling cells and coordinating their use are vital to energy efficiency and longevity, which can help save energy, reduce energy costs, and achieve global emission targets. The primary objective of this review is to provide a thorough and comparative analysis of recent developments in solar cell cooling. In addition, the research discussed here reviews and compares various cooling systems that can be used to improve cell performance, including active cooling and passive cooling. The outcomes reveal that phase-change materials (PCMs) help address critical economic goals, such as reducing the cost of PV degradation, while enhancing the lifespan of solar cells and improving their efficiency, reliability, and quality. Active PCMs offer precise control, while passive PCMs are simpler and more efficient in terms of energy use, but they offer less control over temperature. Moreover, an innovative review of advanced cooling methods is presented, highlighting their potential to improve the efficiency of solar cells. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in Solar Technologies)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

32 pages, 6188 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Prediction of Global Solar Irradiance on Parallel Rows of Tilted Surfaces Including the Effect of Direct and Anisotropic Diffuse Shading

by Sara Pereira, Paulo Canhoto and Rui Salgado

Energies 2024, 17(14), 3444; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17143444 - 12 Jul 2024

Viewed by 1236

Abstract

Solar photovoltaic power plants typically consist of rows of solar panels, where the accurate estimation of solar irradiance on inclined surfaces significantly impacts energy generation. Existing practices often only account for the first row, neglecting shading from subsequent rows. In this work, ten [...] Read more.

Solar photovoltaic power plants typically consist of rows of solar panels, where the accurate estimation of solar irradiance on inclined surfaces significantly impacts energy generation. Existing practices often only account for the first row, neglecting shading from subsequent rows. In this work, ten transposition models were assessed against experimental data and a transposition model for inner rows was developed and validated. The developed model incorporates view factors and direct and circumsolar irradiances shading from adjacent rows, significantly improving global tilted irradiance (GTI) estimates. This model was validated against one-minute observations recorded between 14 April and 1 June 2022, at Évora, Portugal (38.5306, −8.0112) resulting in values of mean bias error (MBE) and root-mean-squared error (RMSE) of −12.9 W/m² and 76.8 W/m², respectively, which represent an improvement of 368.3 W/m² in the MBE of GTI estimations compared to the best-performing transposition model for the first row. The proposed model was also evaluated in an operational forecast setting where corrected forecasts of direct and diffuse irradiance (0 to 72 h ahead) were used as inputs, resulting in an MBE and RMSE of −33.6 W/m² and 169.7 W/m², respectively. These findings underscore the potential of the developed model to enhance solar energy forecasting accuracy and operational algorithms’ efficiency and robustness. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in Solar Technologies)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

27 pages, 13538 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A New LCL Filter Design Method for Single-Phase Photovoltaic Systems Connected to the Grid via Micro-Inverters

by Heriberto Adamas-Pérez, Mario Ponce-Silva, Jesús Darío Mina-Antonio, Abraham Claudio-Sánchez, Omar Rodríguez-Benítez and Oscar Miguel Rodríguez-Benítez

Technologies 2024, 12(6), 89; https://doi.org/10.3390/technologies12060089 - 12 Jun 2024

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2840

Abstract

This paper aims to propose a new sizing approach to reduce the footprint and optimize the performance of an LCL filter implemented in photovoltaic systems using grid-connected single-phase microinverters. In particular, the analysis is carried out on a single-phase full-bridge inverter, assuming the [...] Read more.

This paper aims to propose a new sizing approach to reduce the footprint and optimize the performance of an LCL filter implemented in photovoltaic systems using grid-connected single-phase microinverters. In particular, the analysis is carried out on a single-phase full-bridge inverter, assuming the following two conditions: (1) a unit power factor at the connection point between the AC grid and the LCL filter; (2) a control circuit based on unipolar sinusoidal pulse width modulation (SPWM). In particular, the ripple and harmonics of the LCL filter input current and the current injected into the grid are analyzed. The results of the Simulink simulation and the experimental tests carried out confirm that it is possible to considerably reduce filter volume by optimizing each passive component compared with what is already available in the literature while guaranteeing excellent filtering performance. Specifically, the inductance values were reduced by almost 40% and the capacitor value by almost 100%. The main applications of this new design methodology are for use in single-phase microinverters connected to the grid and for research purposes in power electronics and optimization. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in Solar Technologies)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

42 pages, 6303 KiB

Open AccessReview

A Review on the Nanofluids-PCMs Integrated Solutions for Solar Thermal Heat Transfer Enhancement Purposes

by José Pereira, Reinaldo Souza, António Moreira and Ana Moita

Technologies 2023, 11(6), 166; https://doi.org/10.3390/technologies11060166 - 24 Nov 2023

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2990

Abstract

The current review offers a critical survey on published studies concerning the simultaneous use of PCMs and nanofluids for solar thermal energy storage and conversion processes. Also, the main thermophysical properties of PCMs and nanofluids are discussed in detail. On one hand, the [...] Read more.

The current review offers a critical survey on published studies concerning the simultaneous use of PCMs and nanofluids for solar thermal energy storage and conversion processes. Also, the main thermophysical properties of PCMs and nanofluids are discussed in detail. On one hand, the properties of these types of nanofluids are analyzed, as well as those of the general types of nanofluids, like the thermal conductivity and latent heat capacity. On the other hand, there are specific characteristics of PCMs like, for instance, the phase-change duration and the phase-change temperature. Moreover, the main improvement techniques in order for PCMs and nanofluids to be used in solar thermal applications are described in detail, including the inclusion of highly thermal conductive nanoparticles and other nanostructures in nano-enhanced PCMs and PCMs with extended surfaces, among others. Regarding those improvement techniques, it was found that, for instance, nanofluids can enhance the thermal conductivity of the base fluids by up to 100%. In addition, it was also reported that the simultaneous use of PCMs and nanofluids enhances the overall, thermal, and electrical efficiencies of solar thermal energy storage systems and photovoltaic-nano-enhanced PCM systems. Finally, the main limitations and guidelines are summarized for future research in the technological and research fields of nanofluids and PCMs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in Solar Technologies)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 2917 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Light-Trapping Character of Pit Arrays on the Surface of Solar Cells

by Baohua Zhu, Le Chen, Song Ye and Wei Luo

Photonics 2023, 10(7), 855; https://doi.org/10.3390/photonics10070855 - 24 Jul 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1600

Abstract

Surfaces with light-trapping structures are widely used in solar cells to enhance light capturing and to transform efficiency. The study of light-trapping character is important for light-trapping structures in solar cells. In the present study, the light-trapping character for the regular hemisphere pit [...] Read more.

Surfaces with light-trapping structures are widely used in solar cells to enhance light capturing and to transform efficiency. The study of light-trapping character is important for light-trapping structures in solar cells. In the present study, the light-trapping character for the regular hemisphere pit arrays (RHPAs) in solar cells was intensively investigated in terms of reducing light reflection, suppressing light escape, and increasing the length of the optical path. Results show that the RHPAs can decrease surface reflectivity by ~54% compared with the plane structure, and can reflect ~33% of the light that has not been absorbed back into the absorption layer of the solar cell. The total optical path of the cell with the RHPAs structure remarkably increased from 2ω to 4ω. To verify the theoretical research conclusions, we produced the glass structure samples with different aspect ratios by using micro/nanometer-processing technology. The reflection ratios for silicon wafers covered by plane and RHPAs glass samples were tested. The test results were compared with the theoretical calculation results, which showed consistency. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in Solar Technologies)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

23 pages, 4385 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Techno-Economic Assessment of CPVT Spectral Splitting Technology: A Case Study on Saudi Arabia

by Cesar Lucio, Omar Behar and Bassam Dally

Energies 2023, 16(14), 5392; https://doi.org/10.3390/en16145392 - 14 Jul 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2278

Abstract

Concentrating PV thermal (CPVT) collector with spectral splitting technology is a promising solution for heat and electricity production. To extend the use of this technology, a novel and cost-effective CPVT collector for harsh environments, such as those in Saudi Arabia, is presented and [...] Read more.

Concentrating PV thermal (CPVT) collector with spectral splitting technology is a promising solution for heat and electricity production. To extend the use of this technology, a novel and cost-effective CPVT collector for harsh environments, such as those in Saudi Arabia, is presented and evaluated using theoretical energy, economy, and environmental analysis. Two questions are answered in this study, namely: which is the best operation strategy, and which is the best energy storage technology for CPVT. The potential of using a CPVT under the climate conditions of six cities in Saudi Arabia is also evaluated. It is found that a heat/electricity production strategy and a thermal energy storage are the most suitable for the CPVT technology. The economic assessment shows a levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) of $0.0847/kWh and a levelized cost of heat (LCOH) of $0.0536/kWh when water is used as a spectral filter, and a LCOE of $0.0906/kWh and a LCOH of $0.0462/kWh when ZnO nanoparticles are added. The CO₂-equivalent emissions in a 20 MW CPVT plant are cut from 5675 tonnes to 7822 tonnes per year for Saudi Arabian weather and present power generation conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in Solar Technologies)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

21 pages, 5074 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An Improved Photovoltaic Module Array Global Maximum Power Tracker Combining a Genetic Algorithm and Ant Colony Optimization

by Kuo-Hua Huang, Kuei-Hsiang Chao and Ting-Wei Lee

Technologies 2023, 11(2), 61; https://doi.org/10.3390/technologies11020061 - 20 Apr 2023

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 2265

Abstract

In this paper, a hybrid optimization controller that combines a genetic algorithm (GA) and ant colony optimization (ACO) called GA-ACO algorithm is proposed. It is applied to a photovoltaic module array (PVMA) to carry out maximum power point tracking (MPPT). This way, under [...] Read more.

In this paper, a hybrid optimization controller that combines a genetic algorithm (GA) and ant colony optimization (ACO) called GA-ACO algorithm is proposed. It is applied to a photovoltaic module array (PVMA) to carry out maximum power point tracking (MPPT). This way, under the condition that the PVMA is partially shaded and that multiple peaks are produced in the power-voltage (P-V) characteristic curve, the system can still operate at the global maximum power point (GMPP). This solves the problem seen in general traditional MPPT controllers where the PVMA works at the local maximum power point (LMPP). The improved MPPT controller that combines GA and ACO uses the slope of the P-V characteristic curve at the PVMA work point to dynamically adjust the iteration parameters of ACO. The simulation results prove that the improved GA-ACO MPPT controller is able to quickly track GMPP when the output P-V characteristic curve of PVMA shows the phenomenon of multiple peaks. Comparing the time required for tracking to MPP with different MPPT approaches for the PVMA under five different shading levels, it was observed that the improved GA-ACO algorithm requires 19.5~35.9% (average 29.2%) fewer iterations to complete tracking than the mentioned GA-ACO algorithm. Compared with the ACO algorithm, it requires 74.9~79.7% (average 78.2%) fewer iterations, and 75.0~92.5% (average 81.0%) fewer than the conventional P&O method. Therefore, it is proved that by selecting properly adjusted values of the Pheromone evaporation rate and the Gaussian standard deviation of the proposed GA-ACO algorithm based on the slope scope of the P-V characteristic curves, a better response performance of MPPT is obtained. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in Solar Technologies)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

23 pages, 6526 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Study of a Magnetostrictive-Based Shading Detection Method and Device for the Photovoltaic System

by Xiaolei Fu and Yizhi Tian

Energies 2023, 16(6), 2906; https://doi.org/10.3390/en16062906 - 21 Mar 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1681

Abstract

When the photovoltaic (PV) system suffers shading problems caused by different degrees and areas, the shaded PV cells will consume electricity and generate heat, the corresponding bypass diode operating at a certain current will conduct, and a special magnetic field will be generated [...] Read more.

When the photovoltaic (PV) system suffers shading problems caused by different degrees and areas, the shaded PV cells will consume electricity and generate heat, the corresponding bypass diode operating at a certain current will conduct, and a special magnetic field will be generated in space. In this study, a magnetostrictive-based shading detection method and device for the PV system are developed from theoretical, simulation, and physical experimental aspects. This study aims to detect the special magnetic field using magnetostrictive material with a certain response pattern under the magnetic field to detect and locate the shading problem of each module in the PV system. Theoretically, the analysis is carried out from the on–off situation of the bypass diodes of PV modules under different shading conditions and the response mechanism of magnetostrictive materials under the action of the magnetic field. During simulation, the finite element magnetic field simulations are performed for the diode and the series magnetic field coil, and the structural parameters of the magnetic field coil are designed based on the simulation results. After establishing the validation idea of the detection method in this study, the experimental platform is built and the experimental steps are designed. Finally, the feasibility of the method proposed in this study is verified, the detection range of the method is calculated, and the minimum spacing of adjacent magnetic field coils is determined by experimental validation. This study provides a novel magnetostrictive-based detection method, as well as a theoretical and experimental basis, for identifying and localizing PV system shading problems, and discusses the feasibility of shading detection at the system level. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in Solar Technologies)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

10 pages, 7520 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Simulation and Experimental Evaluation of a Refractive-Reflective Static Solar Concentrator

by Guillermo Luque-Zuñiga, Rubén Vázquez-Medina, G. Ramos-López, David Alejandro Pérez-Márquez and H. Yee-Madeira

Energies 2023, 16(3), 1071; https://doi.org/10.3390/en16031071 - 18 Jan 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1785

Abstract

Static solar devices have advantages over solar tracking systems. In pure reflective systems, solar reception is limited by the entry angle of the reflector. Many reflective systems are based on mirror Compound Parabolic Concentrators. The solar collection can be improved by placing a [...] Read more.

Static solar devices have advantages over solar tracking systems. In pure reflective systems, solar reception is limited by the entry angle of the reflector. Many reflective systems are based on mirror Compound Parabolic Concentrators. The solar collection can be improved by placing a lens on top of the reflector. In this work, a static system is proposed, consisting of a mirror funnel concentrator with a prism on top. The system is designed using ray-tracing software and is subsequently built and experimentally evaluated. The system designed for an effective concentration factor of 4× reaches an effective concentration of 3.2× at 11:30 a.m. and has an acceptance angle of 60°. Considering the time interval from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., the system harvests 30.7% more energy than the flat surface. If the time interval considered is from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., the increase in harvest is ∼77%. The incorporation of the prism represents an increase of ∼6% compared to the bare reflective system. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in Solar Technologies)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Topic Menu

Topic Editors

Advances in Solar Technologies

Topic Information

Keywords

Participating Journals

Published Papers (11 papers)

Further Information

Guidelines

MDPI Initiatives

Follow MDPI

Topic Menu

Topic Editors

Advances in Solar Technologies

Topic Information

Keywords

Participating Journals

Related Topic

Published Papers (11 papers)

Further Information

Guidelines

MDPI Initiatives

Follow MDPI