Clean Energy Technologies and Assessment

Topic Information

Dear Colleagues,

The international conference on Clean Energy Technologies and Assessment (http://www.ceta2022.institutese.org/) invites papers on any aspect and scale of technologies for clean and efficient energy generation and/or utilization that decrease the environmental impact of that production and use, from the laboratory to commercial applications. Numerical and experimental investigations on technology development, improvement, and integration are within the scope of the topic, as well as case studies and analysis devoted to regulation, standards, and policy.

The scope of the topic covers but is not limited to the following:

• Clean energy conversion, utilization, and storage;
• Modeling, simulation, and computational optimization of energy systems; 
• Experimental analysis of energy systems;
• Renewable energy sources and technologies; 
• Alternative fuel technologies;
• Advanced energy conversion technologies;
• Conventional energy sources in energy transition;
• Energy storage technologies;
• Cogeneration, trigeneration, and polygeneration technologies;
• Distributed generation, smart grids, and local self-sufficiency in energy supply;
• Energy efficiency;
• Hybrid energy systems;
• Smart buildings, and energy saving, passive and nearly zero energy buildings
• Green fuel/energy for mobility; 
• Modeling for pollution avoidance; 
• Measurements, automation, and monitoring in energy systems;
• Green economy; 
• Energy markets; 
• Energy policy; 
• Other topics connected with clean and green energy engineering and related technologies.

Submissions are invited from authors of accepted papers that will be presented at the CETA2022 Conference. The Scientific Committee of the Conference will select the conference papers for this Special Issue.

Prof. Dr. Francesco Calise
Dr. Maria Vicidomini
Dr. Rafał Figaj
Dr. Francesco Liberato Cappiello
Topic Editors

Keywords

Participating Journals

Journal Name	Impact Factor	CiteScore	Launched Year	First Decision (median)	APC
Sustainability sustainability	3.3	6.8	2009	19.7 Days	CHF 2400
Energies energies	3.0	6.2	2008	16.8 Days	CHF 2600
Applied Sciences applsci	2.5	5.3	2011	18.4 Days	CHF 2400
Thermo thermo	-	2.1	2021	22.8 Days	CHF 1000
Clean Technologies cleantechnol	4.1	6.1	2019	33.5 Days	CHF 1600

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Published Papers (21 papers)

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26 pages, 3043 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Energy and Exergy Analyses of an Innovative Heat Recovery System from the LNG Regasification Process in Green Ships

by Roberto Bruno, Vittorio Ferraro, Piofrancesco Barone and Piero Bevilacqua

Clean Technol. 2024, 6(3), 826-851; https://doi.org/10.3390/cleantechnol6030043 - 4 Jul 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2362

Abstract

Despite being stored at 113 K and at atmospheric pressure, LNG cold potential is not exploited to reduce green ships’ energy needs. An innovative system based on three organic Rankine cycles integrated into the regasification equipment is proposed to produce additional power and [...] Read more.

Despite being stored at 113 K and at atmospheric pressure, LNG cold potential is not exploited to reduce green ships’ energy needs. An innovative system based on three organic Rankine cycles integrated into the regasification equipment is proposed to produce additional power and recover cooling energy from condensers. A first-law analysis identified ethylene and ethane as suitable working fluids for the first and the second ORC, making freshwater and ice available. Propane, ammonia and propylene could be arbitrarily employed in the third ORC for air conditioning. An environmental analysis that combines exergy efficiency, ecological indices and hazard aspects for the marine environment and ship passengers indicated propylene as safer and more environmentally friendly. Exergy analysis confirmed that more than 20% of the LNG potential can be recovered from every cycle to produce a net clean power of 76 kW, whereas 270 kW can be saved by recovering condensers’ cooling power to satisfy some ship needs. Assuming the sailing mode, a limitation of 162 kg in LNG consumptions was determined, avoiding the emission of 1584 kg of CO₂ per day. Marine thermal pollution is reduced by 3.5 times by recovering the working fluids’ condensation heat for the LNG pre-heating. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Clean Energy Technologies and Assessment)

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16 pages, 4675 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Investigation of the Near Future Solar Energy Changes Using a Regional Climate Model over Istanbul, Türkiye

by Yusuf Duran, Elif Yavuz, Bestami Özkaya, Yüksel Yalçin, Çağatay Variş and S. Levent Kuzu

Energies 2024, 17(11), 2644; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17112644 - 30 May 2024

Viewed by 866

Abstract

This study aims to assess potential changes in radiation values at the solar power plant facility in Istanbul using the RegCM. This analysis seeks to estimate the extent of the solar radiation changes and evaluate the production capacity of solar power in Istanbul [...] Read more.

This study aims to assess potential changes in radiation values at the solar power plant facility in Istanbul using the RegCM. This analysis seeks to estimate the extent of the solar radiation changes and evaluate the production capacity of solar power in Istanbul in the future. The research involved installing an off-grid rooftop solar energy system. Meteorological parameters (temperature, etc.) and the system’s outputs were monitored to evaluate the energy production and its relationship with these parameters. The performance of the Regional Climate Model version 5.0 (RegCMv5) in accurately representing surface solar radiation and temperature patterns was assessed by comparing it with measured monocrystalline solar panel output data. The impact of different cumulus convection schemes was examined on the sensitivity of the RegCM by analyzing surface solar radiation data over the initial three months. Long-term simulations were conducted with the representational concentration path (RCP) scenarios of 2.6, 4.5, and 8.5 spanning from 2023 to 2050 with convection schemes yielding the best results. All scenarios project a slight decrease in incoming surface radiation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Clean Energy Technologies and Assessment)

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14 pages, 3104 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Introduction of the Experimental Setup for the Investigation of the Novel Selective Melt Dispersion (SMD): A Directed Energy Deposition (DED) Process

by Sebastian F. Noller, Anja Pfennig and Matthias Dahlmeyer

Clean Technol. 2024, 6(2), 572-585; https://doi.org/10.3390/cleantechnol6020030 - 7 May 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1171

Abstract

This study focuses on developing an experimental setup to investigate the Selective Melt Dispersion (SMD), a Directed Energy Deposition (DED) process. SMD as a means of in-process joining (IPJ) aims to integrate components and assemblies during additive manufacturing, combining the advantages of various [...] Read more.

This study focuses on developing an experimental setup to investigate the Selective Melt Dispersion (SMD), a Directed Energy Deposition (DED) process. SMD as a means of in-process joining (IPJ) aims to integrate components and assemblies during additive manufacturing, combining the advantages of various processes for eco-friendly and economical resource utilization. The research initially analyzed DED systems and defined requirements for subsystems and the overall system. Critical subsystems, including the energy source, material feed, and others, were sequentially developed, and a proof of concept involved building 20 stacked welded tracks, validated through micrograph analysis. The study concludes by evaluating and discussing the fulfillment of the defined requirements. The system comprises a centrally arranged vibration-assisted powder feed; a laterally arranged laser incidence at a 45° angle; a kinematic structure where all axes are arranged on the workpiece, so the powder supply does not require movement; and a shield gas supply. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Clean Energy Technologies and Assessment)

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15 pages, 2164 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Simulating a Massive Shift towards Photovoltaics without Implying Land Consumption: A Stepwise Approach for Regional Decision Making

by Linda Zardo, Lorenzo Teso and Piercarlo Romagnoni

Sustainability 2024, 16(8), 3319; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16083319 - 16 Apr 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1221

Abstract

As part of the transition to renewable energy production, the use of photovoltaics is not sustainable per se. Planning can guide PV development while minimising possible negative impacts on society, the economy, and the environment. To date, however, the lack of adequate tools [...] Read more.

As part of the transition to renewable energy production, the use of photovoltaics is not sustainable per se. Planning can guide PV development while minimising possible negative impacts on society, the economy, and the environment. To date, however, the lack of adequate tools and information at the local level and the lack of integrated planning in the design of energy initiatives are key challenges. This paper aims to support a sustainable energy transition at the regional level and proposes a methodology to (i) determine the area required to achieve transition goals through PV; (ii) evaluate possible alternative surface categories for PV installation without consuming additional land. Through the illustrative case study of the Veneto Region, electricity demand is calculated based on consumption data, and the area needed to cover this demand through PV is calculated. Areas available for PV installation were mapped, classified (e.g., roofs of houses, parking lots, school buildings, …), and quantified through GIS. The results show that the available areas correspond to 11 times those needed to achieve the goals. This work provides a methodology to support regional decision makers to take a concrete step toward sustainable transition policies. This methodology can be replicated for other regional contexts. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Clean Energy Technologies and Assessment)

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23 pages, 12094 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Wind–PV–Battery Hybrid Off-Grid System: Control Design and Real-Time Testing

by Miloud Rezkallah, Ambrish Chandra and Hussein Ibrahim

Clean Technol. 2024, 6(2), 471-493; https://doi.org/10.3390/cleantechnol6020024 - 15 Apr 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1661

Abstract

The paper presents the design and implementation of decentralized control for a PV–wind–battery hybrid off-grid system with limited power electronics devices and sensors. To perform well without using any maximum power point tracking (MPPT) technique from the wind turbine (WT) based on a [...] Read more.

The paper presents the design and implementation of decentralized control for a PV–wind–battery hybrid off-grid system with limited power electronics devices and sensors. To perform well without using any maximum power point tracking (MPPT) technique from the wind turbine (WT) based on a permanent-magnet brushless DC generator (PMBLDCG) and solar panels (PVs) and balance the power in the system, a cascade control structure strategy based on a linear active disturbance rejection controller (LADRC) is developed for the two-switch DC-DC buck-boost converter. Moreover, to ensure an uninterruptible power supply to the connected loads with a constant voltage and frequency, a cascade d-q control structure based on LADRC is developed for the interfacing single-phase inverter. Furthermore, the modeling and controller parameters design are presented. The performance under all operation conditions of the hybrid off-grid configuration and its decentralized control is validated by simulation using MATLAB/Simulink and in real-time using a small-scale hardware prototype. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Clean Energy Technologies and Assessment)

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16 pages, 13051 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Different Control Strategies on the Heat Transfer Mechanism of Helical Energy Piles

by Pan Wei, Kongqing Li, Chenfeng Yu and Qiaoyun Han

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(7), 2836; https://doi.org/10.3390/app14072836 - 28 Mar 2024

Viewed by 1075

Abstract

In this paper, numerical simulations of a special energy pile, which constitutes a spiral-injected pipe and one straight discharge pile for Geothermal Heat Pump Systems (SGHEs-P(parallel)), were conducted by Fluent software. The effects of the spiral pitches on the heat transfer rate based [...] Read more.

In this paper, numerical simulations of a special energy pile, which constitutes a spiral-injected pipe and one straight discharge pile for Geothermal Heat Pump Systems (SGHEs-P(parallel)), were conducted by Fluent software. The effects of the spiral pitches on the heat transfer rate based on the G-function method and peripheral soil temperature of the pile were investigated under continuous and intermittent operation strategies. The impact of spiral tube sizing on the surface heat transfer coefficients was studied. The results indicated that SGHEs-P may be preferred for office buildings under intermittent operation conditions. For a short period, the temperature profiles and heat transfer efficiency of SGHEs-P were mainly influenced by the fluid type, length of the spiral tube, and spiral pitch. The smaller the spiral pitch, the more uniform the temperature distribution, and the better the heat transfer effect, but the heat transfer per unit depth of pile decreased. The average temperature variation curve of the soil around the energy pile with different spiral pitches was simulated and obtained over time. Meanwhile, the impact of spiral radius, spiral pitch, and spiral tube radius on the convective heat transfer coefficient was also presented. Through data fitting, the formulas for the correction coefficients of spiral radius, spiral pitch, and spiral tube radius on convective heat transfer coefficient were obtained, respectively. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Clean Energy Technologies and Assessment)

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22 pages, 14281 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Low-Pressure Steam Generation with Concentrating Solar Energy and Different Heat Upgrade Technologies: Potential in the European Industry

by Jorge Payá, Antonio Cazorla-Marín, Cordin Arpagaus, José Luis Corrales Ciganda and Abdelrahman H. Hassan

Sustainability 2024, 16(5), 1733; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16051733 - 20 Feb 2024

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2626

Abstract

The industry is currently responsible for around 21% of the total CO₂ emissions, mainly due to heat production with fossil fuel burners. There are already different technologies on the market that can potentially reduce CO₂ emissions. Nevertheless, the first step for [...] Read more.

The industry is currently responsible for around 21% of the total CO₂ emissions, mainly due to heat production with fossil fuel burners. There are already different technologies on the market that can potentially reduce CO₂ emissions. Nevertheless, the first step for their introduction is to analyze their potential on a global scale by detecting in which countries each of them is more attractive, given their energy prices and resources. The present work involves a techno-economic analysis of different alternatives to replace industrial gas boilers for low-pressure steam production at 120 °C and 150 °C. Solar Heat for Industrial Processes (SHIP) was compared with Electric Boilers (EBs), High-Temperature Heat Pumps (HTHPs), and Absorption Heat Transformers (AHTs). SHIP systems have the potential to reach payback periods in the range of 4 to 5 years in countries with Direct Normal Irradiance (DNI) values above 1400 kWh/m²/year, which is reached in Spain, Italy, Greece, Portugal, and Romania. HTHPs and AHTs lead to the lowest payback periods, Levelized Cost of Heat (LCOH), and highest CO₂ emission savings. For both AHTs and HTHPs, payback periods of below 1.5 years can be reached, particularly in countries with electricity-to-gas price ratios below 2.0. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Clean Energy Technologies and Assessment)

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15 pages, 2468 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

The Effect of Different Mixing Proportions and Different Operating Conditions of Biodiesel Blended Fuel on Emissions and Performance of Compression Ignition Engines

by Fangyuan Zheng and Haeng Muk Cho

Energies 2024, 17(2), 344; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17020344 - 10 Jan 2024

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 2003

Abstract

Faced with the depletion of fossil fuels and increasingly serious environmental pollution, finding an environmentally friendly renewable alternative fuel has become one of the current research focuses. In order to find new alternative fuels, reduce dependence on fossil fuels, improve air quality, and [...] Read more.

Faced with the depletion of fossil fuels and increasingly serious environmental pollution, finding an environmentally friendly renewable alternative fuel has become one of the current research focuses. In order to find new alternative fuels, reduce dependence on fossil fuels, improve air quality, and promote sustainable development goals, castor biodiesel was produced through transesterification, and mixed with diesel in a certain proportion. The engine performance and emissions were compared and analyzed under fixed load and different speeds of agricultural diesel engines. Biofuel, as a fuel containing oxygen, promotes complete combustion to a certain extent. As the proportion of castor biodiesel in the mixed fuel increases, the emissions of pollutants such as CO, HC, and smoke show a decreasing trend. The lowest CO, HC, and smoke emissions were observed in the B80 blend at 1800 rpm, at 0.3%, 23 ppm, and 3%, respectively. On the contrary, the CO₂ and NO_x emissions of the B80 blend are higher than those of 2.7 diesel, reaching 2.5% and 332 ppm respectively at 1800 rpm. The lower calorific value and higher viscosity of biodiesel result in a decrease in BTE and an increase in the BSFC of the blends. Higher combustion temperatures at high speeds promote oxidation reactions, resulting in reduced HC, CO, and smoke emissions, but increased CO₂ and NO_x emissions. At high speeds, fuel consumption increases, BSFC increases, and BTE decreases. Overall, castor biodiesel has similar physical and chemical properties to diesel and can be mixed with diesel in a certain proportion for use in CI engines, making it an excellent alternative fuel. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Clean Energy Technologies and Assessment)

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19 pages, 892 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Which Policies and Factors Drive Electric Vehicle Use in Nepal?

by Laxman Prasad Ghimire, Yeonbae Kim and Nawa Raj Dhakal

Energies 2023, 16(21), 7428; https://doi.org/10.3390/en16217428 - 3 Nov 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2893

Abstract

Electric vehicles (EVs) offer a viable technological solution for mitigating greenhouse gas emissions in the transportation industry, addressing pressing societal concerns regarding climate change, air pollution, and sustainable energy consumption. To effectively promote widespread adoption of EVs, it is crucial to understand consumer [...] Read more.

Electric vehicles (EVs) offer a viable technological solution for mitigating greenhouse gas emissions in the transportation industry, addressing pressing societal concerns regarding climate change, air pollution, and sustainable energy consumption. To effectively promote widespread adoption of EVs, it is crucial to understand consumer preferences and evaluate market dynamics. In Nepal, where proven fossil fuel reserves are absent, the government is actively working towards accelerating EV adoption, leveraging the nation’s significant hydroelectric power generation potential to fulfill EVs’ charging demands. To gain insight into consumer preferences and evaluate market dynamics regarding EVs in Nepal, this study employs a comprehensive approach. Stated preference data are collected through a meticulously designed survey, and sophisticated analytical techniques, namely, the mixed logit model and latent class model, are applied for estimation purposes. The results of this study show that potential EV consumers with small family sizes, lower monthly travel distances, heightened environmental awareness, and substantial knowledge about electric vehicles are more inclined to embrace EV technology. Notably, the study highlights that a reduction in the purchase price exerts the most significant influence on increasing consumers’ likelihood of adopting battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs). Market simulation results suggest that a policy mix scenario, encompassing a combination of supportive measures, proves more effective in promoting EV adoption compared to relying on single policy initiatives. Furthermore, through latent class estimation, the study identifies three distinct classes of consumers within Nepal, each exhibiting significant variations in preferences. Recognizing and addressing these variations within policy frameworks is crucial for the successful promotion and widespread acceptance of EVs in Nepal. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Clean Energy Technologies and Assessment)

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33 pages, 1608 KiB  

Open AccessReview

Sustainability-Oriented Assessment of Fuel Cells—A Literature Review

by Annika Tampe, Kristina Höse and Uwe Götze

Sustainability 2023, 15(19), 14368; https://doi.org/10.3390/su151914368 - 29 Sep 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2389

Abstract

Enhancing the sustainability of activities is an undebatable need for decision makers regarding the economy as well as society. Fuel cells and their application in different areas, such as energy supply or mobility, are viewed as a promising means towards more sustainability. However, [...] Read more.

Enhancing the sustainability of activities is an undebatable need for decision makers regarding the economy as well as society. Fuel cells and their application in different areas, such as energy supply or mobility, are viewed as a promising means towards more sustainability. However, fuel cells as well as fuel-cell-based application systems cause a couple of possibly conflictive impacts in terms of ecological, economic, and social targets—their positive contribution to sustainability is not confident. Consequently, a significant assessment of sustainability is needed to enable a targeted development of fuel cells and their application systems, including the selection of alternative design variants. Furthermore, such assessment is necessary to provide evidence for the intended improvements and thereby contribute to market success and implementation of the systems. However, an overview of the existing methods for sustainability-related assessment of fuel cells and fuel-cell-based systems as well as the outcomes of the assessments does not exist. Therefore, a systematic literature review is conducted without restriction of fuel cell types and evaluation methods. Such a comprehensive overview does not yet exist to the best of the authors’ knowledge. With regard to the suggested or applied methods, the results show, amongst others, that the economic assessment does not refer to the methodical state-of-art, the social dimension is neglected, and an overall assessment of sustainability, aggregating all three dimensions, is not conducted. Due to the variety of analyzed objects as well as applied methods, the outcomes of the studies provide not more than scattered knowledge about the relevance of components and the advantageousness of fuel cells, their variants, and their application systems regarding sustainability. To contribute to avoiding methodological deficiencies, a procedure model for an integrated assessment is presented. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Clean Energy Technologies and Assessment)

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16 pages, 8479 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Retrofit of a 600 MW Down-Fired Pulverized-Coal Furnace for Low NOx Emission

by Tao Liu, Sheng Wang, Ziming Wei and Jie Yu

Energies 2023, 16(19), 6837; https://doi.org/10.3390/en16196837 - 27 Sep 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1199

Abstract

Aiming at solving the problem of high NOx emissions of a down-fired boiler, a new combustion system has been proposed by means of the numerical simulation using Ansys Fluent. The coal-lean stream (tertiary air), which was originally mixed with a separated overfired air [...] Read more.

Aiming at solving the problem of high NOx emissions of a down-fired boiler, a new combustion system has been proposed by means of the numerical simulation using Ansys Fluent. The coal-lean stream (tertiary air), which was originally mixed with a separated overfired air (SOFA) stream on the front and rear walls of the upper furnace, was relocated to the lower zone of the furnace after retrofit. The secondary-air slots were transformed into a new annular port type, which was injected into the furnace with a down-tilt angle to increase the residence time of the coal stream. Furthermore, the effect of secondary air distribution and velocity of coal stream on performance was studied. After retrofitting the combustion system, the NO emissions were effectively controlled, decreasing from 906 mg Nm⁻³ to 576 mg Nm⁻³, but the carbon content of fly ash increased from 2.46% to 5.78%. Aiming at decreasing the carbon content of fly ash, the effect of coal/primary air velocity on the arch was studied. Less carbon content in fly ash can be observed for the lower arch airflow velocity. The results showed that the NO emissions can be controlled below 595 mg Nm⁻³, and the carbon content of fly ash was reduced to 3.39% when the velocity was decreased to 18 m s⁻¹. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Clean Energy Technologies and Assessment)

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13 pages, 288 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Sustainable Energy Supplies in Developing Countries: Does National Governance Matter?

by Mengya Shang, Noha Aleesa and Abdulrasheed Zakari

Energies 2023, 16(18), 6607; https://doi.org/10.3390/en16186607 - 14 Sep 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1733

Abstract

In this paper, we examine the impact of national governance quality on clean energy supplies in developing countries. We used a large sample of 103 developing countries over 21 years. We employ pooled ordinary least squares as the primary estimator. Additionally, we apply [...] Read more.

In this paper, we examine the impact of national governance quality on clean energy supplies in developing countries. We used a large sample of 103 developing countries over 21 years. We employ pooled ordinary least squares as the primary estimator. Additionally, we apply a Fixed Effect and the Two-Step System-Generalized Method of Moments to mitigate contemporaneity bias. Following prior studies, we construct national governance quality from the six World Governance Indicators. Consistent with our expectations, we find a positive and significant association between national governance quality and clean energy supplies. The results show that countries with high national governance quality are more likely to generate high amounts of clean energy than low-governed countries and to experience a high green economy. The results are also significant when the governance indicator is disaggregated into individual components. However, in a continental analysis, we found that the link between national governance quality and clean energy supplies is stronger in Africa than on other continents. Our results are robust to alternative measurements and econometric identification strategies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Clean Energy Technologies and Assessment)

16 pages, 2718 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Estimation of Methane Gas Production in Turkey Using Machine Learning Methods

by Güler Ferhan Ünal Uyar, Mustafa Terzioğlu, Mehmet Kayakuş, Burçin Tutcu, Ahmet Çoşgun, Güray Tonguç and Rüya Kaplan Yildirim

Appl. Sci. 2023, 13(14), 8442; https://doi.org/10.3390/app13148442 - 21 Jul 2023

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 1977

Abstract

Methane gas emission into the atmosphere is rising due to the use of fossil-based resources in post-industrial energy use, as well as the increase in food demand and organic wastes that comes with an increasing human population. For this reason, methane gas, which [...] Read more.

Methane gas emission into the atmosphere is rising due to the use of fossil-based resources in post-industrial energy use, as well as the increase in food demand and organic wastes that comes with an increasing human population. For this reason, methane gas, which is among the greenhouse gases, is seen as an important cause of climate change along with carbon dioxide. The aim of this study was to predict, using machine learning, the emission of methane gas, which has a greater effect on the warming of the atmosphere than other greenhouse gases. Methane gas estimation in Turkey was carried out using machine learning methods. The R² metric was calculated as logistic regression (LR) 94.9%, artificial neural networks (ANNs) 93.6%, and support vector regression (SVR) 92.3%. All three machine learning methods used in the study were close to ideal statistical criteria. LR had the least error and highest prediction success, followed by ANNs and then SVR. The models provided successful results, which will be useful in the formulation of policies in terms of animal production (especially cattle production) and the disposal of organic human wastes, which are thought to be the main causes of methane gas emission. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Clean Energy Technologies and Assessment)

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22 pages, 6141 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Development Potential Assessment for Wind and Photovoltaic Power Energy Resources in the Main Desert–Gobi–Wilderness Areas of China

by Jiawei Wu, Jinyu Xiao, Jinming Hou and Xunyan Lyu

Energies 2023, 16(12), 4559; https://doi.org/10.3390/en16124559 - 7 Jun 2023

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 2498

Abstract

The large-scale centralized development of wind and PV power resources is the key to China’s dual carbon targets and clean energy transition. The vast desert–Gobi–wilderness areas in northern and western China will be the best choice for renewable energy development under multiple considerations [...] Read more.

The large-scale centralized development of wind and PV power resources is the key to China’s dual carbon targets and clean energy transition. The vast desert–Gobi–wilderness areas in northern and western China will be the best choice for renewable energy development under multiple considerations of resources endowment, land use constraints, technical conditions, and economic level. It is urgent to carry out a quantitative wind and PV resource assessment study in desert–Gobi–wilderness areas. This paper proposed a multi-dimensional assessment method considering the influence of the power grid and transportation infrastructure distributions, which includes three research levels, namely, the technical installed capacity, the development potential, and the development cost. Nine main desert–Gobi–wilderness areas were assessed. The wind and PV technical installed capacities were 0.6 TW and 10.7 TW, and the total development potentials were over 0.12 TW and 1.2 TW, with the full load hours of 2513 and 1759 and the average development costs of 0.28 CNY/kWh and 0.20 CNY/kWh. Finally, this paper proposed the meteorological–electrical division distribution. A case study in the Kubuqi and Qaidam Deserts was carried out on wind–wind and wind–PV collaborative development across different meteorological–electrical divisions, which can reduce by 58% the long-term energy storage capacity and decrease the total system LCOE from 0.488 CNY/kWh to 0.445 CNY/kWh. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Clean Energy Technologies and Assessment)

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16 pages, 9007 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Meteorological-Data-Based Modeling for PV Performance Optimization

by Mahmood Alharbi, Ramzi Alahmadi and Ahmed Alahmadi

Sustainability 2023, 15(11), 8659; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15118659 - 26 May 2023

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2000

Abstract

Developing a sustainable and reliable photovoltaic (PV) energy system requires a comprehensive analysis of solar profiles and an accurate prediction of solar energy performance at the study site. Installing the PV modules with optimal tilt and azimuth angles has a significant impact on [...] Read more.

Developing a sustainable and reliable photovoltaic (PV) energy system requires a comprehensive analysis of solar profiles and an accurate prediction of solar energy performance at the study site. Installing the PV modules with optimal tilt and azimuth angles has a significant impact on the total irradiance delivered to the PV modules. This paper proposes a comprehensive optimization model to integrate total irradiance models with the PV temperature model to find the optimal year-round installation parameters of PV modules. A novel integration between installation parameters and the annual average solar energy is presented, to produce the maximum energy output. The results suggest an increase in energy yields of 4% compared to the conventional scheme, where tilt angle is equal to the latitude and the PV modules are facing south. This paper uses a real-time dataset for the NEOM region in Saudi Arabia to validate the superiority of the proposed model compared to the conventional scheme, but it can be implemented as a scheme wherever real-time data are available. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Clean Energy Technologies and Assessment)

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11 pages, 1396 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

How to Promote the Application of Biogas Power Technology: A Perspective of Incentive Policy

by Zhao Xin-gang, Wang Wei, Hu Shuran and Lu Wenjie

Energies 2023, 16(4), 1622; https://doi.org/10.3390/en16041622 - 6 Feb 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1828

Abstract

To combat climate change, the Chinese government has implemented a package of policies to support the development of the biogas power generation industry. However, the promotion of biogas power generation technology in China is relatively slow. Therefore, it is of practical significance to [...] Read more.

To combat climate change, the Chinese government has implemented a package of policies to support the development of the biogas power generation industry. However, the promotion of biogas power generation technology in China is relatively slow. Therefore, it is of practical significance to study the promotion of biogas power generation technology against the background of policy support. In order to study the effect of policy on the promotion of biogas power generation technology, a system dynamics model is constructed in this paper. The results show that under the feed-in tariff subsidy policy, biogas power generation technology can be well promoted because it has good economic and environmental effects. In addition, if the biogas power generation technology is considered to participate in carbon emission trading, the carbon price also has a positive impact on the promotion of biogas power generation technology because it increases the perceived economic value of biogas power generation projects. Finally, this study can also provide reference value for the promotion of biogas power generation technology in other areas. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Clean Energy Technologies and Assessment)

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11 pages, 1286 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Research on Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Economic Assessment of Biomass Gasification Power Generation Technology in China Based on LCA Method

by Yuan Wang and Youzhen Yang

Sustainability 2022, 14(24), 16729; https://doi.org/10.3390/su142416729 - 13 Dec 2022

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 3026

Abstract

China is rich in biomass resources, taking straw as an example, the amount of straw in China is 735 million tons in 2021. However, at the level of resource use, biomass resources have the practical difficulties of being widely distributed and difficult to [...] Read more.

China is rich in biomass resources, taking straw as an example, the amount of straw in China is 735 million tons in 2021. However, at the level of resource use, biomass resources have the practical difficulties of being widely distributed and difficult to achieve large-scale application. By collecting large amounts of biomass and generating electricity using gasification technology, we can effectively increase the resource utilization of biomass and also improve China’s energy security. By using a life cycle assessment (LCA) approach, this paper conducted a life cycle assessment with local biomass gasification power generation data in China and found that the LCA greenhouse gas emissions of biomass gasification power generation technology is 8.68 t CO₂ e/10⁴ kWh and the LCA cost is 674 USD/10⁴ kWh. Biomass gasification power generation technology has a 14.7% reduction in whole life carbon emissions compared to coal power generation technology. This paper finds that gas-fired power generation processes result in the largest carbon emissions. In terms of economics, this paper finds that natural gas brings the most additional costs as an external heat source. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Clean Energy Technologies and Assessment)

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14 pages, 4944 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Investigation of a Calibration Method of Coriolis Mass Flowmeters by Density- and Pressure-Matching Approaches for Hydrogen Refueling Stations

by Woong Kang, Jinwoo Shin, Byungro Yoon, Sunghee Kil, Sangsik Yim, Wonguk Han and Unbong Baek

Appl. Sci. 2022, 12(24), 12609; https://doi.org/10.3390/app122412609 - 8 Dec 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2089

Abstract

Hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles are emerging as a means of transportation using renewable and carbon-free energy due to global warming and air pollution. Hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles are typically refueled at a wide range of temperatures (−40 °C to 85 °C) [...] Read more.

Hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles are emerging as a means of transportation using renewable and carbon-free energy due to global warming and air pollution. Hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles are typically refueled at a wide range of temperatures (−40 °C to 85 °C) in hydrogen refueling stations in accordance with globally accepted standards. Currently, there is no traceable method by which to verify and calibrate the Coriolis mass flowmeters used at hydrogen refueling stations, except for a water calibration process as a conventional method for mass flowrate calibration. To verify the hydrogen flow metering to a suitable level of accuracy under the challenging condition of high pressures and a wide range of temperatures, necessary methodologies and calibration facilities are developed in the present study. A flow measurement characteristic test of the hydrogen mass flowmeter under identical density conditions of the refueled hydrogen was conducted using the high-pressure gas flow standard system of the Korea Research Institute of Standards and Science to assess the effects on the medium and pressure of the mass flowmeter in a density-matching approach. To investigate the pressure dependence of the mass flowmeter at a hydrogen refueling station, a high-pressure water flow test was conducted in the pressure range of 2 bar to 700 bar, which is a pressure-matching approach. Finally, the KRISS Hydrogen Field Test Standard based on the gravimetric principle was developed to verify the measurement accuracy of the mass flowmeter to be used at hydrogen refueling stations for the first time in Korea. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Clean Energy Technologies and Assessment)

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17 pages, 821 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Techno-Economic and Environmental Assessment of Municipal Solid Waste Energetic Valorization

by Einara Blanco Machin, Daniel Travieso Pedroso, Daviel Gómez Acosta, Maria Isabel Silva dos Santos, Felipe Solferini de Carvalho, Adrian Blanco Machín, Matías Abner Neira Ortíz, Reinaldo Sánchez Arriagada, Daniel Ignacio Travieso Fernández, Lúcia Bollini Braga Maciel, Daniel Cuevas Arcos, Yanet Guerra Reyes and Joao Andrade de Carvalho Júnior

Energies 2022, 15(23), 8900; https://doi.org/10.3390/en15238900 - 24 Nov 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2545

Abstract

In 2019, Chile generated 20 million tons of waste, 79% of which was not properly disposed of, thereby providing an attractive opportunity for energy generation in advanced thermochemical conversion processes. This study presents a techno-economic and environmental assessment of the implementation of Waste-Integrated [...] Read more.

In 2019, Chile generated 20 million tons of waste, 79% of which was not properly disposed of, thereby providing an attractive opportunity for energy generation in advanced thermochemical conversion processes. This study presents a techno-economic and environmental assessment of the implementation of Waste-Integrated Gasifier-Gas Turbine Combined Cycle (WIG-GTCC) technology as an alternative for Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) treatment. The studied case assesses the conversion of 14.61 t·h⁻¹ of MSW, which produces a combustible gas with a flow rate of 34.2 t·h⁻¹ and LHV of 5900 kJ·kg⁻¹, which, in turn, is used in a combined cycle to generate 19.58 MW of electrical power. The proposed economic assessment of the technology uses the energy generation processes as a reference, followed by a model for an overall economic evaluation. The results have shown that the profit could be up to USD 24.1 million, and the recovery of investment between 12 and 17 years would improve the environmental impacts of the current disposal technology. The WIG-GTCC has the most efficient conversion route, emitting 0.285 kg CO_2eq/kWh, which represents 48.21% of the potential yield of global warming over 100 years (GWP₁₀₀) of incineration and 58.51% of the GWP₁₀₀ of the standard gasification method. The WIG-GTCC would enable the energetic valorization of MSW in Chile, eliminate problems associated with landfill disposal, and increase opportunities for decentralized electricity generation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Clean Energy Technologies and Assessment)

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20 pages, 4360 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Feasibility Assessment of Rural Hybrid Microgrid Using Canal-Based Microhydel Resources: A Case Study of Renala Khurd Pakistan

by Misbah Sattar, Fawad Azeem, Zulfiqar Memon, Hasan Zidan and Sobia Baig

Sustainability 2022, 14(22), 15417; https://doi.org/10.3390/su142215417 - 20 Nov 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2420

Abstract

Water canal networks that are widely used for irrigation are an equally good source of micropower generation to be fed to the nearby areas. A practical example of such a system is the micro-hydro generation at Renala Khurd Pakistan integrated with the national [...] Read more.

Water canal networks that are widely used for irrigation are an equally good source of micropower generation to be fed to the nearby areas. A practical example of such a system is the micro-hydro generation at Renala Khurd Pakistan integrated with the national grid known as hydro–grid configuration. Apart from the rare Renala Khurd hydro generation example, solar photovoltaic generation integrated with a mainstream network, i.e., solar PV-Grid configuration, is widely used. The integrated operation of combinations of primary distributed generation sources has different operational attributes in terms of economics and reliability that are needed to be quantified before installation. So far, various combinations of primary distributed generation sources have been simulated and their accumulative impact on project economics and reliability have been reported. A detailed economic and reliability assessment of various configurations is needed for sustainable and cost-effective configuration selection. This study proposes a trigeneration combination of solar–hydro–grid with an optimal sizing scheme to reduce the solar system sizing and grid operational cost. A genetic algorithm based optimal sizing formulation is developed using fixed hydro and variable solar and grid systems with a number of pre-defined constraints. The hydro–grid, solar–grid, and grid–hydro–solar configurations are simulated in HOMER Pro software to analyze the economic impact, and to undertake reliability assessments under various configurations of the project. Finally, optimal values of the genetic algorithm are provided to the HOMER Pro software search space for simulating the grid–hydro–solar configuration. It was revealed that the net present cost (NPC) of hydro-to-grid configuration was 23% lower than the grid–hydro–solar configuration, whereas the NPC of grid–hydro–solar without optimal sizing was 40% lower than the solar–grid configuration, and the NPC of grid–solar–hydro with the genetic algorithm was 36% lower than the hydro–grid configuration, 50.90% lower than solar–grid–hydro without the genetic algorithm, and 17.1% lower than the grid–solar configuration, thus proving utilization of trigeneration sources integration to be a feasible solution for areas where canal hydropower is available. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Clean Energy Technologies and Assessment)

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21 pages, 2730 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Assessing the Potential of Wind Energy as Sustainable Energy Production in Ramallah, Palestine

by Ramez Abdallah and Hüseyin Çamur

Sustainability 2022, 14(15), 9352; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14159352 - 30 Jul 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3233

Abstract

The meteorological statistics collected from six-year wind speed data of Ramallah in Palestine are used to evaluate the potential of wind energy. The Weibull function is utilized to statistically assess the wind performance. An examination of the wind data using hourly wind directions [...] Read more.

The meteorological statistics collected from six-year wind speed data of Ramallah in Palestine are used to evaluate the potential of wind energy. The Weibull function is utilized to statistically assess the wind performance. An examination of the wind data using hourly wind directions and speeds throughout the six-year period between 2016 and 2021. The investigation revealed that the Weibull model provided a precise explanation of the actual wind data using the maximum likelihood estimator approach for scale and shape parameters. The most prevalent wind direction in Ramallah was west-northwest, accounting for 29.5% of all occurrences. Summer months have the maximum power density, reaching 129.9 at 50 m, 196.0 at 75 m, and 268.9 W/m² at 100 m. In the conclusion, yearly energy outputs, capacity factors, and economic potential for fifteen wind turbines ranging in size from 0.5 to 5 MW had been evaluated. It was revealed that the greatest capacity factor is about 36% and has a high economic potential at a cost of less than 0.07 $/kWh for an appropriate selection of wind turbine models. This baseline research will be utilized as a decision-making basis for the best and most economical wind energy investment in Palestine. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Clean Energy Technologies and Assessment)

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