Solar Energy and Sustainable Development Journal

Feasibility of a 40kWp Grid-Connected Solar Power Plant in Tiaret, Algeria:

Benameur Afif — 2024-11-16

This study evaluates the technical and economic feasibility of a 40kWp grid-connected solar power plant in Tiaret, Algeria. Utilizing comprehensive solar irradiance data and advanced PV system software, we designed and simulated the plant's performance under local conditions. Our analysis incorporates smart grid integration strategies and economic modeling. Results indicate an annual electricity generation of approximately 68,000 kWh, with a levelized cost of energy (LCOE) of 0.12 USD/kWh and an estimated payback period of 5 years. The plant demonstrates a performance ratio of 0.759, reflecting its efficiency under real-world conditions. These findings suggest that grid-connected solar power plants are not only technically viable but also economically attractive in Algeria. The study provides critical insights for policymakers, investors, and engineers, offering a replicable model for assessing and implementing solar projects in similar emerging markets across North Africa and beyond.

Feasibility Assessment of Hybrid Renewable Energy Based EV Charging Station in Libya

Abdullah Abodwair — 2024-11-13

This study presents an assessment of the feasibility of implementing a hybrid renewable energy-based electric vehicle (EV) charging station at a residential building in Tripoli, Libya. Utilizing the advanced capabilities of HOMER Grid software, the research evaluates multiple scenarios involving combinations of solar and wind energy sources integrated with energy storage and the utility grid. This analysis provides a novel approach to enhancing urban energy systems with renewable technologies in a region traditionally reliant on fossil fuels. Key contributions of this study include the demonstration of an innovative integration strategy that combines solar and wind power with battery storage to ensure a reliable and efficient energy supply for EV charging. Furthermore, the study addresses the practical implications for local energy policy, suggesting that such hybrid systems can significantly enhance energy security and support sustainable urban development. The authors studied five scenarios using HOMER. The results reveals that the annual total costs and payback periods are as follows: for Scenario 1 (wind/utility grid), the expenditure totals US$1,554,416 and payback period of 4.8/5.8 years; for Scenario 2 (solar/wind/Utility grid), the amount is US$1,554,506 and payback period of 4.8/5.8 years; and for Scenario 3(solar/wind/storage/utility grid), it escalates slightly to US$1,554,731, all predicated on the utility grid tariffs and payback period of 4.8/5.8 years. Furthermore, in Scenario 4 (solar/utility grid), the annual total cost is significantly reduced to US$30,589 and a payback period of 8.1/14.3 years, while Scenario 5 (solar/storage/utility grid) incurs an even lower expenditure of US$28,572, again based on the utility grid tariffs and a payback period of 14.0 years. The findings contribute valuable insights into the scalability and adaptability of renewable energy solutions, providing a robust framework for policymakers and planners considering similar implementations in other regions. Overall, the research underscores the potential of integrated renewable energy systems to transform urban energy infrastructures, promoting a sustainable and resilient energy future. The HOMER Grid analysis shows that configurations with energy storage are more cost-effective in the long run, even though they require higher initial costs. It also offers important insights into the economic viability and optimization of hybrid renewable energy systems for an EV charging station in Tripoli, Libya. These results highlight the significance of making calculated investments in renewable energy infrastructure and supporting policies for the development of sustainable energy.

Predicting the Impact of Different Cooling Systems on the Performance of Parabolic Trough Concentrating Solar Plant based on Real Data

MIHOUB Sofiane — 2024-10-03

By enhancing the availability and dispatchability of energy, concentrated solar power systems with thermal energy storage have a significant impact on tackling the issue of energy insecurity in hot and arid locations. However, these technologies currently face a number of difficulties. Additionally, the selection of the cooling system has a significant impact on how well a concentrated solar power plant performs. The primary three drawbacks of current cooling systems are their high water usage, high cost, limited availability of local water resources, and potential for localized disturbance. As a result, effective low-water cooling solutions for solar power concentration are highly desired. To achieve this, the study assesses the viability and advantages of adding a radiative cooling system to an indirect parabolic trough-concentrating solar thermal plant with two thermal energy storage tanks in arid regions of Algeria. This system is expected to improve the block and efficiency of the power plant and decrease energy costs and water volumes consumed. In order to evaluate these advantages, using the system advisor model software, a number of simulation models have been constructed including wet, dry, and radiative cooling systems with various configurations so that each strategy can be compared. The experimental statistics from the Andasol-1 plant in SPAIN that were documented in the literature were used for plant parameters. The results of the simulations were contrasted with a predetermined set of posted data from the Andasol-1 reference facility. In comparison to dry and wet cooling systems, the results show a rise in annual power generation and nearly 2.4 % and 11 % increase in the use of radiative cooling systems, respectively. Furthermore, the environmental assessment found that the annual water use may be reduced by 771209.7 m³, which would result in a possible annual water savings of more than 50%.

Multi-Port Converters for Interfacing Renewable Energy Sources:

Alaa Mahmoud — 2024-09-08

Several power electronic converters are merged to fulfill different requirements such as interfacing Renewable Energy Sources (RESs) to energy storage systems (ESS), grid, and loads. Some applications would require several converters that reduce the efficiency, increase component counts and complicating the control strategies. The interfacing of separate energy sources utilized in electrical vehicles (EV) and grid-connected applications has drawn attention to Multiport Converters (MPC). Additionally, MPCs have a smaller component count and compact design compared to multiple independent DC-DC converters. This led to an increase in the power density and a decrease in complexity and cost of the converter. This article Introduce a comprehensive review for numerous numbers of publications regarding MPCs, advising a simple classification for MPCs. The classification introduced in the article is based on the applications. This classification would be a beneficial tool for researchers in the field while highlighting different control and modulation strategies used in MPCs and Discussing the limitations and boundaries of MPCs.