Post-combustion amine absorption and stripping can remove 90% of the CO2 from power plant flue gas, but systems can reduce electrical output by approximately 30% due to energy requirements for stripping CO2 from solve...Post-combustion amine absorption and stripping can remove 90% of the CO2 from power plant flue gas, but systems can reduce electrical output by approximately 30% due to energy requirements for stripping CO2 from solvent and CO2 compression. The CO2 capture energy penalty can be reduced while developing renewable energy technologies by meeting CO2 capture energy requirements with a solar thermal energy system, particularly when electricity demand and prices are the highest. This study presents an initial review of solar thermal technologies for supplying CO2 capture energy, with a focus on high temperature systems. Parabolic troughs and central receivers are technically able to provide energy for CO2 capture. However, the solar system＇s capital costs would be roughly half that of the base coal-fired plant with CO2 capture, and high electricity prices are required to offset the costs of operating the solar thermal system. For high temperature solar thermal systems, direct electricity generation is likely a more efficient way to use solar energy to replace output lost to CO2 capture energy. However, low temperature solar thermal systems might integrate better with solvent stripping equipment, and more rigorous analysis is required to definitively assess the feasibility of using solar energy for CO2 capture.展开更多
New alternatives and inventive renewable energy techniques which encompass both generation and power management solutions are fundamental for meeting remote residential energy supply and demand today, especially if th...New alternatives and inventive renewable energy techniques which encompass both generation and power management solutions are fundamental for meeting remote residential energy supply and demand today, especially if the grid is quasi-inexistent. Solar thermoelectric generators mounted on a dual-axis sun tracker can be a cost-effective alternative to photovoltaics for remote residential household power generation. A complete solar thermoelectric energy harvesting system is presented in this paper for energy delivery to remote residential areas in developing regions. To this end, the entire system was built, modeled, and then validated with the LTspice simulator software via the thermal-to-electrical analogy schemes. Valuable data in conjunction with a novel LTspice circuit were obtained, showing the achievability of analyzing transient heat transfer with the SPICE simulator; however a few of the problems to be solved remain at the practical level. Despite the unusual operation of the thermoelectric modules with the solar radiation, the simulation and measurements were in good agreement, thus validating the new modeling strategy.展开更多
OPV （Organic photovoltaic） cells represent a compelling candidate for renewable energy by solar energy conversion. In recent years, versatile light-trapping measures via structures have been intensively explored to ...OPV （Organic photovoltaic） cells represent a compelling candidate for renewable energy by solar energy conversion. In recent years, versatile light-trapping measures via structures have been intensively explored to optimize photovoltaic performance. In this work, a unique rubbing technique is demonstrated to create nanoscale grooves on the PEDOT：PSS [poly（3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene）： poly（styrenesulfonate）] surface and the grating-like features are 500 nm wide and 10 nm deep. The PEDOT：PSS film with grooved surface is used as buffer layers for OPV cell devices based on a P3HT：PCBM bulk heterojunction. The patterned surface has a profound effect on carrier mobility, light trapping, and hole collection efficiency, leading to an increase in the short circuit density, filling factor, and power conversion efficiency. These results indicate the feasibility of the rubbing method can be applicable to high-efficiency OPV cells.展开更多
The building sector has a significant weight in the global energy consumption in almost of the countries. So, there is a high potential for increasing its energy efficiency. With the enforcement of the energetic certi...The building sector has a significant weight in the global energy consumption in almost of the countries. So, there is a high potential for increasing its energy efficiency. With the enforcement of the energetic certification, it was tried to select different solutions that presents less energy consumption and waste, as well as an effective reduction of CO2 emissions. This work fits in this perspective, since the main goal is to evaluate the contribution of passive and active solutions that can be used in buildings for the improvement of its energetic efficiency, as well as to evaluate the contribution of renewable energy sources. Contribution of solar systems for hot water heating and electric energy production has been studied, as well as cogeneration, Combined Heat and Power （CHP）. The case studied is a hotel. To improve the building performance, there were proposed several changes, with the goal of evaluating the contribution of the different solutions proposed. It was concluded that they contribute to a reduction of thermal needs of 25.2% and avoided emissions of CO2 is 30.4%. The analysis of the implementation of trigeneration, Combined Heat, Cooling and Power （CHCP） turns it executable. The payback period is less than 8 years.展开更多
CSP （concentrating solar power） is a commercially available renewable energy technology capable of harnessing the immense solar resource in southern Europe, the MENA region （Middle East and North Africa）, and else...CSP （concentrating solar power） is a commercially available renewable energy technology capable of harnessing the immense solar resource in southern Europe, the MENA region （Middle East and North Africa）, and elsewhere. This paper summarises the findings of a study by the European Academies Science Advisory Council which has examined the current status and development challenges of CSP, and consequently has evaluated the potential contribution of CSP in Europe and the MENA region to 2050. It identifies the actions that will be required by scientists, engineers, policy makers, politicians, business and investors alike, to enable this vast solar resource to make a major contribution to establishing a sustainable energy system. The study concludes that cost reductions of 50%-60% in CSP electricity may reasonably be expected in the next 10-15 years, enabling the technology to be cost competitive with fossil-fired power generation at some point between 2020 and 2030. Incorporation of storage delivers added value in enabling CSP to deliver dispatchable power. Incentive schemes will be needed in Europe and MENA countries to enable this point to be achieved. Such schemes should reflect the true value of electricity to the grid, effectively drive research and development, and ensure transparency of performance and cost data.展开更多
Solar energy is the radiant light and heat from the Sun that has been harnessed by human since ancient times. Also secondary solar resources such as wind and wave power, hydroelectric power and biomass account for mos...Solar energy is the radiant light and heat from the Sun that has been harnessed by human since ancient times. Also secondary solar resources such as wind and wave power, hydroelectric power and biomass account for most of the available renewable energy on Earth, which can be used by human. Architects since alacient times have used various methods to hamesse and employ the solar energy for lighting, cooling and heating and etc. Meanwhile, Iran＇s ancient architecture, as an adaptive one, which consists of various climatic reigns, is filled with abounding examples of using sun energy in buildings. But, unfortunately despite these ancient methods, our modern architects mostly tend to provide energy of buildings with fossil fuels. This increases energy costs of the building＇s and also pollutes the environment. In this article it is intended to consider the ancient ways of using solar energy in Iran, and then suggest new methods for applying in modem buildings. The results of consideration show that among Solar technologies, passive and active methods, Iran＇s ancient architects have used passive methods, for example in mass and space, orientation and settlement of building. The idea of passive methods can be used in new shapes in current buildings, for instance by using solar space, central yard and etc. The suggestive method in this paper is combining the passive methods with the active ones.展开更多
More than 10% of the population in Salta is regarded as rural. Many rural areas suffer a shortage of energy, and consequently, possibilities of social and economic development of the inhabitants become reduced. The ac...More than 10% of the population in Salta is regarded as rural. Many rural areas suffer a shortage of energy, and consequently, possibilities of social and economic development of the inhabitants become reduced. The activation of renewable energy sources in these areas presents inhabitants the advantages to generate their own energy. Dispersed rural communities create small electricity demands that are not considered by suppliers, because they are not profitable. Although thus far, feasibility analyses to install photovoltaic or thermal solar collectors are based on technical reasons, it seems more convenient that, in the future, projects for the installation of technology based on renewable energy should consider social indicators. As a preliminary step to field work is proposed in this paper using an equation that allows us to obtain a value of＂social index＂. With this analysis and the current survey accompanied by the local people, knowledge will be obtained of the real needs of these rural communities. The results show that there is a variation that would allow a classification or ordering of localities. To validate the results obtained is proposed as the next step to perform field work in each of the localities.展开更多
This paper presents the outdoor performance evaluation of different grid-connected PV technologies installed in Cyprus over a two year period. The PV research and testing facility at the University of Cyprus was commi...This paper presents the outdoor performance evaluation of different grid-connected PV technologies installed in Cyprus over a two year period. The PV research and testing facility at the University of Cyprus was commissioned in 2006 to perform continuous measurements of meteorological and PV operational parameters. The test site is appropriately equipped to undertake such evaluations at a very high resolution （1 measurement per second）. The perfromance results obtained for the two year evaluation period clearly show how each PV technology has performed under the climatological conditions in Cyprus. Finally the high average energy yield of the fixed plate systems under test, 1580 kWh/kWp and 1609 kWh/kWp during the first and second year of evaluation respectively, also verifies that solar energy is a very promising renewable source of energy for countries with a high solar resource.展开更多
Sustainable development and continued prosperity of humanity hinge on the availability of renewable energy sources on a terawatts scale. In the long run, solar energy is the only source that can meet this daunting dem...Sustainable development and continued prosperity of humanity hinge on the availability of renewable energy sources on a terawatts scale. In the long run, solar energy is the only source that can meet this daunting demand. Widespread utilization of solar energy faces challenges as a result of its diffusive （hence low energy density） and intermittent nature. How to effectively harvest, concentrate, store and redistribute solar energy constitutes a fundamental challenge that the scientific community needs to address. Photoelectrochemical （PEC） water splitting is a process that can directly convert solar energy into chemical energy and store it in chemical bonds, by producing hydrogen as a clean fuel source. It has received significant research attention lately. Here we provide a concise review of the key issues encountered in carrying out PEC water splitting. Our focus is on the balance of considerations such as stability, earth abundance, and efficiency. Particular attention is paid to the combination of photoelectrodes with electrocatalysts, especially on the interfaces between different components.展开更多
文摘Post-combustion amine absorption and stripping can remove 90% of the CO2 from power plant flue gas, but systems can reduce electrical output by approximately 30% due to energy requirements for stripping CO2 from solvent and CO2 compression. The CO2 capture energy penalty can be reduced while developing renewable energy technologies by meeting CO2 capture energy requirements with a solar thermal energy system, particularly when electricity demand and prices are the highest. This study presents an initial review of solar thermal technologies for supplying CO2 capture energy, with a focus on high temperature systems. Parabolic troughs and central receivers are technically able to provide energy for CO2 capture. However, the solar system＇s capital costs would be roughly half that of the base coal-fired plant with CO2 capture, and high electricity prices are required to offset the costs of operating the solar thermal system. For high temperature solar thermal systems, direct electricity generation is likely a more efficient way to use solar energy to replace output lost to CO2 capture energy. However, low temperature solar thermal systems might integrate better with solvent stripping equipment, and more rigorous analysis is required to definitively assess the feasibility of using solar energy for CO2 capture.
文摘New alternatives and inventive renewable energy techniques which encompass both generation and power management solutions are fundamental for meeting remote residential energy supply and demand today, especially if the grid is quasi-inexistent. Solar thermoelectric generators mounted on a dual-axis sun tracker can be a cost-effective alternative to photovoltaics for remote residential household power generation. A complete solar thermoelectric energy harvesting system is presented in this paper for energy delivery to remote residential areas in developing regions. To this end, the entire system was built, modeled, and then validated with the LTspice simulator software via the thermal-to-electrical analogy schemes. Valuable data in conjunction with a novel LTspice circuit were obtained, showing the achievability of analyzing transient heat transfer with the SPICE simulator; however a few of the problems to be solved remain at the practical level. Despite the unusual operation of the thermoelectric modules with the solar radiation, the simulation and measurements were in good agreement, thus validating the new modeling strategy.
文摘OPV （Organic photovoltaic） cells represent a compelling candidate for renewable energy by solar energy conversion. In recent years, versatile light-trapping measures via structures have been intensively explored to optimize photovoltaic performance. In this work, a unique rubbing technique is demonstrated to create nanoscale grooves on the PEDOT：PSS [poly（3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene）： poly（styrenesulfonate）] surface and the grating-like features are 500 nm wide and 10 nm deep. The PEDOT：PSS film with grooved surface is used as buffer layers for OPV cell devices based on a P3HT：PCBM bulk heterojunction. The patterned surface has a profound effect on carrier mobility, light trapping, and hole collection efficiency, leading to an increase in the short circuit density, filling factor, and power conversion efficiency. These results indicate the feasibility of the rubbing method can be applicable to high-efficiency OPV cells.
文摘The building sector has a significant weight in the global energy consumption in almost of the countries. So, there is a high potential for increasing its energy efficiency. With the enforcement of the energetic certification, it was tried to select different solutions that presents less energy consumption and waste, as well as an effective reduction of CO2 emissions. This work fits in this perspective, since the main goal is to evaluate the contribution of passive and active solutions that can be used in buildings for the improvement of its energetic efficiency, as well as to evaluate the contribution of renewable energy sources. Contribution of solar systems for hot water heating and electric energy production has been studied, as well as cogeneration, Combined Heat and Power （CHP）. The case studied is a hotel. To improve the building performance, there were proposed several changes, with the goal of evaluating the contribution of the different solutions proposed. It was concluded that they contribute to a reduction of thermal needs of 25.2% and avoided emissions of CO2 is 30.4%. The analysis of the implementation of trigeneration, Combined Heat, Cooling and Power （CHCP） turns it executable. The payback period is less than 8 years.
文摘CSP （concentrating solar power） is a commercially available renewable energy technology capable of harnessing the immense solar resource in southern Europe, the MENA region （Middle East and North Africa）, and elsewhere. This paper summarises the findings of a study by the European Academies Science Advisory Council which has examined the current status and development challenges of CSP, and consequently has evaluated the potential contribution of CSP in Europe and the MENA region to 2050. It identifies the actions that will be required by scientists, engineers, policy makers, politicians, business and investors alike, to enable this vast solar resource to make a major contribution to establishing a sustainable energy system. The study concludes that cost reductions of 50%-60% in CSP electricity may reasonably be expected in the next 10-15 years, enabling the technology to be cost competitive with fossil-fired power generation at some point between 2020 and 2030. Incorporation of storage delivers added value in enabling CSP to deliver dispatchable power. Incentive schemes will be needed in Europe and MENA countries to enable this point to be achieved. Such schemes should reflect the true value of electricity to the grid, effectively drive research and development, and ensure transparency of performance and cost data.
文摘Solar energy is the radiant light and heat from the Sun that has been harnessed by human since ancient times. Also secondary solar resources such as wind and wave power, hydroelectric power and biomass account for most of the available renewable energy on Earth, which can be used by human. Architects since alacient times have used various methods to hamesse and employ the solar energy for lighting, cooling and heating and etc. Meanwhile, Iran＇s ancient architecture, as an adaptive one, which consists of various climatic reigns, is filled with abounding examples of using sun energy in buildings. But, unfortunately despite these ancient methods, our modern architects mostly tend to provide energy of buildings with fossil fuels. This increases energy costs of the building＇s and also pollutes the environment. In this article it is intended to consider the ancient ways of using solar energy in Iran, and then suggest new methods for applying in modem buildings. The results of consideration show that among Solar technologies, passive and active methods, Iran＇s ancient architects have used passive methods, for example in mass and space, orientation and settlement of building. The idea of passive methods can be used in new shapes in current buildings, for instance by using solar space, central yard and etc. The suggestive method in this paper is combining the passive methods with the active ones.
文摘More than 10% of the population in Salta is regarded as rural. Many rural areas suffer a shortage of energy, and consequently, possibilities of social and economic development of the inhabitants become reduced. The activation of renewable energy sources in these areas presents inhabitants the advantages to generate their own energy. Dispersed rural communities create small electricity demands that are not considered by suppliers, because they are not profitable. Although thus far, feasibility analyses to install photovoltaic or thermal solar collectors are based on technical reasons, it seems more convenient that, in the future, projects for the installation of technology based on renewable energy should consider social indicators. As a preliminary step to field work is proposed in this paper using an equation that allows us to obtain a value of＂social index＂. With this analysis and the current survey accompanied by the local people, knowledge will be obtained of the real needs of these rural communities. The results show that there is a variation that would allow a classification or ordering of localities. To validate the results obtained is proposed as the next step to perform field work in each of the localities.
文摘This paper presents the outdoor performance evaluation of different grid-connected PV technologies installed in Cyprus over a two year period. The PV research and testing facility at the University of Cyprus was commissioned in 2006 to perform continuous measurements of meteorological and PV operational parameters. The test site is appropriately equipped to undertake such evaluations at a very high resolution （1 measurement per second）. The perfromance results obtained for the two year evaluation period clearly show how each PV technology has performed under the climatological conditions in Cyprus. Finally the high average energy yield of the fixed plate systems under test, 1580 kWh/kWp and 1609 kWh/kWp during the first and second year of evaluation respectively, also verifies that solar energy is a very promising renewable source of energy for countries with a high solar resource.
文摘Sustainable development and continued prosperity of humanity hinge on the availability of renewable energy sources on a terawatts scale. In the long run, solar energy is the only source that can meet this daunting demand. Widespread utilization of solar energy faces challenges as a result of its diffusive （hence low energy density） and intermittent nature. How to effectively harvest, concentrate, store and redistribute solar energy constitutes a fundamental challenge that the scientific community needs to address. Photoelectrochemical （PEC） water splitting is a process that can directly convert solar energy into chemical energy and store it in chemical bonds, by producing hydrogen as a clean fuel source. It has received significant research attention lately. Here we provide a concise review of the key issues encountered in carrying out PEC water splitting. Our focus is on the balance of considerations such as stability, earth abundance, and efficiency. Particular attention is paid to the combination of photoelectrodes with electrocatalysts, especially on the interfaces between different components.
