The feasibility of using solar photovoltaic (PV) as an alternative to power a waste water treatment plant
(WWTP) in Trinidad was investigated. The site data and power consumption of the Orangefield WWTP
was used to size a PV system with and without grid tied and tracking and non-tracking options. Present day
costing was determined and a simple payback period for Trinidad and Tobago was calculated. The
analysis indicated a minimum and maximum payback period of 27 years and 97.4 years, respectively.
Therefore, in Trinidad and Tobago, even the most cost effective PV system was not financially feasible. A
comparative payback period for neighbouring countries of Barbados and St. Vincent, with three times
higher power cost than Trinidad and Tobago, indicated that solar power is more attractive and feasible
with a minimum and maximum payback period of 9.1 and 8.6 years and 32.8 and 31.2 years, respectively
comparative analysis of solar photovoltaic thermal (pvt) water and solarIJCMESJOURNAL
The present commercial photovoltaic solar cell (PV) converts solar energy into electricity with a relatively low efficiency less than 15%. More than 80% of the absorbed solar energy is dumped into the surroundings as heat after photovoltaic conversion. The electrical efficiency of photovoltaic system drops as its operating temperature rises and for this reason PV cooling is necessary. Therefore, stabilizing the temperature of photovoltaic modules at low level is highly desirable to improve the efficiency. Hybrid solar technology has the advantage of increasing the energy output per unit installed collector area. India as a tropical country is deemed to have a good potential of applying this technology. In this paper, solar PVT (Photovoltaic-Thermal) air and water collector hybrid systems were designed by using a poly crystalline silicon PV module as solar absorber and the comparative study was carried out. Air and water cooling of a commercial PV module configured as PVT air solar collector and PVT water solar collector by forced flow is studied. The energy and exergy performance of the PVT systems has been experimentally determined for various mass flow rates of fluids. The experimental result shows that the combined PVT system has got better performance than the simple PV and solar PVT water hybrid system has better efficiency than both. These systems are simple and suitable for building integration providing space heating depending on the season and for low temperature heating application.
Forecasting long term global solar radiation with an ann algorithmmehmet şahin
and energy-efficient buildings, solar concentrators, photovoltaic-systems and a site-selection of sites for future
power plants). To establish long-term sustainability of solar energy, energy practitioners utilize versatile
predictive models of G as an indispensable decision-making tool. Notwithstanding this, sparsity of solar sites,
instrument maintenance, policy and fiscal issues constraint the availability of model input data that must be
used for forecasting the onsite value of G. To surmount these challenge, low-cost, readily-available satellite
products accessible over large spatial domains can provide viable alternatives. In this paper, the preciseness of
artificial neural network (ANN) for predictive modelling of G is evaluated for regional Queensland, which
employed Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) land-surface temperature (LST) as an
effective predictor. To couple an ANN model with satellite-derived variable, the LST data over 2012–2014 are
acquired in seven groups, with three sites per group where the data for first two (2012–2013) are utilised for
model development and the third (2014) group for cross-validation. For monthly horizon, the ANN model is
optimized by trialing 55 neuronal architectures, while for seasonal forecasting, nine neuronal architectures are
trailed with time-lagged LST. ANN coupled with zero lagged LST utilised scaled conjugate gradient algorithm,
and while ANN with time-lagged LST utilised Levenberg-Marquardt algorithm. To ascertain conclusive results,
the objective model is evaluated via multiple linear regression (MLR) and autoregressive integrated moving
average (ARIMA) algorithms. Results showed that an ANN model outperformed MLR and ARIMA models
where an analysis yielded 39% of cumulative errors in smallest magnitude bracket, whereas MLR and ARIMA
produced 15% and 25%. Superiority of an ANN model was demonstrated by site-averaged (monthly) relative
error of 5.85% compared with 10.23% (MLR) and 9.60 (ARIMA) with Willmott's Index of 0.954 (ANN), 0.899
(MLR) and 0.848 (ARIMA). This work ascertains that an ANN model coupled with satellite-derived LST data
can be adopted as a qualified stratagem for the proliferation of solar energy applications in locations that have
an appropriate satellite footprint.
ELECTRICAL POWER GENERATION BY NON CONVENTIONAL ENERGY-GEOTHERMALJournal For Research
Geothermal energy has the potential to provide long-term, secure base-load energy and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reductions. Climate change is not expected to have any major impacts on the effectiveness of geothermal energy utilization, but the widespread deployment of geothermal energy could play a meaningful role in mitigating climate change and accessible geothermal energy from the Earth’s interior supplies heat for direct use and to generate electric energy. The paper deals with the use of geothermal resources for the production of electricity next are technologies of change geothermal energy into electrical energy, future of geothermal energy and advantage and disadvantage of geothermal energy
Optimization of Solar Energy Production using PLC and SCADAijtsrd
This paper focuses on the maximizing the solar energy produced by Solar cells through the development of such a Sun-Tracking system that can be implemented using PLC and SCADA. The developed tracking system is innovative in relation to the usual sun tracking systems available in the market. In fact, the developed solution has many advantages in relation to similar existing devices, as this system can automatically work in order to optimize the energy production of photovoltaic cells as we know that in case of fixed Solar cells, the efficiency is very poor. This efficiency of power generation by Solar cells can be increased using this system, so that as the position of sun changes, the position of Solar cell is automatically adjusted by using stepper motors. An experimental prototype was built and field results have proven the good performance of the developed tracking system. Abhishek Kumar Chambel | Er. Bharti Sood "Optimization of Solar Energy Production using PLC & SCADA" Published in International Journal of Trend in Scientific Research and Development (ijtsrd), ISSN: 2456-6470, Volume-3 | Issue-1 , December 2018, URL: http://www.ijtsrd.com/papers/ijtsrd18912.pdf
http://www.ijtsrd.com/engineering/electrical-engineering/18912/optimization-of-solar-energy-production-using-plc-and-scada/abhishek-kumar-chambel
comparative analysis of solar photovoltaic thermal (pvt) water and solarIJCMESJOURNAL
The present commercial photovoltaic solar cell (PV) converts solar energy into electricity with a relatively low efficiency less than 15%. More than 80% of the absorbed solar energy is dumped into the surroundings as heat after photovoltaic conversion. The electrical efficiency of photovoltaic system drops as its operating temperature rises and for this reason PV cooling is necessary. Therefore, stabilizing the temperature of photovoltaic modules at low level is highly desirable to improve the efficiency. Hybrid solar technology has the advantage of increasing the energy output per unit installed collector area. India as a tropical country is deemed to have a good potential of applying this technology. In this paper, solar PVT (Photovoltaic-Thermal) air and water collector hybrid systems were designed by using a poly crystalline silicon PV module as solar absorber and the comparative study was carried out. Air and water cooling of a commercial PV module configured as PVT air solar collector and PVT water solar collector by forced flow is studied. The energy and exergy performance of the PVT systems has been experimentally determined for various mass flow rates of fluids. The experimental result shows that the combined PVT system has got better performance than the simple PV and solar PVT water hybrid system has better efficiency than both. These systems are simple and suitable for building integration providing space heating depending on the season and for low temperature heating application.
Forecasting long term global solar radiation with an ann algorithmmehmet şahin
and energy-efficient buildings, solar concentrators, photovoltaic-systems and a site-selection of sites for future
power plants). To establish long-term sustainability of solar energy, energy practitioners utilize versatile
predictive models of G as an indispensable decision-making tool. Notwithstanding this, sparsity of solar sites,
instrument maintenance, policy and fiscal issues constraint the availability of model input data that must be
used for forecasting the onsite value of G. To surmount these challenge, low-cost, readily-available satellite
products accessible over large spatial domains can provide viable alternatives. In this paper, the preciseness of
artificial neural network (ANN) for predictive modelling of G is evaluated for regional Queensland, which
employed Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) land-surface temperature (LST) as an
effective predictor. To couple an ANN model with satellite-derived variable, the LST data over 2012–2014 are
acquired in seven groups, with three sites per group where the data for first two (2012–2013) are utilised for
model development and the third (2014) group for cross-validation. For monthly horizon, the ANN model is
optimized by trialing 55 neuronal architectures, while for seasonal forecasting, nine neuronal architectures are
trailed with time-lagged LST. ANN coupled with zero lagged LST utilised scaled conjugate gradient algorithm,
and while ANN with time-lagged LST utilised Levenberg-Marquardt algorithm. To ascertain conclusive results,
the objective model is evaluated via multiple linear regression (MLR) and autoregressive integrated moving
average (ARIMA) algorithms. Results showed that an ANN model outperformed MLR and ARIMA models
where an analysis yielded 39% of cumulative errors in smallest magnitude bracket, whereas MLR and ARIMA
produced 15% and 25%. Superiority of an ANN model was demonstrated by site-averaged (monthly) relative
error of 5.85% compared with 10.23% (MLR) and 9.60 (ARIMA) with Willmott's Index of 0.954 (ANN), 0.899
(MLR) and 0.848 (ARIMA). This work ascertains that an ANN model coupled with satellite-derived LST data
can be adopted as a qualified stratagem for the proliferation of solar energy applications in locations that have
an appropriate satellite footprint.
ELECTRICAL POWER GENERATION BY NON CONVENTIONAL ENERGY-GEOTHERMALJournal For Research
Geothermal energy has the potential to provide long-term, secure base-load energy and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reductions. Climate change is not expected to have any major impacts on the effectiveness of geothermal energy utilization, but the widespread deployment of geothermal energy could play a meaningful role in mitigating climate change and accessible geothermal energy from the Earth’s interior supplies heat for direct use and to generate electric energy. The paper deals with the use of geothermal resources for the production of electricity next are technologies of change geothermal energy into electrical energy, future of geothermal energy and advantage and disadvantage of geothermal energy
Optimization of Solar Energy Production using PLC and SCADAijtsrd
This paper focuses on the maximizing the solar energy produced by Solar cells through the development of such a Sun-Tracking system that can be implemented using PLC and SCADA. The developed tracking system is innovative in relation to the usual sun tracking systems available in the market. In fact, the developed solution has many advantages in relation to similar existing devices, as this system can automatically work in order to optimize the energy production of photovoltaic cells as we know that in case of fixed Solar cells, the efficiency is very poor. This efficiency of power generation by Solar cells can be increased using this system, so that as the position of sun changes, the position of Solar cell is automatically adjusted by using stepper motors. An experimental prototype was built and field results have proven the good performance of the developed tracking system. Abhishek Kumar Chambel | Er. Bharti Sood "Optimization of Solar Energy Production using PLC & SCADA" Published in International Journal of Trend in Scientific Research and Development (ijtsrd), ISSN: 2456-6470, Volume-3 | Issue-1 , December 2018, URL: http://www.ijtsrd.com/papers/ijtsrd18912.pdf
http://www.ijtsrd.com/engineering/electrical-engineering/18912/optimization-of-solar-energy-production-using-plc-and-scada/abhishek-kumar-chambel
Hybrid Photovoltaic and thermoelectric systems more effectively converts solar energy into electrical energy. Two sources of energy are used one of the energy is solar,that converts radiant light into electrical energy and heat energy which will convert heat into electricity.Photovoltaic cells and thermoelectric modules are used to capture and convert the energy into electricity.Furthermore solar-thermoelectric hybrid system is environmental friendly and has no harmful emissions.Solar-thermoelectric hybrid system increases the overall reliability without sacrificing the quality of power generated.In this paper an overview of the previous research and development of technological advancement in the solar-thermoelectric hybrid systems is presented.
Design and implementation of smart electronic solar tracker based on ArduinoTELKOMNIKA JOURNAL
Demand of energy increases in the global and exponential exhaustion is favored of resources by
fossil fuel for electricity production with the new systems development. Compared with all other remainder
energies, the specialist sun energy is the most bountiful energy and it's typically easy to be changed into
electrical energy. The main thing of using solar panel is to produce electrical energy from sun's energy but
the optimum energy can be generated by tracking solar panel due to the sun movement from east to west.
The problem can be solved by proposed systems where the sun tracking by solar panel that based on high
intensity of sun ray. This paper concentrates on tracking the sun by using servo motor coupled with solar
panel. So that, the largest quantity of sun light at the incident panel along the day at any time is better than
that for method of fixed panel array which is less efficient. The microcontroller Arduino (mode UNO) was
programmed by using C++ language while the track of sun light processing was implemented by using
light depending resistor (LDR), Chip IC H-bridge and microcontroller Arduino (UNO) circuits have been
designed by using Proteus software. By circuit design and sun tracking control process, the cost reduction
has been improved and high amount of energy was saved when implemented this system.
Novel technique for maximizing the thermal efficiency of a hybrid pveSAT Journals
Abstract In this paper a comparison between numerical model and experimental work results for a fixed Photovoltaic/ Thermal (PV/T) hybrid system is presented. The simulation in this work is based on a numerical model in solving the equations and determining the Photovoltaic (PV) cells thermal characteristics using both MATLAB and COMSOL Multiphysics. COMSOL is simulating the electromagnetic waves produced by the Sun through solving Maxwell's equations in three dimensions using Finite Elements Methods (FEM) and the sun irradiance is assumed to be Gaussian distribution across the twelve mourning hours. Beside that an experimental work is presented depending on the results conjured from the theoretical experience used in Comsol Multiphysics. A Pulse Width Modulator (PWM) is used to control the solenoid valve operation. In addition to the above a thermal analysis for the fixed PV modules and the piping water is presented where the output water temperatures, rate of heat transfer, overall heat transfer coefficient and thermal efficiency are calculated. As a result, a significant enhancement in the total thermal efficiency is observed with acceptable increase in the output water temperature. Keywords: Cooling systems; DAQ; Hybrid; COMSOL MULTIPHYSICS; MATLAB; Solid work; Lab view.
Experimental study of the impact of dust on azimuth tracking solar PV in Shar...IJECEIAES
Dust is one of the significant constraints in utilizing solar photovoltaic systems under harsh weather conditions in the desert regions due to creating a shadow that blocks solar irradiance from reaching solar cells and consequently, significantly reducing their efficiency. In this research, experimental study was performed to comprehend the nature of dust particles and their impact on the electrical power output that is generated from azimuth tracking solar PV modules under Sharjah environmental conditions in winter season. According to laboratory experiments, the power losses are linearly related to the dust accumulated density on the surface of the solar panel with a slope of 1.27% per g/m2. The conducted Outdoor studies revealed that the absolute reduction in output power increased by 8.46% after 41 continuous days with one low-intensity rainy day. The linear relationship obtained from indoor experiments was applied later to estimate the dust deposited density on the outdoor setup. The results showed that a regular cleaning process every two weeks is recommended to maintain the performance and to avoid the soiling loss. This work will help engineers in the solar PV plants to forecast the dust impact and figure out the regularity of the cleaning process in case of single axis tracking systems.
International Journal of Engineering Research and DevelopmentIJERD Editor
Electrical, Electronics and Computer Engineering,
Information Engineering and Technology,
Mechanical, Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering,
Automation and Mechatronics Engineering,
Material and Chemical Engineering,
Civil and Architecture Engineering,
Biotechnology and Bio Engineering,
Environmental Engineering,
Petroleum and Mining Engineering,
Marine and Agriculture engineering,
Aerospace Engineering.
Currently, the quality of wind measure of a site is assessed using Wind Power Density (WPD). This paper proposes to use a more credible metric namely, one we call the Wind Power Potential (WPP). While the former only uses wind speed information, the latter exploits both wind speed and wind direction distributions, and yields more credible estimates. The new measure of quality of a wind resource, the Wind Power Potential Evaluation (WPPE) model, investigates the effect of wind velocity distribution on the optimal net power generation of a farm. Bivariate normal distribution is used to characterize the stochastic variation of wind conditions (speed and direction). The net power generation for a particular farm size and installed capacity are maximized for different distributions of wind speed and wind direction, using the Unrestricted Wind Farm Layout Optimization (UWFLO) methodology. A response surface is constructed, using the recently developed Reliability Based Hybrid Functions (RBHF), to represent the computed maximum power generation as a function of the parameters of the wind velocity (speed and direction) distribution. To this end, for any farm site, we can (i) estimate the parameters of wind velocity distribution using recorded wind data, and (ii) predict the max- imum power generation for a specified farm size and capacity, using the developed response surface. The WPPE model is validated through recorded wind data at four differing stations obtained from the North Dakota Agricultural Weather Network (NDAWN). The results illustrate the variation of wind conditions and, subsequently, its influence on the quality of a wind resource.
Investigating Of Proper Photovoltaic Panel Tilt Angle to Be Used As Shading D...IJERA Editor
Photovoltaic panels can act as power generator as well as external shading devices with proper tilt angle. In this paper we will study the performance of a Silicon Photovoltaic system with different tilt angle arrangement in Kuwait (latitude 30˚ N). In the study the PV system is installed facing south to collectmaximum solar radiation at noon. The angle is varied from 00 to 900, during full year at the Solstice (the time at which the day and night come into balance) and Equinox (the end of the day’s increase or decrease in day night hours) periods, to achieve optimum tilt angle, higher in magnitude than 300 with competitive output power. The results show that the performance and the output power of the PV system with 50˚ tilt angle, is equivalent to the corresponding values at tilt angle equal to Kuwait latitude (30˚) during the whole year.
STOCHASTIC GENERATION OF ARTIFICIAL WEATHER DATA FOR SUBTROPICAL CLIMATES USI...IAEME Publication
Liquid desiccant air conditioning systems provide an efficient and less energy-intensive alternative to conventional vapour compression systems due to their ability to use low-grade energy provided by a hybrid photovoltaic and thermal solar power module. Air conditioning systems are major energy consumers in buildings especially in extreme climatic conditions and are therefore primary targets in so far as energy efficiency is concerned. Building energy performance has traditionally been simulated using typical meteorological year (TMY) and test reference year (TRY) weather tools. In both cases, the value allocation is pegged on the least nonconformity from the long-range data of the past 29 years. The extreme low and high points are successively disregarded which means that the actual prevailing hourly mean settings are not precisely represented. The multivariate Markov chain provides flexibility for use in circumstances where dynamic sequential and categorical weather data for a given region is required. This study presents a simplified higher order multivariate Markov chain analysis founded on a combination of a mixture-transition and a stochastic technique to project the solar radiation, air humidity, ambient temperatures as well as wind speeds and their interrelationships in sub-tropical climates, typically the coastal regions of South Africa. The generic simulation of weather parameters is produced from 20 years of actual weather conditions using a stochastic technique. The series of weather parameters developed are then implemented in the simulation of solar powered air dehumidification and regeneration processes. The outcomes indicate that the model is devoid of constraints and more accurate in the estimation of variable parameters implying that a properly designed solar-powered liquid desiccant air conditioning system is capable of supplying the majority of the latent cooling load
Photovoltaic (PV) cell from solar energy is one of the most widely adopted renewable energy source and commercially available system that can be used in various applications. More appealing application of PV arrays used in thermoelectric (TE) device was it can convert solar thermal energy from temperature difference into electric energy to act as power generators. In this study, a theoretical model is developed by using conducting steady state energy analysis of a PVT-TE air collector. The matrix inversion method is used to obtain energy balance equation. The effect of various parameters also investigated. The mass flow rate of range 0.01 kg/s to 0.05 kg/s and solar intensity of 400 W/m2, 600 W/m2 and 800 W/m2 was used to obtain outlet temperature, To in the range about 28.9oC to 43.7oC and PV temperature, Tp about 35.3oC to 60oC.
Conducted wind resource assessment study in western himalayan region and undertook geographical study of site. Work involved data analysis, validation for establishing and predicting of wind power generation potential at given site.
This review presents various research and development, as well as design and performances of bifluid-based PVT systems. Moreover, the development of PVT system is a very promising area of research. PVT systems using in various applications, such as solar drying, solar cooling, water heating, desalination, and pool heating. With the recognition of the potentials and contributions of PV system, considerable research has been conducted to attain the most advancement which may produce reliable and sustainable PVT system. The cooling system’s design refers to the absorber design which mostly focuses on water and air-based PVT systems. An air-based system has been developed through different absorber configurations, air flow modes and single- or double-pass design. Bifluid-based PVT system is used to remove heat accumulated in a PV panel and reuses the waste heat (hot air and water) in an appropriate way. PV, thermal and PVT efficiencies of bifluid PVT systems were 6.6%-18.6%, 31%–90% and 60%-83%, respectively.
Photovoltaic thermal (PVT), which is the popular technology for harvesting solar energy, receive solar energy and convert it into electrical and thermal energy simultaneously. In this review, design, heat transfer, energy modelling and performance analysis of PVT systems are presented. Four types of PVT systems base on heat transfer medium; air-based PVT system, water-based PVT system, the combination of water/air-based PVT system, and nanofluid-based PVT system are presented. In addition, major finding on energy and exergy analysis of PVT systems are summarized.
The Development of an Application Conceived for the Design, Feasibility Study...IJECEIAES
Because of the rise in diesel and butane prices widely used for pumping, added to their negative impact on both Morocco's environment and trade balance, the use of renewable energies should sound obvious, practical and cost effective. This study offers the transformation of a traditional butane pumping system (BPS) and diesel pumping system (DPS), located on a farm nearby the city of Agadir, into an optimized solar pumping system (SPS). The suggested method is based on a techno-economic study according to the “Business-As-usual” scenario. As a first step, we have dimensioned our pumping system and chosen the elements that constitute it. As a second step, we carried out an economic analysis, based on the calculation of all costs, which makes it possible to ensure the viability of the components of our SPS over its life cycle and brought it to a discounted value. The processing of the different data is made possible thanks to the computer application “PVDesign” which we have developed. This application has allowed us to carry out a comparative study of several techniques of pumping systems. The result of the study is that the SPS beats the other systems at various levels, namely economic, environmental and technical.
Hybrid Photovoltaic and thermoelectric systems more effectively converts solar energy into electrical energy. Two sources of energy are used one of the energy is solar,that converts radiant light into electrical energy and heat energy which will convert heat into electricity.Photovoltaic cells and thermoelectric modules are used to capture and convert the energy into electricity.Furthermore solar-thermoelectric hybrid system is environmental friendly and has no harmful emissions.Solar-thermoelectric hybrid system increases the overall reliability without sacrificing the quality of power generated.In this paper an overview of the previous research and development of technological advancement in the solar-thermoelectric hybrid systems is presented.
Design and implementation of smart electronic solar tracker based on ArduinoTELKOMNIKA JOURNAL
Demand of energy increases in the global and exponential exhaustion is favored of resources by
fossil fuel for electricity production with the new systems development. Compared with all other remainder
energies, the specialist sun energy is the most bountiful energy and it's typically easy to be changed into
electrical energy. The main thing of using solar panel is to produce electrical energy from sun's energy but
the optimum energy can be generated by tracking solar panel due to the sun movement from east to west.
The problem can be solved by proposed systems where the sun tracking by solar panel that based on high
intensity of sun ray. This paper concentrates on tracking the sun by using servo motor coupled with solar
panel. So that, the largest quantity of sun light at the incident panel along the day at any time is better than
that for method of fixed panel array which is less efficient. The microcontroller Arduino (mode UNO) was
programmed by using C++ language while the track of sun light processing was implemented by using
light depending resistor (LDR), Chip IC H-bridge and microcontroller Arduino (UNO) circuits have been
designed by using Proteus software. By circuit design and sun tracking control process, the cost reduction
has been improved and high amount of energy was saved when implemented this system.
Novel technique for maximizing the thermal efficiency of a hybrid pveSAT Journals
Abstract In this paper a comparison between numerical model and experimental work results for a fixed Photovoltaic/ Thermal (PV/T) hybrid system is presented. The simulation in this work is based on a numerical model in solving the equations and determining the Photovoltaic (PV) cells thermal characteristics using both MATLAB and COMSOL Multiphysics. COMSOL is simulating the electromagnetic waves produced by the Sun through solving Maxwell's equations in three dimensions using Finite Elements Methods (FEM) and the sun irradiance is assumed to be Gaussian distribution across the twelve mourning hours. Beside that an experimental work is presented depending on the results conjured from the theoretical experience used in Comsol Multiphysics. A Pulse Width Modulator (PWM) is used to control the solenoid valve operation. In addition to the above a thermal analysis for the fixed PV modules and the piping water is presented where the output water temperatures, rate of heat transfer, overall heat transfer coefficient and thermal efficiency are calculated. As a result, a significant enhancement in the total thermal efficiency is observed with acceptable increase in the output water temperature. Keywords: Cooling systems; DAQ; Hybrid; COMSOL MULTIPHYSICS; MATLAB; Solid work; Lab view.
Experimental study of the impact of dust on azimuth tracking solar PV in Shar...IJECEIAES
Dust is one of the significant constraints in utilizing solar photovoltaic systems under harsh weather conditions in the desert regions due to creating a shadow that blocks solar irradiance from reaching solar cells and consequently, significantly reducing their efficiency. In this research, experimental study was performed to comprehend the nature of dust particles and their impact on the electrical power output that is generated from azimuth tracking solar PV modules under Sharjah environmental conditions in winter season. According to laboratory experiments, the power losses are linearly related to the dust accumulated density on the surface of the solar panel with a slope of 1.27% per g/m2. The conducted Outdoor studies revealed that the absolute reduction in output power increased by 8.46% after 41 continuous days with one low-intensity rainy day. The linear relationship obtained from indoor experiments was applied later to estimate the dust deposited density on the outdoor setup. The results showed that a regular cleaning process every two weeks is recommended to maintain the performance and to avoid the soiling loss. This work will help engineers in the solar PV plants to forecast the dust impact and figure out the regularity of the cleaning process in case of single axis tracking systems.
International Journal of Engineering Research and DevelopmentIJERD Editor
Electrical, Electronics and Computer Engineering,
Information Engineering and Technology,
Mechanical, Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering,
Automation and Mechatronics Engineering,
Material and Chemical Engineering,
Civil and Architecture Engineering,
Biotechnology and Bio Engineering,
Environmental Engineering,
Petroleum and Mining Engineering,
Marine and Agriculture engineering,
Aerospace Engineering.
Currently, the quality of wind measure of a site is assessed using Wind Power Density (WPD). This paper proposes to use a more credible metric namely, one we call the Wind Power Potential (WPP). While the former only uses wind speed information, the latter exploits both wind speed and wind direction distributions, and yields more credible estimates. The new measure of quality of a wind resource, the Wind Power Potential Evaluation (WPPE) model, investigates the effect of wind velocity distribution on the optimal net power generation of a farm. Bivariate normal distribution is used to characterize the stochastic variation of wind conditions (speed and direction). The net power generation for a particular farm size and installed capacity are maximized for different distributions of wind speed and wind direction, using the Unrestricted Wind Farm Layout Optimization (UWFLO) methodology. A response surface is constructed, using the recently developed Reliability Based Hybrid Functions (RBHF), to represent the computed maximum power generation as a function of the parameters of the wind velocity (speed and direction) distribution. To this end, for any farm site, we can (i) estimate the parameters of wind velocity distribution using recorded wind data, and (ii) predict the max- imum power generation for a specified farm size and capacity, using the developed response surface. The WPPE model is validated through recorded wind data at four differing stations obtained from the North Dakota Agricultural Weather Network (NDAWN). The results illustrate the variation of wind conditions and, subsequently, its influence on the quality of a wind resource.
Investigating Of Proper Photovoltaic Panel Tilt Angle to Be Used As Shading D...IJERA Editor
Photovoltaic panels can act as power generator as well as external shading devices with proper tilt angle. In this paper we will study the performance of a Silicon Photovoltaic system with different tilt angle arrangement in Kuwait (latitude 30˚ N). In the study the PV system is installed facing south to collectmaximum solar radiation at noon. The angle is varied from 00 to 900, during full year at the Solstice (the time at which the day and night come into balance) and Equinox (the end of the day’s increase or decrease in day night hours) periods, to achieve optimum tilt angle, higher in magnitude than 300 with competitive output power. The results show that the performance and the output power of the PV system with 50˚ tilt angle, is equivalent to the corresponding values at tilt angle equal to Kuwait latitude (30˚) during the whole year.
STOCHASTIC GENERATION OF ARTIFICIAL WEATHER DATA FOR SUBTROPICAL CLIMATES USI...IAEME Publication
Liquid desiccant air conditioning systems provide an efficient and less energy-intensive alternative to conventional vapour compression systems due to their ability to use low-grade energy provided by a hybrid photovoltaic and thermal solar power module. Air conditioning systems are major energy consumers in buildings especially in extreme climatic conditions and are therefore primary targets in so far as energy efficiency is concerned. Building energy performance has traditionally been simulated using typical meteorological year (TMY) and test reference year (TRY) weather tools. In both cases, the value allocation is pegged on the least nonconformity from the long-range data of the past 29 years. The extreme low and high points are successively disregarded which means that the actual prevailing hourly mean settings are not precisely represented. The multivariate Markov chain provides flexibility for use in circumstances where dynamic sequential and categorical weather data for a given region is required. This study presents a simplified higher order multivariate Markov chain analysis founded on a combination of a mixture-transition and a stochastic technique to project the solar radiation, air humidity, ambient temperatures as well as wind speeds and their interrelationships in sub-tropical climates, typically the coastal regions of South Africa. The generic simulation of weather parameters is produced from 20 years of actual weather conditions using a stochastic technique. The series of weather parameters developed are then implemented in the simulation of solar powered air dehumidification and regeneration processes. The outcomes indicate that the model is devoid of constraints and more accurate in the estimation of variable parameters implying that a properly designed solar-powered liquid desiccant air conditioning system is capable of supplying the majority of the latent cooling load
Photovoltaic (PV) cell from solar energy is one of the most widely adopted renewable energy source and commercially available system that can be used in various applications. More appealing application of PV arrays used in thermoelectric (TE) device was it can convert solar thermal energy from temperature difference into electric energy to act as power generators. In this study, a theoretical model is developed by using conducting steady state energy analysis of a PVT-TE air collector. The matrix inversion method is used to obtain energy balance equation. The effect of various parameters also investigated. The mass flow rate of range 0.01 kg/s to 0.05 kg/s and solar intensity of 400 W/m2, 600 W/m2 and 800 W/m2 was used to obtain outlet temperature, To in the range about 28.9oC to 43.7oC and PV temperature, Tp about 35.3oC to 60oC.
Conducted wind resource assessment study in western himalayan region and undertook geographical study of site. Work involved data analysis, validation for establishing and predicting of wind power generation potential at given site.
This review presents various research and development, as well as design and performances of bifluid-based PVT systems. Moreover, the development of PVT system is a very promising area of research. PVT systems using in various applications, such as solar drying, solar cooling, water heating, desalination, and pool heating. With the recognition of the potentials and contributions of PV system, considerable research has been conducted to attain the most advancement which may produce reliable and sustainable PVT system. The cooling system’s design refers to the absorber design which mostly focuses on water and air-based PVT systems. An air-based system has been developed through different absorber configurations, air flow modes and single- or double-pass design. Bifluid-based PVT system is used to remove heat accumulated in a PV panel and reuses the waste heat (hot air and water) in an appropriate way. PV, thermal and PVT efficiencies of bifluid PVT systems were 6.6%-18.6%, 31%–90% and 60%-83%, respectively.
Photovoltaic thermal (PVT), which is the popular technology for harvesting solar energy, receive solar energy and convert it into electrical and thermal energy simultaneously. In this review, design, heat transfer, energy modelling and performance analysis of PVT systems are presented. Four types of PVT systems base on heat transfer medium; air-based PVT system, water-based PVT system, the combination of water/air-based PVT system, and nanofluid-based PVT system are presented. In addition, major finding on energy and exergy analysis of PVT systems are summarized.
The Development of an Application Conceived for the Design, Feasibility Study...IJECEIAES
Because of the rise in diesel and butane prices widely used for pumping, added to their negative impact on both Morocco's environment and trade balance, the use of renewable energies should sound obvious, practical and cost effective. This study offers the transformation of a traditional butane pumping system (BPS) and diesel pumping system (DPS), located on a farm nearby the city of Agadir, into an optimized solar pumping system (SPS). The suggested method is based on a techno-economic study according to the “Business-As-usual” scenario. As a first step, we have dimensioned our pumping system and chosen the elements that constitute it. As a second step, we carried out an economic analysis, based on the calculation of all costs, which makes it possible to ensure the viability of the components of our SPS over its life cycle and brought it to a discounted value. The processing of the different data is made possible thanks to the computer application “PVDesign” which we have developed. This application has allowed us to carry out a comparative study of several techniques of pumping systems. The result of the study is that the SPS beats the other systems at various levels, namely economic, environmental and technical.
Investigating the Feasibility of Solar Wind Hybrid Systems for Off-Grid Rural...paperpublications3
Abstract: The study investigated the viability of using hybrid models of renewable power generation in certain geographical areas where the climate is suitable. A real model of the set-up was created and the data obtained was compared to simulated models to improve accuracy. The data from both the real set-up and the simulated model were then compared to climatic conditions in certain rural areas of India. As of submission of this report, wind is not a prevalent source of energy in the southern Indian state of Karnataka; this project aims to conclude whether such non-utilisation is justified or whether it would be beneficial if such hybrid models be used in certain areas of suitable conditions.
When designing a power generation project from a different source, and in our case study, wind, when calculating the annual energy produced, it is necessary to define and calculate the losses incurred in the system. The main cause of losses in a wind park is due to the oscillations caused by the turbulence of the air around the turbine because of roughness of terrain. The paper describes two methods of estimating turbulence intensity: one based on the mean and standard deviation (SD) of wind speed from the nacelle anemometer, the other from mean power output and its SD. These analyses are very important for understanding the fatigue and mechanical stress on the wind turbines. Then significance of the site ruggedness index (RIX) and the associated performance indicator (ΔRIX) are confirmed for terrain and the consequences of applying WAsP outside its operating envelope are quantified.
Performance analysis of partially covered photovoltaic thermal (pvt) water co...eSAT Journals
Abstract
In this paper the photovoltaic thermal (PVT) water collector partially covered by glass and its energy and exergy analysis were
carried out. The various parameters were computed such as thermal efficiency, electrical efficiency, exergy efficiency etc on daily
basis for Meteorological conditions of Bhopal, India in the month of May. It is found that the maximum temperature of hot water
from PVT system on particular day was found to be 47.5 0C with mass flow rate of 0.0025 kg/sec. The thermal efficiency,
electrical efficiency and energy saving efficiency of the system were found to be exceeding 67%, 9% and 67% respectively. The
use of PVT system, not only reduce the electrical load from conventional energy sources but also produces two form of energy
from single system i.e. electricity and thermal.
Key Words: Energy, Exergy, Solar PVT Collector, PVT System, Solar Energy, Performance Analysis
The seasonal climate changes have direct effects on determination of crop water requirement, irrigation scheduling and the potential of solar energy generation to operate the pumping system for watering crops. This research paper studied the technical evaluation of solar pumping and pressurized drip irrigation systems to investigate the recommended water required for suggested tomatoes crop in area of (one hectare) at AL-Salman district using measured climatic data from AL-Salman Agro-meteorological weather station for a period (2013-2017). The maximum average monthly of solar radiation was 7.6 kWh/m2 at June in all the years of recording data, while the minimum average monthly value was 3.37kWh/m2 at December where the sun at lowest point across the sky. The annual average hours of peak sun that corresponds to the operation time of the pumping system at maximum water consumption was calculated at eight months from March to October with a value of 7.2 hours/day, while it was 5.2 hours/day during the other four months (January, February, November and December). The Solar pumping sizing based on H-Q performance curve of a maximum flow rate of 64.45 m3/h and pump capacity of 16.79 kW with compounds motor pump efficiency of 61.2%. The total water production was 230000 m³/per year which indicates compatible overall system design and adequate to irrigate more planting land with same or other crop types.
Design, modeling and simulation of perturb and observe maximum power point t...IJECEIAES
Maximum power point tracking (MPPT) is considered one of the important factors in minimizing the installation costs and improving the efficiency of any photovoltaic water pumping system. The MPPT controller is specifically used to extract the maximum available power from the photovoltaic (PV) array. The maximum power can be achieved by using a specific algorithm. This work aims to raise awareness among farmers about the energy benefits available in the region of Meknes in Morocco, the economic gain and the environmental impact applied to the solar pumping system so that it can be generalized. To obtain the maximum power at each moment, a direct current (DC) water pump (SQF 0-6-2) powered by the solar panels (REC_330NP) through a buck converter was adapted. In addition, this study illustrates the theory of operation of the perturb and observe (P&O) algorithm and simulates the evaluation of this algorithm under different operating conditions (temperature and solar irradiation), and showed the advantages of this system that can operate at the optimal power regardless of disturbances.
Feasibility Study of a Grid Connected Hybrid Wind/PV SystemIJAPEJOURNAL
This paper investigates the feasibility of a grid connected, large-scale hybrid wind/PV system. From data available an area called RasElnaqab in Jordan is chosen because it enjoys both high average wind speed of 6.13 m/s and high average solar radiation of 5.9KWhr/m2 /day. MATLAB and HOMER software’s are used for sizing and economical analysis respectively. Results show that76124 SUNTECH PV panels and 38 GW87-1.5MW wind turbines are the optimal choice. The net present cost (NPC) is 130,115,936$, the cost of energy (COE) is 0.049$/KWhr with a renewable fraction of 74.1%.A stepby-step process to determine the optimal sizing of Hybrid Wind/PV system is presented and it can be applied anywhere.
Renewable microgrid operational results and economic evaluation using RETScre...IJECEIAES
This article describes the performance results of the first renewable microgrid of Chocó, Colombia, monitored over two years (2016-2017) adding an economic approach. A virtual platform is used to analyze, in real time, the microgrid power production, while a meteorological station measures the solar irradiance and the ambient temperature. The results indicated that the generation of AC PV energy was 21,817 kWh/year on 2016 and 23,301 kWh/year on 2017. The photovoltaic system’s average efficiency was 10.3 % on 2016 and 11.09 % on 2017. An economical analysis of the renewable microgrid is also presented using RETScreenTM software. The results show a net present value of $237,028 USD for an evaluation period of 25 years with annual energy savings of $4,622 USD. A calculation on greenhouse gas emissions show that 22.9 tCO2 per year are avoided when using the solar energy tech.
Sizing of Hybrid PV/Battery Power System in Sohag cityiosrjce
This paper gives the feasibility analysis of PV- Battery system for an off-grid power station in Sohag
city. Hybrid PV-battery system was used for supplying a combined pumping and residential load. A simple cost
effective method for sizing stand-alone PV hybrid systems was introduced. The aim of sizing hybrid system is to
determine the cost effective PV configuration and to meet the estimated load at minimum cost. This requires
assessing the climate conditions which determine the temporal variation of the insolation in Sohag city. Sizing
of the hybrid system components was investigated using RETscreen and HOMER programs. The sizing software
tools require a set of data on energy resource demand and system specifications. The energy cost values of the
hybrid system agrees reasonably with those published before.
IJRET : International Journal of Research in Engineering and Technology is an international peer reviewed, online journal published by eSAT Publishing House for the enhancement of research in various disciplines of Engineering and Technology. The aim and scope of the journal is to provide an academic medium and an important reference for the advancement and dissemination of research results that support high-level learning, teaching and research in the fields of Engineering and Technology. We bring together Scientists, Academician, Field Engineers, Scholars and Students of related fields of Engineering and Technology
Modeling, Application and Economic Feasibility Analysis of SOFC Combined Heat...juliomussane
Abstract- Abstract: Solid fuel cells combined heat and power is one of the most promising technologies for reducing energy consumption in stationary area (commercial building and residential environmental). This paper is aim to studies the model, applications and economic feasibility of an model of Solid Oxide Fuel Cell micro combined Heat and Power (SOFC mCHP) for single-family apartment in Wuhan area. A model of Solid Oxide Fuel Cell micro combined Heat and Power (SOFC mCHP) system is presented to estimate the energy required to meet the average of electricity and heating demand of a 120 m2 of single-family apartment in Wuhan area. Several simulation are conducted in Matlab-Simulink® environment in order to archive the aim of this paper. The model can be modified for any SOFC micro-CHP system. SOFC micro-CHP for stationary area has a higher potential to becoming cost-competitive in the worldwide. Based on the economic feasibility analyzes presented, the results indicated that it is feasible to introduce the SOFC micro-CHP system in Wuhan area from the economic viewpoint. However, fuel cell are still a non-mature technology aiming to reach the market in the coming years. Due to the constant development of fuel cell technology and recent commercial production, the available information about its performance in real applications is currently limited to date, and the cost information is not well established.
Index Terms- Model, application, economic analyze, SOFC, co-generation Heat and Power, Wuhan area.
Calculation of Dynamic System of Solar Photo Electric BatteriesYogeshIJTSRD
The study presents the results of the calculation of the dynamic auto rotation system of solar photovoltaic batteries, which shows that the power consumed by the auto turning device depends on the size, mass and frequency of rotation of the device. Halimov G. G | Maxamov X. T | Qurbonov B. E "Calculation of Dynamic System of Solar Photo Electric Batteries" Published in International Journal of Trend in Scientific Research and Development (ijtsrd), ISSN: 2456-6470, Volume-5 | Issue-3 , April 2021, URL: https://www.ijtsrd.com/papers/ijtsrd41110.pdf Paper URL: https://www.ijtsrd.com/engineering/electrical-engineering/41110/calculation-of-dynamic-system-of-solar-photo-electric-batteries/halimov-g-g
Analysis and Design of a Hybrid Renewable Energy System – Lebanon CaseIJERA Editor
The depletion of fossil fuels and their environmental consequences have prompted searching for other sources of energy aiming to global status amelioration. In the recent past, renewable energy sources have been considered as alternatives for the fossil fuel energy sources. The unexpected pattern of natural resources assesses integrated utilization of these sources to provide persistent and reliable power supply to the consumers. The technology’s advantages, requirements and related improvements are underlined and results are generalized. This paper covers the design of a solar and wind based hybrid renewable system presenting calculations and considerations in order to achieve an optimized design. Since hybrid systems performance relies mainly on geographical an d meteorological aspects, the study will consider the case of the Mediterranean area and in particular Lebanon.
Modeling and Simulation for a 3.5 Kw Grid Connected Photo Voltaic Power Systemijtsrd
This paper presents the design of small scale three phase grid connected system for rural location. The proposed hybrid system includes a 3.5 kW PV panel with a DC DC boost converter with controller for Maximum Power Point Tracking MPPT, DC AC inverter with decoupled power controller supplying the load and connected to the grid. The MPPT controller is used to harvest maximum power from the solar panel and decoupled power controller is used for tracking the real and reactive powers and also improves the system stability. MATLAB simulation of the proposed model is carried out to show the effectiveness of grid connected photovoltaic systems. Sheikh Shaheen | Mohd Ilyas "Modeling and Simulation for a 3.5 Kw Grid-Connected Photo-Voltaic Power System" Published in International Journal of Trend in Scientific Research and Development (ijtsrd), ISSN: 2456-6470, Volume-4 | Issue-5 , August 2020, URL: https://www.ijtsrd.com/papers/ijtsrd33049.pdf Paper Url :https://www.ijtsrd.com/engineering/electrical-engineering/33049/modeling-and-simulation-for-a-35-kw-gridconnected-photovoltaic-power-system/sheikh-shaheen
Hierarchical Digital Twin of a Naval Power SystemKerry Sado
A hierarchical digital twin of a Naval DC power system has been developed and experimentally verified. Similar to other state-of-the-art digital twins, this technology creates a digital replica of the physical system executed in real-time or faster, which can modify hardware controls. However, its advantage stems from distributing computational efforts by utilizing a hierarchical structure composed of lower-level digital twin blocks and a higher-level system digital twin. Each digital twin block is associated with a physical subsystem of the hardware and communicates with a singular system digital twin, which creates a system-level response. By extracting information from each level of the hierarchy, power system controls of the hardware were reconfigured autonomously. This hierarchical digital twin development offers several advantages over other digital twins, particularly in the field of naval power systems. The hierarchical structure allows for greater computational efficiency and scalability while the ability to autonomously reconfigure hardware controls offers increased flexibility and responsiveness. The hierarchical decomposition and models utilized were well aligned with the physical twin, as indicated by the maximum deviations between the developed digital twin hierarchy and the hardware.
CFD Simulation of By-pass Flow in a HRSG module by R&R Consult.pptxR&R Consult
CFD analysis is incredibly effective at solving mysteries and improving the performance of complex systems!
Here's a great example: At a large natural gas-fired power plant, where they use waste heat to generate steam and energy, they were puzzled that their boiler wasn't producing as much steam as expected.
R&R and Tetra Engineering Group Inc. were asked to solve the issue with reduced steam production.
An inspection had shown that a significant amount of hot flue gas was bypassing the boiler tubes, where the heat was supposed to be transferred.
R&R Consult conducted a CFD analysis, which revealed that 6.3% of the flue gas was bypassing the boiler tubes without transferring heat. The analysis also showed that the flue gas was instead being directed along the sides of the boiler and between the modules that were supposed to capture the heat. This was the cause of the reduced performance.
Based on our results, Tetra Engineering installed covering plates to reduce the bypass flow. This improved the boiler's performance and increased electricity production.
It is always satisfying when we can help solve complex challenges like this. Do your systems also need a check-up or optimization? Give us a call!
Work done in cooperation with James Malloy and David Moelling from Tetra Engineering.
More examples of our work https://www.r-r-consult.dk/en/cases-en/
Hybrid optimization of pumped hydro system and solar- Engr. Abdul-Azeez.pdffxintegritypublishin
Advancements in technology unveil a myriad of electrical and electronic breakthroughs geared towards efficiently harnessing limited resources to meet human energy demands. The optimization of hybrid solar PV panels and pumped hydro energy supply systems plays a pivotal role in utilizing natural resources effectively. This initiative not only benefits humanity but also fosters environmental sustainability. The study investigated the design optimization of these hybrid systems, focusing on understanding solar radiation patterns, identifying geographical influences on solar radiation, formulating a mathematical model for system optimization, and determining the optimal configuration of PV panels and pumped hydro storage. Through a comparative analysis approach and eight weeks of data collection, the study addressed key research questions related to solar radiation patterns and optimal system design. The findings highlighted regions with heightened solar radiation levels, showcasing substantial potential for power generation and emphasizing the system's efficiency. Optimizing system design significantly boosted power generation, promoted renewable energy utilization, and enhanced energy storage capacity. The study underscored the benefits of optimizing hybrid solar PV panels and pumped hydro energy supply systems for sustainable energy usage. Optimizing the design of solar PV panels and pumped hydro energy supply systems as examined across diverse climatic conditions in a developing country, not only enhances power generation but also improves the integration of renewable energy sources and boosts energy storage capacities, particularly beneficial for less economically prosperous regions. Additionally, the study provides valuable insights for advancing energy research in economically viable areas. Recommendations included conducting site-specific assessments, utilizing advanced modeling tools, implementing regular maintenance protocols, and enhancing communication among system components.
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Industrial Training at Shahjalal Fertilizer Company Limited (SFCL)MdTanvirMahtab2
This presentation is about the working procedure of Shahjalal Fertilizer Company Limited (SFCL). A Govt. owned Company of Bangladesh Chemical Industries Corporation under Ministry of Industries.
Saudi Arabia stands as a titan in the global energy landscape, renowned for its abundant oil and gas resources. It's the largest exporter of petroleum and holds some of the world's most significant reserves. Let's delve into the top 10 oil and gas projects shaping Saudi Arabia's energy future in 2024.
Sachpazis:Terzaghi Bearing Capacity Estimation in simple terms with Calculati...Dr.Costas Sachpazis
Terzaghi's soil bearing capacity theory, developed by Karl Terzaghi, is a fundamental principle in geotechnical engineering used to determine the bearing capacity of shallow foundations. This theory provides a method to calculate the ultimate bearing capacity of soil, which is the maximum load per unit area that the soil can support without undergoing shear failure. The Calculation HTML Code included.
RENEWABLE ENERGY ALTERNATIVE FOR WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANTS IN TRINIDAD - A CASE STUDY
1. International Journal of Recent advances in Mechanical Engineering (IJMECH) Vol.5, No.1, February 2016
DOI : 10.14810/ijmech.2016.5101 1
RENEWABLE ENERGY ALTERNATIVE FOR
WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANTS IN
TRINIDAD - A CASE STUDY
Krishpersad Manohar1
,Mairiga Edwards2
and Rikhi Ramkissoon3
1,2,3
Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering,
The University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago.
1
krishpersad.manohar@sta.uwi.edu;3
ramkissoonrikhi@yahoo.com
ABSTRACT
The feasibility of using solar photovoltaic (PV) as an alternative to power a waste water treatment plant
(WWTP) in Trinidad was investigated. The site data and power consumption of the Orangefield WWTP
was used to size a PV system with and without grid tied and tracking and non-tracking options. Present day
costing was determined and a simple payback period for Trinidad and Tobago was calculated. The
analysis indicated a minimum and maximum payback period of 27 years and 97.4 years, respectively.
Therefore, in Trinidad and Tobago, even the most cost effective PV system was not financially feasible. A
comparative payback period for neighbouring countries of Barbados and St. Vincent, with three times
higher power cost than Trinidad and Tobago, indicated that solar power is more attractive and feasible
with a minimum and maximum payback period of 9.1 and 8.6 years and 32.8 and 31.2 years, respectively.
KEYWORDS
Renewable Energy, Solar Power, Photovoltaic, Waste Water Treatment.
1. INTRODUCTION
The island of Trinidad is located 10° 40’N latitude and 61° 30’ W longitude and lies very close to
the equator. This location affords great potential for harvesting solar energy throughout the year
as there is minimal reduction in solar intensity at any given area due to seasonal changes (Figure
1). In this study the advantages and disadvantages of using solar photovoltaic was explored as it
pertains specifically to domestic wastewater treatment in Trinidad. Generally, the major
advantages of using renewable energy are reduced annual energy costs, reduced environmental
impacts since renewable energy technologies usually produce little to no pollutants during their
operation and increased sustainability as a result of fewer pollutants [1]. Major disadvantages
include site restrictions, high initial capital investment and limitations on power generation
potential [2].
2. International Journal of Recent advances in Mechanical Engineering (IJMECH) Vol.5, No.1, February 2016
2
Figure 1: Map showing global location of Trinidad and Tobago
2. OVERVIEW
The wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) at Orangefield, Trinidad, currently treats 309 m3
of
domestic sewage from 11,000 persons daily using a Completely Mixed Activated Sludge
(CMAS) process. Domestic waste form households and schools within the vicinity flow by
gravity to the intake or wet well located next to the treatment plant. Figures 2 show a plan of the
treatment plant [3].
Figure 2: Plan of the Orangefield wastewater treatment plant showing the location of all integral structures
In the wet well, 2 horizontal centrifugal pumps, each powered by 1 US Electric 7.5 horsepower
motor, automatically alternate when triggered by an automatic float level system to transfer
wastewater to the aeration chamber. The pumps are controlled by a waterproof electrical switch
installed in the water intake well which floats on top of the wastewater. When the water reaches a
3. International Journal of Recent advances in Mechanical Engineering (IJMECH) Vol.5, No.1, February 2016
3
pre-determined height, raising the float with it, the level system automatically switches on one of
the pumps which transfers the wastewater to the aeration chamber in the WWTP approximately
30m away. In the aeration chamber, oxygen is introduced into the raw sewage by means of 2
Roots Model U-RAI 56 Rotary Lobe Blowers (Figure 3), each individually powered by 1
Westinghouse 20 horsepower motor [3].
Both blowers, housed in the blower/pump house approximately 20m away from the aeration
chamber, have their outlets connected to steel piping with the other end of the pipes connected to
coarse bubble diffusers and submerged in the aeration chamber (Figure 4).The blowers also
provide the necessary vacuum suction to transport the undigested organic settled solids (the
Return Activated Sludge) from the clarifier chamber to the aeration chamber [3].
Figure 3: Inside of the blower house, showing blower #2 and the air outlet pipe leading to the treatment
plant
Figure 4: Aeration chamber of the Orangefield WWTP
4. International Journal of Recent advances in Mechanical Engineering (IJMECH) Vol.5, No.1, February 2016
4
After 24 hours, the aerated wastewater flows by hydraulic displacement from the aeration
chamber (Figure 4) to the hopper-shaped clarifier, where a minimum of 8 hours of clarification
allows settleable solids to be collected at the bottom and floating solids skimmed at the top, either
manually by the operator or by passively floating into troughs at the edge of the clarifier.
Clarified effluent flows by gravity through a trough and down to a tablet chlorine feeder and into
the chlorine contact tank where the final effluent is designed to be held for at least 45 minutes.
After sufficient contact time, the disinfected effluent flows by gravity into an underground
discharge pipe which eventually discharges to a surface drain at the front of the WWTP. The final
aspect of treatment at the plant is the drying of waste sludge. The sludge is transported
pneumatically to sludge drying beds using air lines connected to the 2 blowers in the blower
house [3].
The entire system at the Orangefield WWTP is powered by electrical power from the grid and is
a high consumer of much need electricity with an average bimonthly consumption of 10,500
kWh.
2.1. Site Data
Using the average readings of energy consumption from the bimonthly Trinidad and Tobago
Electricity Commission (T&TEC) bill over a one year period proved to be the most accurate way
to determine the overall energy consumption of the WWTP. This data was essential for predicting
the energy requirements for an alternative power system before doing an upgrade.
Average daily temperature was recorded using an Ambient Weather WS-2080 Weather Station.
The thermometer of the WS-2080 was compared to a calibrated thermometer to ensure accurate
readings were obtained. Data was recorded at 1 hour intervals by a data-logger stored on site and
retrieved weekly [4]. Average daily and monthly temperatures were then calculated. A
pyranometer on a flat surface and voltmeter were used to record irradiance readings at 5–minute
intervals over a 24-hour period for one month was (Figure 5). This was then compared to values
based on readings from the USA National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)
satellites for central Trinidad over the same time period (the month of May). The monthly
insolation values were within 3% of the average NASA readings collected from 1983 – 2005 for
central Trinidad (Table 1) [5].
Figure 5: Graph Showing Site Irradiance Values at the Orangefield WWTP
5. International Journal of Recent advances in Mechanical Engineering (IJMECH) Vol.5, No.1, February 2016
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Table 1: Summary of Monthly Insolation Values
2.2. Shade Analysis
The cost-effectiveness of a PV system depends crucially on positioning its solar array to capture
as much sunlight as possible [6]. Shading of a single cell connected in series in a module can
cause multiple problems including dissipation of power, cracking, overheating, melting of solder
or damage to the encapsulating material [6]. This problem is termed hotspot formation. The same
occurs on a larger scale, that is, a single shaded module in an array can cause significant power
dissipation from the entire array due to hotspot formation. It is therefore important to reduce the
formation of shadows on PV modules, especially shadows caused by permanent objects such as
nearby trees and buildings. As such, shade analyses were conducted at potential solar panel
locations on the compound. In addition, the available area and average temperature at the site
were recorded [7].
Site locations were chosen based on available area and potential for shade development by
surrounding obstructions. Theodolite surveying software package which allowed measurement of
azimuth, horizon angle, elevation angle and photographic capturing of the horizon were
employed [7].
The site survey showed that 4606m2
of land space was available within the compound of the
Orangefield WWTP. However, not all of the available land was suitable for placing solar
modules due to shading. Figure 6 shows the sun path and potential shading obstacles present at
Location A for the Orangefield WWTP. From the site survey carried out, location A, shown in
Figure 7, was the most suitable location for placement of the solar PV panels. This was due to the
low potential for shading by surrounding objects. The shade analysis conducted revealed a
potential loss of 0.35% of insolation due to shading at this location.
6. International Journal of Recent advances in Mechanical Engineering (IJMECH) Vol.5, No.1, February 2016
6
Figure 6: Sun Path and Potential Obstacles at Orangefield WWTP [7]
Figure 7: Plan of Orangefield WWTP Showing Dimensions and Proposed Installation Location of the Solar
PV System
Ambient outdoor temperature at the site had a monthly average of 27.8 °C, with minimum and
maximum monthly averages of 26.2 °C and 29.2 °C, respectively. The minimum and maximum
daily temperatures recorded were 22.0 °C and 36.1 °C, respectively. Therefore, the design of the
7. International Journal of Recent advances in Mechanical Engineering (IJMECH) Vol.5, No.1, February 2016
7
system was based on the maximum ambient temperature of 36.1°C. The ambient temperature was
important to predict solar panel efficiency and operation calculations [8, 9].
3. PV SIZE DETERMINATION
Initial calculation of PV size was done using the daily energy requirement and an insolation value
of 5.49 kWh/m2
/day, which was the lowest monthly insolation observed in November [10].
PV Power Capacity = 167 kWh/5 hours
= 33.52 kW
Adjusted PV Power = 33.52 kW + (-0.05 x 33.52 kW)
= 35.19 kW
Estimated Solar panel temperature = 36.1°C x 1.2
= 43.3°C
Power loss due to temperature = (43.3°C – 25°C) x 0.005 x 35.19 kW
= 3.22 kW
Power loss from DC to AC conversion = 31.94 kW x (1 – 0.9)
= 3.52 kW
Mismatch loss = 35.19 kW x (1 – 0.95)
= 1.76 kW
Dust and impurity losses = 35.19 kW x (1 – 0.93)
= 2.46 kW
PV System Size = 35.19 kW + 3.22 kW + 3.52 kW + 1.76 kW + 2.46 kW
= 46.16 kW
Increased efficiency from single axis = 13%
tracking system [11]
Required system size using tracking system = 46.16/1.13
= 40.85 kW
3.1. Solar Modules (panels)
The power rating of the solar panels were used in the selection criteria to determine the number
required to build a 41 kW tracking system and a 46.2 kW non tracking system. Based on an
increases charging efficiency by approximately 13% on a single axis tracker system [11], the
lower value kWh arrangement would still meet the required daily energy production. The design
life of the system was 25 years. The specifications of the selected solar panel were [12]:
3.1.1. Modules [13,14]
STC Rated Power (Factory Standard Test Conditions)(W) 300
PTC Rated Power (Photo Voltaic USA Test Conditions) (W) 280
Gross Surface Area (m2
) 1.64
Cell Type Monocrystalline
Rated Efficiency (%) 17.1
Unit Cost (TT$) 2,058
No. of modules required (tracking) 147
No. of modules required (non tracking) 165
Total cost of modules (tracking)(TT$) 302,526
Total cost of modules (non tracking)(TT$) 339,570
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8
3.1.2. Inverter [13,14]
Continuous Output Power (kW) 50
Continuous Output Current @ 240 VAC (A) 120
Maximum Efficiency @ 240 VAC (%) 96.7
Unit Cost (TT$) 146,737
No. of systems required 1
Total cost of inverter (TT$) 146,737
3.1.3. Installation [14]
Labour and equipment (TT$) 10,000
Foundation (20m3
of 25 N/mm2
concrete) (TT$) 21,800
Electrical wires and connections (TT$) 25,000
3.1.4. Battery Bank
Battery Type (design life of five years) Wet/Flooded
Voltage (V) 12
C/20 Capacity (Ah) 420
Energy capacity (kWh) 2.52
Maximum Depth of Discharge for Bank (%) 30
Required storage capacity of bank (kWh) 283.9
No. of batteries required 113
Unit Cost (TT$) 2,122
Total cost of Battery Bank (TT$) 239,786
3.1.5. Mounting and tracking system [11]
Tracking system Single-axis (azimuth)
No. of panels mounted per system 83
Unit Cost (TT$) 91,931
No. of systems required 2
Total cost of systems (TT$) 183,862
4. ANALYSIS
A simple payback-time analysis was conducted with an estimated life period of 25 years for the
photovoltaic system. The cost-benefit assessment was compared to existing commercial rate of
grid supplied power for Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados, St. Vincent, United States of America
and Canada [15].
4.1. Capital cost
Photovoltaic modules – non tracking TT$ 339570
Photovoltaic modules – tracking TT$ 302526
Inverter TT$ 146733
Installation TT$ 25000
Battery – 5 sets @ 239786 per set TT$ 1198930
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9
4.2. Operation and maintenance [14]
The annual operation and maintenance cost was estimated as 0.2% of the photovoltaic modules
cost and increased at a rate of 10% each year for 25 years with an annual discount rate of 8%.
Present value for operation and =
679.14
0.02
[1 − (
1.1
1.08
)
25
] = TT$ 19765
maintenance for 25 years
4.3. Grid power cost
Presently in Trinidad and Tobago the Trinidad and Tobago Electricity Commission (T&TEC) is
the government organization responsible for the installation and maintenance of infrastructure to
distribute electricity as well as customer service regarding all aspects of electricity use in
Trinidad and Tobago. The current commercial rate of grid supplied electricity in Trinidad and
Tobago is TT$ 0.415 or US$0.064 per kWh. This is a highly subsidise price and is one of the
lowest rate in Latin America [16].
The average bi-monthly electricity bill paid to the electric company was TT$5,519. This value
was calculated based on the average for an 18 month period from November 2010 to May 2012.
This rate translates into a yearly cost of TT$ 33114. An annual rate of increase in commercial
electricity rate was estimated at 4.5%/year based on a recommended increase by the Trinidad and
Tobago Regulated Industries Commission in 2011 [16]. Therefore, the present value of grid
supplied power for the next 25 years would be:
Grid power cost =
33114
0.045
[1 − (
1
1.045
)
25
] = TT$ 491021
4.4. Comparative Payback Period
Based on the simple costing analysis a comparative payback period for different countries in the
region was determined. The analysis was based on the total cost of a PV system with and without
battery banks (grid tied) and with and without tracking. The comparative payback period for
different countries was based on the current commercial rate for grid power for the respective
countries and the results shown on Table 2 [17].
5. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS
Trinidad and Tobago has an oil and gas based economy and is a net exporter of the products. The
power generation plants in the country are all natural gas based and the cost of power to the
consumer is highly subsidised. As such Trinidad and Tobago has one of the lowest rates for
electrical power in the region as can be seen from Table 2. In recent times the Trinidad and
Tobago government has been encouraging investment in renewable energy and renewable energy
projects. This has become necessary with the global trend to reduce carbon emissions and the
grim projections of the depletion of oil and gas reserves in the not-so-distant future [20].
From the analysis, the lowest cost for powering the Orangefield WWTP by solar was US$
83000 (TT$531072) with a non-tracking grid tied PV system. The most expensive option was
US$ 299041 (TT$1913864) with an independent off grid battery bank tracking PV system. Due
10. International Journal of Recent advances in Mechanical Engineering (IJMECH) Vol.5, No.1, February 2016
10
to the low subsidised electrical power in the country, simple payback analyses indicated a
minimum and maximum payback period of 27 years and 97.4 years, respectively. The design life
of most PV systems is rated as 25 years. Therefore, in Trinidad and Tobago, even the most cost
effective PV system was not financially feasible [21]. However, the negative environmental
concerns and global warming phenomenon has driven oil and gas rich countries to push for
reducing the carbon emissions and invest in renewable energy research and technology [21, 22].
Table 2. Payback Period Comparative Analysis [8, 18, 19]
A comparative payback period was analysis was done for nearby countries in the Caribbean and
North America where the government power subsidy is significantly less. The consumer cost
reflected on Table 2 is much closer to the actual cost of power production. For the close
Payback period (years)
Cost of
PV system
US$
Trinidad
and
Tobago
Grid
Power @
US$0.064
per kWh
Barbados
Grid
Power
@
US$0.19
per kWh
St. Vincent
Grid
Power
@
US$0.20
per kWh
Canada
(average)
Grid
Power
@
US$0.10
per kWh
United
States
(average)
Grid
Power
@
US$0.12
per kWh
Grid tied PV
system; non
tracking.
(Modules,
Inverter,
Installation,
Maintenance)
83000 27.0
years
9.1
years
8.6
years
17.3
years
14.4 years
Grid tied PV
system;
tracking.
(Modules,
Inverter,
Installation,
Maintenance)
111708 36.4 years 12.2 years 11.6 years 23.3 years 19.4 years
PV system; non
tracking with
battery bank
(5 sets for 25
year period)
270313 88.1 years 29.7 years 28.2 years 56.4 years` 47.0 years
PV system;
tracking with
battery bank
(5 sets for 25
year period)
299041 97.4 years 32.8 years 31.2 years 62.3 years 52.0 years
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11
neighbouring countries of Barbados and St. Vincent, the prospect of solar power is more
attractive and feasible due to the three times higher power cost. As indicated on Table 2 for these
two countries, the least costly and most expensive PV system has a minimum and maximum
payback period of 9.1 and 8.6 years and 32.8 and 31.2 years, respectively. The analysis indicated
that present investment in solar power technology is a viable and feasible option when compared
to the real cost of fusel fuel generated electricity.
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AUTHOR
Krishpersad Manohar (Ph.D.) is a senior lecturer (associate professor) at
The University of the West Indies, St Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago. He
joined the faculty of engineering in 1995. His area of research has been in
the use of indigenous naturally occurring fibrous materials for use as
building thermal insulation, heat transfer from inclined pipes, solar
detoxification of hazardous industrial waste, low temperature and high
temperature storage of solar energy, and wave energy. Recently, Dr.
Manohar’s interest concentrated on the solar thermal energy storage for
steam production for use in power generation and the conversion of wave energy for power generation. He
is also actively involved in teaching at the undergraduate level and post graduate supervision at both the
masters and doctorial level.