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23 pages, 5828 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Mapping Solar Global Radiation and Beam Radiation in Taiwan

by Tsung-En Hsieh and Keh-Chin Chang

Energies 2024, 17(23), 5874; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17235874 - 22 Nov 2024

Viewed by 587

Abstract

Data for solar radiation resources play a pivotal role in assessing the energy yield capability of solar applications. A nationwide database for the typical meteorological year from the 30 weather stations of the Central Weather Bureau (CWB) in Taiwan is used to determine [...] Read more.

Data for solar radiation resources play a pivotal role in assessing the energy yield capability of solar applications. A nationwide database for the typical meteorological year from the 30 weather stations of the Central Weather Bureau (CWB) in Taiwan is used to determine the spatial distribution of global radiation over the terrain of Taiwan. There is no available beam radiation information in daily reports from all CWB stations. Information on the diffuse fraction for all CWB stations is estimated using three available correlation models that account for topographical and geographical effects in Taiwan. The databases for beam radiation are generated using these estimated diffuse fractions. The mappings of global and beam radiation on the Taiwanese mainland are performed with databases from 24 CWB stations using the residual kriging method. There are no mappings of the remote islands, where six CWB stations are located. The databases for global and beam radiation for these six CWB stations are applied to nearby remote islands. The effects of topography and geography on the distributions of global and beam radiation are discussed. The spatial distributions of solar radiation presented are good scientific references for assessing the performances of solar energy systems in Taiwan. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Modern Technologies for Renewable Energy Development and Utilization: 3rd Edition)

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29 pages, 2899 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Clean Energy and Carbon Emissions in Mexico’s Electric Power Sector: Past Performance and Current Trend

by Oliver Probst

Energies 2024, 17(23), 5859; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17235859 - 22 Nov 2024

Viewed by 911

Abstract

The concept of clean energy was introduced by the Mexican authorities as part of the wholesale electricity market with the objectives of both measuring the progress in decarbonization and fostering emission-free and low-emission technologies. In the present work, the evolution of clean energy [...] Read more.

The concept of clean energy was introduced by the Mexican authorities as part of the wholesale electricity market with the objectives of both measuring the progress in decarbonization and fostering emission-free and low-emission technologies. In the present work, the evolution of clean energy production for the period 2017–2023, corresponding to seven full years of operation of the electricity market, was analyzed and compared to official targets. Emission of greenhouse gases (GHGs) was calculated from fuel consumption statistics. The consistency between electricity generation and fuel consumption data has been assessed. The projected short-term evolution of electricity generation and GHG emissions through 2026, locked in by decisions in the recent past, was modeled and discussed. A reduction in carbon intensity from 0.56 gCO_2,eq to 0.46 g CO_2,eq was found for the 2017–2022 period, in qualitative agreement with official figures, mainly due to the large-scale introduction of wind and solar, as well as some displacement of coal- and fuel oil-fired generation. Total GHG emissions reached a minimum of about 150 Gt CO_2,eq/a in 2020–2021; emissions are projected to rise to 190 Gt CO_2,eq in 2026, due to a strong rise in natural gas-fired generation from combined-cycle plants and the largely stalled development of wind and solar plants. Clean energy figures were found to decouple from emissions and can therefore not be considered a good proxy for decarbonization. A recent roadmap presented by the incoming federal government does, however, indicate a change in policies which might bring Mexico back on track towards the decarbonization of the electric power sector. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Modern Technologies for Renewable Energy Development and Utilization: 3rd Edition)

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14 pages, 4494 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Analysis of Wind Farm Productivity Taking Wake Loss into Account: Case Study

by Adam Zagubień, Katarzyna Wolniewicz and Jakub Szwochertowski

Energies 2024, 17(23), 5816; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17235816 - 21 Nov 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 540

Abstract

Due to the growing demand for green energy, there is a shortage of land available for the location of wind farms. Therefore, the distances between turbines are being reduced, and the power of the turbines is being increased. This results in increased wake [...] Read more.

Due to the growing demand for green energy, there is a shortage of land available for the location of wind farms. Therefore, the distances between turbines are being reduced, and the power of the turbines is being increased. This results in increased wake loss. The article describes a study of the impact of wind speed deficit and loss of wind turbine output due to wake loss on the decrease in energy efficiency of a wind farm. Two proposed wind farms, where the maximum number of turbines are located, were analyzed. The facilities were designed for implementation in Central Europe. The basic costs of construction and operation of the wind farms (WFs) were estimated. Based on the results of wind measurements and the performance characteristics of wind turbines, the productivity of the WFs was determined. The impact of removing individual turbines with the largest wake losses from the wind farm on the economic outcome of the project was studied. Evaluation criteria were proposed to quantify losses, which can serve as a benchmark for evaluating other wind farms. It was found that the higher the turbine’s power rating, the faster the payback resulting from the wake losses of a single turbine. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Modern Technologies for Renewable Energy Development and Utilization: 3rd Edition)

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18 pages, 3976 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Financial Evaluation of Alternatives for Industrial Methanol Production Using Renewable Energy with Heat Pump Technology

by Edgar Correa-Quintana, Yecid Muñoz-Maldonado and Adalberto Ospino-Castro

Energies 2024, 17(22), 5560; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17225560 - 7 Nov 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 742

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the economic and financial alternatives for industrial methanol (MeOH) production in Colombia, taking advantage of renewable energy and heat pump technology. The main objective was to analyze the feasibility of converting an existing hydrogen production [...] Read more.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the economic and financial alternatives for industrial methanol (MeOH) production in Colombia, taking advantage of renewable energy and heat pump technology. The main objective was to analyze the feasibility of converting an existing hydrogen production plant into a methanol synthesis plant at a refinery located in the Magdalena Medio region. The approach included the electrification of industrial processes using heat pumps, along with the incorporation of carbon capture technologies, using renewable photovoltaic energy. The study compared this proposal with a conventional fossil fuel-based process, using natural gas for the generation of thermal steam. To carry out the analysis, simulations of the methanol production process were performed using the ASPEN HYSYS V12.1 software, evaluating the mass and energy flows, as well as the investment (CAPEX) and operation (OPEX) costs. The determination and comparison of the levelized cost of methanol production (LCOM) for the different alternatives and market price scenarios reveal that the incorporation of a heat pump in the industrial process can significantly improve energy efficiency, reduce operating costs associated with energy, water/steam, and fuel gas, and allow for the financial viability of projects that use renewable energy and carbon capture and utilization (CCU) technologies. The results show that electrification through heat pumps and renewable energy improves energy performance by 15%, reduces operational costs by up to 25%, and lowers the levelized cost of methanol production (LCOM) to 456–492 USD/ton. These improvements demonstrate the financial viability and sustainability of methanol production in Colombia using this technology. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Modern Technologies for Renewable Energy Development and Utilization: 3rd Edition)

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17 pages, 12597 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Impact of Leading-Edge Tubercles on Airfoil Aerodynamic Performance and Flow Patterns at Different Reynolds Numbers

by Dian Wang, Chang Cai, Rongyu Zha, Chaoyi Peng, Xuebin Feng, Pengcheng Liang, Keqilao Meng, Jianyu Kou, Takao Maeda and Qing’an Li

Energies 2024, 17(21), 5518; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17215518 - 4 Nov 2024

Viewed by 1013

Abstract

In recent years, leading-edge tubercles have gained significant attention as an innovative biomimetic flow control technique. This paper explores their impact on the aerodynamic performance and flow patterns of an airfoil through wind tunnel experiments, utilizing force measurements and tuft visualization at Reynolds [...] Read more.

In recent years, leading-edge tubercles have gained significant attention as an innovative biomimetic flow control technique. This paper explores their impact on the aerodynamic performance and flow patterns of an airfoil through wind tunnel experiments, utilizing force measurements and tuft visualization at Reynolds numbers between 2.7 × 10⁵ and 6.3 × 10⁵. The baseline airfoil exhibits a hysteresis loop near the stall angle, with sharp changes in lift coefficient during variations in the angle of attack (AOA). In contrast, the airfoil with leading-edge tubercles demonstrates a smoother stall process and enhanced post-stall performance, though its pre-stall performance is slightly reduced. The study identifies four distinct flow regimes on the modified airfoil, corresponding to different segments of the lift coefficient curve. As the AOA increases, the flow transitions through stages of full attachment, trailing-edge separation, and local leading-edge separation across some or all valley sections. Additionally, the study suggests that normalizing aerodynamic performance based on the valley section chord length is more effective, supporting the idea that leading-edge tubercles function like a series of delta wings in front of a straight-leading-edge wing. These insights provide valuable guidance for the design of blades with leading-edge tubercles in applications such as wind and tidal turbines. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Modern Technologies for Renewable Energy Development and Utilization: 3rd Edition)

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38 pages, 20945 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Large-Scale Optimization among Photovoltaic and Concentrated Solar Power Systems: A State-of-the-Art Review and Algorithm Analysis

by Yi’an Wang, Zhe Wu and Dong Ni

Energies 2024, 17(17), 4323; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17174323 - 29 Aug 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1180

Abstract

Large-scale optimization (LSO) problems among photovoltaic (PV) and concentrated solar power (CSP) systems are attracting increasing attention as they help improve the energy dispatch efficiency of PV and CSP systems to minimize power costs. Therefore, it is necessary and urgent to systematically analyze [...] Read more.

Large-scale optimization (LSO) problems among photovoltaic (PV) and concentrated solar power (CSP) systems are attracting increasing attention as they help improve the energy dispatch efficiency of PV and CSP systems to minimize power costs. Therefore, it is necessary and urgent to systematically analyze and summarize various LSO methods to showcase their advantages and disadvantages, ensuring the efficient operation of hybrid energy systems comprising different PV and CSP systems. This paper compares and analyzes the latest LSO methods for PV and CSP systems based on meta-heuristic algorithms (i.e., Particle Swarm Optimization, Genetic Algorithm, Enhanced Gravitational Search Algorithm, and Grey Wolf Optimization), numerical simulation and stochastic optimization methods (i.e., Constraint Programming, Linear Programming, Dynamic Programming Optimization Algorithm, and Derivative-Free Optimization), and machine learning-based AI methods (Double Grid Search Support Vector Machine, Long Short-Term Memory, Kalman Filter, and Random Forest). An in-depth analysis and A comparison of the essence and applications of these algorithms are conducted to explore their characteristics and suitability for PV and CSP or hybrid systems. The research results demonstrate the specificities of different LSO algorithms, providing valuable insights for researchers with diverse interests and guiding the selection of the most appropriate method as the solution algorithm for LSO problems in various PV and CSP systems. This also offers useful references and suggestions for extracting research challenges in LSO problems of PV and CSP systems and proposing corresponding solutions to guide future research development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Modern Technologies for Renewable Energy Development and Utilization: 3rd Edition)

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16 pages, 4227 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Multi-Objective Sensitivity Analysis of a Wind Turbine Equipped with a Pumped Hydro Storage System Using a Reversible Hydraulic Machine

by Lorenzo Dambrosio and Stefano Pio Manzari

Energies 2024, 17(16), 4078; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17164078 - 16 Aug 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 952

Abstract

A typical wind system captures wind energy and converts it into electricity, which is then converted to DC for battery storage using an AC/DC converter; an inverter then supplies AC electricity at the grid frequency. However, this solution involves losses in electronic components [...] Read more.

A typical wind system captures wind energy and converts it into electricity, which is then converted to DC for battery storage using an AC/DC converter; an inverter then supplies AC electricity at the grid frequency. However, this solution involves losses in electronic components and incurs costs and environmental impacts associated with battery storage. To address these issues, a different wind system layout configuration is considered, where the energy storage duties are assumed by a hydro storage system employing a reversible hydraulic pump (referred to as a Pump as Turbine). This solution utilises an elevated reservoir connected to the Pump as Turbine to compensate for fluctuations in wind and load; this approach offers lower costs, a longer lifespan, reduced maintenance, and a smaller waste management cost. This study focuses on a comprehensive sensitivity analysis of the new wind system power layout, considering multiple objectives. Specifically, the analysis targets the net change in the mass of water (potential energy) stored in the pumped hydro system, the captured wind energy, and the torque provided in hydraulic turbine mode. On the other hand, the design variables are represented by the Pump as Turbine-specific speed, the hydraulic system gearbox ratio, and the pump head. To assess how solutions are affected by random changes in wind speed and external load, the sensitivity analysis considers the multi-objective optimisation problem showing for both the wind speed and the external load a stochastic contribution. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Modern Technologies for Renewable Energy Development and Utilization: 3rd Edition)

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22 pages, 5163 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Two-Step Grid–Coordinate Optimization Method for a Wind Farm with a Regular Layout Using a Genetic Algorithm

by Guoqing Huang, Yao Chen, Ke Li, Jiangke Luo, Sai Zhang and Mingming Lv

Energies 2024, 17(13), 3273; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17133273 - 3 Jul 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1035

Abstract

Currently, most studies on the optimization of wind farm layouts on flat terrain employ a discrete grid-based arrangement method and result in irregular layouts that may damage the visual appeal of wind farms. To meet the practical requirements of wind farms, a two-step [...] Read more.

Currently, most studies on the optimization of wind farm layouts on flat terrain employ a discrete grid-based arrangement method and result in irregular layouts that may damage the visual appeal of wind farms. To meet the practical requirements of wind farms, a two-step optimization method called “grid–coordinate” based on a genetic algorithm is proposed in this paper. The core idea is to initially determine the number of wind turbines and their initial positions using a grid-based approach, followed by a fine-tuning of the wind farm layout by moving the turbines in a row/column manner. This two-step process not only achieves an aesthetically pleasing arrangement but also maximizes power generation. This algorithm is conducted to optimize a 2 km × 2 km wind farm under three classic wind conditions, one improved wind condition, and a real wind condition employing both the Jensen and Gaussian wake models. To validate the effectiveness of the proposed method, the optimization of configurations based on different wake models was conducted, yielding results including the efficiency, total power output, number of wind turbines, and unit cost of electricity generation. These results were compared and analyzed against the classical literature. The findings indicate that the unit cost of electricity generation using the two-step optimization approach with the Gaussian wake model is higher than that of the initial grid optimization method. Additionally, varying the number of wind turbines can lead to instances of high power generation coupled with low efficiency. This phenomenon should be carefully considered in the wind farm layout optimization process. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Modern Technologies for Renewable Energy Development and Utilization: 3rd Edition)

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20 pages, 6041 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Analysis of MW-Level Offshore Wind Turbine Generators with Dual Star–Delta Fractional-Slot Windings

by Isaac Rudden, Guang-Jin Li, Zi-Qiang Zhu, Alexander Duke and Richard Clark

Energies 2024, 17(12), 2958; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17122958 - 15 Jun 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1456

Abstract

This paper investigates the use of fractional-slot concentrated windings (FSCWs) in large-scale (MW level) offshore wind generators. It focuses specifically on a power rating of 3 MW and uses an existing direct-drive synchronous PM machine (DD-SPM) with 480s/160p and dual three-phase integer-slot winding [...] Read more.

This paper investigates the use of fractional-slot concentrated windings (FSCWs) in large-scale (MW level) offshore wind generators. It focuses specifically on a power rating of 3 MW and uses an existing direct-drive synchronous PM machine (DD-SPM) with 480s/160p and dual three-phase integer-slot winding (ISW) as a baseline. A multiple of the common 12s/10p FSCW machine is used that matches the electrical frequency of the ISW machine, yielding a 192s/160p dual three-phase machine. The hybrid star–delta connection has grown increasingly popular owing to its unique harmonic cancellation properties, which can help reduce rotor and PM eddy current losses in FSCW machines. In this paper, two dual three-phase star–delta-wound machines are scaled to 3 MW and included in the investigation. Specifically, a 384s/160p dual three-phase and dual star–delta winding machine, which is a multiplication of the 24s/10p machine, and a 192s/176p dual three-phase and dual star–delta winding machine, which is a multiplication of the 24s/22p machine, are used. These machines are investigated using finite element analysis (FEA) and compared on the basis of their air-gap flux density harmonics, open-circuit electro-motive force (EMF), torque performance, and losses and power. It is found that the proposed 384s/160p dual star–delta winding machine has the best electromagnetic performance of all, with a stator power that is 1.2% greater than that of the baseline ISW machine. However, this machine has a coil pitch of 2 and so loses the manufacturing and fault-tolerant advantage of having concentrated windings. If concentrated windings are desired, then the proposed 192s/176p dual star–delta winding machine is the best choice, with the stator power only 2.6% less than that of the baseline ISW machine, but unfortunately still has significant rotor and PM eddy current losses. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Modern Technologies for Renewable Energy Development and Utilization: 3rd Edition)

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Review

Jump to: Research

23 pages, 4295 KiB

Open AccessReview

A Review on Performance Calculation and Design Methodologies for Horizontal-Axis Wind Turbine Blades

by Rongyu Zha, Siyuan Wu, Chang Cai, Xiaohui Liu, Dian Wang, Chaoyi Peng, Xuebin Feng, Qiuhua Chen, Xiaohui Zhong and Qing’an Li

Energies 2025, 18(2), 435; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18020435 - 20 Jan 2025

Viewed by 573

Abstract

The efficient, low-cost, and large-scale development and utilization of offshore wind energy resources is an inevitable trend for future growth. With the continuous increase in the scale of wind turbines and their expansion into deep-sea locations, there is an urgent need to develop [...] Read more.

The efficient, low-cost, and large-scale development and utilization of offshore wind energy resources is an inevitable trend for future growth. With the continuous increase in the scale of wind turbines and their expansion into deep-sea locations, there is an urgent need to develop ultra-long, flexible blades suitable for future high-capacity turbines. Existing reviews in the field of blade design lack a simultaneous focus on the two core elements of blade performance calculation and design methods, as well as a detailed evaluation of specific methods. Therefore, this paper reviews the performance calculation and design methodologies of horizontal-axis wind turbine blades from three aspects: aerodynamic design, structural design, and coupled aero-structural design. A critical introduction to various methods is provided, along with a key viewpoint centered around design philosophy: there is no global optimal solution; instead, the most suitable solution is chosen from the Pareto set according to the design philosophy. This review not only provides a concise and clear overview for researchers new to the field of blade design to quickly acquire key background knowledge but also offers valuable insights for experienced researchers through critical evaluations of various methods and the presentation of core viewpoints. The paper also includes a refined review of extended areas such as aerodynamic add-ons and fatigue characteristics, which broadens the scope of the review to touch on multiple research areas and inspire further research. In future research, it is crucial to identify new key issues and challenges associated with increased blade length and flexibility, address the challenges faced in integrated aero-structural design, and develop platforms and tools that support multi-objective optimization design of blades, ensuring the safe, stable, and orderly development of wind turbines. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Modern Technologies for Renewable Energy Development and Utilization: 3rd Edition)

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34 pages, 5983 KiB

Open AccessReview

Numerical Methodologies for the Analysis of Horizontal-Axis Floating Offshore Wind Turbines (F-HAWTs): A State-of-the-Art Review

by Naghmeh Akbari Zadeh, Peter Ryan, David M. Kennedy and Fergal O’Rourke

Energies 2025, 18(1), 22; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18010022 - 24 Dec 2024

Viewed by 496

Abstract

In recent decades, wind turbine installations have become a popular option to meet the world’s growing demand for energy. Both onshore and offshore wind turbines form pivotal components of the electricity sector. Onshore wind energy is now a mature technology, with significant experience [...] Read more.

In recent decades, wind turbine installations have become a popular option to meet the world’s growing demand for energy. Both onshore and offshore wind turbines form pivotal components of the electricity sector. Onshore wind energy is now a mature technology, with significant experience gained by wind farm developers and operators over the last couple of decades. However, as a more recent enterprise, the offshore wind industry still requires significantly more development before the technologies and operations reach maturity. To date, floating platforms at sea have been utilised extensively for the oil and gas industry. While a lot of the expertise and technology is transferable to the floating offshore wind industry, significant development work remains; for example, there is significant work required due to the different device types. Compared to floating oil and gas platforms, floating wind turbine platforms have a higher centre of gravity, which influences their performance and complexity. The successful large-scale development of floating offshore wind farms will require significant expertise and learning from the onshore wind, oil, and gas sectors. There are a wide range of software packages available to predict the operational behaviour of floating offshore wind turbines. In spite of this, it is still extremely difficult to create a fully coupled model of a floating wind turbine that can accurately and comprehensively model the turbine aerodynamics, hydrodynamics, servodynamics, structural dynamics, and mooring dynamics. This paper presents details on various fully coupled and uncoupled software packages and methodologies utilised to simulate floating offshore wind turbine performances. Various kinds of mooring systems, floating wind turbines, analysis methods, and experimental validation methods are comprehensively described. This paper serves as a reliable methodological guideline for researchers and wind industry professionals engaged in the design/analysis of wind farm projects. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Modern Technologies for Renewable Energy Development and Utilization: 3rd Edition)

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44 pages, 19912 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperReview

Recycling of Silicon-Based Photovoltaic Modules: Mediterranean Region Insight

by Ana-María Diez-Suarez, Marta Martínez-Benavides, Cristina Manteca Donado, Jorge-Juan Blanes-Peiró and Elia Judith Martínez Torres

Energies 2024, 17(23), 6015; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17236015 - 29 Nov 2024

Viewed by 857

Abstract

The rapid expansion of photovoltaic (PV) installations across Mediterranean Europe since 2007 has resulted in a substantial increase in the need for end-of-life (EoL) management strategies for monocrystalline PV modules. This paper reviews the technical challenges and opportunities associated with the recycling of [...] Read more.

The rapid expansion of photovoltaic (PV) installations across Mediterranean Europe since 2007 has resulted in a substantial increase in the need for end-of-life (EoL) management strategies for monocrystalline PV modules. This paper reviews the technical challenges and opportunities associated with the recycling of PV modules, focusing on the physical, chemical, and thermal processes currently employed. Despite advancements in recycling technology, significant gaps remain in infrastructure and regulatory enforcement, particularly in Mediterranean countries. The recovery of valuable materials such as silicon, silver, and glass presents both economic and environmental benefits, although the costs of recycling remain a key barrier to widespread adoption. Our analysis suggests that optimizing these recycling processes could improve their profitability and scalability, enabling more effective resource recovery. The paper concludes with recommendations for policy and infrastructure development to support the sustainable management of PV waste across the Mediterranean region. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Modern Technologies for Renewable Energy Development and Utilization: 3rd Edition)

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26 pages, 1353 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Solar Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC) Systems: A Review of Technologies, Parameters, and Applications

by Dominika Matuszewska

Energies 2024, 17(20), 5106; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17205106 - 14 Oct 2024

Viewed by 1711

Abstract

The Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC) is a widely utilized technology for generating electricity from various sources, including geothermal energy, waste heat, biomass, and solar energy. Harnessing solar radiation to drive ORC is a promising renewable energy technology due to the high compatibility of [...] Read more.

The Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC) is a widely utilized technology for generating electricity from various sources, including geothermal energy, waste heat, biomass, and solar energy. Harnessing solar radiation to drive ORC is a promising renewable energy technology due to the high compatibility of solar collector operating temperatures with the thermal requirements of the cycle. The aim of this review article is to present and discuss the principles of solar-ORC technology and the broad range of solar-ORC systems that have been explored in the literature. Various solar energy technologies capable of powering ORC are investigated, including flat plate collectors, vacuum tube collectors, compound parabolic collectors, and parabolic trough collectors. The review places significant emphasis on the operating parameters of technology. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Modern Technologies for Renewable Energy Development and Utilization: 3rd Edition)

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14 pages, 3354 KiB

Open AccessReview

Review of Research on the Present Situation of Development and Resource Potential of Wind and Solar Energy in China

by Taohui Li, Yonghao Liu and Aifeng Lv

Energies 2024, 17(16), 4158; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17164158 - 21 Aug 2024

Viewed by 996

Abstract

To address the global warming issue, China is prioritizing the development of clean energy sources such as wind and solar power under its “dual carbon target”. However, the expansion of these resources is constrained by their intermittency and the spatial and temporal distribution [...] Read more.

To address the global warming issue, China is prioritizing the development of clean energy sources such as wind and solar power under its “dual carbon target”. However, the expansion of these resources is constrained by their intermittency and the spatial and temporal distribution of wind and solar energy. This paper systematically reviews the evolution of wind and solar energy reserves, their development potential, and their current status in China from a geographical perspective. In conjunction with existing research, this paper anticipates future exploration in the realm of wind–solar complementary development or multi-energy complementary development, viewed through the lens of resource quantity. The anticipated findings are intended to furnish a theoretical foundation for further studies on the development and utilization of wind and solar energy resources within China. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Modern Technologies for Renewable Energy Development and Utilization: 3rd Edition)

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30 pages, 341 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperReview

Advancing Renewable Energy Forecasting: A Comprehensive Review of Renewable Energy Forecasting Methods

by Rita Teixeira, Adelaide Cerveira, Eduardo J. Solteiro Pires and José Baptista

Energies 2024, 17(14), 3480; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17143480 - 15 Jul 2024

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2308

Abstract

Socioeconomic growth and population increase are driving a constant global demand for energy. Renewable energy is emerging as a leading solution to minimise the use of fossil fuels. However, renewable resources are characterised by significant intermittency and unpredictability, which impact their energy production [...] Read more.

Socioeconomic growth and population increase are driving a constant global demand for energy. Renewable energy is emerging as a leading solution to minimise the use of fossil fuels. However, renewable resources are characterised by significant intermittency and unpredictability, which impact their energy production and integration into the power grid. Forecasting models are increasingly being developed to address these challenges and have become crucial as renewable energy sources are integrated in energy systems. In this paper, a comparative analysis of forecasting methods for renewable energy production is developed, focusing on photovoltaic and wind power. A review of state-of-the-art techniques is conducted to synthesise and categorise different forecasting models, taking into account climatic variables, optimisation algorithms, pre-processing techniques, and various forecasting horizons. By integrating diverse techniques such as optimisation algorithms and pre-processing methods and carefully selecting the forecast horizon, it is possible to highlight the accuracy and stability of forecasts. Overall, the ongoing development and refinement of forecasting methods are crucial to achieve a sustainable and reliable energy future. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Modern Technologies for Renewable Energy Development and Utilization: 3rd Edition)

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31 pages, 4012 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperReview

Towards a Software-Defined Industrial IoT-Edge Network for Next-Generation Offshore Wind Farms: State of the Art, Resilience, and Self-X Network and Service Management

by Agrippina Mwangi, Rishikesh Sahay, Elena Fumagalli, Mikkel Gryning and Madeleine Gibescu

Energies 2024, 17(12), 2897; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17122897 - 13 Jun 2024

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2300

Abstract

Offshore wind farms are growing in complexity and size, expanding deeper into maritime environments to capture stronger and steadier wind energy. Like other domains in the energy sector, the wind energy domain is continuing to digitalize its systems by embracing Industry 4.0 technologies [...] Read more.

Offshore wind farms are growing in complexity and size, expanding deeper into maritime environments to capture stronger and steadier wind energy. Like other domains in the energy sector, the wind energy domain is continuing to digitalize its systems by embracing Industry 4.0 technologies such as the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), virtualization, and edge computing to monitor and manage its critical infrastructure remotely. Adopting these technologies creates dynamic, scalable, and cost-effective data-acquisition systems. At the heart of these data-acquisition systems is a communication network that facilitates data transfer between communicating nodes. Given the challenges of configuring, managing, and troubleshooting large-scale communication networks, this review paper explores the adoption of the state-of-the-art software-defined networking (SDN) and network function virtualization (NFV) technologies in the design of next-generation offshore wind farm IIoT–Edge communication networks. While SDN and NFV technologies present a promising solution to address the challenges of these large-scale communication networks, this paper discusses the SDN/NFV-related performance, security, reliability, and scalability concerns, highlighting current mitigation strategies. Building on these mitigation strategies, the concept of resilience (that is, the ability to recover from component failures, attacks, and service interruptions) is given special attention. The paper highlights the self-X (self-configuring, self-healing, and self-optimizing) approaches that build resilience in the software-defined IIoT–Edge communication network architectures. These resilience approaches enable the network to autonomously adjust its configuration, self-repair during stochastic failures, and optimize performance in response to changing conditions. The paper concludes that resilient software-defined IIoT–Edge communication networks will play a big role in guaranteeing seamless next-generation offshore wind farm operations by facilitating critical, latency-sensitive data transfers. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Modern Technologies for Renewable Energy Development and Utilization: 3rd Edition)

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