The Experts below are selected from a list of 135 Experts worldwide ranked by ideXlab platform

David R Mills - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.

  • advances in solar thermal electricity technology
    Solar Energy, 2004
    Co-Authors: David R Mills
    Abstract:

    Abstract Various advanced solar thermal electricity technologies are reviewed with an emphasis on new technology and new market approaches. In Single-Axis Tracking technology, the conventional parabolic trough collector is the mainstream established technology and is under continued development but is soon to face competition from two linear Fresnel reflector (LFR) technologies, the CLFR and Solarmundo. A Solarmundo prototype has been built in Belgium, and a CLFR prototype is awaiting presale of electricity as a commercial plant before it can be constructed in Queensland. In two-axis Tracking technologies, dish/Stirling technologies are faced with high Stirling engine costs and emphasism may shift to solarised gas micro-turbines, which are adapted from the small stationary gas turbine market and will be available shortly at a price in the US$1 ppW range. ANU dish technology, in which steam is collected across the field and run through large steam turbines, has not been commercialised. Emphasis in solar thermal electricity applications in two-axis Tracking systems seems to be shifting to tower technology. Two central receiver towers are planned for Spain, and one for Israel. Our own multi-tower solar array (MTSA) technology has gained Australian Research Council funding for an initial single tower prototype in Australia of approximately 150 kW(e) and will use combined microturbine and PV receivers. Non-Tracking systems are described of two diverse types, Chimney and evacuated tubes. Solar chimney technology is being proposed for Australia based upon German technology. Air is heated underneath a large glass structure of about 5 km in diameter, and passes up a large chimney through a wind turbine near the base as it rises. A company Enviromission Ltd. has been listed in Australia to commercialise the concept. Evacuated tubes are growing rapidly for domestic hot water heating in Europe and organic rankine cycle engines such as the Freepower 6 kW are being considered for operation with thermal energy developed by evacuated tube and trough systems. These may replace some PV in medium sized applications as they offer potential for inexpensive pressurised water storage for 24 h operation, and backup by fuels instead of generators. In the medium term there is a clear trend to creation of smaller sized systems which can operate on a retail electricity cost offset basis near urban and industrial installations. In the longer term large low cost plants will be necessary for large scale electricity and fuels production. Retrofit central generation solar plants offer a cost effective transition market which allows increased production rates and gradual cost reduction for large solar thermal plant. In the paper the author describes current funding systems in Europe, Australia, and the USA, and makes suggestions for more effective programmes of support.

  • advances in solar thermal electricity technology
    Solar Energy, 2004
    Co-Authors: David R Mills
    Abstract:

    Abstract Various advanced solar thermal electricity technologies are reviewed with an emphasis on new technology and new market approaches. In Single-Axis Tracking technology, the conventional parabolic trough collector is the mainstream established technology and is under continued development but is soon to face competition from two linear Fresnel reflector (LFR) technologies, the CLFR and Solarmundo. A Solarmundo prototype has been built in Belgium, and a CLFR prototype is awaiting presale of electricity as a commercial plant before it can be constructed in Queensland. In two-axis Tracking technologies, dish/Stirling technologies are faced with high Stirling engine costs and emphasism may shift to solarised gas micro-turbines, which are adapted from the small stationary gas turbine market and will be available shortly at a price in the US$1 ppW range. ANU dish technology, in which steam is collected across the field and run through large steam turbines, has not been commercialised. Emphasis in solar thermal electricity applications in two-axis Tracking systems seems to be shifting to tower technology. Two central receiver towers are planned for Spain, and one for Israel. Our own multi-tower solar array (MTSA) technology has gained Australian Research Council funding for an initial single tower prototype in Australia of approximately 150 kW(e) and will use combined microturbine and PV receivers. Non-Tracking systems are described of two diverse types, Chimney and evacuated tubes. Solar chimney technology is being proposed for Australia based upon German technology. Air is heated underneath a large glass structure of about 5 km in diameter, and passes up a large chimney through a wind turbine near the base as it rises. A company Enviromission Ltd. has been listed in Australia to commercialise the concept. Evacuated tubes are growing rapidly for domestic hot water heating in Europe and organic rankine cycle engines such as the Freepower 6 kW are being considered for operation with thermal energy developed by evacuated tube and trough systems. These may replace some PV in medium sized applications as they offer potential for inexpensive pressurised water storage for 24 h operation, and backup by fuels instead of generators. In the medium term there is a clear trend to creation of smaller sized systems which can operate on a retail electricity cost offset basis near urban and industrial installations. In the longer term large low cost plants will be necessary for large scale electricity and fuels production. Retrofit central generation solar plants offer a cost effective transition market which allows increased production rates and gradual cost reduction for large solar thermal plant. In the paper the author describes current funding systems in Europe, Australia, and the USA, and makes suggestions for more effective programmes of support.

A J Rix - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.

  • application of dust mitigation strategies to single axis Tracking photovoltaic modules in the semi arid areas of south africa
    Iet Renewable Power Generation, 2020
    Co-Authors: Armand A Du Plessis, Johannes M Strauss, A J Rix
    Abstract:

    Field generated data for Single-Axis-tracker (SAT) photovoltaic (PV) modules, subjected to the semi-arid Northern Cape region of South Africa, is presented. Experimental dust mitigation methods and the effects of dust soiling on PV module performance are explored. In particular, the use of a hydrophobic anti-soiling coating and a unique SAT self-cleaning manoeuvre was investigated. The SAT results are further compared to six coated and uncoated stationary PV modules. For the performance comparisons, maximum PV module power output was determined from current-voltage (I–V) curves extracted from each individual PV module. This work further presents a novel I–V curve fitting algorithm, which improves measured I–V curve data resolution for precise maximum power point extraction. The PV module performance comparisons were executed with a performance ratio metric, which is defined as the irradiance and temperature corrected performance factor of a PV module. Contrary to the initial research hypothesis, the hydrophobic anti-soiling coating was found to promote dust soiling. The SAT self-cleaning manoeuvre further delivered unique insights regarding the effects of dew water on dust soiling and displacement. Finally, also unique to the research presented here, is the formal description of infield observations made regarding dust deposition.

  • application of dust mitigation strategies to single axis Tracking photovoltaic modules in the semi arid areas of south africa
    International Conference on Clean Electrical Power, 2019
    Co-Authors: Armand A Du Plessis, Johannes M Strauss, A J Rix
    Abstract:

    This paper provides field generated data for Single-Axis-tracker (SAT) photo voltaic (PV) modules subjected to the semi-arid Northern Cape environment of South Africa. The research objectives are the investigation of the effects of dust soiling on PV module performance and the application of experimental dust mitigation methods. This includes the use of a hydrophobic anti-soiling coating and also the execution of a self-cleaning manoeuvre by the SAT systems. Two SAT systems were deployed to serve as experimental platform, from which data was obtained for a three month period (97 days). Raw data validation is established with comprehensive weather monitoring (ambient temperature, wind speed, wind direction, rainfall, pressure, and humidity), irradiance and PV module back sheet temperatures recorded, in accordance with the IEC61724 standard. An intelligent device was used to extract Current-Voltage (I-V) curves from individual PV modules. Maximum PV module power output is derived from the measured I-V curves, validated with a single-diode curve fitting routine. The comparative study between the different PV modules is done with a performance ratio (PR), defined as the temperature and irradiance corrected performance factor of a PV module. Contrary to the initial hypothesis, results indicated that the hydrophobic coating actually promoted dust soiling. The applied self-cleaning capability of the SAT system did not yield any conclusive results as a dust mitigation method. Finally, interesting in-field observations are discussed.

P F Scandura - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.

  • case study of a grid connected with a battery photovoltaic system v trough concentration vs single axis Tracking
    Energy Conversion and Management, 2012
    Co-Authors: Giuseppe Marco Tina, P F Scandura
    Abstract:

    Abstract Photovoltaic systems (PVSs) combined with either some form of storage, such as a battery energy storage system (BESS), or direct load control, can play a crucial role in achieving a more economical operation of the electric utility system while enhancing its reliability with additional energy sources. At the same time, it is also important to use cost-effective PV solutions. In this context, a low-concentration PVS (CPVS) is analysed as a feasible alternative. This paper, present a case study of a complex PVS, composed of two PVSs, a storage system (BEES) and an inverter that allows the system to operate in both the island and grid-connected modes. The first PVS, is a 2.76-kWp Single-Axis Tracking system (azimuth) with modules facing south and tilted 30°, while the second PVS is a dual-axis Tracking system, rated 860 Wp, consisting of a concentrator at the flat mirrors (DoubleSun® Four). The system is installed on the roof of the main building of the “ITIS Marconi” school (Italy). A detailed description of the system is provided, and preliminary operating data are presented and discussed. The efficiencies of the PV systems are calculated and measured to evaluate the cost effectiveness of a low-concentration system.

Tian Pau Chang - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.

  • output energy of a photovoltaic module mounted on a single axis Tracking system
    Applied Energy, 2009
    Co-Authors: Tian Pau Chang
    Abstract:

    In this study, the electric energy from a photovoltaic module was calculated theoretically at different azimuths and tilt angles in Taiwan. The gain of the module mounted on a Single-Axis Tracking panel relative to a traditional fixed panel was analyzed. To simulate different operation environments, both types of radiation will be considered in addition to observed radiation, i.e. the extraterrestrial radiation and the global radiation predicted by an empirical model. The results show that the optimal tilt angle obtained from the observed data is flatter than those from other two radiation types and becomes flatter while the panel deviates from due south. The yearly gains obtained from the extraterrestrial, predicted and observed radiations are 51.4%, 28.5% and 18.7%, respectively, if a Single-Axis tracked panel is installed with the yearly optimal tilt angle; the similar gains are 45.3%, 25.9% and 17.5%, respectively, while the panel is adjusted to its monthly optimal angle each month. The amount of yearly energy in due west (or east) is less than its maximum in due south by about 11%, 10% and 5% for the extraterrestrial, predicted and observed radiation respectively. The yearly conversion efficiency of a fixed module is 10.2%, 9.2% and 8.3% for the extraterrestrial, predicted and observed radiation, respectively.

Armand A Du Plessis - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.

  • application of dust mitigation strategies to single axis Tracking photovoltaic modules in the semi arid areas of south africa
    Iet Renewable Power Generation, 2020
    Co-Authors: Armand A Du Plessis, Johannes M Strauss, A J Rix
    Abstract:

    Field generated data for Single-Axis-tracker (SAT) photovoltaic (PV) modules, subjected to the semi-arid Northern Cape region of South Africa, is presented. Experimental dust mitigation methods and the effects of dust soiling on PV module performance are explored. In particular, the use of a hydrophobic anti-soiling coating and a unique SAT self-cleaning manoeuvre was investigated. The SAT results are further compared to six coated and uncoated stationary PV modules. For the performance comparisons, maximum PV module power output was determined from current-voltage (I–V) curves extracted from each individual PV module. This work further presents a novel I–V curve fitting algorithm, which improves measured I–V curve data resolution for precise maximum power point extraction. The PV module performance comparisons were executed with a performance ratio metric, which is defined as the irradiance and temperature corrected performance factor of a PV module. Contrary to the initial research hypothesis, the hydrophobic anti-soiling coating was found to promote dust soiling. The SAT self-cleaning manoeuvre further delivered unique insights regarding the effects of dew water on dust soiling and displacement. Finally, also unique to the research presented here, is the formal description of infield observations made regarding dust deposition.

  • application of dust mitigation strategies to single axis Tracking photovoltaic modules in the semi arid areas of south africa
    International Conference on Clean Electrical Power, 2019
    Co-Authors: Armand A Du Plessis, Johannes M Strauss, A J Rix
    Abstract:

    This paper provides field generated data for Single-Axis-tracker (SAT) photo voltaic (PV) modules subjected to the semi-arid Northern Cape environment of South Africa. The research objectives are the investigation of the effects of dust soiling on PV module performance and the application of experimental dust mitigation methods. This includes the use of a hydrophobic anti-soiling coating and also the execution of a self-cleaning manoeuvre by the SAT systems. Two SAT systems were deployed to serve as experimental platform, from which data was obtained for a three month period (97 days). Raw data validation is established with comprehensive weather monitoring (ambient temperature, wind speed, wind direction, rainfall, pressure, and humidity), irradiance and PV module back sheet temperatures recorded, in accordance with the IEC61724 standard. An intelligent device was used to extract Current-Voltage (I-V) curves from individual PV modules. Maximum PV module power output is derived from the measured I-V curves, validated with a single-diode curve fitting routine. The comparative study between the different PV modules is done with a performance ratio (PR), defined as the temperature and irradiance corrected performance factor of a PV module. Contrary to the initial hypothesis, results indicated that the hydrophobic coating actually promoted dust soiling. The applied self-cleaning capability of the SAT system did not yield any conclusive results as a dust mitigation method. Finally, interesting in-field observations are discussed.