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13 pages, 4684 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Analysis of Losses Associated with Series Resistance (Rs) in Simple-Structured c-Si Solar Cells

by Manuel J. Heredia-Rios, Luis Hernandez-Martinez, Monico Linares-Aranda, Mario Moreno-Moreno and Javier Flores Méndez

Energies 2024, 17(7), 1520; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17071520 - 22 Mar 2024

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Abstract

The assessment of photovoltaic devices, which convert light energy into electricity, has become significantly more relevant due to the aspiration to reduce pollution on a global scale. In this context, the pursuit of optimizing the efficiency of converting light energy into electrical energy [...] Read more.

The assessment of photovoltaic devices, which convert light energy into electricity, has become significantly more relevant due to the aspiration to reduce pollution on a global scale. In this context, the pursuit of optimizing the efficiency of converting light energy into electrical energy involves exhaustive studies and structural analyses of solar cells, all directed toward achieving this goal. This study introduces a research proposal aimed at analyzing the losses associated with series resistance (Rs). The analysis takes into account each component comprising this resistance, proposing a network of resistances that precisely models each of these elements. The aforementioned research focused on simple-structured crystalline silicon cells. During this investigation, the junction depth (xj) of the n-p materials was varied, with the aim of achieving efficiencies in the range of 12%. However, in the pursuit of this desired efficiency, a significant impact on series resistance was observed when analyzing the I-V curves of the cells obtained in each manufacturing process. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Renewable Energy Generation Technologies and Power Demand Response)

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12 pages, 3032 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Synthesis of Solar Production and Energy Demand Profiles Using Markov Chains for Microgrid Design

by Hugo Radet, Bruno Sareni and Xavier Roboam

Energies 2023, 16(23), 7871; https://doi.org/10.3390/en16237871 - 1 Dec 2023

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Abstract

Uncertainties related to the energy produced and consumed in smart grids, especially in microgrids, are among the major issues for both their design and optimal management. In that context, it is essential to have representative probabilistic scenarios of these environmental uncertainties. The intensive [...] Read more.

Uncertainties related to the energy produced and consumed in smart grids, especially in microgrids, are among the major issues for both their design and optimal management. In that context, it is essential to have representative probabilistic scenarios of these environmental uncertainties. The intensive development and massive installation of smart meters will help to better characterize local energy consumption and production in the following years. However, models representing these variables over large timescales are essential for microgrid design. In this paper, we explore a simple method based on Markov chains capable of generating a large number of probabilistic production or consumption profiles from available historical measurements. We show that the developed approach can capture the main characteristics and statistical variability of real data on both short-term and long-term scales. Moreover, the correlation between both production and demand is conserved in generated profiles with respect to historical measurements. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Renewable Energy Generation Technologies and Power Demand Response)

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Review

Jump to: Research

19 pages, 3812 KiB

Open AccessReview

Saudi Arabia’s Journey toward a Renewable Future

by Saad F. Al-Gahtani

Energies 2024, 17(11), 2444; https://doi.org/10.3390/en17112444 - 21 May 2024

Viewed by 131

Abstract

Recent statistics indicate that as of 2023, the global renewable energy capacity has reached new heights, with Saudi Arabia significantly contributing to this growth through its strategic initiatives. The kingdom is particularly focusing on harnessing solar power, given its abundant sunlight, and is [...] Read more.

Recent statistics indicate that as of 2023, the global renewable energy capacity has reached new heights, with Saudi Arabia significantly contributing to this growth through its strategic initiatives. The kingdom is particularly focusing on harnessing solar power, given its abundant sunlight, and is also exploring wind energy, leveraging its vast desert landscapes. These efforts are part of Saudi Arabia’s broader strategy to become a global leader in renewable energy. This paper provides a detailed exploration of Saudi Arabia’s ambitious journey from a fossil-fuel-dominated energy sector to a more sustainable, renewable-energy-driven future. Anchored in the broader context of global energy trends, the study emphasizes the critical shift toward renewable resources, with a particular focus on Saudi Arabia’s unique position in this global movement. Key to this transition is Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, a strategic framework that guides the country’s renewable energy policies and initiatives. A comprehensive review of these policies, including other governmental and international collaborations that support renewable energy development, is offered. The current state of renewable energy in Saudi Arabia is assessed, including an overview of existing projects and production statistics. The paper also explores emerging technologies such as energy storage systems and smart grid solutions, emphasizing their role in Saudi Arabia’s energy transition. An impact assessment is conducted to understand the environmental, economic, and social effects of this energy shift. The paper also includes a comparative analysis of other countries’ renewable energy transitions, extracting lessons and best practices applicable to the Saudi context. Strategic recommendations and reflections on Saudi Arabia’s future role in the global energy landscape are provided for stakeholders in energy policy, environmental planning, and sustainable development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Renewable Energy Generation Technologies and Power Demand Response)

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