Haresh Kamath

Bio: Haresh Kamath is an academic researcher from Electric Power Research Institute. The author has contributed to research in topics: Photovoltaic system & Grid-connected photovoltaic power system. The author has an hindex of 8, co-authored 10 publications receiving 9284 citations.

All-in-One Photovoltaic Power System: Features and Challenges Involved in Cell-Level Power Conversion in ac Solar Cells

Abstract: Power converters constructed from discrete components are difficult to mass produce, and their installation requires a significant labor cost for the proper interconnection among the panel, inverter, and grid. Several critical applications, such as portable power stations (for use on a battlefield or scientific expedition), will require key attributes from a photovoltaic (PV)-based power system, such as modularity, high reliability, and quick set-up time. Therefore, a paradigm shift in the design of the entire PV power system is needed to mitigate this need. To increase the converter reliability and portability, the active and passive elements of a power converter [especially capacitors and active switches such as metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistors (MOSFETs), junction gate field-effect transistors (JFETs), or insulated-gate bipolar transistors (IGBTs)] could be embedded on the same substrate material used for fabricating the p-n junctions in the PV panel. To the authors' knowledge, there is no prior work in cell-level power conversion with embedded converters, and therefore this project idea could be considered "outside the box." A novel fabrication process along with experimental results are presented in this article, demonstrating the integration of PV cells and major components needed to build a power converter on the same substrate/wafer. Because of the cell-level power conversion, PV panels constructed from these cells are likely to be immune to partial shading and hot-spot effects. In addition, the effect of light exposure on converter switches has been analyzed to understand the converter behavior at various illumination levels. Simulation and experimental results have been provided to support this analysis. In addition to process-related challenges and issues, the justification of this integration is explained by achieving higher reliability, portability and complete modular construction for PV-based energy harvesting units.

Steady state analytical model of a “time shared li-ion cell blancing circuit” for Plug-in hybrid vehicles and utility energy storage

Abstract: A steady-state analytical model of the recently proposed “Time shared li-ion cell balancing circuit” is presented in this paper. This paper provides the necessary analytical proof of the cell balancer circuit to be used in future Plug-in Hybrid vehicles (PHEV) or utility energy storage applications. The model presented here bridges the simulation and experimental results obtained previously. In addition, the prototype of a four-cell lithium-ion battery balancer circuit with reduced component count has been constructed, and the test results have been verified with the analytical model. Although the “proof of concept” circuit was built to balance only four cells, the analytical model suggests that any number of series connected cells could be used in a string and balanced. Moreover, the analytical model can be extended to characterize the circuit parameters for any number of cells without any apparent issues. This model was also being verified using the simulation and experime ntal results with only 2% error margin.

A Step-by-Step Design Methodology for a Base Case Vanadium Redox-Flow Battery.

Abstract: The purpose of this work is to develop an evolutionary procedure to be used by Chemical Engineering students for the base-case design of a Vanadium Redox-Flow Battery. The design methodology is based on the work of Douglas (1985) and provides a profitability analysis at each decision level so that more profitable alternatives and directions can be indentified before additional time and effort is expended on an impractical design. Ultimately, a base case flow sheet and capital cost estimate are generated; this type of design activity as the work presented here is referred to as creation and analysis of a study level design.

Evaluation of energy storage in distribution systems

Abstract: This paper presents a methodology that has been developed by Electric Power Research Institute (EPR I) to perform the technical and cost/benefit analysis of realizing the potential solution opportunities of e nergy storage within distribution. The methodology develo ped was built in terms of identifying and characterizin g feeder contrainsts. Key elements of the overall methodology are presented in this paper. This methodology is now being tested through case studie s in several utility situations.Results from one example case study is presented in the paper.

Towards greener and more sustainable batteries for electrical energy storage

Abstract: Energy storage using batteries offers a solution to the intermittent nature of energy production from renewable sources; however, such technology must be sustainable. This Review discusses battery development from a sustainability perspective, considering the energy and environmental costs of state-of-the-art Li-ion batteries and the design of new systems beyond Li-ion. Images: batteries, car, globe: © iStock/Thinkstock.

Reviving the lithium metal anode for high-energy batteries

Abstract: Lithium-ion batteries have had a profound impact on our daily life, but inherent limitations make it difficult for Li-ion chemistries to meet the growing demands for portable electronics, electric vehicles and grid-scale energy storage. Therefore, chemistries beyond Li-ion are currently being investigated and need to be made viable for commercial applications. The use of metallic Li is one of the most favoured choices for next-generation Li batteries, especially Li-S and Li-air systems. After falling into oblivion for several decades because of safety concerns, metallic Li is now ready for a revival, thanks to the development of investigative tools and nanotechnology-based solutions. In this Review, we first summarize the current understanding on Li anodes, then highlight the recent key progress in materials design and advanced characterization techniques, and finally discuss the opportunities and possible directions for future development of Li anodes in applications.

Pseudocapacitive oxide materials for high-rate electrochemical energy storage

Abstract: Electrochemical energy storage technology is based on devices capable of exhibiting high energy density (batteries) or high power density (electrochemical capacitors). There is a growing need, for current and near-future applications, where both high energy and high power densities are required in the same material. Pseudocapacitance, a faradaic process involving surface or near surface redox reactions, offers a means of achieving high energy density at high charge–discharge rates. Here, we focus on the pseudocapacitive properties of transition metal oxides. First, we introduce pseudocapacitance and describe its electrochemical features. Then, we review the most relevant pseudocapacitive materials in aqueous and non-aqueous electrolytes. The major challenges for pseudocapacitive materials along with a future outlook are detailed at the end.

Toward Safe Lithium Metal Anode in Rechargeable Batteries: A Review.

Abstract: The lithium metal battery is strongly considered to be one of the most promising candidates for high-energy-density energy storage devices in our modern and technology-based society. However, uncontrollable lithium dendrite growth induces poor cycling efficiency and severe safety concerns, dragging lithium metal batteries out of practical applications. This review presents a comprehensive overview of the lithium metal anode and its dendritic lithium growth. First, the working principles and technical challenges of a lithium metal anode are underscored. Specific attention is paid to the mechanistic understandings and quantitative models for solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) formation, lithium dendrite nucleation, and growth. On the basis of previous theoretical understanding and analysis, recently proposed strategies to suppress dendrite growth of lithium metal anode and some other metal anodes are reviewed. A section dedicated to the potential of full-cell lithium metal batteries for practical applicatio...