Showing papers on "Solar power published in 1985"

Reliability Modeling of Generation Systems Including Unconventional Energy Sources

Abstract: A method for reliability evaluation of electric power systems with unconventional energy sources, such as solar power plants and wind turbine generators, is presented. The fluctuating nature of energy produced by such unconventional units has a different effect on the overall system reliabilitv than conventional units. Methods described in the published literature appear to have several deficiencies. The method presented in this paper combines conventional and unconventional units into separate groups. The analysis proceeds by creating a generation system model for each group. The models of the unconventional groups are modified hourly depending on the limitations of energy. All the models are combined hourly to find the loss of load expectation and the frequency of capacity deficiency for the hour in question. This procedure is accomplished using a discrete state algorithm as well as the method of cumulants. Results obtained in a case study using the proposed method are described.

Solar power generation

Abstract: A solar electric power generating process is described which consists of tapwater thermally contacted with special brine. Low pressure characteristics of the brine draw steam through a power-generating turbine from the water into the brine. As the brine is pumped over an open air evaporator, excess water picked up by the brine is driven off using solar or waste heat. The tapwater is first purified in a demineralizer.

Combined solar power and wind power generator

Abstract: In order to utilise both wind and solar energy the rotor of a wind turbine is provided with photovoltaic cells 19. The turbine may be of an axial flow type (Fig. 1) or vertical axis type (Fig. 2). Pitch varying means and tracking means for turning the turbine to face the sun or into wind may be provided. The turbine can be used on the roof of light cars or on the roofs of buildings for such purposes as airconditioning or refrigeration and it can also be used for irrigation, water pumping etc. In the case of the vertical axis device (Fig. 2) the rotor may be driven by an electric motor (18) powered by the cells (19) instead of the wind acting on vanes (16).

Energy for rural and island communities IV

Abstract: This book presents the papers given at a conference on renewable energy sources. Topics considered at the conference included community energy systems and experience, photovoltaic power generation, biomass conversion plants, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and United Nations Devleopment Program (UNDP) projects, hydroelectric power plants, tidal power plants, wind power plants, wave power plants, geothermal resources, solar power plants, and building design.

Advanced latent heat of fusion thermal energy storage for solar power systems

Abstract: The use of solar thermal power systems coupled with thermal energy storage (TES) is being studied for both terrestrial and space applications. In the case of terrestrial applications, it was found that one or two hours of TES could shift the insolation peak (solar noon) to coincide with user peak loads. The use of a phase change material (PCM) is attractive because of the higher energy storage density which can be achieved. However, the use of PCM has also certain disadvantages which must be addressed. Proof of concept testing was undertaken to evaluate corrosive effects and thermal ratcheting effects in a slurry system. It is concluded that the considered alkali metal/alkali salt slurry approach to TES appears to be very viable, taking into account an elimination of thermal ratcheting in storage systems and the reduction of corrosive effects. The approach appears to be useful for an employment involving temperatures applicable to Brayton or Stirling cycles.

Concept of the lunar power system

Abstract: It is asserted that the development of efficient solar power systems is dependent on their placement in GEO (SPS) or on the moon (LPS). Conventional large scale power sources (fission, coal, hydrocarbons) will eventually be depleted and pose unacceptably high environmental risks. Fusion power plants will need an infrastructure that cannot yet be envisioned. Terrestrial solar, biomass and wind energy plants require large land areas and massive quantities of materials to achieve significant outputs. Orbiting SPS stations offer greater energy output/mass ratios than available on earth. The receiving rectenna would be of nearly the same mass of a large coal-burning power plant. Lunar materials could be used to build the SPS, or power plants on the moon. Lunar and terrestrial rotations would require relays in space to maintain a continuous power stream. The lunar soil, a good dielectric, could be made into a glass or ceramic to support solar cells in arrays covering 10,000 sq km. Finally, actual system features, as well as the necessity of planning for long payoff times in financing, are discussed. 36 references.

Solar power circuit

Abstract: A solar power circuit for an electronic apparatus using a solar battery and a secondary battery formed of a booster circuit including a plurality of booster condensers. One of the booster condensers functions as a backup condenser for preventing a control circuit of the apparatus from malfunctioning due to the momentary faults where the primary battery stops supplying power voltage to the apparatus.

Solar power system

Abstract: The invention relates to a device for generating solar power, having a monitoring apparatus which, in the event of a predetermined battery voltage being exceeded, simultaneously reduces the charging current and produces the connection between the battery and the load.

The Association for Applied Solar Energy/Solar Energy Society, 1954-1970

Abstract: In the early 1950s, a segment of the American business and scientific community, having concluded that the United States was eventually going to run out of fossil fuels, began advocating solar energy as an answer to the nation's long-term energy needs. A key role on behalf of the new technology was assumed by the Association for Applied Solar Energy, established in Phoenix, Arizona, on March 17, 1954; the AFASE sought to generate public interest in solar energy development, expand research, and encourage the commercial application of solar power to industrial and residential needs. A decade later the noted solar energy specialist Farrington Daniels wrote to one of the association's founders that the AFASE "has been the largest factor in the development of solar energy utilizaton." A look at the history of the association provides insights into the problems of developing a new technology, as well as an unusual example of cooperation among scientists, engineers, educators, and businessmen in that development.'

Solar cell and its application

Abstract: Current solar cell and photovoltaic technology in Japan is reviewed. Consideration is given to: ribbon crystal manufacturing; CZ Si systems; and amorphous CdS thin films. The application of amorphous thin films to a space-based solar power collection system is also briefly considered. 15 references.

SSPS-CRS Heliostat Performance/History

Abstract: The heliostat operating experiences, tests, and evaluations of the IEA/Small Solar Power Systems — Central Receiver System (CRS), in Tabernas, Spain, are reported for the periods of 1982 and 1983.

Development of an Economic Assessment Model

Abstract: The cost analysis of ower plants is one of the most important instruments for decision finding. Different cost calculation methods, several data sets for solar power plants and the rating of the results will be discussed. The most significant cost calculation methods are analysed, and an economic assessment computer model is presented using data of a 100 MW-solar power plant as an example. Besides, the sensitivity of parameters is discussed and compared with data of conventional power plants.

A 1983 view of non-conventional energy sources

Abstract: This book presents the papers given at a conference on renewable energy sources. Topics considered at the conference included energy planning in developing countries, the modeling of energy demand, solar radiation calibration, photothermal energy conversion, solar water heaters, solar power plants, thermal energy storage systems, radiative cooling, photovoltaic technology, photocurrents, photoelectrochemistry, hydrogen energy systems, small wind systems for remote locations, horizontal axis turbines, vertical axis turbines, geothermal energy, solar ponds, solar dryers, and solar collectors.

Solar powered hybrid sensor module program

Abstract: Geo-orbital systems of the near future will require more sophisticated electronic and electromechanical monitoring and control systems than current satellite systems with an emphasis in the design on the electronic density and autonomy of the subsystem components. Results of a project to develop, design, and implement a proof-of-concept sensor system for space applications, with hybrids forming the active subsystem components are described. The design of the solar power hybrid sensor modules is discussed. Module construction and function are described. These modules combined low power CMOS electronics, GaAs solar cells, a crystal oscillatory standard UART data formatting, and a bidirectional optical data link into a single 1.25 x 1.25 x 0.25 inch hybrid package which has no need for electrical input or output. Several modules were built and tested. Applications of such a system for future space missions are also discussed.

Solar Central Receiver Costs for Electric Power Generation

Abstract: In this paper the cost of solar electric power is compared to the cost of several fossil-fueled electricity generation technologies. There are two factors at work that will make solar power cost-competitive in the near future. First, the cost of solar electric generation technology is being reduced over time. This is due in a large part to the efforts of the national laboratories and industry to lower the cost through innovation and practical experience. Secondly, although solar power plants are capital intensive in comparison with fossil fueled plants, they have no fuel input costs.

Analytical and numerical study of solar rays concentration by solar power plant heliostat

Abstract: The authors show that a local movement heliostat and a discontinuous reflecting surface consisting of small spherical mirrors is able to reduce optical aberrations inherent to the continuous large surfaces currently used in solar power plants. The tracking movement meets the requirements of the theory of perpendicular congruences.

Solar simulation laboratory description and manual

Abstract: : This research project consisted of writing a manual for testing solar cells. It was written for students in the Space Operations and Space Engineering curricula at the Naval Postrgraduate School. A location was selected and equipment was purchased for the construction. The manual begins with a introduction to solar cell theory. The individual components of the solar power laboratory are discussed in detail and their integration into a system is described. The system was designed for automated data acquisition. An IBM PC/XT is the central point of the system. Two computer programs written in IBM BASIC are included for the user with a complete discussion of each. Keywords: Solar simulations; Automatic data acquisition. (Theses)