Showing papers on "Solar power published in 2006"
TL;DR: In this paper, a case study, using householders in central England, investigates householder attitudes towards characteristics of solar systems and identifies some of the barriers to adoption of solar power.
362 citations
01 Jan 2006
TL;DR: In this paper, a model for the solar field was developed using the TRNSYS simulation program and the Rankine power cycle was separately modeled with a simultaneous equation solving software (EES) to evaluate effects of solar field collector degradation, flow rate control strategies, and alternative condenser designs on plant performance.
Abstract: Nine Solar Electric Generation Systems (SEGS) built in southern California between 1984 and 1990 continue to produce 14-80 [MWe] of utility-scale electric power each from solar thermal energy input. The systems collect energy using a synthetic heat transfer fluid pumped through absorber tubes in the focal line of parabolic trough collectors. The heated fluid provides the thermal resource to drive a Rankine steam power cycle. A model for the solar field was developed using the TRNSYS simulation program. The Rankine power cycle was separately modeled with a simultaneous equation solving software (EES). The steady-state power cycle performance was regressed in terms of the heat transfer fluid temperature, heat transfer fluid mass flow rate, and condensing pressure, and implemented in TRNSYS. TRNSYS component models for the steam condenser and cooling tower were implemented in the simulation as well. Both the solar field and power cycle models were validated with measured temperature and flow rate data from the SEGS VI plant from 1998 and 2005. The combined solar field and power cycle models have been used to evaluate effects of solar field collector degradation, flow rate control strategies, and alternative condenser designs on plant performance. Comparisons of measured solar field outlet temperatures between 1998 and 2005 indicate some degradation in field performance. The degradation in performance over time may be attributed, in part, to loss of vacuum in the annulus surrounding the absorber tube. Another potential contributor to solar field degradation is hydrogen accumulation in the annular space; hydrogen may dissociate from the synthetic heat transfer fluid and permeate through
268 citations
TL;DR: The first test phase at PSA started in December 2002 with the goal to reach a temperature level of 800 °C at the combustor air inlet by the integration of solar energy as mentioned in this paper.
231 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the influence of a recently developed convective heat transfer equation, more accurate turbine inlet loss coefficient, quality collector roof glass and various types of soil on the performance of a large scale solar chimney power plant was evaluated.
180 citations
01 Apr 2006
TL;DR: In this article, the authors provide a summary assessment of concentrating solar power and its potential economic return, energy supply impact, and environmental benefits for the State of California, including the potential economic and energy savings.
Abstract: This study provides a summary assessment of concentrating solar power and its potential economic return, energy supply impact, and environmental benefits for the State of California.
143 citations
Patent•
08 Dec 2006
TL;DR: In this paper, a solar-powered supercritical carbon dioxide turbine system with a solar heating system and a molten salt heat transfer fluid for providing thermal energy to the supercritical CO 2 turbine system is described.
Abstract: A solar-powered supercritical carbon dioxide turbine system includes a supercritical carbon dioxide turbine system and a solar heating system. The solar heating system has a molten salt heat transfer fluid for providing thermal energy to the supercritical carbon dioxide turbine system.
130 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, an energy cycle based on a renewable fuel is proposed, where magnesium is chosen as an energy carrier and is combusted with water to retrieve energy using many power devices.
Abstract: The authors propose an energy cycle based on a renewable fuel. Magnesium is chosen as an energy carrier and is combusted with water to retrieve energy using many power devices. MgO, the combustion residue, is reduced back to Mg by laser radiation generated from solar and other renewable energy sources. They have achieved an energy recovery efficiency of 42.5% for converting MgO to magnesium, using a laser. Combined with a demonstrated 38% efficiency for converting an artificial sunlight source (metal halide lamp) into laser output energy indicates that the proposed energy cycle is already in a feasible range for practical use.
126 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, a 300kW solar chemical pilot plant for the production of zinc by carbothermic reduction of ZnO was experimentally demonstrated in a beam-down solar tower concentrating facility of Cassegrain optical configuration.
Abstract: In the framework of the EU-project SOLZINC, a 300-kW solar chemical pilot plant for the production of zinc by carbothermic reduction of ZnO was experimentally demonstrated in a beam-down solar tower concentrating facility of Cassegrain optical configuration. The solar chemical reactor, featuring two cavities, of which the upper one is functioning as the solar absorber and the lower one as the reaction chamber containing a ZnO/C packed bed, was batch-operated in the 1300–1500 K range and yielded 50 kg/h of 95%-purity Zn. The measured energy conversion efficiency, i.e., the ratio of the reaction enthalpy change to the solar power input, was 30%. Zinc finds application as a fuel for Zn/air batteries and fuel cells, and can also react with water to form high-purity hydrogen. In either case, the chemical product is ZnO, which in turn is solar-recycled to Zn. The SOLZINC process provides an efficient thermochemical route for the storage and transportation of solar energy in the form of solar fuels.
114 citations
04 Oct 2006
TL;DR: System design techniques are described that target high conversion and storage efficiency by extracting the most energy from the environment and making it maximally available for consumption.
Abstract: Harvesting energy from the environment is a desirable and increasingly important capability in several emerging applications of embedded systems such as sensor networks, biomedical implants, etc. While energy harvesting has the potential to enable near-perpetual system operation, designing an efficient energy harvesting system that actually realizes this potential requires an in-depth understanding of several complex tradeoffs. These tradeoffs arise due to the interaction of numerous factors such as the characteristics of the harvesting transducers, chemistry and capacity of the batteries used (if any), power supply requirements and power management features of the embedded system, application behavior, etc. This paper surveys the various issues and tradeoffs involved in designing and operating energy harvesting embedded systems. System design techniques are described that target high conversion and storage efficiency by extracting the most energy from the environment and making it maximally available for consumption. Harvesting aware power management techniques are also described, which reconcile the very different spatio-temporal characteristics of energy availability and energy usage within a system and across a network.
109 citations
Patent•
19 Oct 2006
TL;DR: In this paper, a venturis may surround wind turbines to accelerate wind speed through the turbine and may have a particular shape, may be made of particular materials arranged in particular ways, or both.
Abstract: Improvements to wind farms and wind generators for harnessing wind energy or generating electricity from wind. Secondary wind turbines are provided at particular locations within a wind farm to generate additional electricity, in some embodiments, using a common electrical power collection system. Enclosures or venturis may surround wind turbines to facilitate mounting close to the ground. Venturis may accelerate wind speed through the turbine and may have a particular shape, may be made of particular materials arranged in particular ways, or both. In different embodiments, wind turbines may be axial-flow horizontal-axis turbines, or may be Savonius turbines, as examples. And in some embodiments, wind turbines may be combined with other power production equipment, such as solar power equipment, for instance.
104 citations
01 Jan 2006
TL;DR: In this paper, a novel method of modelling an energy store used to match the power output from a wind turbine and a solar PV array to a varying electrical load is described, which can also estimate the power curtailed when the store is full and the unsatisfied demand when the storage is empty.
TL;DR: In this article, a high temperature solar chemical reactor has been designed to study the thermal splitting of methane for hydrogen generation, and the experimental set-up and effect of operating conditions are described.
01 Apr 2006
TL;DR: In this article, an infrared camera was used to evaluate the in-situ thermal performance of parabolic trough receivers at operating solar power plants, and the performance of the camera was evaluated using an infrared sensor.
Abstract: This paper describes a technique that uses an infrared camera to evaluate the in-situ thermal performance of parabolic trough receivers at operating solar power plants.
04 Oct 2006
TL;DR: To explore integrated solar energy harvesting as a power source for low power systems such as wireless sensor nodes, an array of energy scavenging photodiodes based on a passive-pixel architecture for imagers and storage capacitors implemented using on-chip interconnect in a 0.35 mum CMOS logic process.
Abstract: To explore integrated solar energy harvesting as a power source for low power systems such as wireless sensor nodes, an array of energy scavenging photodiodes based on a passive-pixel architecture for imagers and have been fabricated together with storage capacitors implemented using on-chip interconnect in a 0.35 mum CMOS logic process. Integrated vertical plate capacitors enable dense energy storage without limiting optical efficiency. Measurements show 225 muW/mm2 output power generated by a light intensity of 20k LUX
TL;DR: In this article, a cavity-shaped solar receiver for a beam-down type solar concentration system was proposed, where the thermal resistance of molten salt and the maximum discharge pressure of the pumps were taken into account as restrictions for the design of receivers.
TL;DR: In this paper, two methods of measuring the solar flux in the focal region were developed: PARASCAN (PARAbolic Trough Flux SCANner) is a solar flux density measurement instrument which can be moved along the receiver axis.
TL;DR: In this article, the authors presented a concept study based on the configuration that was originally planned for the PS10 project in Spain, using the open volumetric receiver technology, showing several benefits of the new concept, especially higher thermal efficiency of the receiver, lower receiver temperature and lower parasitic losses.
TL;DR: In this article, the authors present a methodology for analyzing a solar-electric, high-altitude, long-endurance, unmanned aircraft (HALE) based on an analytical approach to determine the power required to undertake various flight maneuvers.
Abstract: Purpose – Aims to present a methodology for analysing a solar‐electric, high‐altitude, long‐endurance, unmanned aircraft.Design/methodology/approach – The study focuses on the aerodynamics, flight performance and power requirements of a heavier‐than‐air, solar‐electric, HALE UAV. The methodology is founded on using an analytical approach to determine the power required to undertake various flight manoeuvres. An analytical approach is also undertaken in determining the intensity of the solar radiation available to the aircraft. Finally to demonstrate the methodology, a HALE concept was generated and evaluated.Findings – When using estimates of current solar‐electric propulsion and energy conversion efficiencies, the HALE concept was only able to sustain year round, level flight up to latitudes of 10°N.Research limitations/implications – Further analysis needs to be undertaken into the effect of altitude on the intensity of solar radiation, which could be as much as 25 per cent higher at an altitude of 21.3...
Patent•
17 Feb 2006
TL;DR: In this paper, a light guide plate having a reflecting surface applied onto the lower surface thereof is disposed under at least one thin film-like optical functional sheet 2 capable of permitting incident light of a wide angle from the upper surface side and radiating it to a lower surface side.
Abstract: PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a thin and fixed solar collector, capable of converging light taken into the inside on an end surface at high efficiency, and responding to a wide range of incident angle change, and a solar battery and a solar heat collector using it. SOLUTION: In this solar collector, a light guide plate 1 having a reflecting surface 3 applied onto the lower surface thereof is disposed under at least one thin film-like optical functional sheet 2 capable of permitting incident light of a wide angle θ 1 from the upper surface side and radiating it to the lower surface side, whereby the incident light of the wide angle θ 1 is incident on the light guide plate 1 via the optical functional sheet 2, and efficiently converged to at least one end surface 1a of the light guide plate 1 by light closing effect by total reflection and diffraction within the light guide plate and the reflecting effect on the reflecting surface 3 applied to the lower surface 1b of the light guide plate 1. A solar battery cell or a heat collecting pipe, or the both are overlapped and disposed on the light collecting end surface 1a, whereby solar power generation or solar heat collection, or the both can be performed. COPYRIGHT: (C)2007,JPO&INPIT
TL;DR: In this article, a diesel-solar-assisted MVC desalination system was proposed to provide small communities at remote areas with fresh water while generating enough power for the operators housing and plant operation with minimal impact on the environment.
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors present the soiling characteristics of these sensors and a corresponding method for its correction, as well as a simulation method for the correction of the underestimation of the measured irradiation.
TL;DR: This paper will discuss the theory and application of such a strategy based on flux mappings produced by raytracing methods for a Multi Tower Solar Array central receiver system planned for construction in Newcastle, Australia.
Patent•
14 Mar 2006TL;DR: In this paper, a solar power generating device including a first solar battery (1, 2, 3) for generating DC power, a second battery (4, 5) for producing DC power having a voltage lower than the voltage of the first battery, a boosting circuit (16A, 16B) for boosting DC power generated by the second battery, and an inverter circuit (8) for converting the DC power to AC power and carrying out MPPT (maximum power point tracking) control.
Abstract: A solar power generating device including a first solar battery (1, 2, 3) for generating DC power, a second solar battery (4, 5) for generating DC power having a voltage lower than the voltage of the first solar battery, a boosting circuit (16A, 16B) for boosting the voltage of the DC power generated by the second solar battery, and an inverter circuit (8) for converting the DC power to AC power and carrying out MPPT (maximum power point tracking) control, a voltage sensor (23) for detecting the voltage of the DC power generated by the first solar battery, a timer (25) for counting a continuing time for which a state where the detection voltage of the voltage sensor is not more than a predetermined voltage is continued from the time when the first and second solar batteries start power generation, and a controller (24) for starting the operation of the boosting circuit when the count time of the timer is equal to a predetermined time
Patent•
03 Jan 2006
TL;DR: An outdoor umbrella includes a foldable umbrella awning, an umbrella frame, a lighting system mounted on the umbrella frame and a solar power supply arrangement which converts solar energy into electrical energy and provides the converted electrical energy to the lighting system for lighting up lighting system.
Abstract: An outdoor umbrella includes a foldable umbrella awning, an umbrella frame, a lighting system mounted on the umbrella frame, and a solar power supply arrangement which converts solar energy into electrical energy and provides the converted electrical energy to the lighting system for lighting up the lighting system. The solar power supply arrangement includes a solar collecting device supported by the main supporting stem, wherein the solar collecting device has a collecting surface arranged to expose to sunlight for extensively collecting solar energy.
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors evaluated the performance of four small PV modules at different tilt angles, and analyzed the relationship of solar radiation power output with tilt angle by using actual measurement data at Kitakyushu city.
Abstract: As a result of global warming people are paying more attention to the use of natural energy, such as solar power As one of the main forms of solar energy, photovoltaic (PV) power generators have been developed rapidly in the past few years Proper installation, especially the tilt angle, directly affects the system's output Determination of the optimal tilt angle of a solar cell module depends on the solar radiation characteristics, season, and reflectivity in the local areaThis paper evaluates the performance of four small PV modules at different tilt angles, and analyzes the relationship of solar radiation power output with tilt angle by using actual measurement data at Kitakyushu city A calculation method for optimal tilt angle is then presented using horizontal and diffuse radiation The method has been verified through comparison with the experimental data In addition, the sensitivity of optimal tilt angle to radiation rate, reflection rate, solar declination and latitude have been studied through parameter analysis
Book•
13 Oct 2006
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors present a timeline of the development and implementation of a solar power generation project in the United States, including the transition from passive solar heating technologies to photovoltaics.
Abstract: Foreword Introduction My Reason for Writing This Book Acknowledgments Disclaimer Note Chapter 1: Solar Power Technology Chapter 2: Solar Power Generation Design Chapter 3: Solar Power Generation Project Implementation Chapter 4: Energy Conservation Chapter 5: LEED(tm) -- Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Chapter 6: California Energy Commission Rebate Incentive Plans Chapter 7: Economics of Solar Power Systems Chapter 8: Passive Solar Heating Technologies Chapter 9: Fuel Cell Technologies Chapter 10: Wind Energy Technologies Chapter 11: Ocean Energy Technologies Chapter 12: Geothermal Energy Chapter 13: Biofuels and Biogas Technologies Chapter 14: Hydroelectric Power Chapter 15: Nuclear Power Chapter 16: Pollution Abatement APPENDIX A: UNIT CONVERSION AND DESIGN REFERENCE TABLES APPENDIX B: PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEM SUPPORT HARDWARE AND STRUCTURE APPENDIX C: CALIFORNIA ENERGY COMMISSION REBATE FORMS AND CERTIFIED EQUIPMENT APPENDIX D: HISTORICAL TIMELINE OF SOLAR ENERGY APPENDIX E: LIST OF SUSTAINABLE ENERGY EQUIPMENT SUPPLIERS AND CONSULTANTS APPENDIX F: GLOSSARY INDEX
01 Sep 2006
TL;DR: In this article, the battery management system described in this paper aims to optimize the use of the battery, to prolong the life of battery, making the overall system more reliable and cost effective.
Abstract: Generally in photovoltaic applications the storage battery has the highest life time cost in the system; it has a profound affect on the reliability and performance of the system. Currently the most commonly used storage technology for photovoltaic applications is the lead acid battery. The advantages of the lead acid battery are its low cost and great availability. The problem is that photovoltaic panels are not an ideal source for charging batteries. With the lead acid battery the charging regime may have a significant impact on its service life. The battery management system described in this paper aims to optimize the use of the battery, to prolong the life of the battery, making the overall system more reliable and cost effective. Maximum power point tracking will also be incorporated into the battery management system, to move the solar array operating voltage close to the maximum power point under varying atmospheric conditions, in order to draw the maximum power from the array. This paper will describe different battery technologies that are currently used with photovoltaic systems along with some of the charging techniques that are available.
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors report on experimental results obtained with a two cavity reactor operated at solar power inputs of 3-8 kW in a solar furnace, such as the effect of process temperature (1100-1300°C) and carrier gas (N 2 and CO) on the overall reaction rate.
Abstract: Solar energy can be stored chemically by using concentrated solar irradiation as an energy source for carbothermic ZnO reduction. The produced Zn might be used for the production of electricity in Zn-air fuel cells or of H 2 by splitting water. In either case the product is again ZnO which can be reprocessed in the solar process step. This innovative concept will be scaled up to 300 kW solar input power within the so-called SOLZINC-project. In this paper we report on experimental results obtained with a two cavity reactor operated at solar power inputs of 3-8 kW in a solar furnace. The objective was to generate input data which are necessary for designing the scaled up reactor, such as the effect of process temperature (1100-1300°C) and carrier gas (N 2 and CO) on the overall reaction rate. Furthermore, construction materials were tested and a variety of carbonaceous materials were screened for their use as reducing agents by means of thermogravimetric measurements. As a result, beech charcoal was chosen as the standard reducing agent.
Patent•
26 Jan 2006
TL;DR: In this paper, a solar power conversion system using a plurality of engines to convert solar energy to electrical energy is described, where each of the engines can be turned off or regulated to maintain an optimum operating temperature for a common heater head.
Abstract: A solar power conversion system using a plurality of engines to convert solar energy to electrical energy. The plurality of engines are supported adjacent to a housing having a single thermal cavity. The cavity is provided with solar energy from a solar collector. Each of the engines can be turned off or regulated to maintain an optimum operating temperature for a common heater head in communication with each of the engines. Therefore, the power conversion system can be regulated for variations in insolation to maintain an optimum temperature in the heater head. Therefore, increased life cycle energy efficiency of the power conversion system can be obtained.