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• Combination of bio-sourced building materials and renewable energies for low energy building design. • Biosourced earth blocks exhibit excellent thermal propetries compared to earth blocks without plant-fiber addition. • Techno-economic feasibility assessment of standalone PV systems for a biosourced earth building. • Future constructions should take into account not just renewable energy technologies but also renewable raw materials. • Building's electricity consumption with 100% renewable energy and zero emissions was achieved. Off-grid rural electrification programs involving renewable energy provide effective ways to boost the availability of power in remote areas. Herein, the combination of local bio-based building materials with appropriate sizing of a photovoltaic (PV) system to achieve energy-efficient rural housing in developing countries is investigated. The study focused on the fabrication and laboratory testing of a building material incorporating plant fibers, followed by a feasibility analysis of an integrated stand-alone PV system. EnergyPlus software was used to assess the energy-saving potential of bio-based building envelopes, and Homer Pro software was used for techno-economic optimization. Using a case-study building, various configurations were evaluated in terms of levelized energy cost and net present cost. According to the experimental results, the inclusion of 8 wt% Alfa fibers in earth blocks led to a noteworthy enhancement in the thermal resistance and time lag of the building envelope. Specifically, the improvement ranged from 0.549 to 1.125 m2K/W and from 18.5–h to 23.2–h, respectively, compared to using earth alone. This improvement resulted in a substantial decrease in the building's annual energy consumption, with a reduction of 24.3% for heating and 26.7% for cooling. Furthermore, the techno-economic analysis revealed that the electricity provided by a PV-battery hybrid system was 100% renewable and emission-free, with an energy cost of approximately $0.218/kWh and a present net cost of $11,560.21 These findings indicated that combining available solar energy with locally produced bio-based construction materials could be a viable approach for achieving carbon neutrality and building energy-efficient ulta-low-cost rural housing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Successfully synthesised quantum-size TiO 2 particles (4–7 nm) for the development of antisoiling coating. • Successfully developed scalable Antisoiling coating for Photovoltaic application. • The coating exhibited good photocatalytic and photoinduced super hydrophilicity. • The Anti-soiling coated panel exhibited 2.5 % lower soiling loss compared to not-coated panel. • The chemical and optical characteristics of the coating and synthesised particles are well examined. Soiling influences power generation and reduces the power conversion efficiency of solar energy conversion devices. In this regard, we successfully synthesized highly photocatalytic active quantum-size TiO 2 particles with an average particle size of 6 nm and utilized the same to develop a highly transparent antisoiling coating. The material is characterized by small angle X-ray scattering, and the average particle size is found to be 6 nm. Automated spray coating technique was employed for the development of antisoiling coating on PV cover glass and minimodule. The coating exhibited exceptional weather stability (IEC 61646) for over 1500 h, excellent photoinduced superhydrophilicity in a span of 60 mins. Photocatalytic activity of the antisoiling coating is studied by analyzing the degradation of methylene blue and 4-chlorophenol. Promising antisoiling performance was observed from the antisoiling coated PV module as it resulted in 2.5% lower soiling loss compared to that of not-coated minimodules. The coatings exhibited excellent mechanical stability and Omni transparency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The pilot plant of salt farm parallel solar power plant is verified for a year. • The system showed 93.4 % power generation compared to land installed PV system. • The main power loss of the system is 9.8 % by installation angle, 1.6 % and 4 % power loss by light loss. • A parallel salt farm system that can achieve the land equivalent ratio 2.13. In this research, we proposed a new concept for a solar system on a salt farm, where electricity and salt are produced simultaneously. In order to verify the concept, we installed a pilot system and demonstrated it for one year. We installed different types of PV modules for the system and tested the electrical properties, durability, and waterproofing of the modules. The electricity generation of the salt farm photovoltaic system is compared to land installed photovoltaic system for its feasibility. Also, computer simulation analyzed the installation angle, light loss, and cooling effect due to salt water and loss due to foreign substances. We found that the power generation by the year of the salt farm photovoltaic system is 9 percent less than that of a photovoltaic system installed on land. we also propose several methods in order to improve electricity generation by the salt farm photovoltaic system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Novel forecast-based charging strategy for standalone PV battery systems. • Extension of lithium-ion battery life by keeping the SOC low. • Case-study with 14 standalone PV battery systems in Nigeria. • Longer battery life and cheaper operational costs of systems. • Enabler for green rural electrification. Standalone PV battery systems have great potential to power the one billion people worldwide who lack access to electricity. Due to remoteness and poverty, durable and cheap systems are required for a broad range of applications. However, today's PV battery systems do not yet fully meet this requirement. Especially batteries still prove to be a hindrance, as they represent the most expensive and fastest-aging component in a PV battery system. This work aims to address this by prolonging battery life. For this purpose, a forecast-based charging strategy was developed. As lithium-ion batteries age slower in a low state-of-charge, the goal of the operation strategy is to only charge the battery as much as needed. The impact of the proposed charging strategy is examined in a case study using one year of historical data of 14 standalone systems in Nigeria. It was found that the proposed operation strategy could reduce the average battery state-of-charge by around 20% without causing power outages for the mini-grids. This would significantly extend the life of the battery and ultimately lead to a more durable and cheaper operation of standalone PV battery systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Evaluation of an outdoor soiling test-bench over a 2-year period in Cyprus. • Soiling rates from 0.039 to 0.535%/day depending on the season and dust episodes. • Comparison of 6 soiling models based on physical and machine learning approaches. • Physical models performed slightly better than machine learning models. • Comparison of soiling loss models with field and satellite-derived weather data. Ensuring optimal performance of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems requires the extensive assessment and understanding of losses of different origin that affect these installations. Soiling is a key loss factor influencing the performance of PV systems, particularly in arid and dry climatic regions, and its thorough knowledge and modelling aspects including the seasonal evolution is challenging for the early stages of energy prospecting for PV power plants. The purpose of this study is to address this fundamental challenge by evaluating the loss of soiling and the performance of six soiling models based on both physical and machine learning (ML) approaches. Specifically, the case study is a soiling test-bench experimental apparatus installed at the outdoor test facility of the University of Cyprus in Nicosia, Cyprus. The climatic conditions of the site represent a dry climate with high PV potential due to high irradiation levels. The obtained results reported soiling rates ranging from 0.039%/day to 0.535%/day depending on the season and the presence of dust episodes. The average yield daily and monthly soiling losses were 1.9% and 2.4% over a 2-year period, respectively. Furthermore, the comparative analysis of the different soiling models illustrated that the physical models achieved slightly better performance than the ML models with root mean square error (RMSE) of 1.16% and 0.83% for daily and monthly losses, respectively. Finally, the findings provide evidence and useful information on the performance and limitations of the different soiling models for fielded PV systems located in arid and dry climatic zones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A comprehensive methodology (PVPRO) is proposed to extract the time evolution trends of key PV parameters only using easily accessible operation and environmental data. • PVPRO well captures the degradation trends of IV and equivalent model parameters on the synthetic datasets. • PVPRO is robust to measurement noise and the presence of faults on the synthetic datasets. • A demonstration of PVPRO is given on a field 271 kW PV system. • An open-source Python package is available to perform the analysis (https://github.com/DuraMAT/pvpro) Physics-based circuit parameters like series and shunt resistance are essential to provide insights into the degradation status of photovoltaic (PV) arrays. However, calculating these parameters typically requires a full current–voltage characteristic (I - V curve), the acquisition of which involves specific measurement devices and costly methods. Thus, I - V curves of the PV system level are often not available. This paper proposes a methodology (PVPRO) to estimate these I - V curve parameters using only operation (string-level DC voltage and current) and weather data (irradiance and temperature). PVPRO first performs multi-stage data pre-processing to remove noisy data. Next, the time-series DC data are used to fit an equivalent circuit single-diode model (SDM) to estimate the circuit parameters by minimizing the differences between the measured and estimated values. In this way, the time evolutions of the SDM parameters are obtained. We evaluate PVPRO on synthetic datasets and find an excellent estimation of both SDM and the key I-V parameters (e.g. , open-circuit voltage, short-circuit current, maximum power, etc.) with an average relative error of 0.55%. The performance, especially the extracted degradation rate of parameters, is robust to various measurement noises and the presence of faults. In addition, PVPRO is applied to a 271 kW PV field system. The relative error between the real and estimated operation voltage and current is less than 1%, suggesting that degradation trends are well captured. PVPRO represents a promising open-source tool to extract the time-series degradation trends of key PV parameters from routine operation data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Field test of cleaning robot's moving shadow on operating PV string. • Much larger power drop for landscape modules than portrait. • Larger power drop for full-cell modules than half-cut. • No cell hotspots created. • Bypass diode heated when module stopped, but not while moving. PV cleaning robots cast a shadow on the PV modules which they are cleaning, if used in daylight. The shadow affects the electrical characteristics (current and voltage) of the module string, and could potentially also create hot spots in modules' cells or bypass diodes. The severity of these effects depends on the layout of cells and bypass diodes and the module's orientation, among other factors. In this study we tested a commercial cleaning robot on strings of two kinds of PV modules with different cell formats, connected to a grid-tied inverter. It was found that the string power was greatly reduced when modules were in landscape orientation, but barely affected in portrait orientation. The robot shadow caused slightly greater power reduction for full-cell than half-cut modules. While the robot was in motion, no heating of cells or bypass diodes was observed, although diode heating did occur if the robot stopped on a module. For the worst case of full-cell landscape modules, a simplified estimate of the energy loss due to one robot pass was roughly equivalent to 0.16% of the string's daily energy production. The results suggest that if PV cleaning robots are used in daylight, the power loss from their shadow could be almost eliminated by installing modules in portrait orientation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Retrofitting animal fencing for dual use for vertical-mounted monofacial PV racking. • Python-based Open Source Wind Load Calculator used for viability throughout the U.S. • Base shear force mapped for all fences for wind loads from 80 mph to 150. • Agrivoltaic system potential that as little as $0.035/kWh for racking on existing fencing. • Racking cost savings make fence-retrofit agrivoltaics a promising new technology. Popular agrivoltaic systems use photovoltaic (PV) farms for pasture grazing animals. In general, these agrivoltaic systems do not reduce the capital cost of a PV farm and in some cases can increase it. To overcome this challenge this study investigates the potential for retrofitting existing animal fencing on farms to have dual use for vertical-mounted monofacial PV racking. Specifically, this study catalogs types of fences and wind load calculations classified under Risk Category I are run through a new python-based Open Source Wind Load Calculator to determine the viability of fence-based racking throughout the U.S. The base shear force for all the fences are calculated for a range of wind loads from 80mph to 150mph (129 km/h to 241 km/h) and the results are mapped to indicate the number of PV modules between the vertical fence poles a fence can tolerate in a specific location. The results show the required fence type including post and battens in a given area for sheep, goats, pigs, cows, and alpaca to be used for agrivoltaics. Overall, at least one PV module between posts is acceptable indicating a new agrivoltaic system potential that as little as $0.035/kWh for racking on existing fencing. Although the yield for a vertical PV can range from 20 to 76 % of an optimized tilt angle depending on azimuth, the racking cost savings enable fence-retrofit agrivoltaics to often produce lower levelized cost electricity. Future work is necessary to determine the full scope of benefits of vertical PV agricultural fencing on a global scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Proposes a method for energy management in the smart home (SH) by integrating PVs, ESSs, and 2-way energy flow. • Solar-based building modeling in digital twin. • Collaborate machine learning and digital twin framework for smart management of intelligent building. Increasing populations and economic expansion have substantially increased the energy requirements of residential consumers. Energy storage system (ESS) and distributed generation (DGs) are key tools for tackling this problem in smart homes. This study investigates the cost of electricity for residential consumers as a result of the combination of distributed photovoltaics (PVs) and ESSs for IoT-based smart home. Moreover, this paper examines energy management advantages due to bidirectional energy flow (H2G). In order to formulate the home energy management issue, PV and ESS end-user satisfaction limitations are taken into account. This study exploits a Q value-enabled reinforcement learning (RL) method to optimize home appliance scheduling (HAS) according to end-user priority. According to simulation outcomes, the suggested scheduling for household appliances performs well, and demand response (DR) measures have been implemented. It can be seen that the cost of electricity consumption as well as the uncertainty of the system have decreased in digital twin real-based application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photovoltaic (PV) panels are one of the most emerging components of renewable energy integration. However, where the PV systems bring power conversion efficiency with its bulk installation setup and eco-friendly feasibility, it also brings the factors that could hamper the performance and efficiency of the system. One of these dependent factors is the accumulation of dust particles and its aggregation which could significantly influence the effect of PV systems. The dust can accumulate in its various forms of soiling by fusing with other environmental variations like rain, storm, and humidity. To resolve these challenges which could impact the energy yield of PV systems, the impact of dust as well as effective cleaning mechanisms are required to be studied to restore the performance and power generation output. In this article, an integrated survey of (1) possible factors of dust accumulation, (2) dust impact analysis, (3) mathematical model of dust accumulated PV panels, and (4) proposed cleaning mechanisms discussed in the literature, and (5) a possible sustainable solution for PV systems to survive in this dust accumulated environment are presented. This study also represents handy information to readers, engineers, and practitioners on the development phase of various technologies involved in minimizing the impact of dust accumulation by its removal, adequate cleaning, and restoration. It also addresses the future possible challenges of these cleaning mechanisms. A comprehensive list of publications to date in the open literature is thereby compiled to canvas a complete visual of the different developments in this area. [Display omitted] • PV systems — An emerging component of renewable energy integration and eco-friendly alternative. • Accumulation and aggregation of dust particles on PV panels — A significant influence on the performance. • Dust accumulated PV panels — An integrated survey of factors, mathematical model, and proposed cleaning mechanisms. • Handy information to readers, engineers, and practitioners. • A possible sustainable solution to challenges of water availability and PV systems cleaning mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human activities are placing a progressively increasing demand on energy consumption. Renewable energy resources are a promising alternative to fossil fuels due to their sustainability. There has been lately an immense growth in the application of several renewable energy resources, including solar energy, where the abundance of waste solar panels is becoming challenging. Solar panels have a shelf life from 20 to 30 years. Photovoltaic panels modules consist of both valuable and toxic materials that might possess harm to the human wellbeing and to the environment if not disposed appropriately. These days, research to recover solar photovoltaic panels is confronting several difficulties, beside that there is an urge to design an economically non-toxic, easy, and feasible technologies for their recovery. The end-of-life solar panels' appropriate management is just at the beginning in several places in the world, besides that there is a demand for the producers' responsibilities towards the issue. The disassembly and recyclability of the end-of-life solar cells is not really deliberated because of the deficiency of solar panels recycling plants worldwide. Recyclability of the expired solar cells can decrease the production cost of new systems. This review article discusses the synthesis of solar panels, with a detailed description for its different parts. Recycling systems for photovoltaic wastes are elaborately discussed along with addressing the adverse environmental issues of the huge quantities of solar panels wastes besides providing a detailed basis for supporting recycling of solar panels. Lastly, the policies and regulations for solar panel recycling is also considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Shading significantly impacts photovoltaic module efficiency. • Spot and percentage shading affect temperature, stress, and deformation in PV layers. • Electrical tests (Voc, Isc, Pmax) reveal valuable insights. • UV radiation degrades PV module performance, especially in damaged cells. The manuscript offers a fresh perspective on understanding the impact of shading on the overall performance of solar cells. While the term "hot spot" is commonly used to describe a location where a cell or module can experience significant damage, this study devotes attention to several comprehensive analyses that could prove valuable for module performance, considering the impacts of shading, UV radiation, and thermal. This article explores the relationship between spot shading and percentage shadings and their effects on module layers' internal temperature, stress, and deformation. The findings reveal that shading within 50–70% (precisely around 62.5% for this study) increases maximum module temperature, stress, and deformation. Additionally, spot shading has a more pronounced effect on the corner positions of the PV module. Including electrical measurements such as open circuit voltage, short circuit current and maximum power provides valuable insights. This work also highlights the limiting of PV module performance due to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, with even greater acceleration observed in partially damaged cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Regulations often slow solar photovoltaic (PV) penetration velocity. • Rooftop PV sometimes requires both interpretation and approval from a professional engineer. • This engineering process is a substantial fraction of the capital costs of small-scale PV systems. • New open-source tool to streamline the process while maintaining building code compliance. • Average 5 kW rooftop PV systems cost reduced 5–25 % in the U.S. using free tool. Although solar photovoltaic (PV) systems provide the lowest cost electricity, regulations often slow PV penetration velocity. A current hurdle to distributed generation with PV is building code compliance. For example, installing solar PV modules on rooftops in some areas requires both interpretation and approval from a professional engineer. This engineering process comes with costs, which can be a substantial fraction of the capital costs of small-scale systems for smaller or efficient houses, as well as for less-wealthy families that want to build up systems one module at a time. Improving the permitting and inspection process can thus significantly reduce the soft costs of distributed PV systems. This study provides a method of overcoming these challenges for rooftop solar PV by introducing an open-source tool to streamline the process while maintaining compliance with necessary local building codes. The results of economic analysis on this method show costs of average 5 kW rooftop PV systems can be cut by 5–25 % in the U.S. Thus, accessibility and affordability of rooftop PV systems are significantly improved because of the elimination of redundant engineering. Implementing such open-source tools is a low-cost effective area of future energy policies to facilitate more economically inclusive and widespread PV adoption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• PV waste estimated to reach 88 million tons by 2050, urging global action. • Recycling is key for resource recovery, environmental protection, and sustainability. • Reuse, improved design, policies, and research are essential for PV EoL management. The global shift to clean energy has resulted in a significant increase in photovoltaic (PV) panel installations. However, with their limited lifespan of 25–30 years, end-of-life (EoL) management is becoming an environmental and economic challenge to the sector. Currently, PV panels are disposed of in landfills, raising concerns about resource loss and environmental contamination. This research paper addresses this by using a novel quantitative modelling framework that employs historical data and Bass diffusion equations to project future PV waste generation in key markets, including China, India, the USA, Japan, and Germany. The findings emphasise the necessity of exploring alternative EoL management options, such as repair, reuse, and recycling, to prevent resource loss and environmental contamination. The study's novel methodology and detailed analysis highlight a lack of specific regulations for PV waste management globally. The study necessitates global policy frameworks, international standards, and public awareness to support the transition to a circular economy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solar tracking systems (TS) improve the efficiency of photovoltaic modules by dynamically adjusting their orientation to follow the path of the sun. The target of this paper is, therefore, to give an extensive review of the technical and economic aspects of the solar TS, covering the design aspects, difficulties, and prospects. The paper presented a comprehensive review of the TSs, which are single axis, dual axis, and others with contrasting results, efficiency, cost and useful for which type of applications. During the literature review carried out in the current study, several of the highlights presented the most progressive technological developments, such as AI and sophisticated sensors. Further, the investigation was carried out to consider feasibility by the cost-benefit analysis, return on investment, and incentive points of view. Concerning the identifiable environmental effects of the systems and sustainability, the paper also addresses the merits. The article shows that single-axis tracking systems (SATS) are expected to be somewhat less efficient than their two-axis counterparts (DATS). Hybrid and innovative tracking systems offer the best of both worlds in terms of performance and cost. Investment returns and benefits from higher energy production and potential subsidies can offset the high capital investment. The study also showed that advanced tracking system design and optimization techniques using advanced AI and machine learning techniques are critical to the accuracy and reliability of solar tracking systems. They are suitable for predictive maintenance and real-time monitoring, which improves system performance and reduces operating costs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• We developed an automatic louver system that uses servo motors to control slats, optimizing solar reflection based on altitude angle. The system was tested for solar power generation and compared to BIPV, showing potential for efficiency improvements without compromising thermal or lighting benefits. The global energy demand is predicted to increase significantly, with a strong link between energy consumption and CO2 emissions. Lighting energy accounts for a substantial proportion of total energy consumption in buildings, with the potential to be reduced using daylighting louvers. Despite some drawbacks, integrating solar photovoltaic modules with louvers could enhance energy efficiency while addressing the increasing demand for renewable energy systems in new buildings. Therefore, this study explores the potential benefits of integrating solar photovoltaic (PV) modules into a daylighting louver system to simultaneously reduce lighting, cooling, and heating loads and generate solar power. The performance of the proposed louver system was experimentally compared to a conventional building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) system installed on a window. The daylighting louver system demonstrated significant improvements in indoor illumination and occupants' experience compared to the BIPV system. Furthermore, the indoor air temperature in the space with the louver system increased by about 5 degrees compared to the BIPV system, indicating its contribution to heating load reduction. The power generation performance of the louver system reached up to 65 % of the BIPV system, with a total cumulative electricity generation of 64 %. The results suggest that the daylighting louver system can be expanded to enhance its efficiency and address the increasing demand for renewable energy system installations in new buildings. Future studies should investigate the potential of 2-axis or 3-axis louvers to further improve the system's efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • As utility rate structures shift away from net metering, increasingly economic path to grid defection. • Evaluate economics and realistic potential of grid defection, evaluates eighteen US case studies. • Results: grid defection is already economic in some solar-rich locations that have high electric rates. • Rate structures and policy, however, can be used to encourage solar-prosumers to remain on the grid. Solar photovoltaic (PV) costs have dropped rapidly making PV the fastest growing and least expensive electricity source. Grid-tied PV systems owned by prosumers currently dominate the market primarily due to historical net metering. As utility rate structures shift away from net metering, increase unavoidable costs or restrict grid access, solar prosumers have an increasingly economic path to grid defection. These trends coupled with increasing grid electricity costs and decreases in both PV and battery costs, have made economic grid defection and utility death spirals salient issues. To evaluate the economics and realistic potential of grid defection, this study evaluates eighteen case studies across the U.S. to assess the profitability of grid defection across different irradiation zones using hybrid PV-diesel generator-battery systems. The results show that grid defection is already economically advantageous in some solar-rich locations that have high electric rates. Rate structures and policy, however, can be used to encourage solar-prosumers to remain on the grid rather than grid defect. Utilities that have rate structures that discourage on-grid PV systems, however, may unintentionally incentivize grid defection. If consumers feel that inflation will be high for a long period of time they may use off-grid PV systems as economic hedges. Overall, the results of this study and the clear trends in economic and technical development indicate that regulators must consider mass economic grid defection of PV-diesel generator-battery systems as a near-term possibility and design rate structures to encourage solar producers to remain on the grid to prevent utility death spirals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Vibration of 6 kinds of PV module under robot cleaning were measured. • A module's size was the dominant factor in how much it vibrated. • A module's frame and glass thickness had little influence on its vibration. • Overall the amount of vibration by robot cleaning was small – less than 1 mm. • Strong wind caused more severe module vibrations than the cleaning robot. • Large-format modules and robots that run on the modules may present greater vibration risk. Automatic PV cleaning machines ("robots") are becoming widely used in desert regions. The motion of the robot and its brushing action can vibrate the PV modules being cleaned. This study measured the vibration of six different kinds of PV module, excited by a single kind of commercial cleaning robot. The robot's brushes were straight, rather than helical, which imparted a periodic excitation to the modules at approximately 7 Hz. For comparison, module vibration by strong wind was also measured. It was found that (i) among similar-sized PV modules, the amount of vibration was largely independent of the module construction (glass thickness and frame), (ii) modules tended to vibrate at their natural frequency rather than the brush (excitation) frequency, and (iii) the module deflection range by robot cleaning was approximately 0 mm upward to 1 mm downward, while in strong wind it was approximately 2 mm upward to 1 mm downward. In this study, which used modules up to 2 × 1 m, the particular cleaning robot did not cause significant vibration, however as commercial modules become larger they may also become more flexible and prone to larger deflections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photovoltaic (PV) systems have become an integral and widespread part of renewable energy generation. In combination with energy storage, they offer a variety of advantages such as increased self-sufficiency or improved grid stability. However, geographic location, subsidies, energy tariffs, size of PV panels and battery, and other factors significantly influence the overall performance and profitability of the system. Solving this complex task of system design and component dimensioning is not easy. The diversity and multitude of parameters therefore usually requires the help of, more or less complex, computer simulations. This led and still leads to a high publication activity on techno-economic and other optimizations for such systems. However, the operating strategies and component models are often oversimplified, leading to results with significant errors. The goal of this paper is to provide in-depth insight into component modeling and parametrization for PV module, battery energy storage, and inverter, as well as giving suggestions on appropriate control strategies. The focus lies on the description of suitable simple-but-accurate models and their parametrization. In order to avoid the effort of having to conduct measurements for component characterization, an approach relying on values presented in product data sheets is considered. Furthermore, the effects of model simplifications, as they are found in many publications, are shown. Finally, the importance of an uncertainty analysis for the entire simulation is discussed in order to gain insight into the accuracy of the calculated simulation results and their dependency on model- and input-parameters. • Photovoltaic system modeling/simulation. • Component modeling for PV module, battery energy storage and inverter. • Suitable simple-but-accurate models and their parametrization • Characterization relying on product data sheets with minimal informations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Energy production from different PV technologies in assessed in desert areas. • Impacts of dust accumulation, air temperature, and wind speed are quantified. • Wind speed decreases the PV cell temperature by up to 7.05% for thin film panels. • Annually produced energy decreases by 24% when the panels are cleaned bi-monthly. • Variations in optimal PV angles with dust accumulation rate are within 3°. To cope with the growing installation capacities of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems in desert areas, it is necessary to revisit the energy production models and the optimal angles of PV panels given the significant impacts of ambient temperature, wind speed, dust accumulation, and cleaning frequency. In this study, these four factors are examined for four PV technologies (polycrystalline, microcrystalline, monocrystalline, and thin-film) at three cities in Jordan, Egypt, and Tunisia using precise ground-level meteo-solar measurements. Different models are compared to estimate the diffuse irradiance, as well as account for the effects of operating temperature, wind speed, and dust accumulation on energy production and optimal tilt and azimuth angles of the panels. The results reveal 1.5 % higher energy production estimates using the isotropic model, compared to the anisotropic model in the summer months. Considering the cooling effect of wind speed decreases the operating cell temperature drops by up to 7.05 % for thin film panels. The annually produced energy decreases by 24 % when the panels are cleaned bi-monthly. When the dust accumulation rate doubles, the energy production decreases by ∼10 % for all studied cases. Also, the variations in optimal tilt and azimuth angles with dust accumulation rate are within ∼3.0°. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Novel [ n -SWCNT-TiO 2 /N3/SWCNT] DSSC configuration was proposed and fabricated. • Conventional Pt based counter electrode was replaced by relatively inexpensive SWCNT. • Different mass ratios of SWCNT-TiO 2 nanocomposites were used as photoanode. • Proposed SWCNT DSSCs were found to be more efficient than Pt based DSSCs. • The efficiency as high as 8.05 % is observed in [0.018%-SWCNT-TiO 2 /N3/SWCNT]. • Improved performance of our DSSC is explained with characterization results. Economical and efficient dye sensitized solar cells (DSSC) were fabricated using single wall carbon nanotube and titanium dioxide [SWCNT-TiO 2 ] nanocomposite as photoanode and SWCNT as Platinum free (Pt-free) counter electrode (CE). By physical mixing, precise amounts (0.006 wt%, 0.018 wt%, 0.03 wt%, and 0.06 wt%) of SWCNT was mixed in TiO 2 nano particles paste to obtain nanocomposite paste [ n SWCNT-TiO 2 ] for the anodes. Attachment and distribution of SWCNT within/among the TiO 2 components has been confirmed using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), and X-ray mapping techniques. The catalytic activity and stability of the SWCNT as catalyst in the CE of fabricated DSSCs have been appraised using cyclic voltammetry (CV), Tafel, and chronoamperometry characterizations. Finally, the fabricated solar cells have been evaluated by current–voltage characteristics (IV) and electrochemical impendence spectroscopy (EIS). The optimized cell containing 0.018 wt% of SWCNTs mixed in TiO 2 paste i.e. [ 0.018 % SWCNT-TiO 2 ] for anode preparation and SWCNT as Pt-free CE i.e. [ 0.018 % SWCNT-TiO 2 /N3/SWCNT] showed an overall efficiency of 8.05 %, which is about 44 % higher than the conventional [TiO 2 /N3/Pt] based solar cell fabricated under the same conditions. This improvement in the overall power conversion efficiency (PCE) can be ascribed to the improved electron collection at photo-anode i.e. reduced charge recombination, efficient electron transport, good catalytic activity of the SWCNT at CE, and enhanced light harvesting efficiency due to the more dye adsorption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Dust and pollutants accumulated in the PVT system were investigated. • The dust accumulation and cleaning effects on PVT system performance were evaluated. • Comparisons with PV modules and thermal collectors are presented. • After 30 days of exposure to outdoor conditions, the percentage of energy generated per day was 61.17 %, 46.96 %, and 42.73 % for clean, polluted, and conventional systems, respectively. • After 60 days of exposure to outdoor conditions, the average daily energy generated was 60 %, 38.18 %, and 33.9 % for clean, polluted, and conventional systems, respectively. Dust causes losses in power generated by the PV modules as well as causes an increase in their temperatures. In this study, the photovoltaic/thermal (PVT) module dust heating effect was investigated using a spiral coil using for two PVT water cooling systems. One of the two systems was cleaned periodically (every-two weeks) and the second was left polluted with dust. The practical tests were conducted in Sohar – Oman outdoor conditions for two months (July and August 2021). The two systems performance was compared with a PV module left without cleaning. The dust accumulated on the studied systems caused a decrease in their average productivity. After 30 days, the clean PVT, polluted PVT, and conventional PV systems; yield was 61.17 %, 46.96 %, and 42.73 %, respectively. After 60 days, the average daily energy generated was 60.00 %, 38.18 %, and 33.90 % for clean, polluted, and conventional systems, respectively. Increasing the exposure period to external conditions caused an increase in the accumulated dust rate, resulting in a deterioration in the power output of both polluting PVT and conventional PV. In the periodic cleanliness of the PVT system, most of its performance was restored and its losses were limited. After 4 and 8 weeks, the yield losses for the conventional PV system were (9 % and 20 %), (2.5 %, 3.3 %) for the clean PVT system, and for the polluted PVT system they were (7.5 %, 17.7 %). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A technique to fabricate quantum dots-sensitized solar cells (QDSSCs) based on TiO 2 and ZnO nanoparticles is reported. • ZnO was doped with Al3+ to enhance the PCE by promoting electron mobility to form an efficient photoelectrode added to TiO 2. • A maximum PCE of 3.4% was achieved with five layers of ZnO nanocubes with a 0.0005M Al3+ doping concentration. • Changes in current densities by internal resistances (R s , R rec and R sh) were analyzed by fitting the diode equation. • A study of the beta factor (type of recombination) and tao (life time) are presented. A technique to fabricate quantum dots-sensitized solar cells (QDSSCs) based on Titanium Oxide (TiO 2) and Zinc Oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles (NPs) is reported. ZnO nanocubes of around 65 nm were synthesized by the sol–gel precipitation method. ZnO was doped with Al3+ to enhance the photovoltaic efficiency by promoting electron mobility to form an efficient photoelectrode added to TiO 2. Current density–voltage (J-V) characterizations indicate that the addition of Al3+ doping in ZnO crystalline structure in the photoelectrode can significantly improve current densities and consequently the photoconversion efficiency (η) of the QDSSCs, achieving maximum η of 3.4 % with five ZnO nanocubes layers with a 0.0005 M Al3+ doping concentration. While with the undoped sample and bare TiO 2 , the obtained ήs were 2.85 and 1.93 %, respectively. The improved QDSSC photovoltaic performance was attributed to the increased light harvesting due to a large surface area by introducing Al-doped ZnO nanocubes into the available places of the TiO 2 lattice. On the other hand, the increased electrical conductivity due to the Al3+ ion doped into the ZnO lattice at the divalent Zn2+ site allows electrons to move readily into the Al-doped ZnO conduction band. Additionally, according to electron lifetime studies, the Al-doped ZnO nanocubes act as a dielectric layer, enhancing the photogenerated charge extraction process due to the introduction of lattice defects, causing intermediate levels to obtain higher electron recombination resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The efficient interleaved boost converter combined with the 3-level neutral point. • The proposed hybrid technique implies the combination of Double Attention Convolutional Neural Network (DACNN) • Optimization (SMO) algorithm and is usually referred as DACNN-SMO technique. • The grid-connected PV system additionally includes an efficient three-level NPC. • The proposed topology is implemented using MATLAB. The efficient interleaved boost converter (IBC) combined with the 3-level neutral point clamped (NPC) inverter for grid-connected photovoltaic systems (GCPVS) maximizes solar energy efficiency are presented. The proposed hybrid technique implies the combination of Double Attention Convolutional Neural Network (DACNN) and Starling Murmuration Optimization (SMO) algorithm and is usually referred as DACNN-SMO technique. Enhancing power quality at the Point of Common Coupling (PCC) while utilizing the rated capacity of the inverter into consideration is the main goal of the proposed approach. The grid-connected photovoltaic system additionally includes an efficient three-level NPC inverter and interleaved boost converter to decrease DC link voltage oscillation. In addition to preventing overheating, the inverter current controls reactive power adjustment, active power injection, and current harmonic filtering. Utilizing the SMO technique, By employing the SMO technique, the system effectively regulates output voltage, ensuring that the inverter output voltage. The DACNN enhances the system's ability to monitor and diagnose faults. Using MATLAB, the proposed topology is implemented, and the results are contrasted with those of other existing techniques. The existing methods such as Heap Based Optimizer (HBO), Circle Search Algorithm (CSA) and Sparrow Search Algorithm (SSA) attains a higher THD of 3.7%, 4.7% and 5.3% respectively. The proposed method DACNN-SMO attains a THD of 2.5%. The proposed technique displays the efficiency is 99.86%. When compared to existing strategies, the proposed technique displays lower THD and high efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A health-state architecture for photovoltaic system failure diagnosis is proposed. • Digital twin models and artificial intelligence-driven algorithms are incorporated. • Diagnostic capabilities are presented for shading, clipping and other faults. • High fault detection accuracies by the architecture for 8% imputed fault levels. • The architecture is validated both at small- and utility-scale photovoltaic system. Accurate and cost-effective diagnosis and prognosis of photovoltaic (PV) system failures is crucial for prolonged operational efficacy and minimizing operation and maintenance costs. A key challenge in this field remains the absence of accurate, transferable, and location-independent data-driven PV diagnostic algorithms. This study addresses this fundamental challenge by proposing a unified PV system health-state architecture to predict common array failures. The proposed architecture comprises data quality routines, digital twin models, and artificial intelligence-driven failure diagnostic algorithms. The proposed architecture was validated using historical data from PV systems in hot and cold climates, demonstrating scalability and location-independency. The digital twin predictive models exhibited less than 2 % errors, while the failure diagnostic algorithms showed detection accuracies above 90 % for faults with magnitudes > 8 %. The classifiers proved robust in diagnosing commonly exhibited faults, achieving classification accuracies > 95 %. Finally, valuable information is supplied to enhance performance monitoring systems through automated functionalities that leverage analytics for utility-scale PV plants transitioning into the smart grid era. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• PCM based heat sinks on the thermal regulation of PVs are experimentally studied. • Proposed heat sinks with open ended air channels inside PCM layer is utilized. • The number and diameter of air channels is found to be significant in heat sink performance. • Thermal regulation and discharge periods are enhanced. In this study, a novel parametric investigation was conducted to enhance the performance of conventional PCM-based heat sinks utilized for thermal regulation in PV panels. The proposed heat sinks in this study aimed to address some issues reported in the literature by offering prolonged thermal regulation periods, reduced PV temperatures, and accelerated discharge rates through utilization of ambient air and PCM for passive heat dissipation. These enhancements were achieved by integrating several open ended pipes into the PCM layer, enabling passive removal of a portion of stored heat in the PCM by ambient air. The investigation comprised five study cases: Case 1 (reference PV), Case 2 (conventional-PV-PCM), and the proposed heat sinks: Case 3 (6-piped-PV-PCM), Case 4 (10-piped-PV-PCM), and Case 5 (14-piped-PV-PCM). In the study, the enhancements in thermal regulation periods, PV temperatures, power outputs and discharge rates were experimentally investigated for each case. Experiments were conducted in a laboratory setting under constant irradiation of 1000 W/m2, ambient temperature of 25 °C, and three tilt angles (30°-45°-90°). The results indicated that integration of open-ended pipes within the PCM layer showed promise in passive heat removal from the PCM and led to remarkable enhancements in thermal and electrical performance. Experiments for 7-hour irradiation period demonstrated that proposed heat sinks passively extended the thermal regulation period by 45 %, reduced the maximum PV temperature by 11 °C, shortened the solidification times by 36.5 %, and enhanced the total electrical output by 4.37 %. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • An empirical validation of a PV optical soiling detection approach is conducted. • The soiling transmittance profile is built using measurements at distinct wavelengths. • Different 3-wavelength combinations using monochromatic LEDs are analyzed. • Errors less than 5% for soiling losses up to 65% are returned by some combinations. • The goodness of the analyzed combinations varies with the PV material. Soiling is a factor that impacts the performance of photovoltaic (PV) modules. Nowadays, the research related to PV soiling monitoring is focused on optical sensors, which estimate the soiling loss through a monochromatic transmittance or reflectance measurement. However, these typically neglect the spectral profile of soiling transmittance, which tends to absorb shorter wavelengths more than the longer ones. This leads to a spectral red shift of the light that is transmitted to the PV cells of a module. Therefore, if the spectral component of soiling is not considered, the estimated soiling losses are not fully representative of those occurring in the real PV modules. This investigation aims to address this issue by modeling the full soiling transmittance spectrum using several monochromatic light sources in a new version of a previously presented optical soiling sensor, called "DUSST". Four different combinations of mono-wavelength light-emitting diodes have been used to model the full spectral transmittance profile of artificially soiled PV glass coupons and to estimate the electrical losses of distinct PV technologies. The results show that the errors in soiling estimation can be minimized by using an appropriate wavelength combination. The difference between the measured and the estimated soiling losses can be lower than 3% if the most convenient wavelength combination is utilized. In the case of m-Si, which is the prevalent PV technology nowadays, the application of the optimum wavelength combination is found to reduce the maximum measurement error to 2.6%, from the initial 7.7% returned when a single wavelength was employed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Conversion time and failure rate are crucial factors for online optimization problems. • Control parameters of the swarm optimization techniques influence the performance of optimization. • The novel musical chairs algorithm (MCA) descriptions. • The simulation of the MCA compared to nine optimization algorithms. • Single-diode and double-diode models of the PV solar cells. • Parameters estimation for different operating conditions. Solar photovoltaic (PV) energy systems are representing the most attractive source of energy, especially with the continuous reduction of manufacturing costs. The new systems' sizing and cost estimation depend mainly on the accurate modeling of the PV cells. The modeling of the PV cells is based on one-diode modeling with five unknown parameters or the more accurate modeling based on two-diode modeling that have seven unknown parameters, or with a higher number of shunt diodes modeling with a higher number of unknown parameters. An accurate and fast estimation of the PV cell parameters will help designers to build their decision based on accurate results, where any small variation of these parameters can spoil the results obtained from the modeling and can produce an unwise decision. A high number of studies are introduced in the literature to estimate these parameters. These studies are different in the accuracy of results and the time consumed to get these results. Some of these studies used metaheuristic algorithms which are characterized by slow convergence and may cause inaccurate results. For this reason, a recent optimization algorithm called the musical chairs algorithm (MCA) is introduced in this paper to estimate these parameters faster and more accurately than many metaheuristic algorithms. The idea behind the use of MCA is to have a high number of search agents in the beginning to enhance the exploration and continuously reduce this number to enhance exploitation at the end of optimization and reduce the convergence time. The results obtained from using 10 optimization algorithms showed that the error associated with MCA is 20% of the average error of the other optimization algorithms. Moreover, the MCA never misses the global minimum of error which was not the case in other optimization algorithms. The MCA obtained these results in 40% of the time consumed by other optimization algorithms. These results of the MCA showed its superiority compared to other optimization algorithms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Investigating and providing the solution to decrease the soiling effect. • Performing an experimental method and applying techno-economic analysis. • Water consumption and CO 2 emissions reduction by implementing of the proposed method. • Improving LCOE and payback period in the novel method. The adoption of photovoltaic (PV) solar technology for power generation is one of the fastest growing sources of renewable energy. In recent years, significant cost reductions of PV modules and rising global demand for energy have been key drivers of the solar industry's exponential growth. While the majority of research into improving efficiency of solar systems has focused on increasing power output, adverse effects of environmental factors on system performance have largely been neglected. The accumulation of dirt on panel surfaces, known as soiling, can significantly reduce the power generated by PV systems due to blocking the Sun's irradiation from PV cells. Despite drawbacks associated with mitigating soiling, including wasteful water consumption and the risk of panel damage, such strategies must be implemented in order to maintain system performance and reduce financial losses. This report proposes a new innovation to address the problem of soiling, designed by Kirchner Solar Group, by inverting panels at night and using of natural condensation to remove dirt settlement without causing abrasion to panel surfaces. Known as 'NightFlip', this solution has been designed to be an intrinsic, self-cleaning feature that reduces the impact of soiling without using water. A prototype was built to evaluate the real-world performance of the system. Data was recorded for the prototype when operating alongside a standard system, and the extent to which system performance was improved is analyzed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of solar energy incident on vertical surfaces in building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) systems is shown as an opportunity to contribute to achieve sustainable energy consumption in buildings in urban spaces. In this study, a computational analysis of the optimal orientation for vertical surfaces in three thermal floors of Colombia is performed, using clear sky conditions and meteorological data. The results show the need to position the designs of vertical surfaces in a range of azimuthal angles given the energy variability for each city, both in the morning and evening hours and throughout the years. In addition, the energy generation potential of vertical surfaces is analyzed with respect to a horizontal panel considering the maximum radiant energy received, finding that a single vertical surface can receive 17% less radiant energy than a horizontal panel, but when considering a pair oriented according to the optimal angles, it can be exceeded up to 60%. • The energy of a vertical surface is affected by the Colombian geographic location. • Incident energy on vertical surfaces has two definite maxima during the day. • A pair of well-oriented vertical surfaces can surpass a horizontal one by up to 60%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The effect of condensation on PV soiling was studied quantitatively using 2.5 years of field data in Doha, Qatar. • It was necessary to measure condensation directly, as it was not reliably estimated from dew-point and surface temperatures. • There was low correlation between meteo variables (including dew) and the PV soiling rate, due to complexity of PV soiling. • Condensation was among the more beneficial input variables to PV soiling models. Condensation (dew) strongly affects PV soiling: it causes dust particles to stick to PV modules, yet conversely it can also clean modules as the dew droplets run off. These mechanisms have been well studied qualitatively, but because weather stations at PV sites rarely include condensation sensors, the quantitative link between dew and PV soiling rate is not well known. The goal of this study was to investigate this relationship numerically, and especially whether condensation data improves the accuracy of PV soiling models. We performed a field study in Doha, Qatar, in which condensation on a PV module, "standard" meteorological parameters, and the daily PV soiling rate were measured for 2.5 years. We found low correlation between all variables and the soiling rate, however condensation was among the more beneficial variables to include in soiling models (depending on the statistical analysis method used). Also, it is necessary to measure condensation directly, because it was not accurately predicted from dew-point and module surface temperatures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A PV fault detection technique based on the K-means algorithm, coded wireless OFDM and thermal image processing is proposed. • The k-means, Min-sum algorithms, and OFDM modulation offer an excellent detection of faults in PV panels in real-time. • The Min-sum algorithm offers significant performance to detect and correct errors induced by a noisy wireless channel. • This solution is cost-effective with an overall capital cost around 5.41 USD/m2. Solar energy is considered one of the most ecological energy systems, which provides clean, reliable, and unlimited power. However, the solar system can be exposed during its operation to numerous failures that can immediately lead to a dangerous incident such as fire ignition. To ensure the productivity and safety of the system, it must be accompanied by fault detection and diagnostic (FDD) techniques. A new wireless communication system and its application in PV systems to detect damaged areas of solar panels are proposed to address these issues. The proposed approach is composed mainly of two parts; the first part aims to check and detect the existence of damaged areas in the thermal images of PV panels, while the second part focuses on the transmission of faulty panels using Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM) modulation with three decoding algorithms, namely, Min-sum, Bit-Flipping, and Viterbi, to send and correct errors induced by a wireless transmission channel. The simulation results have shown that employing the K-means algorithm, OFDM modulation, and the Min-sum decoding scheme offers a significant performance improvement giving a rapid degradation with a BER of 10−4 for SNR = 3.7 dB and a null BER from SNR = 4 dB. From a financial point of view, it was proved that the adopted solution is cost-effective compared to literature-based ones. This solution could be very useful since the overall capital cost is about 5.41 USD/m2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Using and employing vast areas of solar cells scattered around the world to collect rainwater. • Solar panels self-cleaning and cooling intelligent system. • Recycling 80% of solar panels cleaning water. • Low cost and low-maintenance solar panels cleaning system. First generation Photovoltaic (PV) systems need regular washing to avoid efficiency degradation. Dust deposition on the surface limits solar penetration into photovoltaics and consequently the PV output. Efficiency may fall by 50% after a month without cleaning the modules. This effect strongly depends on the area, being desert climates more problematic because of the proliferation of dust particles and eventual high wind speeds. This research aims to illustrate the idea of an innovative intelligent device with wide applications and advantages, which improves the efficiency of solar cells by a self-cleaning mechanism, keeping the temperature of solar cells from rising, recycling the cleaning water, and harvesting rainwater falling. In this research, an experiment was performed in the city of Salt (Jordan) to investigate the purification of solar cells at the energy production plant above the Najashi Mosque. To clean the dust periodically, an automated cleaner was installed that detects the dust on the solar panel and automatically cleans the module. Various cleaning methods were compared: manual cleaning, automatic cleaning, manual injection water, compressed air. Some outstanding features of the new proposal are identified, making it the ideal device for resolving cleaning difficulties, high temperatures, and increasing solar cell performance. It can be also utilized to gather rainwater by employing the vast areas of solar cells scattered over the world. The findings of this study may help in preserving the environment by harvesting sun and rainwater, enhancing PV efficiency, and achieving decarbonization in the energy industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Evaluation of dust impact and cleaning methods on photovoltaic performance. • Indoor experimental investigation of monocrystalline and polycrystalline has been conducted. • The effect of different dust types has been studied and collected samples from different locations were tested. • Power losses and degradation of yield were calculated for different cases. Photovoltaic modules are affected by the weather and are sensitive to dust accumulation. The accumulation of dust causes obvious losses in the produced yield. To reduce these losses to a minimum, it is recommended to clean the photovoltaic units periodically by several cleaning methods. In this practical study, the accumulated dust was collected for a period of two months (March and April/2021) from five sites in the Wilayat of North Al Batinah – Oman. The dust components were examined, and the sources of these components were determined and their proportions in the dust of each city. The study adopted the examination of the effect of each component separately on the performance of monocrystalline and polycrystalline PV modules. The results showed that the contamination of 5 g/m2 on the monocrystalline PV module caused a decrease in the produced power by 12%, 6%, 6%, 7%, 3%, 4%, and 4%, for ash, calcium carbonate, limestone, cement, sulfur, sawdust, and brown soil, respectively. For polycrystalline module, at the same contamination (5 g/m2), the measured deteriorations were 5%, 4%, 4%, 1%, 2%, and 2% for ash, sand, limestone. sawdust, black silicon carbide and silica gel, respectively. The best manual cleaning methods were also studied to choose the optimal ones for each PV module and city. Polycrystalline are more affected than monocrystalline by the accumulated dust, with an average of not less than 10% at an accumulation rate of 50 g/m2 and 5.28% at an accumulation rate of 5 g/m2. The best way to clean PV modules to recover the largest percentage of yield losses is the sodium solution with rubber and cloth brushes. The study suggests, depending on the practical results, periodic cleaning periods from 10 days (for polycrystalline module in the cities of Liwa, Sohar and Barka) to 15 days (for monocrystalline module for all the cities studied). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The effect of lightning strike on PV arrays were investigated with simulation. • Three parameters, PV array number, cable sectional area and cable length were changed. • Real data was taken from the solar power plant was used in simulation study. Solar power plants are installed in high and open places to receive high solar radiation. However, this leaves them vulnerable to lightning strike. Lightning strike affects power plants in two ways, directly and indirectly. Direct lightning strikes can be prevented by using lightning protection systems. However, under the indirect effect of a lightning strike, the surrounding electronic devices may be damaged due to the induced voltage. In a solar power plant with a lightning protection system in Turkey, it was stated that the bypass diodes failed after a lightning strike. In this study, it is aimed to examine the effects of indirect lightning strike on the PV module. For this reason, different lightning pulse amplitudes were injected into the system and the effects of three parameters on the induced voltage were investigated with an EMT type program. These parameters were the cable lengths, cable cross-sections and the number of PV arrays. Four different panel configurations were performed in the EMT type program. Data was taken from the solar power plant in Turkey was used in fourth configuration. It was concluded that when the lightning strike fell on the air termination bar, bypass diodes in the nearest PV array were affected, and this effect decreased as the array distance increased. However, as the amplitude of the lightning strike increased, arrays in the far-distance were also affected. It has been seen that the results obtained were compatible with the malfunction information received from the solar power plant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Greenhouse cultivation is a form of modern agriculture in which crops are grown under a controlled environment to obtain higher yields and better crop quality. Implementing solar technologies in a greenhouse application would help to enhance its performance sustainably. This study presents a survey and evaluation of photovoltaic (PV), solar thermal collectors (STC), and photovoltaic/thermal (PV/T) solar technologies for greenhouses. PV modules show promising results to cover the electrical energy demands and ensure adequate crop production. However, the main issue with static conventional PV solar modules is the shading effect that causes a reduction in the photosynthetic efficiency of greenhouse crops. It was found that 1% of fixed module coverage decreases a tomato crop's yield by about 0.66%. The literature shows two potential solutions for this: dynamic shading and concentrating solar technologies. The review also revealed that the integration of semi-transparent PV solar technologies is a possible prospect for greenhouses. Furthermore, the review identified STC collectors, with and without concentration and storage technologies, to heat the greenhouse's interior and decrease fossil fuel needs. Whereas the hybrid PV/T were analyzed for greenhouse application, it was found that PV/T modules are gaining interest due to their high efficiency and generation of electrical and thermal energy from a single panel. Finally, it was concluded that by employing these solar technologies in greenhouses, crop yield and quality could be enhanced while ensuring sustainable and environmentally friendly energy production. However, these solar technologies must be further optimized to make them more attractive. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Spectrum is split and allocated to photovoltaic and thermochemical conversions. • Spectrum allocation in the photovoltaic-thermochemical system has been studied. • Allocating a wider band to photovoltaic cells is beneficial to solar conversion. • Solar-to-electric efficiency reaches 21.9% with the cutoff wavelength of 850 nm. The solar spectrum allocation of a spectral-splitting photovoltaic-thermochemical hybrid system is investigated. In the proposed photovoltaic-thermochemical hybrid system, the spectral band between 400 nm and the cutoff wavelength λ S is allocated to photovoltaic cells for power generation, while the rest of the solar spectrum is used for the thermochemical reaction of methanol decomposition. The effect of spectral band allocation on the photovoltaic and thermochemical conversions is analyzed, and the optimal spectral split is determined for improving the overall solar energy conversion. The calculation shows that increasing the solar energy allocated to photovoltaic cells is conducive to the solar energy conversion. The experimental results show that when the cutoff wavelength λ S increases to 850 nm, the net solar power of the system reaches 1006.0 W, and the solar-to-electricity efficiency is improved to 20.3% at the solar irradiance of 610 W/m2. The research findings provide guidance for the splitting and allocation of the solar spectrum in a photovoltaic-thermochemical hybrid system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]