High reliability and system lifetimes in the range of 30 years are essential for renewable energy systems such as photovoltaic power plants to minimise costs for the generated electric energy. At the same time such systems are used in regions with high solar irradiance and also harsh environmental conditions. Therefore, designs for photovoltaic inverters need to meet not only the key design criteria of high conversion efficiency but also need to be very robust and at the same time meet challenging cost targets. In this dissertation aspects concerning the lifetime and reliability of power semiconductors in photovoltaic central inverters are investigated. On key topic of the dissertation is the measurement of the voltage dependent failure rate due to cosmic radiation induced single-event-burnout of SiC and Si power semiconductors. The second topic is the development of a system level simulation to quantify the stress on the power semiconductors in a PV central inverters in various regions of the world. Further topics are the investigation of improved control concepts for the cooling system of PV central inverters and the monitoring of IGBT temperatures during converter operation.

This book provides the most up-to-date information on hybrid solar cell and solar thermal collectors, which are commonly referred to as Photovoltaic/Thermal (PV/T) systems. PV/T systems convert solar radiation into thermal and electrical energy to produce electricity, utilize more of the solar spectrum, and save space by combining the two structures to cover lesser area than two systems separately. Research in this area is growing rapidly and is highlighted within this book. The most current methods and techniques available to aid in overall efficiency, reduce cost and improve modeling and system maintenance are all covered. In-depth chapters present the background and basic principles of the technology along with a detailed review of the most current literature. Moreover, the book details design criteria for PV/T systems including residential, commercial, and industrial applications. Provides an objective and decisive source for the supporters of green and renewable source of energy Discusses and evaluates state-of-the-art PV/T system designs Proposes and recommends potential designs for future research on this topic

Solar power has become big business, with $131 billion invested in 2018, up from just $11.2 billion in 2004 but down from $171 billion in 2017 as unit costs fell. New installed capacity grew from 1.1GW in 2004 to about 107GW in 2018, a steady rise as solar begins to compete with fossil fuels on cost and to be built in nearly every country.This is a book for the solar workers of the future, a business book for those without a business or economics background and those simply curious about major shifts happening in the world energy economy. Key financial, economic and technical concepts are interspersed with the history of the first decade of cheap solar power, and the author's experience of being part of a successful startup in the clean energy sector.

This Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change Special Report (IPCC-SRREN) assesses the potential role of renewable energy in the mitigation of climate change. It covers the six most important renewable energy sources - bioenergy, solar, geothermal, hydropower, ocean and wind energy - as well as their integration into present and future energy systems. It considers the environmental and social consequences associated with the deployment of these technologies, and presents strategies to overcome technical as well as non-technical obstacles to their application and diffusion. SRREN brings a broad spectrum of technology-specific experts together with scientists studying energy systems as a whole. Prepared following strict IPCC procedures, it presents an impartial assessment of the current state of knowledge: it is policy relevant but not policy prescriptive. SRREN is an invaluable assessment of the potential role of renewable energy for the mitigation of climate change for policymakers, the private sector, and academic researchers.

Solar power for pumping groundwater has a vast potential for improving the sustainability of water supply schemes. However experience also shows that a lack of knowledge, capacity and expertise to design and implement such schemes is holding back their adoption. This book bridges this gap to equip engineers and technicians with the requisite knowledge for design, implementation and operation of sustainable solar powered water schemes.Solar Pumping for Water Supply is a state of the art review of solar water pumping technology combined with practical insights, lessons and best practices drawn from experience. It takes the reader step by step through the different phases that comprise a solar water pumping project, namely: assessment, design, purchase of equipment, installation, operation and management. The book also covers the economics of using solar pumping technology, especially when compared to diesel generators and hand pumps. Finally, the social aspects are included, specifically relating to the operation and management of solar pumping systems and the role that beneficiaries, implementers, government and the private sector might play to ensure long-lasting water supply. The book provides links and references to tools, documents and videos to accompany the content of the different chapters.Essential reading for solar technical practitioners at NGOs, UN agencies, government offices and private sector, including Global and Regional Technical advisors and Field engineers wanting to understand and know how to design water systems using solar power. A basic knowledge in the field of water supply is assumed, but no previous knowledge of solar photovoltaic technology is required.Alberto Ibáñez Llario is a Global Solar and Water Advisor with the International Organization for Migration and has 15 years of experience in water systems and solar PV in various locations around the world.Asenath Kiprono is a solar water pumping expert with 12 years' experience in design and implementation of pumping systems in rural Africa, including solar pumping systems in the private, public and humanitarian sectors.

This book examines the problems in the field of energy and related fields (chemical, transport, aerospace, construction, metallurgy, engineering, etc.) and consists of 4 subsections: Electrical Engineering, Heat Power Engineering, Cybersecurity and Computer Science & Environmental Safety. In the first section, authors pay attention to contemporary issues related to the development of the electric power industry, electrical engineering, the physics of electrical phenomena and renewable energy sources (such as solar energy and wind energy). The second section is devoted to modern problems in heat power engineering and considers modern means and methods that increase the efficiency and reliability of the functioning of heat power facilities. The third section is devoted to issues of cybersecurity of critical facilities, in particular energy facilities, as well as the development of computer science and the introduction of modern information and measurement systems in the energy sector. The fourth subsection deals with the problems of rational use of natural resources, accounting for emissions of harmful substances, environmental issues at energy facilities, as well as the development of a methodology for environmental safety. The book includes 21 chapters. A book is for researchers, engineers, as well as lecturers and postgraduates of higher education institutions dealing with issues of control, diagnosis and monitoring of energy facilities.

Today's electricity industry - large power stations feeding a nationwide grid - will soon be a thing of the past. This book explains why and what will replace it - decentralized and distributed electrical resources which can be up to 10 times as economically valuable. The authors - all leading experts in the field - explain very clearly and thoroughly all the benefits, so the engineers will understand the economic advantages and the investors will understand the engineering efficiencies. Here's what industry experts are saying about Small is Profitable... 'A tour-de-force and a goldmine of good ideas. It is going to have a stunning impact on thinking about electricity.' Walter C. Patterson, Senior Research Fellow, Royal Institute of International Affairs, London. 'An amazing undertaking - incredibly ambitious yet magnificently researched and executed.' Dr. Shimon Awerbuch, Senior Advisor, International Energy Agency, Paris. 'Outstanding...You have thought of some [benefits] I never considered...A great resource for the innovation in energy services that will have to take place for us to have a sustainable future.' Dr. Carl Weinberg, Weinberg Associates, former Research Director, PG&E. 'This is a brilliant synthesis and overview with a lot of original analytics and insights and a very important overall theme. I think it is going to have a big impact.' Greg Kats, Principal, Capital E LLC, former Finance Director for Efficiency and Renewable Energy, U.S. Department of Energy. 'E. F. Schumacher would be proud of this rigorous extension of his thesis in Small is Beautiful. It shows how making systems the right size can make them work better and cost less. Here are critical lessons for the new century: technologies tailored to the needs of people, not the reverse, can improve the economy and the environment.' Dr. Daniel Kammen, Professor of Energy and Society and of Public Policy, University of California, Berkeley. 'Small is Profitable creates an unconventional but impeccably reasoned foundation to correctly assign the costs and true benefits of distributed energy systems. It has become an indispensable tool for modelling distributed energy systems benefits for us.' Tom Dinwoodie, CEO and Chairman, PowerLight Corporation. 'A Unique and valuable contribution to the distributed energy industry...Small Is Profitable highlights the societal benefits of distributed resources, and will be a helpful guide to policymakers who wish to properly account for these benefits in the marketplace.' Nicholas Lenssen, Senior Director, Primen. 'This book will shift the electric industry from the hazards of overcentralization toward the new era where distributed generation will rule.' Steven J. Strong, President, Solar Design Associates, Inc. 'Readers will understand why distributed resources are poised to fundamentally alter the electric power system. Its comprehensive review of the benefits of distributed resources [is] an important part of my library.' Dr. Thomas E. Hoff, President, Clean Power Research. 'The most comprehensive treatise on distributed generation.... Great job and congratulations.' Howard Wenger, Principal, Pacific Energy Group '..[D]ensely packed with information and insights...goes a long way to demonstrate that the former paradigm of electric power supply no longer makes sense.' Prof. Richard Hirsh, University of Vermont, Leading historian of the electric power sector. 'Amory Lovins was already the world's most original and influential thinker on the future of energy services in general and electricity systems in particular. This remarkable book is a very worthy addition to an extraordinary legacy.' Ralph Cavanagh, Energy Co-Director, Natural Resources Defense Council. 'This is a book every utility professional should have on the bookshelf.' Dr Peter S. Fox-Penner, Principal and Chairman of the Board, the Brattle Group, former Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of Energy.

By mid-century, renewable energy must cover all of our energy supply if we are to phase out nuclear and successfully stop climate change. Now updated and expanded, the 2nd edition of this textbook covers the full range of renewable energy systems and now also includes such current trends as solar power storage, power-to-gas technologies, and the technology paths needed for a successful and complete energy transition. The topics are treated in a holistic manner, bringing together maths, engineering, climate studies and economics, and enabling readers to gain a broad understanding of renewable energy technologies and their potential.Numerous examples are provided for calculations, and graphics help visualize the various technologies and mathematical methodologies. Understanding Renewable Energy Systems is an ideal companion for students of renewable energy at universities or technical colleges on courses such as renewable energy, electrical engineering, engineering technology, physics, process engineering, building engineering, environment, applied mechanics and mechanical engineering, as well as scientists and engineers in research and industry.

This book presents a detailed description, analysis, comparison of the latest research and developments in photovoltaic energy. Discussing everything from semiconductors to system integration, and applying various advanced technologies to stand alone and electric utility interfaced in normal and abnormal operating conditions of PV systems, this book provides a thorough introduction to the topic. This book brings together research from around the world, covering the use of technologies such as embedded systems, the Internet of things and blockchain technologies for PV systems for different applications including controllers, solar trackers and cooling systems. The book is of interest to electronic and mechanical engineers, researchers and students in the field of photovoltaics.

This edited book looks at recent studies on interdisciplinary research related to exergy, energy, and the environment. This topic is of prime significance – there is a strong need for practical solutions through better design, analysis and assessment in order to achieve better efficiency, environment and sustainability. Exergetic, Energetic and Environmental Dimensions covers a number of topics ranging from thermodynamic optimization of energy systems, to the environmental impact assessment and clean energy, offering readers a comprehensive reference on analysis, modeling, development, experimental investigation, and improvement of many micro to macro systems and applications, ranging from basic to advanced categories. Its comprehensive content includes: - Comprehensive coverage of development of systems considering exergy, energy, and environmental issues, along with the most up-to-date information in the area, plus recent developments - New developments in the area of exergy, including recent debate involving the shaping of future directions and priorities for better environment, sustainable development and energy security - Provides a number of illustrative examples, practical applications, and case studies - Introduces recently developed technological and strategic solutions and engineering applications for professionals in the area - Provides numerous engineering examples and applications on exergy - Offers a variety of problems that foster critical thinking and skill development