Gold nanoparticles (Au NPs) play a significant role in science and technology because of their unique size, shape, properties and broad range of potential applications. This review focuses on the various approaches employed for the synthesis, modification and functionalization of nanostructured Au. The potential catalytic applications and their enhancement upon modification of Au nanostructures have also been discussed in detail. The present analysis also offers brief summaries of the major Au nanomaterials synthetic procedures, such as hydrothermal, solvothermal, sol-gel, direct oxidation, chemical vapor deposition, sonochemical deposition, electrochemical deposition, microwave and laser pyrolysis. Among the various strategies used for improving the catalytic performance of nanostructured Au, the modification and functionalization of nanostructured Au produced better results. Therefore, various synthesis, modification and functionalization methods employed for better catalytic outcome... [more]

The management of the distribution network is becoming increasingly important as the penetration of distributed energy resources is increasing. Reliable knowledge of the real-time status of the network is essential if algorithms are to be used to help distribution system operators define network configurations. State Estimation (SE) algorithms are capable of producing such an accurate snapshot of the network state but, in turn, require a wide range of information, e.g., network topology, real-time measurement and power profiles from customers/productions. Those profiles which may, in principle, be provided by smart meters are not always available due to technical limitations of existing Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) in terms of communication, storage and computing power. That means that power profiles are only available for a subset of customers. The paper proposes an approach that can overcome these limitations: the remaining profiles, required by SE algorithms, are generated... [more]

Web portals have the potential to promote sustainable environmental ideas due to the capacity of digital media, such as easy accessibility, openness, and networking. Local authorities (LAs) are responsible for activating carbon savings in homes, and they are key actors when it comes to providing neutral information to their citizens. Local authority web portals may thus create environmental awareness, particularly regarding owner-occupied single-family home renovation. Nevertheless, the experiences of LAs developing web portals have rarely been studied. Therefore, this paper analyses the development process of various LA web modules and investigates how LAs foster modular web portals to stimulate the adoption of home renovation with parameters to assess LAs’ actions in terms of the management of web-modules development. A homeowner renovation journey model is applied to map current local authority developments. Case study research and interviews were done to analyse and evaluate the ad... [more]

The development of technologies for the accelerated formation or decomposition of gas hydrates is an urgent topic. This will make it possible to utilize a gas, including associated petroleum one, into a hydrate state for its further use or to produce natural gas from hydrate-saturated sediments. In this work, the effect of water content in wide range (0.7−50 mass%) and the size of quartz sand particles (porous medium; <50 μm, 125−160 μm and unsifted sand) on the formation of methane and methane-propane hydrates at close conditions (subcooling value) has been studied. High-pressure differential scanning calorimetry and X-ray computed tomography techniques were employed to analyze the hydrate formation process and pore sizes, respectively. The exponential growth of water to hydrate conversion with a decrease in the water content due to the rise of water−gas surface available for hydrate formation was revealed. Sieving the quartz sand resulted in a significant increase in water to hydr... [more]

Among the super insulating materials, aerogel has interesting properties: very low thermal conductivity and density, resistance to high temperatures and transparency. It is a rather expensive material, but incentives in the field can improve its economic attractiveness. Starting from this, the thermal behavior of a test building entirely insulated with aerogel panels was investigated through an extended experimental campaign. A dynamic simulation model of a case study building was generated to better comprehend the energy savings obtained through aerogel in terms of energy demand over a whole year. The investigation was completed by computing the carbon and energy payback times of various retrofit strategies through a life cycle assessment approach, as well as by a cost-benefit analysis through a probabilistic financial framework. Compared to conventional insulation materials, aerogel is characterized by a higher energy and carbon payback time, but it guarantees better environmental pe... [more]

The replacement of conventional generation sources by DER creates the need to carefully manage the reactive power maintaining the power system safe operation. The principal trend is to increase the DER volume connected to the distribution network in the coming years. Therefore, the microgrid represents an alternative to offer reactive power management due to excellent controllability features embedded in the DER, which enable effective interaction between the microgrid and the distribution network. This paper proposes a microgrid−iterative reactive power management approach of power-electronic converter based renewable technologies for day-ahead operation. It is designed to be a centralised control based on local measurements, which provides the optimal reactive power dispatch and minimise the total energy losses inside the microgrid and maintain the voltage profile within operational limits. The proposed optimal-centralised control is contrasted against seven local reactive power cont... [more]

In light of global warming and the energy turn, sector coupling has gained increasing interest in recent years, from both the scientific community and politics. In the following article it is hypothesized that efficient multifaceted sector coupling solutions depend on detailed spatial and temporal characteristics of energy demand and supply. Hence, spatiotemporal modelling is used as a methodology of integrated spatial and energy planning, in order to determine favourable sector coupling strategies at the local level. A case study evaluation was carried out for both central and decentral renewable energy sources. Considering the high temporal resolutions of energy demand and supply, the results revealed a feasible operation of a district heating network in the central areas of the case study municipalities. Additionally, building integrated solar energy technologies are capable of providing large amount of excess energy that could serve other demand sectors, such as the mobility sector... [more]

Environmental sustainability, defined as the responsibility to protect the global ecosystem in a holistic way, has become an integral factor of city strategies. Designing and implementing environment-friendly solutions to make the standard of living in cities better is indispensable for present and future generations. This article’s main objective is to identify the most environmentally friendly urban logistics measures from the perspective of urban transport system stakeholders. A multi-method approach was implemented to achieve the article’s main findings. Firstly, the literature review provided the basics for designing the research framework. Then, a three-layer methodological approach was used: The first layer included designing and carrying out the case study approach; the second layer comprised a Delphi study involving interviews with urban logistics stakeholders; and the third layer included analyzing the voices of Delphi interviewees to assess which urban logistics measures are... [more]

Due to increasing numbers of intermittent and distributed generators in power systems, there is an increasing need for demand responses to maintain the balance between electricity generation and use at all times. For example, the electrification of transportation significantly adds to the amount of flexible electricity demand. Several methods have been developed to schedule such flexible energy consumption. However, an objective way of comparing these methods is lacking, especially when decisions are made based on incomplete information which is repeatedly updated. This paper presents a new benchmarking framework designed to bridge this gap. Surveys that classify flexibility planning algorithms were an input to define this benchmarking standard. The benchmarking framework can be used for different objectives and under diverse conditions faced by electricity production stakeholders interested in flexibility scheduling algorithms. Our contribution was implemented in a software toolbox pr... [more]

It is projected that, in the following years, the wind-energy industry will maintain its rapid growth over the last few decades. Such growth in the industry has been accompanied by the desirability and demand for larger wind turbines aimed at harnessing more power. However, the fact that massive turbine blades inherently experience increased fatigue and ultimate loads is no secret, which compromise their structural lifecycle. Accordingly, this demands higher overhaul-and-maintenance (O&M) costs, leading to higher cost of energy (COE). Introduction of flow-control devices on the wind turbine is a plausible solution to this issue. Flow-control mechanisms feature the ability to effectively enhance/suppress turbulence, advance/delay flow transition, and prevent/promote separation, leading to enhancement in aerodynamic and aeroacoustics performance, load alleviation and fluctuation suppression, and eventually wind turbine power augmentation. These flow-control devices are operated primarily... [more]

A while-drilling energy harvesting device is designed in this paper to recovery energy along with the longitudinal vibration of the drill pipes, aiming to serve as a continuous power supply for downhole instruments during the drilling procedure. Radial size of the energy harvesting device is determined through the drilling engineering field experience and geological survey reports. A piezoelectric coupling model based on the selected piezoelectric material was established via COMSOL Multiphysics numerical simulation. The forced vibration was analyzed to determine the piezoelectric patch length range and their best installation positions. Modal analysis and frequency response research indicate that the natural frequency of the piezoelectric cantilever beam increased monotonously with the increase of the piezoelectric patch’ thickness before reaching an inflection point. Moreover, the simulation results imply that the peak voltage of the harvested energy varied in a regional manner with... [more]

The unknown NOx distributions inside large-scale CFB (circulating fluidized bed) boilers have always hindered the economy of the SNCR (selective non-catalytic reduction) process. In this study, field tests were carried out on a typical 300 MW CFB boiler, where multi-level 316 L-made probe and Ecom-J2KN/Testo 350 analyzers were used to perform detailed two-dimensional distributions of flue gas composition at SNCR inlets for the first time. The penetration depth inside the horizontal flue pass was up to 7 m. The NOx distributions were analyzed in detail combining with the auxiliary test in the dilute phase zone. Key results show that the average O2 concentrations in #A and #C regions were 6.52% and 0.95%, respectively. The vertical NOx distributions of #A and #C SNCR inlets were similar, showing a trend of first increasing and then decreasing with peak value all appeared at 5 m depth, while the NOx distribution of #B SNCR inlet was basically increasing. Some local areas with extremely hi... [more]

This paper presents the preliminary results of our research activity aimed at forecasting the number of voltage sags in distribution networks. The final goal of the research is to develop proper algorithms that the network operators could use to forecast how many voltage sags will occur at a given site. The availability of four years of measurements at Italian Medium Voltage (MV) networks allowed the statistical analyses of the sample voltage sags without performing model-based simulations of the electric systems in short-circuit conditions. The challenge we faced was to overcome the barrier of the extremely long measurement times that are considered mandatory to obtain a forecast with adequate confidence. The method we have presented uses the random variable time to next event to characterize the statistics of the voltage sags instead of the variable number of sags, which usually is expressed on an annual basis. The choice of this variable allows the use of a large data set, even if o... [more]

In this contribution, measurement data of phase, neutral, and ground currents from real low voltage (LV) feeders in Germany is presented and analyzed. The data obtained is used to review and evaluate common modeling approaches for LV systems. An alternative modeling approach for detailed cable and ground modeling, which allows for the consideration of typical German LV earthing conditions and asymmetrical cable design, is proposed. Further, analytical calculation methods for model parameters are described and compared to laboratory measurement results of real LV cables. The models are then evaluated in terms of parameter sensitivity and parameter relevance, focusing on the influence of conventionally performed simplifications, such as neglecting house junction cables, shunt admittances, or temperature dependencies. By comparing measurement data from a real LV feeder to simulation results, the proposed modeling approach is validated.

Improving the accuracy of the slurry flow predictions in different operating flow regimes remains a major focus for multiphase flow research, and it is especially targeted at industrial applications such as oil and gas. In this paper we develop a robust integrated method consisting of an artificial neural network (ANN) and support vector regression (SVR) to estimate the critical velocity, the slurry flow regime change, and ultimately, the frictional pressure drop for a solid−liquid slurry flow in a horizontal pipe, covering wide ranges of flow and geometrical parameters. Three distinct datasets were used to develop machine learning models with totals of 100, 325, and 125 data points for critical velocity, and frictional pressure drops for heterogeneous and bed-load regimes respectively. For each dataset, 80% of the data were used for training and the rest 20% for evaluating the out of sample performance. The K-fold technique was used for cross-validation. The prediction results of the... [more]

In China, energy efficiency retrofit of residential buildings is entering a new stage in which homeowners are the main subject. In order to investigate homeowners’ willingness to invest and to analyze its influencing factors, interviews and a questionnaire survey were conducted in central Tianjin, China. The results show that homeowners have a certain willingness to invest in energy efficiency retrofit but that their willingness to pay (WTP) is far from enough to cover the total cost. Among the influencing factors, the homeowner’s age, education level, and retrofit experience as well as the age and floor area of their home are significantly related to their WTP. The reasons for the impact of these factors are further discussed, including the influences of China’s previous housing policies and retrofit policies. Policy recommendations to promote investment by homeowners are suggested based on the findings.

This paper focuses on the performance analysis of a sensorless control for a Doubly Fed Induction Generator (DFIG) in grid-connected operation for turbine-based wind generation systems. With reference to a conventional stator flux based Field Oriented Control (FOC), a full-order adaptive observer is implemented and a criterion to calculate the observer gain matrix is provided. The observer provides the estimated stator flux and an estimation of the rotor position is also obtained through the measurements of stator and rotor phase currents. Due to parameter inaccuracy, the rotor position estimation is affected by an error. As a novelty of the discussed approach, the rotor position estimation error is considered as an additional machine parameter, and an error tracking procedure is envisioned in order to track the DFIG rotor position with better accuracy. In particular, an adaptive law based on the Lyapunov theory is implemented for the tracking of the rotor position estimation error, an... [more]

Stray capacitances (SCs) are a serious issue in high-voltage (HV) applications. Their presence can alter the circuit or the operation of a device, resulting in wrong or even disastrous consequences. To this purpose, in this work, we describe the modeling of SCs in HV capacitive dividers. Such modeling does not rely on finite element analysis or complicated geometries; instead, it starts from an equivalent circuit of a conventional measurement setup described by the standard IEC 61869-11. Once the equivalent model including the SCs is found, closed expressions of the SCs are derived starting from the ratio error definition. Afterwards, they are validated in a simulation environment by implementing various circuit configurations. The results demonstrate the expressions applicability and effectiveness; hence, thanks to their simplicity, they can be implemented by system operators, researchers, and manufacturers avoiding the use of complicated methods and technologies.

Photovoltaic (PV) technology allows large-scale investments in a renewable power-generating system at a competitive levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) and with a low environmental impact. Large-scale PV installations operate in a highly competitive market environment where even small performance losses have a high impact on profit margins. Therefore, operation at maximum performance is the key for long-term profitability. This can be achieved by advanced performance monitoring and instant or gradual failure detection methodologies. We present in this paper a combined approach on model-based fault detection by means of physical and statistical models and failure diagnosis based on physics of failure. Both approaches contribute to optimized PV plant operation and maintenance based on typically available supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) data. The failure detection and diagnosis capabilities were demonstrated in a case study based on six years of SCADA data from a PV plan... [more]

The current paper evaluates the thermal performance of immersion cooling for an Electric Vehicle (EV) battery module comprised of NCA-chemistry based cylindrical 21700 format Lithium-ion cells. Efficacy of immersion cooling in improving maximum cell temperature, cell’s temperature gradient, cell-to-cell temperature differential, and pressure drop in the module are investigated by direct comparison with a cold-plate-cooled battery module. Parametric analyses are performed at different module discharge C-rates and coolant flow rates to understand the sensitivity of each cooling strategy to important system performance parameters. The entire numerical analysis is performed using a validated 3D time-accurate Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) methodology in STAR-CCM+. Results demonstrate that immersion cooling due its higher thermal conductance leads to a lower maximum cell temperature and lower temperature gradients within the cells at high discharge rates. However, a higher rate of heat... [more]

Production of synthetic natural gas (SNG) offers an alternative way to valorize captured CO2 from energy intensive industrial processes or from a dedicated CO2 grid. This paper presents an energy-efficient way for synthetic natural gas production using captured CO2 and renewable hydrogen. Considering several renewable hydrogen production sources, a techno-economic analysis was performed to find a promising path toward its practical application. In the paper, the five possible renewable hydrogen sources (photo fermentation, dark fermentation, biomass gasification, bio photolysis, and PV electrolysis) were compared to the two reference cases (steam methane reforming and water electrolysis) from an economic stand point using key performance indicators. Possible hydrogen production capacities were also considered for the evaluation. From a technical point of view, the SNG process is an efficient process from both energy efficiency (about 57%) and CO2 conversion rate (99%). From the evaluat... [more]

A microgrid’s self-consumption rate reflects its ability to retain its own energy and decrease its reliance on the synchronous grid. This paper investigates the empirical case of a microgrid equipped with photovoltaic (PV) panels and identifies challenges in engaging the microgrid’s users to increase their self-consumption. Accordingly, we explored both the physical and social dimensions of the microgrid. The former involved mapping the electricity consumption and production through an exploratory data analysis, and evaluating the associated price signals, while the latter involved the use of design interventions to explore users’ perceptions of the system. We highlight the problem of price signal impedance, the need for cost reflective pricing and the challenge in designing and extending internal price models in settings with various actors. We address the limitations of price signals, alongside alternative unidimensional signals, and emphasize the need for an integrated approach to a... [more]

Power system inertia is an essential part of grid frequency control. The number of synchronously connected machines, which inherently provide inertia, is decreasing due to the transition to renewable energies. Conventional generation units are being replaced by renewable generation units which are connected to the grid via frequency converters. Some power systems already suffer from too little power system inertia. Hence, inertia is a valuable yet non-traded commodity. A day-ahead dispatch methodology to secure power system inertia was developed and is applied and assessed in this work. Day-ahead market data of the combined market of the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland is used. If the superimposition of sell and buy bids results in insufficient inertia, the dispatch algorithm is applied. In decreasing price order, non-inertia-providing sell bids get replaced by the following sell bids in the merit order. The iterative process is repeated until sufficient inertia is in the syst... [more]

The operating temperatures of photovoltaic (PV) modules can be impacted by the selection of specific packaging materials, e.g., backsheets and encapsulants. This research focuses on the evaluation of operating temperature reduction of one-cell modules by comparing conventional Tedlar/polyester/Tedlar (TPT) backsheet with novel thermally conductive backsheets (TCBs) materials. A large number of one-cell modules with two TCB types (TCB_A and TCB_B) and baseline TPT type were fabricated and installed in three different climatic conditions of the hot-dry desert in Arizona (high and low wind speed locations) and North Carolina (temperate with low wind speed location). In this study, these two TCBs were compared with conventional TPT backsheet in terms of performance, lifetime and levelized cost of energy (LCOE). The field results were analyzed for thermal performance of TCBs compared to TPT at three sites for two and half years. This study concludes that the thermal and electrical performan... [more]

Integrated reports combine financial and non-financial data into a comprehensive report outlining the company’s value creation process. Our objective is to find the completeness of disclosures, which is a crucial aspect of an integrated report’s quality. This study contributes to the integrated reporting examination by identifying quantitative and qualitative gaps when applying Integrated Reporting standards, focusing on the energy sector. We conducted the study on 57 published integrated reports of listed companies in Poland. The content of each report was examined for 49 features divided into eight areas. We identify the strengths and weaknesses of current reporting performance and the impact of the company’s sector on reports’ quality. We noted that there are significant differences among the areas. The major problems concern implementing IIRC’s framework on the connections between the business model and the organization’s strategy, risks, opportunities, and performance. Our researc... [more]