Review
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
A. M. Jodeiri, M. J. Goldsworthy, S. Buffa, M. Cozzini
Summary: This article reviews the challenges and limitations of integrating solar thermal, waste heat, geothermal, and biomass energy sources into district heating systems, and identifies the technical and non-technical difficulties associated with this integration.
RENEWABLE & SUSTAINABLE ENERGY REVIEWS
(2022)
Article
Thermodynamics
M. A. Pans, G. Claudio, P. C. Eames
Summary: A model was developed to simulate and analyze the performance of a district heating system supplied with heat from renewable sources and different thermal energy storage systems. The model considers weather data, building specifications, and occupancies to calculate hourly heat demands and heat produced. It also takes into account recent research on heat storage systems. The model enables the analysis of operating parameters on system cost and energy efficiency to determine optimal conditions for a town or urban area.
ENERGY CONVERSION AND MANAGEMENT
(2023)
Article
Energy & Fuels
Harald Schrammel, Joachim Kelz, Wolfgang Gruber-Glatzl, Christian Halmdienst, Josef Schroettner, Ingo Leusbrock
Summary: The development of the district heating network in Gleisdorf, Austria, over the past decade showcases the transition to a 4th generation DH network. Implemented with a Virtual Heating Plant (VHP) control concept, the system has achieved high efficiency and nearly 100% renewable heat supply by optimizing the network and integrating decentralized heat sources. This innovative approach paves the way for further enhancements in system flexibility and stability, as well as the incorporation of various systemic and non-technical measures for sustainable heating solutions.
Article
Energy & Fuels
Anna Duczkowska, Ewa Kulinska, Zbigniew Plutecki, Joanna Rut
Summary: This paper discusses the importance of biomass for energy production in Poland's energy policy. It presents the conditions related to using agricultural biomass for heating purposes and aims to assess its energy potential and effective use. The research uses data analysis, forecasting, and optimization methods to determine the most advantageous variant. The results include the potential of biomass, optimum location for storage and processing sites, and the frequency of transport to energy companies.
Article
Thermodynamics
Julian Formhals, Frederik Feike, Hoofar Hemmatabady, Bastian Welsch, Ingo Sass
Summary: District heating is crucial for TU Darmstadt to reach its emission reduction target for 2050. Various strategies, including efficiency measures, solar thermal collectors, waste heat utilization, and seasonal storage, are being considered. Dynamic system simulations are used to compare different transition strategies in terms of environmental performance and economic efficiency, with gradual construction of solar thermal collectors and concurrent scaling-down of existing capacity being the most cost-effective strategy.
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Toshiyuki Sueyoshi, Fei Mo, Derek D. Wang
Summary: This study assesses the sustainable development of countries worldwide and the impact of renewable energy on country-level sustainability. The findings suggest that the performance of developed countries was initially better than developing countries when economic criterion was prioritized, but the gap has diminished in recent years. When environmental criterion takes precedence, there is a similar performance between developed and developing countries. Furthermore, the disparity in sustainability levels among countries in different regions has decreased over time. The study also finds that renewable energy has a positive and significant impact on sustainability, regardless of whether economic prosperity or environmental protection is the priority.
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Wei Zhong, Shaoxiong Liu, Xiaojie Lin, Yi Zhou
Summary: This study proposes an optimized design of district heating systems (DHS) based on granularity analysis methodology to harness distributed solar energy. The study applies hierarchical clustering and pipeline sizing optimization to calculate the optimal scheme with the best economic performance. It also introduces a quantitative granularity estimation method. The research highlights the importance of proper selection of granularity in the design stage for the economic and stable operation of DHS.
JOURNAL OF BUILDING ENGINEERING
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Hans Boehm, Simon Moser, Stefan Puschnigg, Andreas Zauner
Summary: Power-to-hydrogen is expected to play a crucial role in future sustainable energy systems, potentially leading to synergies with district heating networks. Studies analyze technology-specific efficiencies, heat flows, and temperatures, while summarizing opportunities and challenges arising from system perspective.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF HYDROGEN ENERGY
(2021)
Article
Thermodynamics
Rune Hermansen, Kevin Smith, Jan Eric Thorsen, Jiawei Wang, Yi Zong
Summary: District heating systems can reduce carbon dioxide emissions and minimize heat losses, utilizing low-grade surplus heat. By optimizing the charging schedule, load shifting is achieved to minimize operation costs.
Article
Thermodynamics
Poul Alberg Ostergaard, Anders N. Andersen
Summary: Heat pumps are expected to play a crucial role in future renewable energy heating systems, but they face challenges such as high investment costs and the need for more flexible operation. Adjusting electricity taxes may be necessary to incentivize increased capacity of heat pumps and thermal energy storage for better integration with dynamic electricity system needs.
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Kristina Lebedeva, Lana Migla, Tatjana Odineca
Summary: The growing urban population has led to an increase in energy demand, which requires finding a secure, environmentally friendly, flexible, renewable and sustainable energy transformation system. District energy networks offer a promising solution. This article focuses on a best practice project in Latvia, which demonstrates the impact of solar energy on a district heating system. Through simulation and validation, it is shown that a fully renewable district heating system can cover up to 20% of the heating demand using solar collectors with thermal storage.
JOURNAL OF KING SAUD UNIVERSITY SCIENCE
(2023)
Article
Thermodynamics
Marco Wirtz
Summary: This paper presents a web-based tool nPro for planning district energy systems, which helps generate tailored demand profiles and implements simulation models for heating and cooling networks. The tool has the advantage of tailored input data for the early planning phase, short computation times, and user-friendly interface suitable for non-specialists.
Article
Thermodynamics
Jin Zhao, Ataul Karim Patwary, Abdul Qayyum, Majed Alharthi, Furrukh Bashir, Muhammad Mohsin, Imran Hanif, Qaiser Abbas
Summary: The study evaluates potential solutions to Pakistan's energy shortages with a focus on renewable green hydrogen sources from geothermal, wind, biomass, and solar energy. Wind energy is found to be the most efficient source for producing hydrogen energy in Pakistan, helping to meet local energy needs and reduce fossil fuel usage.
Article
Thermodynamics
Massimo Fiorentini, Philipp Heer, Luca Baldini
Summary: This paper proposes an optimization model and a non-convex optimization formulation for the design optimization of borehole thermal energy storage systems. The results of the study show that the optimal seasonal storage size and operating conditions of the system can vary with changing boundary conditions.
Article
Thermodynamics
Younes Noorollahi, Aminabbas Golshanfard, Shiva Ansaripour, Arian Khaledi, Mehdi Shadi
Summary: Despite the abundance of oil and gas resources in Iran, the southern region has high potential for solar energy integration. The study found that scenarios utilizing photovoltaic power can reduce CO2 emissions and costs.
Article
Energy & Fuels
Ieva Pakere, Armands Gravelsins, Girts Bohvalovs, Liga Rozentale, Dagnija Blumberga
Summary: The study analyzes the role of aggregators as future players to increase the share of renewable power and decrease surplus solar and wind electricity occurrence. Demand-side management can decrease surplus power by utilizing available renewable energy sources.
Article
Energy & Fuels
Andra Blumberga, Armands Gravelsins, Dagnija Blumberga
Summary: This study aims to develop an Internet-based interface tool for the national energy simulation model to investigate energy transition lock-ins in Eastern European countries and apply it to analyze different pathways to Latvia's climate and energy goals. Using system dynamics, feedback loops and lock-ins are studied, and a simulation model and user interface tool are developed.
Article
Energy & Fuels
Andra Blumberga, Gatis Bazbauers, Selina Vancane, Ivars Ijabs, Jurijs Nikisins, Dagnija Blumberga
Summary: The European Union aims to address climate change by implementing energy efficiency policies in the residential sector. However, the diffusion rate of existing policy tools is low, resulting in unintended long-term consequences. Models describing complex systems are needed to improve the effectiveness of government energy efficiency policies.
Article
Energy & Fuels
Ruta Vanaga, Janis Narbuts, Ritvars Freimanis, Andra Blumberga
Summary: Active building envelopes that act as energy converters have the potential to reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions in the building sector, which is crucial for tackling climate change challenges. This research contributes to the field of composite building envelope structures by exploring thermal energy storage using phase-change materials. The study focuses on the cooling phase of the diurnal gain and release of solar energy, comparing different designs of solar facade modules.
Article
Energy & Fuels
Andra Blumberga, Ritvars Freimanis, Edite Biseniece, Agris Kamenders
Summary: In most cases, internal insulation is the only solution to improve the energy efficiency of historic buildings. This study presents the long-term monitoring of the hygrothermal performance of an internally insulated historic stone wall building. The measurement results and hygrothermal assessment show a significant decrease in energy consumption and the potential for energy saving.
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Lauma Balode, Beate Zlaugotne, Armands Gravelsins, Oskars Svedovs, Ieva Pakere, Vladimirs Kirsanovs, Dagnija Blumberga
Summary: Carbon neutrality in municipalities can be achieved by combining individual heating and district heating solutions involving the use of renewable energy sources. Decentralised heat supply contributes to energy conservation and emissions reduction, while centralised heat supply with renewable energy sources can provide more inhabitants with renewable heat energy. It is important to evaluate the specific circumstances of each municipality to determine the best solution.
Article
Energy & Fuels
Ruta Vanaga, Janis Narbuts, Ritvars Freimanis, Zigmars Zundans, Andra Blumberga
Summary: To meet the EU decarbonization goals by 2050, new and innovative ideas are needed to increase energy efficiency, particularly in reducing building energy consumption and utilizing renewable energy sources. Assigning new functionalities to the building envelope, such as using phase change materials for thermal energy storage, can help compensate for irregularities in solar energy availability.
Article
Thermodynamics
Ruta Vanaga, Janis Narbuts, Zigmars Zundans, Andra Blumberga
Summary: Decarbonisation goals for buildings require innovative solutions on both the supply and demand sides. Thermal envelopes with built-in energy storage can harness on-site solar energy and reduce cooling or heating loads. This paper presents results from on-site testing of a dynamic facade system with solar energy storage. The proposed solar facade consists of phase change material, aerogel, Fresnel lens, and moving reflective blades to enhance heat transfer. Comparative study shows that the solar facade module has lower energy demand for cooling compared to a high-performance triple glazed window, performs similarly in mid-season, but is outperformed by the window in the heating season.
Article
Economics
Iryna Sotnyk, Tetiana Kurbatova, Andra Blumberga, Oleksandr Kubatko, Olha Prokopenko
Summary: The prosumerism of self-consuming green energy generated by small power producers plays a significant role in energy transition and sustainable development. This study fills the research gap on business solar self-consumption in a transitioning economy using Ukraine as an example, confirming the positive outcomes of the solar power sector.
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Girts Bohvalovs, Antra Kalnbalkite, Ieva Pakere, Ruta Vanaga, Vladimirs Kirsanovs, Dace Lauka, Toms Prodanuks, Krista Laktuka, Kristiana Dolge, Zigmars Zundans, Inguna Bremane, Dagnija Blumberga, Andra Blumberga
Summary: A vital part of achieving climate neutrality in the future is to enhance energy efficiency measures in educational institutions and improve the overall understanding of sustainable solutions. Active participation from managers, teaching staff, and students is crucial for the success of these efforts. By implementing energy-efficient building systems, promoting renewable energy sources, and integrating sustainable practices into the curriculum, educational institutions can reduce their environmental impact and conserve resources for future generations.
Article
Environmental Sciences
Erlanda Atvare, Armands Gravelsins, Edgars Kudurs, Stelios Rozakis, Dagnija Blumberga
Summary: This research evaluates the benefits and economic justification of implementing energy storage systems in private households using system dynamics modeling. The study finds that installing PV and PV and battery systems is economically justified in Latvian households, regardless of summer or winter conditions.
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Ketija Bumbiere, Edite Meikulane, Armands Gravelsins, Jelena Pubule, Dagnija Blumberga
Summary: The progress of the agricultural sector towards climate neutrality is crucial for the climate, as well as the economy and society. This research used Latvia as a case study to create a system dynamics model, aiming to understand the structure and identify weak points of the system. The results demonstrated the importance of investing in innovative technologies to enhance economic competitiveness and reduce emissions in agriculture.
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Georgii Riabinin, A. M. Abd El-Aty, Dagnija Blumberga, Denis Baranenko
ENVIRONMENTAL AND CLIMATE TECHNOLOGIES
(2020)
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Beate Zlaugotne, Linda Ievina, Reinis Azis, Denis Baranenko, Dagnija Blumberga
ENVIRONMENTAL AND CLIMATE TECHNOLOGIES
(2020)
Article
Thermodynamics
Yong Cheng, Fukai Song, Lei Fu, Saishuai Dai, Zhiming Yuan, Atilla Incecik
Summary: This paper investigates the accessibility of wave energy absorption by a dual-pontoon floating breakwater integrated with hybrid-type wave energy converters (WECs) and proposes a hydraulic-pneumatic complementary energy extraction method. The performance of the system is validated through experiments and comparative analysis.
Article
Thermodynamics
Jing Gao, Chao Wang, Zhanwu Wang, Jin Lin, Runkai Zhang, Xin Wu, Guangyin Xu, Zhenfeng Wang
Summary: This study aims to establish a new integrated method for biomass cogeneration project site selection, with a focus on the application of the model in Henan Province. By integrating Geographic Information System and Multiple Criterion Decision Making methods, the study conducts site selection in two stages, providing a theoretical reference for the construction of biomass cogeneration projects.
Article
Thermodynamics
Mert Temiz, Ibrahim Dincer
Summary: The current study presents a hybrid small modular nuclear reactor and solar-based system for sustainable communities, integrating floating and bifacial photovoltaic arrays with a small modular reactor. The system efficiently generates power, hydrogen, ammonia, freshwater, and heat for residential, agricultural, and aquaculture facilities. Thermodynamic analysis shows high energy and exergy efficiencies, as well as large-scale ammonia production meeting the needs of metropolitan areas. The hybridization of nuclear and solar technologies offers advantages of reliability, environmental friendliness, and cost efficiency compared to renewable-alone and fossil-based systems.
Editorial Material
Thermodynamics
Wojciech Stanek, Wojciech Adamczyk
Article
Thermodynamics
Desheng Xu, Yanfeng Li, Tianmei Du, Hua Zhong, Youbo Huang, Lei Li, Xiangling Duanmu
Summary: This study investigates the optimization of hybrid mechanical-natural ventilation for smoke control in complex metro stations. The results show that atrium fires are more significantly impacted by outdoor temperature variations compared to concourse/platform fires. The gathered high-temperature smoke inside the atrium can reach up to 900 K under a 5 MW train fire energy release. The findings provide crucial engineering insights into integrating weather data and adaptable ventilation protocols for smoke prevention/mitigation.
Article
Thermodynamics
Da Guo, Heping Xie, Mingzhong Gao, Jianan Li, Zhiqiang He, Ling Chen, Cong Li, Le Zhao, Dingming Wang, Yiwei Zhang, Xin Fang, Guikang Liu, Zhongya Zhou, Lin Dai
Summary: This study proposes a new in-situ pressure-preserved coring tool and elaborates its pressure-preserving mechanism. The experimental and field test results demonstrate that this tool has a high pressure-preservation capability and can maintain a stable pressure in deep wells. This study provides a theoretical framework and design standards for the development of similar technologies.
Article
Thermodynamics
Aolin Lai, Qunwei Wang
Summary: This study assesses the impact of China's de-capacity policy on renewable energy development efficiency (REDE) using the Global-MSBM model and the difference-in-differences method. The findings indicate that the policy significantly enhances REDE, promoting technological advancements and marketization. Moreover, regions with stricter environmental regulations experience a higher impact.
Article
Thermodynamics
Mostafa Ghasemi, Hegazy Rezk
Summary: This study utilizes fuzzy modeling and optimization to enhance the performance of microbial fuel cells (MFCs). By simulating and analyzing experimental data sets, the ideal parameter values for increasing power density, COD elimination, and coulombic efficiency were determined. The results demonstrate that the fuzzy model and optimization methods can significantly improve the performance of MFCs.
Article
Thermodynamics
Zhang Ruan, Lianzhong Huang, Kai Wang, Ranqi Ma, Zhongyi Wang, Rui Zhang, Haoyang Zhao, Cong Wang
Summary: This paper proposes a grey box model for fuel consumption prediction of wing-diesel hybrid vessels based on feature construction. By using both parallel and series grey box modeling methods and six machine learning algorithms, twelve combinations of prediction models are established. A feature construction method based on the aerodynamic performance of the wing and the energy relationship of the hybrid system is introduced. The best combination is obtained by considering the root mean square error, and it shows improved accuracy compared to the white box model. The proposed grey box model can accurately predict the daily fuel consumption of wing-diesel hybrid vessels, contributing to operational optimization and the greenization and decarbonization of the shipping industry.
Article
Thermodynamics
Huayi Chang, Nico Heerink, Junbiao Zhang, Ke He
Summary: This study examines the interaction between off-farm employment decisions between couples and household clean energy consumption in rural China, and finds that two-paycheck households are more likely to consume clean energy. The off-farm employment of women is a key factor driving household clean energy consumption to a higher level, with wage-employed wives having a stronger influence on these decisions than self-employed ones.
Article
Thermodynamics
Hanguan Wen, Xiufeng Liu, Ming Yang, Bo Lei, Xu Cheng, Zhe Chen
Summary: Demand-side management is crucial to smart energy systems. This paper proposes a data-driven approach to understand the relationship between energy consumption patterns and household characteristics for better DSM services. The proposed method uses a clustering algorithm to generate optimal customer groups for DSM and a deep learning model for training. The model can predict the possibility of DSM membership for a given household. The results demonstrate the usefulness of weekly energy consumption data and household socio-demographic information for distinguishing consumer groups and the potential for targeted DSM strategies.
Article
Thermodynamics
Xinglan Hou, Xiuping Zhong, Shuaishuai Nie, Yafei Wang, Guigang Tu, Yingrui Ma, Kunyan Liu, Chen Chen
Summary: This study explores the feasibility of utilizing a multi-level horizontal branch well heat recovery system in the Qiabuqia geothermal field. The research systematically investigates the effects of various engineering parameters on production temperature, establishes mathematical models to describe their relationships, and evaluates the economic viability of the system. The findings demonstrate the significant economic feasibility of the multi-level branch well system.
Article
Thermodynamics
Longxin Zhang, Songtao Wang, Site Hu
Summary: This investigation reveals the influence of tip leakage flow on the modern transonic rotor and finds that the increase of tip clearance size leads to a decline in rotor performance. However, an optimal tip clearance size can extend the rotor's stall margin.
Article
Thermodynamics
Kristian Gjoka, Behzad Rismanchi, Robert H. Crawford
Summary: This paper proposes a framework for assessing the performance of 5GDHC systems and demonstrates it through a case study in a university campus in Melbourne, Australia. The results show that 5GDHC systems are a cost-effective and environmentally viable solution in mild climates, and their successful implementation in Australia can create new market opportunities and potential adoption in other countries with similar climatic conditions.
Article
Thermodynamics
Jianwei Li, Guotai Wang, Panpan Yang, Yongshuang Wen, Leian Zhang, Rujun Song, Chengwei Hou
Summary: This study proposes an orientation-adaptive electromagnetic energy harvester by introducing a rotatable bluff body, which allows for self-regulation to cater for changing wind flow direction. Experimental results show that the output power of the energy harvester can be greatly enhanced with increased rotatory inertia of the rotating bluff body, providing a promising solution for harnessing wind-induced vibration energy.
