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In times of climate change and increasing resource scarcity, the importance of sustainable renewable energy technologies is increasing. However, the photovoltaic (PV) industry is characterised by linear economy structures, energy-intensive production, downcycling and little sustainability. One starting point for sustainable technologies is offered...
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Context 1
... associated with sustainability are shown in Table 1. Two complex areas are the focus of the research. ...Context 2
... associated with sustainability are shown in Table 1. The right arm of the graph shows terms such as 'power conversion efficiency' (7408 occurrences), 'photovoltaic performance' (6807 occurrences), 'open circuit voltage' (5500 occurrences) or 'film' (7447 occurrences), which are all directly linked to photovoltaic module properties. ...Citations
... However, some of these ions sometimes stack in deep discharge or overcharge, forming a solid layer. This will lead to capacity degradation [150]. Fuel cells also are exposed to degradation. ...
The increased interest in renewable-based microgrids imposes several challenges, such as source integration, power quality, and operating cost. Dealing with these problems requires solving nonlinear optimization problems that include multiple linear or nonlinear constraints and continuous variables or discrete ones that require large dimensionality search space to find the optimal or sub-optimal solution. These problems may include the optimal power flow in the microgrid, the best possible configurations, and the accuracy of the models within the microgrid. Metaheuristic optimization algorithms are getting more suggested in the literature contributions for microgrid applications to solve these optimization problems. This paper intends to thoroughly review some significant issues surrounding microgrid operation and solve them using metaheuristic optimization algorithms. This study provides a collection of fundamental principles and concepts that describe metaheuristic optimization algorithms. Then, the most significant metaheuristic optimization algorithms that have been published in the last years in the context of microgrid applications are investigated and analyzed. Finally, the employment of metaheuristic optimization algorithms to specific microgrid issue applications is reviewed, including examples of some used algorithms. These issues include unit commitment, economic dispatch, optimal power flow, distribution system reconfiguration, transmission network expansion and distribution system planning, load and generation forecasting, maintenance schedules, and renewable sources max power tracking.
... Nearly 80% of all photovoltaic cells can be reused. If they are in good working condition, they can be treated with acid and then fortified in such a way as to restore their solar radiation capturing properties [40,[55][56][57]. Recycling of photovoltaic panels also applies to other silicon cells that can be melted down to the so-called wafers, and then create new modules from the obtained substance. ...
The article presents the developed technology for the comprehensive recycling of depleted, used or damaged photovoltaic (PV) cells made of crystalline silicon. The developed concepts of technology and the results of research on recycling were presented on silicon photovoltaic cells and modules. The sequence of steps and the type of procedures used are proposed. A thermal delamination method for used commercial photovoltaic modules has been developed to separate the materials. In addition, a recycling line was proposed along with the selection of machines and a holistic approach to project profitability based on a SWOT analysis. The presented semi-automatic installation enables recycling on a laboratory scale. The line was designed for the assumed capacity of 30 t/h. The total energy demand for the designed line was calculated, which showed that 16.49 kWh is needed to recycle 1 ton of photovoltaic laminates. Implementation of developed solutions on an industrial scale will allow to reduce production costs, mainly thanks to energy savings, which translates into less devastation of the natural environment and reduced material consumption. In addition, the implementation of the PV module recycling system will reduce and, consequently, eliminate a significant amount of used PV devices deposited in landfills. The content of the article gives a fresh and innovative look at the essence of photovoltaic panel recycling processes in terms of production benefits as well as financial and environmental benefits.
... Mariotti et al., also emphasize to re-design the DSSCs to enable a dye refurbishment [19]. Silver or metal components in general are causing problems in the glass recycling process [112]. That is why the ruthenium, silver and platinum layers should be replaced with environmental friendly alternatives [19,22,28]. ...
In a world with growing demand for resources and a worsening climate crisis, it is imperative to research and put into practice more sustainable and regenerative products and processes. Especially in the energy sector, more sustainable systems that are recyclable, repairable and remanufacturable are needed. One promising technology is dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). They can be manufactured with low energy input and can be made from non-toxic components. More than 70% of the environmental impact of a product is already determined in the design phase of a product, which is why it is essential to implement repair, remanufacturing and recycling concepts into the product design. In this publication, we explore appropriate design principles and business models that can be applied to DSSC technology. To realize this, we applied the concept of Circo Track, a method developed by the Technical University of Delft, to DSSCs and investigated which design concepts and business models are applicable. This method enables companies to transform a product that is disposed of after its useful life into one that can be used for longer and circulates in material cycles. The most important result is the description of a performance-based business model in which DSSCs are integrated into the customer’s building and green energy is provided as a service. During the operational phase, data is collected for product improvement and maintenance, and repair is executed when necessary. When the contract expires, it can be renewed, otherwise the modules are dismantled, reused, remanufactured or recycled.
Solar energy has an important role for increasing renewable energy use and circularity options in the sector are increasing. This study analyses the advances in the scope of the Sustainable Development Goals that aim to create a more equitable and peaceful world and a more livable environment. Studies that are focused on life cycle
perspectives, opportunities for end-of-life management, and multiple goals, including climate action as well as responsible consumption and production are compared. This is used to understand synergies between the circular economy and solar photovoltaic technologies in Türkiye. A need analysis survey is conducted with the participation of academic institutions and research centers, producers, and other stakeholders who operate in the solar photovoltaic sector in Türkiye. The results are analyzed across stakeholder categories and used to derive policy recommendations based on the top drivers, barriers, and enablers to increase circularity in the sector. The expected impacts on environmental, economic and social aspects are also questioned to obtain perspectives on possible pathways. For the first time, the realization of sustainable solar photovoltaic waste management in the context of the circular economy is discussed by stakeholders in Türkiye to establish consensus, increase collaboration, and support planning of future opportunities
