Renewable Energy Systems

Shortening the way to grid parity

Optimisation of Photovoltaic Plants : Economic Cable Sizing

By Fernando Nuno / Published on Sat, 2010-01-16 22:25

Over-sizing the cross section of a cable beyond the result of voltage and current theoretical calculations is, in most of cases, a worthwhile investment that is easily amortised by the electricity bill savings (reduction of Joule losses). In the case of a photovoltaic (PV) installation, the allocated price for energy (feed-in tariff) is much higher than the market price, getting amortised much faster.

Together with an improved profitability of the project, there are additional advantages when using bigger cable sections:

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Grid modelling for wind farm harmonic voltages evaluation

By Isabelle Heriakian / Published on Thu, 2010-03-11 16:08

A prospective wind farm consisting of 21 turbines with 2 MW double-fed induction generators is planned to be connected to a 110 kV substation in distribution system.

In this case study, different network configurations are modelled.

The influence of the accuracy of grid modelling on grid harmonic impedance characteristic at a particular point is analysed, and a comparison of the results is done for the different network configurations.

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CSP Training course - Lesson 2 : Linear Focus Technologies

By Fernando Nuno / Published on Tue, 2010-03-09 11:14

In this session the main elements of the parabolic trough technology will be described: concentrators, receivers, heat transfer fluids, connecting elements, etc.

Then, the main characteristics of today’s parabolic trough solar thermal power plants will be presented: design, operation and costs.

Finally, the audience will get some ideas for future developments.

This is the 2nd lesson of the general training on CSP technology.

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Call for Papers - CIS-ES 2010

By Fernando Nuno / Published on Thu, 2010-03-04 18:21

Now in its fourth year, the Spanish Solar Industry conference will take place on 7-8 October 2010 in Madrid. This annual event will, among other topics, cover legislative developments, national and international market trends, look at how close Spain is to grid parity and bring in finance experts to show how to reduce costs for PV installations.

Solarpraxis invites all companies, associations, institutes, public-sector bodies and professionals to submit contributions related to the broad field of solar energy.

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Thin Film Solar Summit Europe 2010

By Fernando Nuno / Published on Thu, 2010-02-18 22:03

A comprehensive session on technical, economic and financial issues related to the thin film photovoltaics. Go to the website for more information and registration.

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CSP Training course - Lesson 1 : General Principles

By Fernando Nuno / Published on Thu, 2010-02-18 15:55

Lesson 1 : Fundamentals of concentrating solar thermal power

In this session, the contents will focus on the physical and thermodynamic basis of Concentrated Solar Power:

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