University of TehranJournal of Solar Energy Research2588-309710420251001Computational Analysis of Radial Turbine Design and Performance for Renewable Power Generation in Solar Chimney2603261510494410.22059/jser.2025.404342.1658ENYoucefBouzidaDepartment of Mechanical Engineering,Faculty Sciences and Technology, University of Abbas Laghrour Khenchela, 40004 Khenchela, AlgeriaAbdelmadjidChehhatDepartment of Mechanical Engineering,Faculty Sciences and Technology, University of Abbas Laghrour Khenchela, 40004 Khenchela, Algeria
Laboratory of Studies of Industrial Energy Systems LESEI, Faculty of Technology, University of Batna, AlgeriaMohamedSi-AmeurLaboratory of Studies of Industrial Energy Systems LESEI, Faculty of Technology, University of Batna 2, 05000 Batna, AlgeriaToufikArrifUnité de Recherche Appliquée en Energies Renouvelables, URAER, Centre de Développement des Energies Renouvelables, CDER, Ghardaïa, AlgeriaJournal Article20251018This study examines the performance improvement of Solar Chimneys Power Plants (SCPPs) through optimized turbine design using three-dimensional numerical simulation. The research contributes to ongoing efforts to advance clean and advanced renewable-energy systems intended to limit reliance on traditional fossil fuels. A simplified 3D computational model of an SCPP, based on the Manzanares prototype, was developed and analyzed in ANSYS Fluent to evaluate three radial turbine configurations. The designs incorporate exit angles of 72.5°, 75°, and 78.5°, coupled with appropriate blade numbers of 12, 14, and 16, respectively. The numerical results reveal that the 14-blade configuration (Design B) achieves the highest performance, generating 70.6 kW of power representing a 43.9% improvement over the reference Manzanares model (49.06 kW), while maintaining stable airflow and thermodynamic characteristics. The obtained results emphasize the critical role of turbine geometry on SCPP efficiency and further demonstrate the system’s potential as a reliable and sustainable renewable energy solution, particularly for regions with strong solar resources.https://jser.ut.ac.ir/article_104944_245e8d018c40ade56c7d80bc51caf001.pdfUniversity of TehranJournal of Solar Energy Research2588-309710420251001Water Desalination and Power Generation Using a New and Innovative Single-slope Double-basin System2616263210522410.22059/jser.2025.406743.1670ENMohammed AjmiAbedCollege of Health and Medical Techniques Al-Dour, Northern Technical University, IraqNaziha NAneizanGeneral Directorate of Education Salahaddin, Salahaddin, IraqFalah MohammedAbedAl-Dour Technical Institute, Northern Technical University, IraqJournal Article20251122While solar stills represent a sustainable solution for water desalination, their practical application is often hindered by modest productivity rates. This study presents a novel design aimed to enhance daily productivity through a double-basin configuration with a single condensation surface that separates the two. Peltier units enhance the condensation process by transferring heat between the two basins while simultaneously generating power. The redesigned setup, utilizing the upper basin as a water source, enhanced water extraction by increasing the condensation rate on the glass surface, as determined by productivity, absorption temperature, and generated voltage. The maximum water yield was recorded between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM, reaching approximately 0.479 L/hour, corresponding to a thermal gradient of about 17˚C. The daily yield was recorded at 0.8 L/day, 1.328 L/day, and 1.770 L/day for the system without the upper basin, with the Peltier unit basin, and with the Peltier unit basin coupled with a distillation basin, respectively. These results represent productivity enhancements of approximately 66% and 121%, respectively, indicating that the final modification significantly outperformed the conventional solar still by 221% in terms of overall daily output.https://jser.ut.ac.ir/article_105224_22e14e6e7dc6987d5c465799ed0edd2e.pdfUniversity of TehranJournal of Solar Energy Research2588-309710420251001Detection of Maximum Power Degradation in Photovoltaic Modules Using Support Vector Machines2633264410501810.22059/jser.2025.405467.1664ENNadiraMadjoudjCentre de Développement des Energies Renouvelables, CDER, 16340, Algiers, AlgeriaHichemHafdaouiCentre de Développement des Energies Renouvelables, CDER, 16340, Algiers, AlgeriaNasreddineBelhaouasCentre de Développement des Energies Renouvelables, CDER, 16340, Algiers, AlgeriaFatehMeharebCentre de Développement des Energies Renouvelables, CDER, 16340, Algiers, AlgeriaHouriaAssemCentre de Développement des Energies Renouvelables, CDER, 16340, Algiers, AlgeriaJournal Article20251102In this paper, a Support Vector Machine (SVM) classifier is employed to analyze the degradation of photovoltaic (PV) modules in Algeria after five months of operation under moderate and humid climate conditions. The PV module examined has a nominal maximum power of 270 W. Using a comprehensive electrical and environmental dataset, the SVM model effectively classified the performance states of the module. The analysis of irradiance evolution over time shows that the peak power delivered during the day reaches approximately 249 W when solar irradiance ranges from 950 W/m² to 1050 W/m², representing about 92% of the module’s nominal power, during peak irradiation hours, the module operated under cloudy conditions for nearly 30% of the time, resulting in noticeable power fluctuations and contributing to degradation effects. The SVM-based classification enabled the creation of heatmaps that intuitively highlight degradation patterns, offering a clearer and more interpretable diagnostic tool compared to traditional analytical methods. The results demonstrate that the proposed methodology is effective for detecting degradation in individual PV modules and scalable to PV power plants, thereby supporting improved monitoring, maintenance, and performance optimization in similar climatic environments.https://jser.ut.ac.ir/article_105018_78f2cefd69141d6b5f81b1802cee2d11.pdfUniversity of TehranJournal of Solar Energy Research2588-309710420251001A Computational Study on The Effect of Geometrical Configurations on Axisymmetric Solar Chimney Performance2645265610512210.22059/jser.2025.404298.1652ENBirjuYagnikGujarat Technological University, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India0009-0003-4139-0017BharatRamaniSLTIET, Gujarat Technological University, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, IndiaJournal Article20251014This work presents a CFD-based evaluation of the airflow behavior inside a solar chimney power plant, focusing on the buoyancy forces generated when solar energy heats the air beneath the collector. An axisymmetric model inspired by the Manzanares, Spain SCPP prototype with its central updraft tower was developed and simulated in ANSYS Fluent using a finite-volume framework. The analysis uses the standard k–ε turbulence model together with the Boussinesq approximation to represent density variations under moderate temperature differences. Predicted inlet velocities and temperatures at the chimney base were compared with available experimental measurements to confirm model accuracy. A soil layer beneath the collector was included as a thermal-storage medium, which increased heat retention and helped sustain stronger airflow, producing velocities up to approximately 17.49 m/s. Parametric studies showed that enlarging both the chimney height and collector radius yielded a noticeable rise in power potential. Temperature in the tower region increased from about 300 K to nearly 379.5 K depending on the operating conditions. Additional simulations conducted at solar irradiance levels of 400 and 1000 W/m² generated inlet velocities of roughly 11 m/s and 22 m/s, respectively. Upon examined, revealing its influence on the achievable pressure difference and power output.https://jser.ut.ac.ir/article_105122_dd07aa2ab69c383e3bf1e09f3a30cafd.pdfUniversity of TehranJournal of Solar Energy Research2588-309710420251001A Comparative Study of the Techno-Economic Feasibility of Grid and Hybrid Solar Energy Systems Versus the Government Electricity Tariff in Duhok, Kurdistan Region2657267110534310.22059/jser.2026.404772.1661ENSemyan OmedAlyousifiDepartment of Mechanic and Solar Energy, Duhok Technical Institute, Duhok Polytechnic University, Duhok, IraqMahir IsmaelAhmedDepartment of Energy Engineering, Technical College of Engineering, Duhok Polytechnic University, Duhok, IraqJournal Article20251023A techno-economic assessment of distributed photovoltaic (PV) systems in Duhok, Kurdistan Region, was conducted under the newly implemented Government Electricity (Runakî) tariff using a 15-year discounted cash-flow (DCF) framework with a 10% real discount rate. On-grid and hybrid (PV + battery) configurations were evaluated using levelized cost of electricity (LCOE), net present value (NPV), and payback period indicators. Solar resource data from NASA POWER assumed a baseline performance ratio of 0.80, while hybrid systems accounted for battery round-trip efficiency losses (η = 0.85). Discounted LCOE values were 0.041 USD/kWh for on-grid PV and 0.1066 USD/kWh for hybrid systems. On-grid systems yielded positive NPVs and short payback periods across industrial and commercial sectors, while hybrid systems became economically viable primarily at high residential demand levels or when enhanced reliability and energy autonomy are prioritized. Sensitivity analysis identified capital expenditure and PV performance (PR/PVOUT) as dominant economic drivers, followed by discount rate and operation and maintenance costs. Overall, the results indicate that on-grid PV systems can economically complement the Government Electricity program under the Runakî tariff, whereas hybrid systems are justified where storage-based resilience, supply security, or diesel displacement provides additional value beyond cost minimization.https://jser.ut.ac.ir/article_105343_2f776649b3f449939effd81982b89db9.pdfUniversity of TehranJournal of Solar Energy Research2588-309710420251001Integrated Assessment of Energy Storage and Thermal Losses in a Paraffin-Enhanced Solar Air Heater for Efficient Room Heating2672269010534210.22059/jser.2026.406779.1671ENSalah HajiAbid AunMiddle Technical University, Polytechnic College of Engineering Specializations, Baghdad, IraqAfaq JasimMahmoodMiddle Technical University, Polytechnic College of Engineering Specializations, Baghdad, IraqHussein MohammedAl-MrayateeMiddle Technical University, Polytechnic College of Engineering Specializations, Baghdad, IraqJournal Article20251122This paper presents an experimental investigation of the thermal performance, energy-storage capability, environmental impact, and financial feasibility of a dual solar air heater using paraffin wax as a phase change material (PCM) and a perforated absorber plate. The system was tested under actual winter weather conditions at airflow rates ranging from minimum 0.017 kg/s to maximum 0.032 kg/s to evaluate the useful thermal energy gain, heat loss, outlet air temperature, and overall thermal efficiency. The results show that at the optimal airflow rate 0.026 - 0.032 kg/s, the system produced approximately 32.36 MJ/day of net useful thermal energy—sufficient to raise the temperature of an indoor space of 2,677 m³ by 10 °C. A maximum thermal efficiency of 78% was achieved with a relatively low total heat loss of 205 W. In contrast, the maximum outlet temperature of 64 °C occurred at the lower airflow rate of 0.017 kg/s, which resulted in higher heat losses due to convection and radiative of 296 W. These increased losses caused a 10% reduction in thermal efficiency. Based on Iraq’s national thermal-energy emission factor of 0.95 kg CO₂/kWh, the system has the potential to reduce annual carbon dioxide emissions by approximately 1.86 metric tons.https://jser.ut.ac.ir/article_105342_8b289f87c8593935e714b7593e9020e5.pdfUniversity of TehranJournal of Solar Energy Research2588-309710420251001Upgrading Solar Thermal Performance with Engine Oil in Evacuated-Tube Collectors for Sustainable Energy Solutions2691270110522010.22059/jser.2025.404409.1657ENEstabraqKhudhair AbbasMinistry of Higher Education and Scientific Research/Scientific Research Authority, IraqKhalilAlwan HussienMinistry of Higher Education and Scientific Research/Scientific Research Authority, IraqMudhar A.Al-ObaidiTechnical Instructor Training Institute, Middle Technical University, Baghdad 10074, IraqFarhanRashidPetroleum Engineering Department, College of Engineering, University of Kerbala, Karbala 56001, IraqHazimAbdulla JasimMinistry of Higher Education and Scientific Research/Scientific Research Authority, IraqJabbar AhmedAbdullahMinistry of Higher Education and Scientific Research/Scientific Research Authority, IraqMoneer H.TolephihAl-Naji University, Baghdad 10015, Iraq;TanvirHusseinCollege of Administrative and Financial Science, Gulf University, Sanad, 26489, Kingdom of BahrainJournal Article20251016The high-demand for solar power systems has stimulated research efforts to find better heat transfer fluids for evacuated tube solar collectors (ETSCs). This research aims to appraise the thermal characteristics of an ETSC, which utilises engine oil as a heat transfer vehicle within a new efficient system beyond conventional flat-plate collectors. Temperature elevation under solar radiation becomes rapid because the evacuated tube contains engine oil with Grade 20-w50, which possesses a high-boiling point of >350 °C and heat transfer properties including 2.5 kJ/kg K heat capacity and 88 kg/m³ density. Experiments are conducted for different ranges of solar radiation intensity with different ranges of engine oil temperatures. According to the results, this system reacts swiftly to solar radiation changes and reaches a maximum temperature of 198 °C at a solar radiation of 800 w/m2, which makes water evaporation and superheating possible. More importantly, in comparison to traditional flat-plate collectors, this collector demonstrates a high conversion efficiency and quick response to the influencing parameters. The introduced approach not only enhances energy efficiency but also brings into line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG 7) to deliver reasonable and clean energy solutions to conflict climate change and improve sustainable industrialization.https://jser.ut.ac.ir/article_105220_277154781c3f6245ea6426cc7f4c2a0f.pdfUniversity of TehranJournal of Solar Energy Research2588-309710420251001Numerical Analysis of Heat Transfer and Phase Change in a Metal Foam Enhanced Phase Change Materials for Solar Thermal Energy Applications2702271310529010.22059/jser.2025.404688.1660ENDeyaaM. N. MahmoodTechnical Instructor Training Institute, Middle Technical University, Baghdad 10074, IraqMudhar A.Al-ObaidiTechnical Instructor Training Institute, Middle Technical University, Baghdad 10074, IraqFarhanLafta RashidPetroleum Engineering Department/College of Engineering, University of Kerbala-Karbala 5600-IraqSuraS. Al-MusawiCollege of Engineering, Al-Naji University, Baghdad, IraqJournal Article20251020Phase change materials (PCMs) are vital in solar energy systems as a result to their capability for thermal energy storage and release via latent heat. However, the fundamentally low thermal conductivity of most PCMs meaningfully obstructs their heat transfer performance. To address this restriction, the combination of high-conductivity structures such as metal foams demonstrating highly effective. This research exhibits a numerical investigation into the impact of embedding metal foams, particularly aluminium and copper, within two types of PCMs (RT42 and RT54HC) to boost their thermal performance in solar thermal applications. The research appraises metal foam porosity levels ranging between 85% to 95%. The results indicate a notable decrease in melting (charging) time as porosity decreases, specifically a 15.4% reduction for aluminium foam and a 10% reduction for copper foam when the porosity ratio drops from 95% to 85%. This highlights the occasion for considerable enhancement of heat transfer performance at lesser porosity levels. While using aluminium foam, RT42 melts faster than RT54, with melting times of 1121 s and 1787 s respectively, indicating a 37% decrease. However, increasing heat flux further reduces melting time, with RT42 in 85% porosity copper foam hitting 870 s at 3000 W/m².https://jser.ut.ac.ir/article_105290_94c6b8a84e540222557024b65d53049f.pdfUniversity of TehranJournal of Solar Energy Research2588-309710420251001Design of Eco-Sustainable Renewable Energy Systems for Fish Farming2714272510531610.22059/jser.2025.402632.1637ENManjuBhardwajCenter for Research and Advanced Studies, Shri Ramswaroop Memorial University, Tindola, Barabanki, INDIAShikhaSinghDepartment of Electrical Engineering, Madan Mohan Malaviya University of Technology, Gorakhpur, INDIA0000-0002-9938-5582Ram GopalSinghDepartment of Physical Sciences, Shri Ramswaroop Memorial University, Tindola, Barabanki, INDIAJournal Article20250919Aquaculture is one of the prime sector; affected by climatic variations and environmental pollution. In this research, a renewable energy based solution is proposed by integrating photovoltaic (PV) modules with a glasshouse structure to provide a controlled environment for fish ponds, ensuring production regardless of climatic fluctuations. Furthermore, this study analyzes the performance of two commonly used solar cell materials; crystalline silicon (c-Si) and nanocrystalline silicon (nc-Si) within glasshouse-integrated PV system to maximize electrical energy output. The results demonstrate that c-Si and nc-Si shows similar temperature (16˚C-35˚C) of fish pond. Additionally, c-Si is 2% more efficient than nc-Si, which increases monthly electrical energy generation by 20% to a maximum of 2000kW in January. The choice of solar cell materials for the glasshouse integrated PVT system should be optimized in accordance with the expected lifespan and performance requirements of the respective greenhouse type, as the life of glasshouse materials varies from 5 to 30 years. Therefore, this study recommends appropriate solar cell materials for specific glasshouse designs by evaluating Energy Payback Time (EPBT) and Life Cycle Conversion Efficiency (LCCE), considering thermal exergy range from 7.5 years to 9 years and 12% to 21%.https://jser.ut.ac.ir/article_105316_884c99a68b2fc1497d85ef3dd845b262.pdfUniversity of TehranJournal of Solar Energy Research2588-309710420251001Comparative Study of Horizontal Surface Solar Radiation for Different South Asian Zones2726274010531310.22059/jser.2025.399113.1606ENSusmitaMazumderDepartment of Mathematics, Chittagong University of Engineering & Technology, Chattogram, BangladeshUjjwal KumarDebDepartment of Mathematics, Chittagong University of Engineering & Technology, Chattogram, BangladeshJournal Article20250723This study presents a comparative analysis of solar radiation across selected South Asian regions using the Angstrom–Prescott linear regression model. This model estimates monthly average global solar radiation on horizontal surfaces from bright sunshine duration, considering latitude and longitude. The monthly average solar radiation data for 2025 were calculated and compared with model-based estimates across different zones, demonstrating strong agreement between observed and predicted values through graphical and statistical analyses. Among the eight locations we analyzed, Male received the highest annual solar radiation value 3890.61, whereas Kabul recorded the lowest 3146.65 .The seasonal variations indicated that Male experienced higher solar radiation and brighter sunshine duration from February to June and July to September, with values ranging from (36.12 to 40.23 ).In contrast, Kabul’s sunshine duration during the same periods was lower, ranging between (28.91 to 33.25 ) . Both locations showed a decline in sunshine duration between October and January, with Male ranging from (40.31 to 38.96 ) and Kabul from (32.91 to 30.68 ).Additionally, clearness index analysis confirmed that Male experienced the clearest atmospheric conditions with minimal cloud cover, whereas Kabul was more affected by cloudiness. These results provide valuable insights for future solar energy assessments in South Asia.https://jser.ut.ac.ir/article_105313_e382134951716252bcdc9625becde6de.pdf