Experimental Treatment of Solar Chimney Power Plant—A Comprehensive Review

Abstract

Solar chimney power plants (SCPPs) are encouraging sustainable energy sources due to their low cost, abundance, low maintenance, and eco-friendliness. However, despite significant efforts to optimize SCPP design, their efficiency and power generation capabilities remain limited. Researchers have explored modifications in plant geometry and hybridization to improve efficiency. Despite extensive work in this area, commercialization of SCPPs has not yet been achieved. Most of the research is numerical and may differ from real-world practical use. The number of experimental studies is also relatively small. To facilitate commercialization, further investigation with practical and feasible dimensions is required. This comprehensive review paper aims to provide an in-depth analysis of experimental approaches and advancements in the field of SCPPs. The paper begins with an introduction, highlighting the background, significance, and objectives of the review. It provides an overview of the plants, discussing their principles and operation as innovative renewable energy systems. The historical development and evolution of solar chimneys are explored, shedding light on their progression over time. Case studies of operational hybrid SCPPs are examined to showcase real-world applications and performance. The paper also addresses environmental impacts and sustainability considerations associated with SCPPs. Furthermore, recommendations for future research and development in this field are provided to guide researchers and industry professionals. This study focuses on the possibility of commercialization of both standalone and hybrid SCPPs.

An application of artificial neural network (ANN) for comparative performance assessment of solar chimney (SC) plant for green energy production

“…The impact of different geometric parameters on the effectiveness of the SC plant is examined through power production, collector efficiency, and overall efficiency 4 . Here, the actual power generation is estimated as …”

“…It consists of three primary components: the collector absorber plate, a transparent cover, and a chimney. Energy conversion takes place from thermal to kinetic energy and finally into electricity 1 – 4 . Despite the simplicity in construction and principle, several issues exist, mostly the low efficiency of the plant.…”

“…Few researchers have explored this avenue, despite its potential impact on SC plant performance. On the other hand, investigations regarding the optimization of chimney diameter and divergence have received greater attention, primarily to maximize power generation 4 , 14 , 29 – 31 . However, when it comes to the classical Manzanares SC plant, the examination of optimal collector inlet height and chimney diameter remains notably limited.…”

Solar Chimney Power Plants for Sustainable Air Quality Management Integrating Photocatalysis and Particulate Filtration: A Comprehensive Review

“…Chikere et al [53] focused on using waste gas for thermal energy to enhance the overall performance of plants. Since the discussion of experimental work in a review paper is very sparse, Biswas et al [54] studied the experimental works in their review paper. Sharon et al [55] carried out an exhaustive study of the detailed application of solar chimneys.…”

Theoretical analysis and numerical study of natural convection inside combined solar chimney

“…It is discovered that geometric optimization is essential to the efficiency of solar chimney power generation (SCPPs) by examining the experimental procedures and advancements of SCPPs. 27 When the ground sloped absorber (γ = 0.6°) and divergent chimney (ϕ = +0.75°), the power generation can be increased by 80%. 28 Stair-shaped absorbers can increase power generation capacity by about 80%.…”