Thermal Optimisation of Gigascale Solar Photovoltaics

Summary

Research Area:

Computational Fluid Dynamics; Heat Transfer; Photovoltaics; Engineering; Solar Farms 

Supervisor

Professor Marcela Bilek.

Research location

Biomedical Engineering

Synopsis

Project Description:

This work is funded by Australian Research Council in collaboration with two leading start-ups in the renewable energy sector: Sun Cable and 5B. The project aims to improve the feasibility, efficiency, and performance of gigascale solar photovoltaics. To achieve this, we will collaborate directly with 5B and Sun Cable using data from one of the world’s first gigascale solar fields, the Australia-Asia Power Link (AAPowerLink), to optimise its performance, as well as the performance of individual photovoltaic modules. By optimising the feasibility and performance of the AAPowerLink, this project will enhance the viability of gigascale solar projects in the future.

• Project 1: Simulations of thermal performance at module and sub-array level.

The candidate will develop a numerical model to simulate the thermal behaviour of 5B’s MAVERICK (MAV) photovoltaic array. The candidate will validate these models against experimental data obtained by 5B and Sun Cable at their Technology Research Park. The model must consider the effects of free convection, forced convection, radiation and moisture transport on the MAV array under various conditions and orientations. This model will then be used to explore optimisation strategies of the MAV’s design, with the goal being to develop a new thermally efficient photovoltaic array.

• Project 2: Simulations of the PV Heat Island effect at field (120 km2) scale.

The candidate will develop a numerical model to investigate how the photovoltaic heat island effect affects performance at the field scale. Computations will be performed that resolve the atmospheric boundary layer and account for shear and buoyancy-induced turbulence as well as the surface roughness caused by the MAV arrays. The model will be validated against temperature readings taken by 5B and Sun Cable at their technology research park and then used to optimise the thermal performance of a 2000 m2 MAV field. This includes simulating how wind penetration and by-pass, orientation and air moisture affect the temperatures of the field. The candidate will directly contribute to the final layout of the solar farm.

The project will employ the commercial Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) software COMSOL Multiphysics. The candidates will be trained in CFD best practice, including model building, meshing and validation, preparing them for a career in both academia and industry. In particular, successful candidates will gain strong capabilities in modelling-for-design with industry exposure and collaboration with leading start-ups.

Additional information

Successful candidates:

• Must have a bachelor’s degree in Engineering or Science and have an excellent academic track record.
• Should have prior research experience, e.g. an Honours degree (First Class), a Master's degree, a research assistant job, or equivalent industry experience.
• Will require a strong interest in computational fluid dynamics and experience in the physical sciences (physics, maths, computer science).
• That demonstrates proficiency in fluid mechanics, numerical methods for partial differential equations and the finite element/volume method would be highly desired but not essential.
• Must be able to demonstrate strong written and oral communication skills and the capacity to work independently and as part of a team

How to Apply:

To apply, please email marcela.bilek@sydney.edu.au, with the subject line “PhD Application” and your name. Include the following:

• CV and cover letter
• Transcripts

Want to find out more?

Opportunity ID

The opportunity ID for this research opportunity is 3502

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