Title : Climate-Specific Modelling of Photovoltaic Soiling: A Case Study of Kumasi, Ghana
Name : Joseph Agbogla
University : Kumasi Technical University
Country : Ghana
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Photovoltaic (PV) system performance is significantly influenced by soiling—the deposition of dust and particulate matter on module surfaces—which reduces solar transmittance and energy output. While numerous models have been developed to predict soiling losses, most are calibrated for arid or semi-arid climates and do not accurately reflect the conditions in tropical sub-humid regions. In Ghana, and particularly in the city of Kumasi, the unique combination of high humidity, frequent rainfall, and locally generated aerosols from biomass burning and urban emissions results in soiling patterns that diverge markedly from those assumed in conventional models. This disconnect presents a critical challenge for reliable energy yield forecasting and operational planning of PV systems in the region.
This study addresses the gap by developing a predictive model specifically adapted to Kumasi’s climatic and environmental conditions. Field experiments were conducted over a 12-month period using PV modules exposed to natural weathering. Optical transmittance measurements were used to quantify soiling losses, while corresponding meteorological data—including rainfall, temperature, humidity, wind speed, and aerosol optical depth—were collected using both ground-based and satellite sources. Advanced statistical analysis and machine learning algorithms, including multivariate regression and random forest regression, were employed to identify key predictors and construct a robust model capable of forecasting soiling rates and associated energy losses.
Preliminary findings indicate that dry spell duration, relative humidity, and aerosol concentration are the dominant climatic variables influencing soiling accumulation in Kumasi. Unlike in arid regions where wind-driven dust predominates, localized emissions from biomass and vehicular sources play a significant role. The developed model demonstrates a mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) of less than 10%, significantly improving upon existing generalized models. This climate-specific approach offers a valuable tool for solar asset operators, enabling more accurate energy output predictions, optimized cleaning schedules, and informed financial modeling.
This work represents a significant contribution to the field of PV performance modeling in tropical regions. It emphasizes the need for localized soiling models that account for regional climatic dynamics, thereby supporting the efficient integration of solar energy into Ghana’s renewable energy mix and strengthening the long-term viability of PV systems across sub-Saharan Africa.
Keywords:
Photovoltaic soiling, climate-specific modeling, Kumasi, Ghana, tropical environment, solar energy, machine learning,
PV performance, energy yield forecasting.
Biography
Mr. Joseph Agbogla is an accomplished mechanical engineer with a strong interdisciplinary background that bridges industrial experience and academic expertise. With over a decade of professional engagement, he has applied engineering principles to drive innovation and efficiency in both industry and higher education. In the industrial sector, Joseph has led performance-focused initiatives, including a notable operational improvement project that resulted in a 20% increase in productivity and system efficiency. Currently serving as a lecturer in Mechanical Engineering, Joseph teaches core modules including Thermodynamics, Heat Transfer, Fluid Mechanics, Instrumentation Science and Technology, and Plant Maintenance. His teaching is informed by practical experience and a deep understanding of energy systems, which he continues to advance through rigorous research. As a PhD candidate, his work focuses on the mathematical and experimental modeling of photovoltaic (PV) soiling, with a particular emphasis on the impact of regional climatic conditions—especially within tropical sub-humid environments such as Kumasi, Ghana.
Joseph has published in leading peer-reviewed journals in the field of renewable energy. His recent works include “Soiling estimation methods in solar photovoltaic systems: Review, challenges and future directions” (https://doi.org/10.1016/j.rineng.2025.104810), which presents a comprehensive analysis of current soiling estimation approaches and outlines future research needs; and “Techno-environmental
assessment of the fuel properties of a variety of briquettes for biomass boiler applications” (https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cles.2025.100185), which evaluates the energy performance and sustainability implications of biomass briquettes in industrial heating systems. Driven by a commitment to sustainable energy development and capacity building, Joseph continues to mentor the next generation of engineers while contributing to the advancement of context-sensitive energy solutions in sub-Saharan Africa. His combined experience in technical practice, applied research, and engineering education positions him as a valuable contributor to discussions on renewable energy strategy and implementation.
Title : Field Trial in Sour Gas Environment at Hydrate Formation Temperatures
Name : Ahmad A. Alamer
University : Saudi Aramco
Country : Saudi Arabia
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Since original field design, the hydrate inhibition philosophy included injection from wellhead platforms (WHP) and from the downstream gas processing facility. Engineering studies were conducted and determined there is a possibility of eliminating the need for injection from the wellhead platforms. To confirm, a field trial was conducted at hydrate formation temperatures. A shut-in case and continuous flow case were evaluated and both cases proved that no hydrate has formed, eliminating the need for hydrate inhibitor injection at the wellhead platforms.
Most offshore sour gas fields struggle with the phenomenon of hydrate formation during winter season or even year-round. To deal with that, hydrate inhibitors are used, which are either kinetic or thermodynamic. The hydrate inhibitor injection philosophy is deeply evaluated during the design field, where flow assurance studies and transient analyses are conducted to determine the optimal strategy. During our field design, the philosophy that was used is injecting the inhibitor from the wellhead platforms to the tie-in platform (TP) and also injecting the inhibitor from the downstream gas processing facility at onshore.
After operating the field and studying the real time operating parameters, the idea of stopping inhibitor injection from the wellhead platform was evaluated. A lab study was conducted, mimicking the field conditions, flow assurance was revised and many other assessments were made, all of which have shown positive indications.
To truly determine the possibility, a field trial was conducted. Two cases were evaluated to truly determine whether stopping the inhibitor permanently would be possible. First was the flowing case where hydrate inhibitor injection at the wellhead was stopped but gas production was resumed normally. After monitoring the pressure for two days, no hydrate formation has occurred and the flowing case was successful. The second case was the shut-in case where the flowline between the wellhead and the tie-in was isolated and packed with 2400 psig. The flowline was then monitored for 24 hours ensuring no hydrate has formed. Afterwards, the flowline was depressurized and the trial was deemed successful.
Biography
Ahmad Alamer is a Process Engineer at Saudi Aramco with a chemical engineering degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. He specializes in process optimizations, innovation, and sustainability, delivering impactful solutions and advancing best practices across the industry.
Title : Global Value Chains and CO2 Emissions: Governance Quality and Technological Assimilation as Mitigating Factors
Name : Prof. Hayat Khan
University : Guangdong University of Foreign Studies
Country : China
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Global value chains are pivotal in international trade and economic growth, yet their environmental impact, particularly concerning CO2 emissions, remains a pressing issue. This study investigates the relationship between GVC participation and CO2 emissions, considering the roles of digital connectivity, technological assimilation, environmental policy frameworks, and governance quality. Using a two-step system GMM model, the research examines multiple GVC dimensions, including GVC position, backward and forward participation, and GVC depth and complexity. The results reveal that deeper integration into GVCs, especially through backward linkages and complex chain activities, significantly increases emissions. However, institutional quality, measured through factors such as government effectiveness and regulatory quality, can mitigate these emissions, underscoring the critical role of robust governance. The study recommends that policymakers enhance regulatory systems, promote sustainable technologies, and foster international cooperation to manage emissions. Limitations include the reliance on proxy measures for institutional quality and data constraints, suggesting that future research should consider broader environmental indicators and explore sector-specific policy impacts.
Keywords: Global Value Chains, technology, Governance, Environmental Policy, Sustainable Development
Research interest: Environmental and Energy economics, sustainable development, technological innovations, Digital Economy, and related areas
Title : Strategies for Adapting Sustainable Hydroelectric Power Generation in Future Climate Change Scenarios
Name : Dr. Halah Kadhim Tayyeh
University : Al-Qasim Green University
Country : Iraq
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Climate change is increasingly becoming a prominent issue in the 21st century due to its devastating socio-economic and environmental impacts. In particular, Hydroelectric power generation is a renewable and clean energy source that plays a vital role in global energy production. However, climate change is affecting the reliability and sustainability of hydropower due to changes in water availability, seasonal variability, and extreme weather events. This paper examines various methods to address the challenges climate change poses to hydroelectric power generation. The approaches discussed include optimizing dam and reservoir operations through advanced hydrological forecasting, integrating real-time climate data, and using machine learning algorithms for adaptive water management. Additionally, the study explores the development of multi-reservoir systems to improve water storage and distribution, the use of pumped storage as a flexible energy solution, and the diversification of energy portfolios by combining hydropower with other renewable sources like solar and wind. Furthermore, analyse the benefits of enhancing infrastructure resilience, retrofitting existing facilities, and adopting sustainable practices to reduce greenhouse gas emissions linked to hydropower reservoirs. The findings suggest that a combination of technological innovations, improved environmental modelling, and policy adaptations is essential for ensuring the future viability of hydroelectric power in an increasingly changing climate.
Keywords: Mitigation Strategies, Climate Change, Renewable Energy, Reservoir Operation, Sustainable Production, Emission Scenario Trends.
Biography
Dr. Halah Kadhim Tayyeh AL-Nealy, based in Al-Saidiya, Baghdad, Iraq, is an accomplished civil engineer specializing in water resource engineering. She holds a Ph.D. in Water Resource Engineering from the University of Babylon (2023–2024), a Master’s degree in the same field from the same university (2013–2015), and a Bachelor’s in Civil Engineering from Al-Qadissiayh University (2008–2012). Halah has extensive teaching experience, serving as a lecturer at AL-Mustaqbal College University (2017–2019), Al-Qasim Green University (2018–2023), and Al-Qadissiayh University (2015–2016), where she taught courses related to fluid mechanics, hydrology, soil investigation, and hydraulic structures. Her research focuses on hydraulic performance, climate change impacts on hydropower, soil stabilization, and concrete behavior, with multiple publications on these topics in reputed journals and conferences, including a case study published in Applied Energy. Halah also holds a patent for an innovative hospital wastewater treatment unit using activated carbon sponge technology. She actively maintains academic profiles on platforms such as ResearchGate, Google Scholar, ORCID, and Publons, showcasing her contributions to civil engineering. Additionally, she is proficient in various software and programming tools, including AutoCAD, MATLAB, Flow 3D, STAADPRO, and HEC-RAS, along with expertise in statistical and hydrological modeling tools like SWAT, ArcGIS, and XLStat.