Exploring a solar photovoltaic-based energy solution for green manufacturing industry

Abstract

a large amount of electricity is required to support the operation of large manufacturing facilities. Integrating renewable energy into the manufacturing industry reduces the carbon footprint and ensures the long-term sustainability. A key challenge in deploying renewable technology is the power volatility. We propose a solar photovoltaic-based co-generation system to accommodate the electricity needs of semiconductor wafer fabs. The problem is formulated as a stochastic programming model with the goal to minimize the system cost subject to the loss-of-load probability constraint. We compare the renewable energy yield and the system cost at five different wafer fabs in the U.S. Given appropriate tax incentives or equipment subsidies, the study shows that the solar-based energy solution is economically competitive in regions where the overcast days are less than 35% of the year.

Integrating Renewable Energy Solutions in the Manufacturing Industry: Challenges and Opportunities: A Review

“…Initial efforts focused on demonstrating the feasibility of incorporating renewable sources, such as solar and wind energy, into industrial operations. Taboada et al (2012) highlighted the potential of solar photovoltaic systems in reducing the carbon footprint of manufacturing facilities, setting the stage for broader acceptance and implementation of renewable technologies in the industry. As awareness of climate change and its impacts intensified, so did the push for renewable energy adoption.…”

“…Renewable energy technologies, such as solar photovoltaics, wind turbines, and biomass energy systems, offer the manufacturing industry an opportunity to decouple energy consumption from carbon emissions. Taboada et al (2012) explored a solar photovoltaic-based energy solution for green manufacturing, highlighting the potential for renewable energy to accommodate the electricity needs of large manufacturing facilities while minimizing system costs and reducing the carbon footprint. Similarly, Xin et al (2022) investigated the impact of renewable energy technology innovation on manufacturing carbon intensity in China, revealing significant inhibitory effects on local and neighboring carbon intensity, thereby underscoring the role of innovation in facilitating the green transformation of the manufacturing sector.…”

“…Renewable energy technologies, such as solar, wind, and biomass, provide viable alternatives that can substantially lower emissions and reduce reliance on non-renewable resources. Moreover, the volatility of fossil fuel prices and the potential for regulatory changes favoring sustainability further incentivize the adoption of renewable energy solutions (Taboada et al, 2012;Xin et al, 2022). Despite the clear benefits, the integration of renewable energy into manufacturing processes presents a complex array of challenges.…”

“…These include the initial costs of technology adoption, the need for infrastructure modification, and the requirement for skilled personnel to manage and maintain new energy systems. Additionally, the intermittent nature of some renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind, necessitates innovative approaches to energy storage and demand management (Taboada et al, 2012). Nevertheless, the opportunities afforded by renewable energy for the manufacturing sector are substantial.…”

Global Green Manufacturing Initiatives:A step forward in reducing pollution

“…In the coming 20-30 years the demand of electricity will be enhanced and this will be fulfilled by clean and sustainable energy through wind and solar power [11].…”