Artificial Intelligence Applications in Renewable Power Systems

Introduction

Over the past decade, there has been a noticeable increase in power usage worldwide, primarily attributed to the technology revolution. In the present era, electronic devices and power systems are integral elements that comprise the fundamental aspects of modern human existence. Electricity is deemed indispensable for numerous critical activities at both organizational and individual levels. Furthermore, the escalating global population and the advancement of smart cities will contribute to a substantial surge in the need for power in the forthcoming years.

Power generation systems primarily rely on three main energy sources: nuclear power, fossil fuels, and renewable sources. Currently, the predominant source of power generation relies on steam turbines, which are fueled by fossil fuels, nuclear energy, biomass, or geothermal resources. However, it is important to note that these turbines have the potential to generate a significant amount of carbon emissions, which can have adverse effects on the Earth's ecosystem, the environment, and human well-being. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) (2003) states that the creation of energy from fossil fuels results in the production of the following elements:

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  Carbon dioxide (CO₂) has the potential to exert a significant influence on climate change. Undoubtedly, the combustion of fuels results in the release of carbon dioxide into the surrounding environment. The emission of CO₂ and its subsequent pollution pose a significant environmental hazard, potentially resulting in adverse consequences such as coastal flooding, heightened frequency and intensity of heat waves, exacerbated drought conditions, an upsurge in severe storms, and an amplified propagation of infectious diseases (Islam, et al., 2021).

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  The amalgamation of sulfur dioxide (SO₂) with rainwater results in the formation of acid rain, which has the potential to cause detrimental effects on flora in forests and fruit crops. Undoubtedly, this particular combination has the potential to be lethal to plant life. Furthermore, the emission of SO₂ has the potential to cause the acidification of rivers, resulting in the creation of biologically inert environments, as well as altering the chemical composition of soil. Sulfur dioxide has been observed to expedite the degradation of rock and paint, resulting in detrimental effects on numerous architectural structures and historical landmarks (Xu, et al., 2021).

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  The chemical element Mercury has the ability to remain suspended in the atmosphere for duration of approximately one year, thereby posing a significant risk of pollution to both terrestrial and aquatic environments. Furthermore, it has the capability to be transported over vast distances spanning thousands of kilometers from its initial location. Exposure to this substance has the potential to adversely affect the central nervous system and result in congenital abnormalities (Gworek, et al., 2020).

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  Nitrogen oxides (NO_x) have the potential to generate ground-level ozone and smog upon exposure to sunlight. Additionally, it leads to a rise in algal growth inside freshwater bodies such as lakes and rivers. Consequently, the reduction in oxygen levels in the water exerts an impact on aquatic fauna, including fish and various other creatures. Nitrogen dioxide has the potential to induce respiratory ailments in animals. (Oruc & Dincer, 2019).

Consequently, numerous nations initiated efforts to explore alternative energy sources in order to safeguard the environment and human well-being, while mitigating pollution levels. In recent times, a number of countries including China, the United States, France, and many European nations have adopted the utilization of renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, as a means to generate electricity while minimizing the release of harmful substances such as sulfur dioxide (SO₂), carbon dioxide (CO₂), and other pollutants. In recent times, a growing number of multinational corporations and industrial sectors have been embracing innovative methodologies rooted in renewable resources in order to provide environmentally sustainable forms of energy (Gonzalo, et al., 2019; Hamilton, et al., 2021).