Nie, Jing , Guo, Tong-Zheng , Nie, Li-Yao-Min , Xu, Jin-Chen , Jia, Jing
2026-03-01 APPLIED THERMAL ENGINEERING 2026 289(卷), null(期), (null页)
This study develops and evaluates a large-scale transparent photovoltaic solar chimney power plant (PV-SCPP) as a sustainable solution for desert ecological restoration and climate regulation. A comprehensive mathematical model and numerical simulation platform were created to examine the system's dual benefits: renewable energy generation and precipitation enhancement. A new Rainfall Factor is introduced to quantify the additional precipitation triggered by the system through an evaporation-condensation process. The results show that the transparent PV-SCPP produces about thirteen times the energy output of a conventional solar chimney, while also fostering favorable microclimatic conditions for rainfall. To enhance precipitation, the system requires chimney heights of at least 600 m, solar irradiation above 600 W/m2, relative humidity above 25%, and top wind speeds below 10.5 m/s. A comparative analysis of the Ulan Buh and Badain Jaran Deserts shows that the Ulan Buh Desert is better suited for condensation formation and rainfall promotion. Beyond its energy performance, this study emphasizes the potential of transparent PV-SCPP technology to aid in desert climate regulation, ecological restoration, and long-term regional sustainability.