Administrative Divisions Al-Mustaqbal Energy Research Center
The solar energy industry is undergoing a radical transformation driven by the capabilities of artificial intelligence, which has become an indispensable element in optimizing energy production, reducing operational costs, and enhancing reliance on renewable sources. As we enter 2025, the pace of innovation linking AI to solar energy is accelerating, with advanced technologies such as predictive maintenance now relying on real-time data analysis from solar panels to detect faults before they occur, minimizing unexpected shutdowns and extending system lifespan. Smart production forecasting has also become more accurate thanks to machine learning models that utilize weather data and historical performance, helping grid operators manage supply and store surplus energy with high precision. One of the most prominent applications is aerial image analysis using drones, where computer vision algorithms detect dirt, misalignment, or surface defects that may affect performance—at speeds far exceeding traditional manual inspections. AI also enables the extraction of deep insights from big data, helping to understand solar energy usage patterns and analyze system efficiency across regions and timeframes, thereby supporting strategic decisions in distribution and development. Platforms like API4AI offer customized solutions based on computer vision, tailored to the local conditions of each project, such as light incidence angles, thermal distortions, or environmental characteristics. With the global shift toward renewable energy sources, solar power has emerged as one of the most vital solutions for achieving sustainable development and reducing dependence on fossil fuels. However, the advancement of this sector goes far beyond installing panels on rooftops—it requires the integration of advanced technologies like artificial intelligence, which is now revolutionizing energy efficiency and resource management. One of the key applications is predicting panel degradation, where drones equipped with image analysis algorithms detect micro-cracks or hotspots invisible to the human eye, helping extend panel lifespan and maintain optimal electricity generation. Smart solar tracking systems have also evolved to operate using self-learning algorithms that adjust panel angles in real time, responding to weather changes such as morning fog or light reflections, resulting in a significant increase in energy output compared to conventional systems. AI also plays an environmental role through drone-based monitoring of solar farms, where intelligent systems analyze images to identify plant and animal species in the area, allowing for accurate environmental impact assessments and biodiversity preservation planning. Moreover, AI enhances technician efficiency through interactive training platforms using smartphones or augmented reality, providing visual guidance or step-by-step instructions for troubleshooting, reducing reliance on field experts and improving repair speed and quality. In scientific research, the emergence of intelligent hypothesis generators—systems that analyze thousands of scientific papers and patents to propose new hypotheses for developing solar materials and cells—allows researchers to focus more on practical testing rather than lengthy theoretical reviews. The importance of self-learning smart grids is also growing, as they autonomously manage energy flow based on consumption and production data, deciding when to store energy in batteries, feed it into the grid, or even sell the surplus. This flexibility ensures grid stability and increases efficiency without costly infrastructure upgrades. Acoustic diagnostics for solar inverters have also been introduced, using sound sensors to detect subtle changes in operational noise, enabling early fault prediction and preventive maintenance that avoids sudden outages and reduces energy losses. To address the challenges of integrating multiple energy sources, hybrid integration systems have been developed to create forecasting centers capable of predicting solar and wind energy production simultaneously, then distributing it through optimized operational schedules, reducing supply fluctuations and enhancing grid reliability. On the residential level, small system owners can now rely on smart assistants via mobile apps to ask questions and receive accurate troubleshooting answers without direct technical support. Another practical innovation is the augmented reality assistant for panel installation, where technicians use tablets or smart glasses to view a 3D layout showing the exact placement and angle of each component, minimizing installation errors and ensuring efficiency from the first moment of operation. International collaboration in this field has become easier thanks to shared work platforms equipped with real-time translation, allowing research teams from different countries to exchange data, documents, and even hold meetings without language barriers. In cold climates, AI has helped develop smart heating systems for solar panels, where thermal cameras identify areas prone to freezing and activate heating only when necessary, reducing energy loss and ensuring continuous efficient operation. Users can also benefit from 3D roof modeling applications that allow them to photograph their homes and generate virtual models to determine the best panel placement, calculate quantity, and estimate costs instantly. To overcome weather variability, local cloud cover forecasting systems have been developed using satellite imagery and ground data to predict cloud movement with minute-level accuracy, giving grid operators better control over energy management. Finally, video-based diagnostics have emerged, where technicians record short clips of system issues that are automatically analyzed to generate reports identifying faults and optimal repair methods, saving time and creating valuable knowledge bases for training new personnel. Integrating artificial intelligence with solar energy is not merely an improvement in efficiency—it is a qualitative leap toward smarter, more reliable, and sustainable energy systems. These innovations not only help address technical and environmental challenges but also pave the way for achieving sustainable development goals and ensuring a cleaner, more efficient energy future. --- Prepared by :Esraa Mohammed Hassan
University of Babylon Students Implement a Project on Growing Plants under Solar Panels at Al-Mustaqbal Center for Energy Research The Al-Mustaqbal Center for Energy Research welcomed postgraduate students from the University of Babylon to carry out their applied research project inside the center’s laboratories, with the support of Prof. Dr. Hasan Shaker Majdi, President of Al-Mustaqbal University, and under the supervision of Assist. Prof. Dr. Azher Mohsen, Dean of the College of Engineering Technologies, and Dr. Salwan Obeid, Director of the Center. The project focuses on growing plants under solar panels to study the efficiency of the panels under different conditions and to investigate the effect of shading on plant growth, opening new prospects for integrating renewable energy with the agricultural sector.
Advanced technology like Japan, along with private companies in the United States, is developing solar energy technologies that could revolutionize the way we power the world. The idea is to install massive solar panels on cars, where the sun shines, and then convert this energy into solar waves or lasers that are transmitted wirelessly to special receiving stations on Earth, known as rectennas. These waves are then re-processed into electricity ready for use in homes, factories, and cities. Scientific and Technical Implementation • Continuous power around the clock: Satellites reach orbits where the sun shines constantly, so their electricity production is unaffected by night or cloud cover. • Powerful solar energy: Solar power in space is a clear potential and does not reach Earth through the air. • Reducing dependence on Earth: This technology does not require vast areas on Earth and is not weather-sensitive, which calls for attention to other projects. • Successful prototype: In 2023, the Caltech MAPLE system began transmitting ground-based power wirelessly from space to the first center. Older Countries and Entities • Japan (JAXA): Transmitting wireless electricity from outer space by 2025. • China: Including a full-scale solar-powered satellite by 2028. • The United Kingdom and Northrop Grumman (US): Developing space applications and requests. • Startups like Aetherflux: Exploring the use of energy for specific locations, such as disaster zones or areas identified by the disaster. Opportunities and Challenges Solar energy offers the opportunity to distribute electricity fairly and even in remote areas, eliminate carbon emissions, and achieve energy independence easily. However, there are significant challenges: • Dual-use potential: Energy technology can be converted to electrical applications. • Outer space: The increase in satellites could introduce space debris and massive interference with technological monitoring. • Adapting aircraft and lasers to the built environment. • The cost of establishing biodiversity stations.
Japan has adopted a traction technology based on piezoelectric tiles, which are smart, efficient tiles that convert electrical progress into energy. Working Time: This technology relies on special devices that generate electricity when subjected to pressure or vibration. As thousands of people walk daily over the magnificent, ever-increasing tracks in train stations or public spaces, their steps become renewable electricity. This energy is then stored in batteries or used directly to power lighting, electronic displays, or store files in microgrids. Examples from Japan: • At Shibuya Station in Tokyo, these tiles were installed in 2008 to generate all the energy needed for the massive trains, as well as display panels and interior lighting. • Similar projects have been implemented on other trains in the capital, positively impacting residents to maximize the benefits of progress. Environmental and Development Actions: This initiative represents a practical example of integrating technology into everyday life, and can be used to: • Those who rely on fossil fuels. • Carbon removal. • Resisting the idea of smart cities. The Future: This technology is expected to expand to include football stadiums, universities, airports, and major centers, including new horizons for smart energy sources in future cities.
Our center provides a comprehensive research environment, equipped with the latest specialized devices and equipment that enable students to carry out the practical aspects of their projects and theses with precision and professionalism. In addition, the center offers academic support and direct scientific supervision from experienced professors and researchers in the field of renewable energy, ensuring high-quality research outcomes aligned with international standards. AL-Mustaqbal Energy Research Center aims to serve as an active platform that empowers students to transform their research ideas into practical applications, focusing on developing innovative solutions to energy challenges and supporting national efforts to expand the use of clean resources and reduce carbon emissions.
Al-Mustaqbal Energy Research Center participates in the final preparations for the 3rd International Conference on the Future Sustainable Energy Al-Mustaqbal Energy Research Center represented by its director Prof. Dr. Salwan Obaid Waheed, took part in an online meeting held by the College of Engineering and Engineering Technologies via Google Meeting, headed by Assist. Prof. Dr. Azher Mohsen Abd, Dean of the College of Engineering and Engineering Technologies, and attended by members of the scientific and preparatory committees. The meeting discussed the evaluation of submitted scientific papers, the organization of keynote speaker lecture schedules, and the mechanism for presenting scientific posters by researchers and graduate students. Al-Mustaqbal Energy Research Center is considered one of the leading scientific centers in the field of renewable energy and sustainable development research, actively contributing to supporting scientific conferences by providing research insights and developing applied studies that enhance the university’s standing at both academic and scientific levels. At the end of the meeting, the Dean emphasized the importance of joint efforts between the college and the center, praising the role of the scientific and preparatory committees in ensuring the success of the conference and enhancing its impact on the scientific community.
As part of its continuous efforts to reaffirm its leadership locally and globally, Al-Mustaqbal University held a strategic meeting chaired by Prof. Dr. Hasan Shaker Majdi, the University President, with the participation of the Scientific and Administrative Assistants, the Director of Scientific and Academic Supervision, department heads, and directors of distinguished academic units. The meeting was also attended by Dr. Salwan Obaid Waheed, Director of AL-Mustaqbal Energy Research Center, where the University President praised the vital role of the Energy Research Center in supporting the university’s research and strategic plans. He emphasized that the center is a key pillar in developing academic and research programs, aligning them with community needs and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). He added that the center’s expertise and advanced research capabilities contribute significantly to enhancing the university’s standing and boosting its presence in global rankings. The meeting covered essential topics that form the roadmap for the new academic year, including: • Monitoring the implementation of the scientific plan, evaluating progress, identifying challenges, and proposing proactive solutions. • Aligning academic and research activities with the SDGs, reflecting the university’s commitment to social and environmental responsibility. At the conclusion of the meeting, the University President stressed that such consultative gatherings are crucial for strengthening teamwork and improving performance to achieve higher standings among reputable universities.
When designing or selecting a solar energy system, understanding the technical specifications of solar panels is essential for reliable performance and high efficiency. These specifications include the maximum power (Pmax), which indicates the peak energy output under standard test conditions, the open-circuit voltage (Voc) and short-circuit current (Isc) for proper inverter and charge controller sizing, and the voltage (Vmp) and current (Imp) at maximum power. Panel efficiency represents the proportion of sunlight converted into usable electricity, while the temperature coefficient indicates performance reduction at high temperatures. Panel dimensions and weight are important for installation planning, and tolerance specifies the upper and lower bounds of rated power. The maximum system voltage ensures safe operation, while warranties typically cover product defects for 10–25 years and performance guarantees, maintaining at least 80% of rated output after 25 years. At our center, we utilize N-Type TOPCon solar panels due to their superior energy conversion efficiency exceeding 22% and stable performance at high temperatures, with a low thermal loss coefficient of only 0.26% per degree Celsius. These panels exhibit extremely slow degradation, retaining at least 88% of their rated capacity after 30 years. They also generate energy under partial shading through Half-Cell and MBB technologies. Designed to withstand extreme environmental conditions—including strong winds, humidity, ammonia, and salinity—they are certified to international standards such as IEC and CE. The result is reliable performance and sustainable energy, making them a long-term investment that ensures high productivity year-round in hot and challenging climates.