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Improving land use efficiency is an important way to break resource and environmental constraints, and achieve sustainable development. First, the super-efficient SBM model with meta frontier and group frontier is adopted to measure urban land use efficiency. Then, a comprehensive indicator framework is constructed to assess the urban energy transition index. Finally, the impact of land use efficiency on urban energy transition is explored. Urban land use efficiency in China has shown a gradual upward trend over the study period. The technology gap ratio has a positive impact on urban land use efficiency, but there are significant regional differences. The urban energy transition index also shows a gradual upward trend, with regional differences in energy transition in different urbans. The urban land use efficiency has a positive impact on urban energy transition, and several endogeneity and robustness tests confirm that the conclusions are robust. The results of the heterogeneity analysis show that the impact of urban land use efficiency on energy transition is more significant in non-resource cities, cities with high cleanliness potential and cities with high levels of economic development. The analysis of the regulating mechanism shows that different land use policies have heterogeneous effects on the energy transition. • The super-efficient SBM model with meta frontier and group frontier is used to measure urban land use efficiency. • A comprehensive indicator framework is constructed to assess the urban energy transition index. • The impact of land use efficiency on urban energy transition is explored. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ongoing energy transition towards renewable sources faces reliance on fossil fuels throughout their life cycle, primarily due to mining and material production for infrastructure. This study proposes the Renewable Exergy Return on Investment (RExROI) metric, which quantifies the renewable exergy obtained from each unit of non-renewable exergy invested in energy systems. It can be seen as a Renewation Index, applicable to any energy production system, indicating the degree of renewability of such technologies. Focused on silicon photovoltaic panels, the study explores five material intensities, nine scenarios based on the capacity factor and lifespan, and two alternatives for electricity used in the manufacture. Results show that material intensity increases RExROI from −0.6 MJ/MJ (non-renewable exergy is higher than electricity produced) to 5.7 MJ/MJ, increasing until 19 MJ/MJ with the best location and lifespan, and reaching 34 MJ/MJ if renewable electricity is used in manufacturing. Thus, carbon intensity can range from 734 to 7 gCO 2 eq/kWh. Furthermore, some strategies to enhance RExROI are discussed based on the (i) energy sources, (ii) materials, and (iii) production stages of photovoltaic panels. Thus, this study demonstrates the usefulness of RExROI in evaluating the energy-material-emission nexus of energy systems through exergy in the context of energy transition. [Display omitted] • RExROI compares actual renewable exergy generated with non-renewable invested. • PV panels RExROI multiplied by three with the best location lifespan. • PV panels RExROI increase in 80 % using renewable electricity in their production. • Exergy cost disaggregation is essential to analyze RExROI improvement strategies. • RExROI concept is applicable to any energy system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Extreme weather events, for example, prolonged droughts, are increasingly stressing electricity systems and threatening the achievement of energy transition goals. At the same time, countries such as Chile and New Zealand are developing strategies to export renewable energy through green hydrogen. This paper economically evaluates the use of future green hydrogen exports as strategic storage under the logic of energy insurance, based on the assumption that Chile and New Zealand will adopt a hydrogen economy. Our first contribution is to compare the marginal costs of re-electrified green hydrogen, for different scenarios, to the value of lost load in New Zealand and Chile. We then determine the marginal cost of energy produced from green hydrogen based on projected production, transportation, and re-electrification costs for the year 2030. Finally, we estimate the eventual penalties that exporters would incur in the case of breaking their contracts and the overall resulting system costs of using hydrogen for system security. We found that re-electrifying hydrogen can be competitive with conventional technologies at 3 USD/kg. At 1.5 USD/kg, hydrogen is more competitive than fossil fuel-based technologies, for both New Zealand and Chile. Thus, in 2030, it could make economic sense for New Zealand and Chile to use hydrogen as a strategic reserve. The system cost of the proposed insurance scheme in 2030 ranges from 0.53 to 1.76 USD/MWh, which is small compared to total electricity costs. These values can be used for power system expansion and operation planning. •Future green hydrogen exports could be configured as strategic energy reserve. •Re-electrified green hydrogen for reserves competitive with fossil fuels at 3 USD/kg. •Green hydrogen cost in Chile and New Zealand ranges between 1.5 and 3 USD/kg by 2030. •Compensating exporters for export contract breaches is cheaper than lost load. •This hydrogen-based insurance costs ranges from 0.53 to 1.76 USD/MWh. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mitigating climate change requires a variety of energy technologies and energy simulation approaches to evaluate the best possible system structures. Screening whether novel technologies are a viable solution for a particular country within a cost-optimised system setup is usually simulation- and time-intensive. This study introduces the novel add-on optimisation tool EP-ALISON-LUT for use in combination with EnergyPLAN applied to the test case of wave power in the case of Seychelles in 2030 and 2050 within a structured sensitivity analysis. The tool enables a high number of possible system setups and scenarios, including the import and domestic production of electricity-based fuels, to be modelled, allowing for an in-depth view of the system impacts of integrating wave power. The results indicate a limited role for wave power due to its relatively low yield, especially in 2030. However, in 2050, up to 500 MW of wave power capacity is possible with a lower or similar levelised cost of final energy compared to the reference scenario in 2019, which can benefit the diversification of the power generation portfolio. Thus, this novel tool is fast and effective in technology screening studies requiring a fast optimisation algorithm. • Viability screening for novel renewable energy technologies is needed. • Novel optimisation tool based on and in combination with EnergyPLAN is presented. • Structured sensitivity analysis of wave power on the case of Seychelles is made. • Wave power can hardly challenge low-cost solar photovoltaics in the Sunbelt region. • Structured sensitivity analysis showed options for portfolio diversification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a representative region with poor energy resource endowment in China, the Yangtze River Delta (YRD) region poses a pressing and vital issue for research on energy security. This study offers a comprehensive assessment of energy security levels (ESL) in the YRD region of China from 2000 to 2019, emphasizing the pivotal role of electricity indicators in energy transition using a combination optimization model of the entropy method and CRITIC method. Subsequently, we employed a coupling synergy degree model to further quantify the energy synergy among different YRD provinces and to verify the effects of energy synergy and renewable energy generation (REG) on the ESL of the YRD region. The findings highlight supply security as the central concern for safeguarding energy security. The YRD region's ESL ranking is as follows: Zhejiang, Jiangsu, Anhui, and Shanghai. There is a significant linear correlation between energy synergy and ESL, with Zhejiang and Jiangsu experiencing a notably greater effect of energy synergy on ESL than Anhui. A pronounced U-shaped relationship between REG and ESL is evident in the Jiangsu and Anhui provinces. The impact of REG on ESL is significant in Zhejiang province but negligible in Shanghai. • Investigated the energy security of China's Yangtze River Delta region. • Estimated the energy synergy of China's Yangtze River Delta region. • Examined how energy synergy and renewable energy generation affect energy security. • Renewable energy generation's effect on energy security shows a clear U-shaped pattern. • There is a significant linear correlation between energy synergy and energy security. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), comprising: Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Qatar, Oman, and Bahrain, is home to an abundant number of resources, including natural gas and solar and wind energy (renewables). Because of this, the region is favourably positioned to become a significant player in both blue and green hydrogen production and their export. Current dependence on fossil fuels and ambitious national targets for decarbonisation have led the region and world to research the feasibility of switching to a hydrogen economy. This literature review critically examines the current advantages and strategies adopted by the GCC to expedite the implementation of hydrogen supply chains, as well as investigation into the methodologies employed in current research for the modelling and optimisation of hydrogen supply chains. Insight into these endeavours is critical for stakeholders to assess the inherent challenges and opportunities in establishing a sustainable hydrogen economy. Despite a substantial global effort, establishing a solid hydrogen supply chain presently faces various obstacles, including the costs of clean hydrogen production. Scaling-up storage and transport methods is an issue that affects all types of hydrogen, including carbon-intensive (grey) hydrogen. However, the current costs of green hydrogen production, mostly via the process of electrolysis, is a major obstacle hindering the widescale deployment of clean hydrogen. Research in this literature review found that compressed gas and cryogenic liquid options have the highest storage capacities for hydrogen of 39.2 and 70.9 kg/m3, respectively. Meanwhile, for hydrogen transportation, pipelines and cryogenic tankers are the most conventional and efficient options, with an efficiency of over 99 %. Cryogenic ships to carry liquid hydrogen also show potential due to their large storage capacities of 10,000 tonnes per shipment, However, costs per vessel are currently still very expensive, ranging between $ 465 and $620 million. • Implementing hydrogen economy in GCC countries is covered. • The hydrogen supply chain obstacles is discussed and analysed. • Costs of green hydrogen production via various process is discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Energy communities (ECs) offer a promising solution for achieving sustainable and decentralized energy systems. However, the successful establishment and operation of ECs requires overcoming barriers that can hinder stakeholder participation. Existing research has primarily focused on incentives and motivations to join ECs, thus neglecting a comprehensive understanding of the key barriers affecting EC stakeholders in European Union (EU) countries. This paper aims to fill this research gap by identifying and ranking the barriers to joining ECs in the EU context with focus on Spain and Italy. To accomplish this, a framework of barriers was developed based on 20 in-depth interviews with diverse stakeholders of established ECs and a survey (n = 56). The barriers identified were categorized into four types: (a) financial, (b) regulatory and bureaucratic, (c) technical and practical, and (d) social and cultural. The analytical hierarchical process (AHP) methodology was employed to estimate and rank these barriers. The findings highlight that the most significant barrier categories are regulatory and bureaucratic, and financial. Specifically, regulatory complexity and legal limitations emerge as the top-ranked barriers among the obstacles identified to joining ECs by research participants. • Energy communities are a promising solution for sustainable decentralized energy systems. • Joining an energy community faces financial, regulatory, technical, social barriers. • The article ranks these barriers using the analytical hierarchical process. • It provides insight of the barriers affecting all energy communities' stakeholders. • It discusses the main policy recommendations derived from the ranking of barriers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of solid fuels presents a dual challenge for rural household energy systems: transitioning to cleaner energy sources while reducing carbon dioxide (CO 2) emissions. Particularly in the Tibetan Plateau (TP), which is highly sensitive to global climate change, addressing rural household energy consumption, structural changes, and related CO 2 emissions is crucial for implementing targeted measures. Based on household-level survey data, this study analyzes the quantitative and structural changes in energy consumption patterns among rural households on the TP from 2001 to 2021, as well as their related CO 2 emissions. The results indicate that: (1) Yak dung is the primary fuel for rural households on the TP and a major contributor to direct household emissions. (2) While cooking has shifted considerably towards a modern clean energy structure, heating continues to rely on solid fuels such as firewood, yak dung, and coal. (3) Commercial energy used by high-income groups for agriculture, transportation, and other purposes has resulted in an overall increase in total household energy consumption and related CO 2 emissions. Policymakers must implement more effective measures to accelerate the transition to cleaner, modern energy sources for heating and cooking purposes. [Display omitted] • Household energy consumption and emissions are predominantly attributed to yak dung. • Cooking activities have undergone a clean energy structure transformation. • Heating has not yet transitioned to a cleaner energy structure. • The use of commercial energy by high-income groups increases household CO 2 emissions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Energy communities (EC) play a crucial role in driving the transition towards renewable energy sources within urban areas. This study focuses on the implementation of EC within linear mass housing in Rome, with particular attention given to the Tor Bella Monaca district. The research proposes and simulates six energy community distinct scenarios using the Urban Modelling Interface (UMI) and Simulink in order to advance understanding of this topic. These scenarios evaluate the integration of photovoltaic systems, heat pumps, and energy storage systems to determine their comprehensive effect on renewable energy production, CO 2 emission reduction, and the enhancement of self-consumption. The study findings show that higher electrification levels in an energy community lead to greater consumption of renewable energy and reduced reliance on the grid. The integration of heat pumps and energy storage further enhances energy consumption and self-sufficiency creating sustainable energy models in urban environments. With an increase in self-consumption factor and self-sufficiency factor of 0.15–0.30 and 0.11–0.13, respectively, depending on the scenario. The research highlights the importance of a thorough assessment of technology sizing and integration in order to enhance self-consumption and decrease CO 2 emissions. It proposes investigating the incorporation of both thermal and electrical storage to optimize self-consumption. Finally, the simulated scenarios underwent flexibility analyses to determine the precise energy flow capacity and the optimal setting identified through economic evaluation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The transformation of the energy system is causing stress on distribution grid components. However, flexible charging of electric vehicles has been shown to have the potential to mitigate this impact by reducing load and feed-in peaks. To understand the potential of charging flexibility on regional and national levels, regional residual demand time series for Germany are estimated for the years 2019, 2030 and 2045. The diffusion of electric vehicles is modeled via sigmoid functions and driving and charging profiles are derived based on micro mobility data. Furthermore, two flexibility schemes for electric vehicles are distinguished: (1) all vehicles contribute to flattening the national residual load curve; (2) vehicles contribute to flattening regional residual load curves. The analysis shows that although the absolute flexibility potential increases with the number of vehicles, its marginal utility to reduce load peaks declines. In load-dominated regions, the national deployment of flexibility can result in higher regional demand peaks compared to a scenario without charging flexibility. The two approaches of flexibility activation can be contradictory in their effects: While regional incentivization is less efficient in reaching the smoothing in the national residual demand curve, national incentivization can even lead to increased strain on the local level. [Display omitted] • Spatio-temporal evolution analysis of residual demand. • Modeling EV diffusion regionally and temporally with sigmoid functions. • User- and region-specific EV driving, load, and flexibility profiles until 2045. • Model for spatio-temporal EV load flexibility under various objectives. • Analysis of charging flexibility effects on residual load in Germany. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article looks at the role of electrification that is expanding as a key factor in transitioning to a low-carbon economy. The study is based on a systemic approach and aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the necessary transformations in energy production and consumption directed at phasing out fossil fuels and advancing the climate agenda. The novelty of the study resides in the development of conceptual foundations of the fuel-saving aspect of electrification which makes it possible to not only significantly reduce the negative environmental effects in regions, but also to ensure intensive economic growth through the application of advanced energy technologies and minimization of the use of a scarce energy carrier - natural gas - in the power industry and industry. The article clarifies the conceptual apparatus, defines the characteristics and patterns of the new stage of electrification, assesses the impact of electrification on the economic growth and environmental safety of the region, gives recommendations on optimizing the technological structure of the electric power industry in the context of the changing requirements for the parameters of electricity supply. The authors propose a methodology for accounting for the environmental factor in the electrification of the region, which includes ranking and selecting facilities to be electrified according to the minimum "electric fuel replacement ratio"; using the associated energy saving effect for financial compensation of the environmental burden, as well as introducing electricity demand management programs that improve the environmental situation in the region. The article defines the sequence of the implementation of the fuel-saving aspect of electrification and formulates a set of progressive solutions that would invigorate the relevant projects. • A framework of the fuel-saving aspect of electrification that implies substitution of hydrocarbon fuel has been designed. • Regularities of structural transformation of the electric power industry amid deeper electrification have been revealed. • Conditions for the introduction of advanced electric technologies for smartization of economic sectors have been determined. • Principles of electrification management in regions with heavy environmental burdens have been identified. • Interdisciplinary solutions for the diversification of the structure of generating capacities have been proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The transition from conventional energy to clean renewable energy is becoming a global trend, and related issues are attracting widespread attention. Given the possible time-varying energy transition process, this paper proposes a dynamic signed network topology approach for empirical analysis, which is then applied to evaluate the transition from conventional energy to clean renewable energy in G7 countries. The research findings indicate a discrepancy between the positive and negative spillover effects of conventional and clean renewable energy consumption in G7 nations. The transition from conventional energy on clean renewable energy involves alternating positive and negative spillover effects. On average, oil exhibits a positive spillover effect on clean renewable energy consumption. However, the spillover effect of natural gas on clean renewable energy consumption presents an asymmetric relationship across the G7 countries. • This paper presents a symbolic network topology approach. • The approach is applied to the case of energy transitions in G7 countries. • The study employs a historical decomposition methodology. • The study examines the dynamic transition from traditional energy sources to clean and renewable energy. • Based on extracted policy implications led transitioning from dirty energy to clean energy dependency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Efforts to reduce dependence on energy imports and increase domestic energy generation are often linked to imports of energy-generation equipment, which may lead to security issues. This study analyses the European Union's imports of energy and energy technologies in 2013–2023 using a common methodology based on a set of indicators. The analysis encompasses both well-established import diversification indicators and an extended version of the Herfindahl–Hirschman index (HHI), which considers the political stability of import sources. The results indicate that, while the diversification of energy imports has increased in recent years (the extended HHI for imports of the generalised group of energy and fuel products decreased from 0.16 in 2017 to 0.1 in 2022), imports of energy equipment are becoming increasingly concentrated (the extended HHI for energy technology imports into the EU increased from 0.16 in 2017 to 0.55 in 2022). This trend is particularly evident in the case of solar and energy storage technologies, which represent a significant vulnerability in the context of technology imports. Import dependency may have adverse consequences for the EU's ambitious energy transformation agenda. • Diversification of energy-related imports to the European Union during 2013–2023 is analysed. • Extended Herfindahl–Hirschman index version is obtained through integrating political stability indicator. • Imports of energy equipment are becoming increasingly concentrated. • Extended Herfindahl–Hirschman index for energy technology imports to the European Union increased to 0.55 in 2022. • Import risks could threaten the European Union's decarbonisation initiatives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quantifying energy transition (E T) and evaluating energy policies are crucial for global sustainable development. This study measures the energy transition index (E T − C C D) at the prefecture-level city level in China and evaluates the synergistic effects of the dual-pilot energy policy of New Energy Demonstration City (NEDC) and Low Carbon City Pilot (LCCP) based on the energy trilemma (E T R) of coordinated development in terms of security (E S), justice (E J) and sustainability (E S U). The results show that the overall E T − C C D is increasing, with the eastern and central regions leading, the western region growing significantly, and the northeast fluctuating upward, indicating regional disparities. Compared to single policies, the dual-pilot energy policies have a more significant promoting effect on energy transition, especially in eastern, western, non-central cities, resource-based cities, and cities with high carbon emission reduction potential. Mechanism analysis reveals that the dual-pilot energy policies significantly promote E S and E J , but have a negative impact on E S U in the short-term. Improvements in E S , E J and E S U all significantly promote energy transition, with E S serving as a complete mediator, while E J and E S U serving as partial mediators. Additionally, the findings remain stable in robustness tests and provide data support for a flexible mix of policy instruments to facilitate energy transition. • Novel framework integrating Energy Trilemma with dual-policy impacts. • Analysis reveals synergistic effects enhancing energy transitions. • Study focuses on city-level policy impacts on sustainable development. • Uses advanced methods like DID and DML to validate findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cuba's power supply is characterized by the dependence on imported oil, outdated power plants and frequent power curtailment. Cuba's government aims at changing this situation through the National Economic and Social Development Plan, which targets a renewable share of 37 % in 2030. In the longer term, the Cuban government has already acknowledged the goal of 100 % renewable electricity supply. This work reviews the current ambitions of the Cuban government and provides a scientific approach to identifying the most cost-effective 100 % renewable energy system in 2030. First, we study whether the generation mix proposed by the Cuban government to reach 37 % renewables is the most cost-effective. Second, we run a simulation that considers fossil and renewable energy technologies purely to optimize costs. Third, we investigate the renewable future for Cuba with a simulation under the constraint of a 100 % renewable energy share. Our results suggest that energy sector plans should be reconsidered from a techno-economic point of view: With the overall cost-optimization, we find that much higher renewable energy shares of over 80 % are possible at lower overall costs. Finally, we analyze that the cost viability of a 100 % renewable electricity depends largely on the ability to use Cuba's biomass resources to balance solar generation. • The Cuban expansion plan for 2030 can achieve the targeted 37 % RE with reduced LCOE. • A larger share of wind power capacities can reduce costs to achieve the 37 % target. • Optimization shows that higher RE shares of above 82 % are possible at lower costs. • The cost-optimal system is dominated by wind power and biomass power generation. • In the long term (reaching 100 % RE) a large solar PV capacity is required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electrification is a key pillar in energy transformation to reduce emissions. However, it may also have consequences on production. This study analyzes the effect of using electricity and non-electricity energy sources on production growth. An extended neoclassical production function, with the two uses of energy (electricity and non-electricity), is estimated for 17 Latin American countries from 1990 to 2019 and, for subsamples, based on the level of production per persons employed. The study is performed applying the cross-sectionally augmented, autoregressive distributed lag modeling approach and a non-parametric time-varying coefficients model. The parametric results indicate that the effect of both sources of energy on production are positive and significant. However, the production elasticity with respect to non-electricity consumption is higher than that with respect to electricity consumption. Only in countries with the lowest production levels could electrification be neutral. The non-parametric results show that the effect of non-electricity consumption is decreasing slightly over the period, while the effect of electricity use is increasing slightly, with a tendency towards stabilization at the end of the period. Nevertheless, these changes have been small. • The effect of electricity and non-electricity consumption on production is studied. • An extended neoclassical production function is estimated for Latin America. • The production elasticity to non-electricity consumption is higher than to electricity. • Energy conservation policies cannot be applied without impacting production. • Energy transition based on electrification should be conducted gradually. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrogen energy is critical in replacing fossil fuels and achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050. Three measures can be implemented to promote hydrogen energy: reduce the cost of low-carbon hydrogen through technological improvements, increase the production capacity of low-carbon hydrogen by stimulating investment, and enhance hydrogen use as an energy carrier and in industrial processes by demand-side policies. This article examines how effective these measures are, if successfully implemented, in boosting the hydrogen market and reducing global economy-wide carbon emissions using a global computable general equilibrium model. The results show that all the measures increase the production and use of low-carbon hydrogen, whether implemented alone or jointly. Notably, the emissions reduced by joint implementation of all the measures in 2050 become 2.5 times the sum of emissions reduced by individual implementation, indicating a considerable multiplier effect. This suggests supply and demand side policies be implemented jointly to maximize their impact on reducing emissions. • A hydrogen module is designed in a global CGE model. • Both supply and demand side measures promote low-carbon hydrogen application. • The global economy-wide reduction in emissions is examined. • Joint implementation of all the measures lead to 2.5 times reduction in emissions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper compares the macroeconomic impacts of different decarbonization storylines until 2050 using two Computable General Equilibrium models. The modeling shocks are harmonized across models to simulate four decarbonization scenarios through three main drivers: technical development, societal attitude, and policies. The study explores the contribution of each of these drivers to the European decarbonization. The results show that the decarbonization scenarios have moderate effects on GDP; decarbonization scenarios rather result in sectoral shifts. The impact of temperature on labor productivity minimally alters expected growth levels, since larger differences in temperature between the scenarios are only expected to occur in 2100, not yet in 2050. Electricity demand is increasing in all scenarios, particularly with stronger political guidance leading to additional tax and subsidy measures to encourage the use of electricity and discourage fossil-based fuels. When society is a driving factor, it is found that circular business models result in an increase in the service industry but might have a slightly negative impact on overall growth due to stronger spillover effects linked to the manufacturing industry. Technology appears to be the only driver to facilitate decarbonization while maintaining steady economic growth. • We address the macroeconomic effects of five climate scenarios using two CGE models. • We focus on the effects of changes in society, technology, and policy. • We incorporate climate change effects through labor productivity. • Effect of decarbonization on GDP is moderate under given technological improvement. • Decarbonization scenarios result in relatively large sectoral shifts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the moderating role of economic complexity in the relationship between energy transition and economic growth, utilizing panel data from 124 countries spanning 2000–2020 and employing the robust weighted least squares (RWLS) estimation method. Our findings indicate an overall negative impact of energy transition on economic growth. Notably, economic complexity emerges as a positive moderator, alleviating the adverse effects of energy transition. This novel insight challenges existing literature, contributing to a more comprehensive understanding of the interplay between renewable energy adoption, economic growth, and economic complexity. Policymakers should acknowledge the intricate dynamics involved in transitioning to renewable energy sources and consider the role of economic complexity in shaping outcomes. • Economic complexity plays a positive moderation in the effect of energy transition on economic growth. • Countries with greater economic complexity experience more economic growth benefits from transitioning to renewables. • Decision makers should formulate policies promoting economic complexity to align energy transition with economic growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

International cooperation for renewable energy under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) plays a pivotal role in the transition to low-carbon energy in BRI developing countries. However, the rise in energy, debt, food, and geopolitical crises, along with the unique internal challenges found in different BRI developing countries, introduce multiple uncertainties to international renewable energy cooperation (IREC). Therefore, it is crucial to analyze the risks associated with IREC across different BRI countries by incorporating international cooperation theory. This study proposes an analytical framework comprising cooperation consensus–state capacity–institutional environment, which encompasses the willingness to cooperate, national capabilities, and international institutional considerations. An evaluation indicator system is constructed based on this framework. The study optimizes the indicator weights obtained from expert surveys using the analytic hierarchy process and the criteria importance through intercriteria correlation method. A quantitative assessment of IREC risks was conducted for 114 BRI countries from 2010 to 2020. The results indicate a gradual reduction in IREC risks between China and BRI countries. Regional risk assessments reveal that Southeast Asia exhibits the lowest average risk, while Africa not only records the highest average risk but also indicates substantial cooperation potential. Therefore, we recommend a comprehensive approach to risk mitigation. Such an approach would include gradually improving cooperation mechanisms, promoting both top-down and bottom-up cooperation, encouraging the involvement of multiple stakeholders, and prioritizing early-stage risk assessments and research. • A new analytical framework based on international cooperation theories. • A dynamic risk map for Belt and Road renewable energy cooperation. • The combination of AHP and CRITIC. • Tailored risk mitigation strategies for different regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fossil fuel power plants continue to contribute significantly to carbon emissions, necessitating a transition towards cleaner energy sources. Despite the growing presence of renewables within the power systems, the incorporation of carbon capture technologies into the traditional thermal power plants holds great potential in emissions reduction. In this paper, the integration of renewable energy sources (RES) and coal-fired power generation units outfitted with carbon capture schemes is addressed. Multiple demand response (DR) programs and hydropower plants are strategically utilized to increase the power system flexibility. To effectively plan the day-ahead (DA) operation of the power system, a presumed market-clearing framework is adopted and modelled as a risk-constrained two-objective stochastic mixed-integer linear programming problem. The proposed framework helps to tackle the uncertainties related to RES and demand variations by employing a hidden Markovian process (HMP) technique. To simultaneously minimize the system's operational costs and CO 2 emissions, an enhanced version of the augmented ɛ -constraint method is employed. To prove its value, the proposed framework is devoted to the 24-bus IEEE reliability test system (IEEE-RTS). The system features substantial penetration of RES (exceeding 87% of peak load) and standard DR options capacities (less than 25% of peak load). The results show a 24% reduction in load peaks, an over 63% decrease in emissions, and a 17% reduction in the overall operation costs. • Proposing a comprehensive linearized mathematical framework accelerating the energy transition. • Coordinating the responsive power systems with carbon capture and hybrid ESS (BESS, PHS, HES). • Enhancing an effective augmented ɛ -constraint technique to simultaneously optimize cost and CO 2. • Presenting robust decision-making with two-stage SP, hidden Markovian process, and CVaR strategy. • Integrated approach: 87% of RES, cost & CO 2 reductions, fewer load peaks, enhanced flexibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Actively promoting city's energy transition is crucial for achieving SDG-7 and SDG-13. Taking the establishment of New Energy Demonstration Cities (NEDC) in China as a quasi-natural experiment, this paper employs difference-in-difference model to empirically test the impact of the NEDC policy on city's energy transition and its underlying mechanisms. The results demonstrate that the NEDC policy has significantly accelerated regional energy transition. Through an analysis of the internal motivation for energy transition, we find that this positive effect is predominantly driven by green demand-side rather than supply-side. Further examination of the external impetus for energy transition reveals that government governance, technology innovation, and the associated human and financial supports are key factors in propelling local energy transition. Our findings offer insights into the pathways of city's energy transition for China and other countries. • NEDC policy has promoted city's energy transition. • Internal motivation and external impetus for energy transition are examined. • Demand-side stimulation rather than supply-side promotion plays the main role. • Government governance and technology innovation are the key driving forces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The global environmental landscape has evolved from regional and localized pollution concerns to a pervasive worldwide issue, posing a formidable challenge for countries worldwide, especially for high-emission countries. Therefore, this study focuses on the role of energy transition, ecological governance, globalization, and economic development in promoting environmental sustainability in the top ten carbon-emitting countries. The findings suggest that energy transition, ecological governance, and globalization collectively contributed to the reduction of carbon emissions in these major emitting nations. Conversely, economic development has had a positive impact on carbon emissions. Moreover, this study employs the method of moments quantile regression to obtain the coefficients in heterogenous quantiles. The results depict that the emission reduction effects of energy transition and globalization is predominantly observed at low to mid-quantile levels, while the decarbonization effect of ecological governance is observed primarily at mid to high-quantile levels. The impact of economic development on carbon emissions exhibits a suppressing effect at the 0.1–0.2 quantile levels, while at the 0.6–0.9 quantile levels, it exacerbates carbon dioxide emissions. Finally, the research findings offer insights into the emission reduction initiatives of the top ten emitting countries, ensuring the sustainable development of the environment. • Explored the environmental sustainability of the top ten carbon-emitting countries. • Energy transition, ecological governance, and globalization impede emissions. • Economic development impacts impact CO 2 emissions differently across quantiles. • The impact of these factors varies across countries. • Policy implications are proposed to promote environmental sustainability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To discover conceptual and behavioral barriers to electric vehicle (EV) charging, in-depth interviews were conducted in person with experienced and novice EV users. Mental models were found to affect vehicle charging strategies. Novice EV users drew from their existing mental models for petrol refueling and misapplied them to EV charging. Most experienced users had developed new mental models appropriate for the physical and temporal realities of EV charging—they are adapted to diverse rates of charge, EVs' longer energy filling duration, co-location of EV charging with certain user activities, and EVs drivers' shorter equipment engagement time. Three predominant mental models for EV charging were found: 1. Monitor the fuel gauge, when low, seek a refill location (from liquid-fueling model), 2. Prior to a trip, plan where and when to charge, 3. Event-triggered charging (unique to the EV mental model). Misapplication of liquid fuel models to EVs has detrimental effects: more effort and more frequent anxiety regarding recharging, buyer choice of EV characteristics mismatched to need, manufacturer oversizing of batteries, policy overemphasis on fast public charging, and restricted opportunity to reduce load on the grid. Solutions are suggested to forestall or minimize these detrimental effects and facilitate EV adoption. Three major mental models and associated refilling strategies were identified in this research: (A) Monitor gage, when low seek refill; this is the primary strategy for liquid fuel refilling. (B) The planning model, predominately used for EV long trips, occasionally used for petrol vehicle long trips. (C) The event-triggered model, exclusively used for EV recharging. [Display omitted] • Qualitative interviews were conducted with novice and experienced EV users • Three mental models were discovered and found to guide EV charging behavior • EV charging behavior based on liquid fuel model leads to user problems and anxiety • Policy and private measures are suggested to improve EV user charging strategies [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate change and geopolitical risks call for the rapid transformation of electricity systems worldwide, with Europe at the forefront. Wind and solar are the lowest cost, lowest risk, and cleanest energy sources, but their variability poses integration challenges. Combining both technologies and integrating regions with dissimilar generation patterns optimizes the trade-off between maximizing energy output and minimizing its variability, which respectively give the lowest levelized cost and lowest integration cost. We apply the Markowitz mean-variance framework to a rich multi-decade dataset of wind and solar productivity to quantify the potential benefits of spatially integration of renewables across European countries at hourly, daily and monthly timescales. We find that optimal cross-country coordination of wind and solar capacities across Europe's integrated electricity system increases capacity factor by 22% while reducing hourly variability by 26%. We show limited benefits to solar integration due to consistent output profiles across Europe. Greater wind integration yields larger benefits due to the diversity of regional weather patterns. This framework shows the importance of considering renewable projects not in isolation, but as interconnected parts of a pan-continental system. Our results can guide policymakers towards strategic energy plans that reduce system-wide costs of renewable electricity, accelerating the clean energy transition. • Optimizing wind-solar installed capacities increases mean capacity factor and reduces its variability. • Combining wind and solar improves the output-variability tradeoff at all timescales. • The EU reference scenarios appear to overlook these substantial benefits. • Optimizing Europe's renewables increases output by 22% with 26% lower variability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the impact of effective energy policy interventions on reducing energy poverty in the emerging nations of the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region. Existing literature lacks a detailed investigation into the connection between energy policy and sustainable energy development for addressing energy poverty. Consequently, this work explores the dynamics of energy policy interventions in alleviating energy poverty in 42 emerging economies in the APAC region by engaging enhanced econometric approaches and panel estimates covering the period of 2000–2019. Analyzing the accessibility of energy, clean cooking fuel and technologies, and energy consumption level, this paper investigates energy poverty from a macro standpoint considering energy policy interventions in APAC emerging nations. The results suggest that energy policies, comprising laws, regulations, and strategies, are negatively associated with energy poverty. Among these, well-planned, forward-looking strategies are more successful in alleviating energy poverty. The implications of this study provide a framework for formulating necessary energy policies to realize the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG7, which focuses on affordable and clean energy for all. Role of Energy policies interventions on energy poverty. [Display omitted] • Effective energy policy intervention in alleviating energy poverty is evaluated. • Energy policies, comprising laws, regulations, and strategies, are negatively associated with energy poverty. • Well-planned strategies are more effective in eradicating energy poverty. • The right energy policies contribute to accomplishing SDG-7, which is affordable and clean energy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heating transition in the hot summer and cold winter zone is crucial for China's energy transition towards carbon neutrality. However, future heating solutions for this region remain debated, particularly whether to use district heating. This study proposes an analytical framework for this region to compare district heating with individual heating from a novel energy system perspective. Taking Shanghai as an illustrative case, this study simulates and compares five heating solutions based on energy systems for 2019, 2030 and 2060, considering future trends of energy transition. The results reveal that switching to a clean district heating system from the current individual heating system has the potential to save energy by up to 1.4 % and reduce emissions by up to 3.9 %. Moreover, this strategy could result in a cost reduction of 0.2 % and a biomass saving of 5 % in a carbon-neutral energy system of 2060. Sensitivity analyses confirm the desirability of the clean district heating system for achieving carbon-neutrality in terms of energy and cost savings. Therefore, district heating should not be outside the heating strategy for the hot summer and cold winter zone, and the proposed analytical framework is suggested to be applied in heat planning for this region. • An analytical framework for evaluating heating transition is proposed. • Future heating solutions for the hot summer and cold winter zone are analyzed. • Five heating strategies are simulated and compared using EnergyPLAN. • Feasibility of district heating in 2019, 2030 and 2060 energy systems are assessed. • Clean district heating system is the desirable heating solution especially in 2060. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Swedish buildings require additional heating inputs for many months each year, much of which comes from district heating systems fed by fuel combustion, electrical devices and recycled heat sources; localised heating is also generated within individual buildings. Optimised projections using the EnergyPLAN model for a so-called "smart energy" scenario predict dramatic reductions in biomass use accompanied by increases in electricity, recycled heat and biogas. Electricity generation routes are also predicted to change, shifting away from nuclear and biomass sources towards wind, solar and biogas technologies. While such transitions are expected to lower greenhouse gas emissions, current assessment methods rarely examine the breadth of other environmental and material supply aspects at play. Here, a novel new approach provides deeper insights into current and future Swedish heating scenarios for 11 key indicators by considering heat production processes over their full life cycles. Results suggest that favourable reductions are likely in five of these indicators, but these benefits are offset by unfavourable outcomes in others, including all three raw material supply indicators. Ultimately, the study provides a novel example of ways in which additional tools can complement existing modelling techniques and expand the scope of available information used to assist heating transition decisions. • Swedish heating system transitioning to district heating, heat pumps and renewables. • New method used to assess life cycle impacts of all heat production processes. • Total of 11 indicators assessed for 2015, 2019 and modelled future (2050) scenarios. • Benefits of reducing wood biomass offset by limitations from wind, solar and biogas. • Demonstrates benefits of alternative approaches to assessing policy trade-offs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, climate change is a major global societal challenge that significantly increases environmental stress. Most international organizations and policies have promoted initiatives to minimize emissions, reduce fossil fuel dependence and increase renewable energy resource integration into different sectors. An energy transformation towards more renewable systems is thus a priority. Under this scenario, the present paper describes and evaluates an alternative energy conversion matrix-based model to combine sector electrification, power generation units from renewables, and new clean technologies. The proposed green matrix-based model allows analyzing future scenarios, including electricity participation in end-use consumption and electric power generated by renewables – potentially integrated into different sectors –. The proposed model is evaluated in the state of Maine (United States). This case study is focused on decarbonizing both residential heating and transport sector through the integration of large offshore wind power plant. Results and discussion is also included in the paper, providing expected energy demand reductions and decreasing emissions through the integration of renewables. This energy transition integration case study is proposed in three road-maps with different penetration rates and time scales. The proposed green matrix-based model can be also applied to other areas and energy resources, as an alternative way to analyze and estimate renewable integration into different sectors. • Green Electrical Matrix to link electricity supply and end-use for energy transition. • Assesses renewable potential and electrification tech for end uses, e.g., transport. • Applies model to Maine, USA to show reductions in fossil fuels and emissions. • GIS and MCDM for optimal offshore wind location, maximizing electricity generation. • Short, medium, and long-term projections of renewable integration into energy system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the effect of energy transition on energy security risk for 41 BRI during 1995–2018 using second generation panel econometric techniques. First this study computes total energy share from renewable resources and then analyses their effects on energy security risk. According to the results of augmented mean group (AMG) and common correlated effect mean group (CCEMG) estimates, renewable resources significantly decrease energy security risk. Energy transition as variable of interest significantly decreases energy security risk with renewable energy resources. This study recommends that a structural change in the form of energy transition reduce energy security risk for selected BRI countries. This is because non-renewable resources although fulfil domestic energy requirements but degrades the environment and still there exists energy security in the form of energy demand and supply, affordability, cleanability sustainability and availability. Corresponding to these findings, BRI countries must implement policies to invest more in renewable energy resources and less utilization of non-renewable resources to prevent themselves from energy security risk in the long run. • Role of energy transition in reducing energy security risk for BRI countries. • Total renewable energy contribution towards energy security risk. • Augmented Mean Group (AMG) and Common correlated effect (CCEMG) estimates. • Dealing Cross-sectional dependence in panel analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Energy related CO 2 emissions from fossil fuels constitute nearly 80 % of the global greenhouse gas emissions and are largely responsible for effecting climate change. There is imminent need to reduce emissions and decarbonize the energy economy. Renewables and nuclear are the only carbon-free energy options. However, the pace of renewable deployment lags the rate needed to achieve net-zero by 2050. Also, fossil fuels are expected to continue to dominate the energy landscape into the foreseeable future. Built on these hypotheses, this article presents a global perspective on the multitude of giga-ton and tera-watt challenges in addressing energy security and climate change. It advocates a multi-prong strategy for a smooth transition into a sustainable future. This includes abandoning air-based combustion of fossil fuels in favor of advanced oxygen-based conversion technologies, expanding energy storage capacities to accelerate the penetration rate of renewables, universally pricing emissions, and rapidly deploying carbon capture technologies at massive scale. It also argues that decarbonization must prioritize zero-carbon output over zero-carbon input during this transition period. Accordingly, the article offers several oxygen-based technology options for cleaner utilization of fossil fuels including fuel cells for power generation and storage as well as downhill production of blue hydrogen. [Display omitted] • There is no singular or simple solution to address energy and climate change challenges. • Multi-faceted global strategies are needed to tackle energy and climate challenges in the context of technological options. • Fossil fuels will continue to dominate the energy supply, requiring arge-scale CCS and global pricing of CO 2 emissions. • High temperature fuel cells offer efficient conversion of fossil fuels to electric power with total carbon capture. • Decarbonization efforts must shift emphasis from carbon-free input to the output side of electric power with CO 2 capture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The decentralization of energy production and recovery of excess heat (EH) to reach climate targets is essential for renewable and fully decarbonized heating systems. This paper identifies current and potential industrial EH sources providing baseload capacity for district heating (DH) systems. These sources are evaluated by sector and process for supplying baseload capacities explored for current 3rd generation district heating (3GDH) and 4th generation district heating (4GDH) systems with lower grid temperatures and losses, with and without expansions. The method combines geographical analysis and available baseload capacity estimations for 360 Danish DH systems scenario-making and an additional sensitivity analysis evaluating baseload capacity full-load hours. It is found that 80 % of Danish DH systems have an unmet baseload capacity of 50 % or higher. Half of the systems have geothermal capacity available and up to 20 % of industrial EH baseload capacity potential, which sums up to 5 PJ of EH potential within a 2 km distance. The findings also suggest that there is an additional opportunity for the placement of future energy infrastructure able to supply EH, which is highly contextual and strategic in heat planning, particularly considering the future development of sustainable and energy-efficient DH systems. • Maps 360 Danish DH systems with expansion potentials for 3GDH and 4GDH. • Identifies 9235 sources and 19.8 PJ of exploitable industrial excess heat. • Spatially evaluates 3 PJ and 5 PJ of EH for supplying 3GDH and 4GDH baseload capacity. • Locates 5–10 GW of total available baseload capacity in Danish DH systems. • Provides placement opportunities for future excess heat sources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although numerous studies in developing countries have increasingly focused on the important implications of off-farm employment for the success of rural energy transition, it is easy to ignore the fact that determining who to employ in off-farm sectors can impact household energy transition decisions differently. Based on the nationally representative data from the Chinese General Social Survey (CGSS) 2015 survey, this study tries to fill the gap and examines the interaction between off-farm employment decisions between couples and household clean energy consumption in rural China by providing a new view towards gender. The results show that two-paycheck households consume more clean energy than other household types. Off-farm employment of women is a key factor driving the household clean energy consumption to a higher level, and wage-employed wives contribute more to these decisions than self-employed ones. • Two-paycheck households consume more clean energy than one- or no-paycheck households. • Off-farm employment of women is a key factor driving the household energy transition. • Wage-employed wives contribute more to household energy transition than self-employed ones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate change-driven temperature rise in the Arctic has been shown to increase faster than on global average, heavily affecting Greenland's environment. Greenland's energy system is very vulnerable to oil prices, as it relies on imported oil. Rich wind resources complementary with solar resources may enable a transition to a sustainable and self-sufficient energy system. Greenland's transition from a fossil fuels-based system to a 100% renewable energy system between 2019 and 2050 and its position as a potential e-fuels and e-chemicals production hub for Europe, Japan, and South Korea, has been investigated in this study using the EnergyPLAN model. The results indicate a 25% reduction in annualised costs for a fully renewable energy system compared to the reference system. Importing regions can benefit from some of the lowest-cost energy carriers in the world in 2030, and these energy carriers will continue to have a low-cost level in 2050. This study estimates that the production and export of e-fuels and e-chemicals would require up to 300,000 workers for construction and operations. Renewable energy enables a full defossilisation of Greenland's energy system, enhances energy security, and provides opportunities for additional export revenues of up to 61 b€ annually. • A 100% renewable energy system for Greenland is economically feasible. • Greenland may become an export hub for e-fuels and e-chemicals in the future. • e-Ammonia and e-fuels can be exported at 67 €/MWh th and 106 €/MWh th in 2050. • Up to 300,000 jobs may be created in Greenland. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The research links energy system development planning to day-ahead energy markets, market coupling, and renewable energy integration, with a novel approach based on game theory. A two-level method is suggested for long-term energy strategy decisions. In the first stage, four hypothetical zones are simulated using an energy system's operation optimization model, emphasizing electricity flows. Game theory is employed in the second stage to select the best market-coupled zone strategy. A game reflecting transition dynamic, renewables integration, and demand response is formulated in the second step of the approach, where each of the four zones have two possible strategies (fast or slow transition), resulting in 16 sets of strategies (scenarios). Results demonstrate the feasibility of determining a Nash equilibrium, enhancing decision-making compared to prior methods. For the observed hypothetical case, a pure Nash equilibrium is found, where all zones opt for a rapid energy transition. • New method for long-term planning of interconnected energy systems is introduced • Initial unit commitment and dispatch optimization is expanded using game theory • By analysing payoffs for 4 players across 16 scenarios, a pure Nash equilibrium is identified • The equilibrium signifies all zones opting for rapid energy transition [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Energy Return On Investment (EROI) has proven to be an useful concept in the last 50 years. However, given the urgent need of the energy transition to deal with climate change, its frontier of application and concept must be extended to include the requirement for CO 2 capture from fossil fuel combustion (or the exergy associated with this work). This study applies a novel concept, the Exergy Return on Environment and Energy Investment (ExROEEI). It considers the quality of energy and extends the frontier of analysis to incorporate the exergy associated with removing CO 2 from fuel combustion and with the environmental effects of effluent streams. This allows assessing fossil fuel sources that are converted to meet energy services but have to comply with the need to limit CO 2 emissions. By applying this extended concept to a coal-based power plant equipped with amine-based post-combustion CO 2 capture, our findings show that the ExROEEI reaches a 2.06:1 ratio, being the outlet exergy of the plant 250.52 PJ and its inlet exergy 121.46 PJ (the exergy associated with capturing and compressing the CO 2 represents 35.58% of this figure). Therefore, the exergy surplus of this option is lower, which raises questions about its energy feasibility. • New method for exergy return assessment of fossil/non-fossil fuel facilities. • Method considers energy quality, life cycle, CO2 capture and environmental impacts. • This study applies the methodology to a coal power plant with carbon capture. • The proposed indicator allows better comparison of energy sources and conversions. • The study emphasizes comprehensive approach for assessing fossil fuel facilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low-carbon transition of the power sector is an important measure to achieve carbon neutrality in China. Renewable portfolio standards (RPS) and carbon cap were implemented to promote energy transition since 2018. It is essential to evaluate influences of different policy mixes on provincial power systems and inter-provincial electricity transmissions for an optimal policy design and implementation under provincial heterogeneity. This study evaluates the effects of RPS targets and carbon cap on low-carbon transition of China's power system. It further analyzes how to achieve low-carbon transition of China's provincial power sectors with these two policies. Different mixes of RPS target and carbon cap were set to assess their impacts on energy structure change, CO 2 emissions abatement, and compliance costs. Results show that the RPS policy can significantly promote investments in renewable energy power in China's resource-rich and high-demand provinces. Investment in nuclear power is important in meeting carbon cap constraints. RPS policy and carbon cap have an overlapping effect on low-carbon transition in China's power sector. Moreover, extensive inter-provincial electricity flows could balance the reverse distribution of energy resources and power loads for renewable energy in a cost-effective way. • Develop a multi-region model with total system cost optimized under RPS constraints. • RPS policy can promote renewable energy investments in provinces with rich renewable resources or high electricity demand. • RPS policy is expected to increase inter-provincial electricity flows. • Massive electricity transmission can help decrease compliance costs. • The power structure and carbon emissions are different in various RPS target allocation scenarios. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The share of renewable sources in energy production in Poland is increasing steadily, but the reliability of energy supplies is determined primarily by stable sources, i.e. the coal-fired power units now in operation. The paper compares the current energy mix of the Polish power generation system with other European countries, drawing attention to the dominant role of coal-fired sources in Poland. Recent-year changes in the structure of the energy system are presented, along with the changes planned to ensure reduction in carbon dioxide emissions. It is demonstrated that the planned changes in the energy mix will significantly deteriorate the level of reliability of energy supplies in subsequent years of transition. Variants are presented of necessary adjustments in the planned energy mix in the system, which will make it possible to meet the growing national demand for energy and ensure the required level of the energy system reliability. Several variants of the system expansion are considered, including gas-fired units, onshore and offshore wind farms, photovoltaic sources and a slower rate of decommissioning the coal-fired power units retrofitted with CO 2 capture facilities. The most favourable solution for the system reconstruction is to increase the share of all the above-mentioned energy sources. • Demand for power in the Polish energy system until 2035 was estimated. • Very low reliability of the planned power system has been demonstrated. • Reconstruction variants of the energy system, which increase its reliability, are given. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper assesses the relationship between energy security and renewable energy in the context of geopolitical risk through the quantile-on-quantile method. The finding suggests that energy security positively impacts renewable energy in the upper to middle quantiles, meaning that renewable energy inclusion in the energy mix significantly affects conflicts and lessens energy security. Moreover, energy security positively impacts renewable energy across all quantiles. On the other hand, the results recommend that renewable energy positively impacts energy security in the higher to medium quantiles. Finally, the results show that renewable energy consistently positively impacts energy security across the board except in the medium run. The increased reliance on fossil fuels implies that energy markets are not set up to promote renewables. Therefore, the transition to renewable energy must be accelerated immediately. • Examine energy security and renewable energy in the context of geopolitical risk. • Energy security positively impacts renewable energy in the upper to middle quantiles. • Energy security positively impacts renewable energy across all quantiles. • Renewable energy positively impacts energy security in the higher to medium quantiles. • Renewable energy consistently positively impacts energy security. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Contrary to most existing studies in the literature, we adopt the energy-related GHG emission (EGHG), an aggregate measure of environmental pollution, to present how GDP, energy efficiency, environmental technology, and globalization affect the environmental changes in the G-7 region from 1990 to 2020. We leaned on the novel Method of Moments Quantile Regression (MMQR) approach to obtain the coefficients in heterogenous quantiles. The findings show that all identified parameters, except for GDP, meaningfully reduce energy-related GHG emissions in the G-7 forum, and the findings are homogenous in all quantiles. More specifically, a surge in economic activities boosts EGHG in G-7 territories. Since energy efficiency is negatively related to EGHG, we claim that the G-7 forum has been able to curb the rebound effect in energy consumption. Furthermore, environmental innovations are a boon for reducing EGHG in the forum, indicating that these nations are on the right track to attain carbon neutrality and green growth directories as prescribed by the last climate conference (COP27). Besides, globalization reduces EGHG through the technology-driven spillover effects, indicating that the G-7 forum has successfully harnessed globalization to exchange R&D, technology, and innovation skills, which have escalated this forum's capacity to fight against climate change. • The nexus between energy efficiency, environmental technology and globalization has been assessed. • Energy-related GHG emissions are used to capture environmental pollution in the G-7 region. • The Novel Method of Moments Quantile Regression (MMQR) approach is used. • Economic growth increases pollution in all quantiles. • Energy efficiency, globalization and environmental technology reduce emissions in all quantiles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Power systems around the world are changing due to the rapid transformation of the generation mix. Unprecedented configurations of the power system may increase the exposure to failures, and thus, lower security of supply. At the same time, the secure development of the system cannot neglect cost considerations. This demands for adequate tools to assess and prepare for future scenarios of the energy transition. In this paper, a risk-informed approach for generation and transmission expansion planning is developed. The approach integrates cost-based generation and transmission expansion planning and risk-based transmission expansion planning. Interfacing these two models to perform coordinated generation and transmission expansion planning results in solutions that are cost-effective, account for the risk implications of the systemic changes, and guarantee system security. The risk-informed coordinated generation and transmission system expansion planning is performed for the Swiss power system which is modeled in full detail for the year 2050. To account for electricity exports and imports, the four surrounding countries are considered in an aggregated manner and their 2050 capacities are projected assuming a net-zero scenario. The results of the risk-informed coordinated expansion planning show that the pure cost-minimization approach applied to either generation or combined generation and transmission expansion planning does not necessarily lead to a reliable power supply in Switzerland. In fact, not accounting for reliability leads to expansion solutions that may incur up to 16 times higher demand not served compared to the reference year 2018. This highlights the importance of considering in-depth system security analyses in power system expansion planning. • A risk-informed approach for generation and transmission system expansion is proposed. • The coupling of two models for expansion planning and risk assessment is presented. • A real-size low-carbon power system is used to demonstrate the approach. • Cost-optimal expansions are identified while accounting for power system security. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The worldwide electricity mix has become diversified, mainly through the exploitation of endogenous and green resources. However, doubt has been cast on the much-vaunted advantages of renewables due to some of their characteristics, such as availability, security and affordability. In fact, growth in the installed capacity of renewable energy has increased electricity prices, which raises the question of how households have withstood the cost of energy transition. The main aim of this study is to empirically assess and discuss: (i) whether different types of household have suffered dissimilar effects from the promotion of renewables; (ii) the consequences of promoting renewables on household income; and (iii) if the promotion of renewables has reduced the risk of poverty and social exclusion. A panel data of European countries has been analysed using Kao's residual cointegration test, and an Autoregressive Distributed Lag approach, to assess the relationships. This paper proves that both income and risk of household poverty are directly linked with renewable energies, in both the short- and long-run. The energy transition to renewables has had negative consequences for households. Thus, the disadvantaged households should be helped to meet the increased cost arising from the energy transition. Highlights • The impact of deploying renewables on income and the risk of poverty for households. • The Kao test verifies the long-run relation between renewables and risk of poverty. • The ARDL technique takes into consideration both short- and long-run effects. • Solar PV deployment has increased the overall risk of poverty for households. • Policies are required to mitigate the negative effects of RES on society. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract While previous research has focused on single industrial sectors or specific technologies, this study aims to explore the impacts of various industrial technology options on the use of biomass and electricity in a future fossil free Swedish industry. By building a small optimisation model, that decomposes each industrial sector into site categories by type and technology to capture critical synergies among industrial processes. The results show important synergies between electrification, biomass and CCS/U (sequestration of CO 2 is required to reach net-zero emissions). Reaching an absolute minimum of biomass use within the industry has a very high cost of electricity due to the extensive use of power-to-gas technologies, and minimising electricity has a high cost of biomass due to extensive use of CHP technologies. Meanwhile, integrated bio-refinery processes are the preferable option when minimising the net input of energy. There is, thus, no singular best technology, instead the system adapts to the given circumstances showing the importance of a detailed bottom-up modelling approach and that the decarbonisation of the industry should not be treated as a site-specific problem, but rather as a system-wide problem to allow for optimal utilisation of process synergies. Highlights • Industrial decarbonisation should be treated as a system-wide problem. • There are important synergies between electrification, biomass use and CCS/U. • Efficient deployment of CCS/U technologies requires comprehensive system analysis. • Heat pumps and bio-refineries show valuable synergies in the pulp & paper industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Energy scenarios provide guidance to energy policy, not least by presenting decarbonisation pathways for climate change mitigation. We review such scenarios for the example of Germany 2050, with a focus on the decarbonisation of heat generation and road transport. In this context, we characterize the role of renewable electricity and contrast two rivalling narratives: direct and indirect electrification. On the one hand, electricity directly provides heat and transport, using electric heat pumps, electric heaters, and battery electric vehicles. On the other hand, electricity, heat, and transport are indirectly linked, using gas heat pumps, gas heaters, fuel cell electric vehicles, and internal combustion engine vehicles, in combination with power-to-gas and power-to-liquid processes. To reach climate policy targets, our findings imply that energy stakeholders must (1) plan for the significant additional demand for renewable electricity for heat and road transport, (2) pave the way for system-friendly direct heat electrification, (3) be aware of technological uncertainties in the transport sector, (4) clarify the vision for decarbonisation, particularly for road transport, and (5) use holistic and more comparable scenario frameworks. Highlights • In the scenarios reviewed, GHG emission reduction targets drive electrification. • If targets are met by 2050, 40–100% of heat and car transport will be electrified. • The electricity consumption of heat and transport will increase to 400–800 TWh. • Heat generation, at least in the building sector, favours direct electrification. • Preferable electrification paths and technologies for road transport are unclear. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract District heating companies have ambitious targets for lowering carbon emissions in production. Large heat pumps offer an interesting alternative for district heating production allowing utilization of various heat sources. The primary objective of this study is to examine the viability of large heat pumps in existing district heating systems. The study uses three types of systems to simulate how increasing the share of heat pump production influences district heating systems when optimized for the lowest production costs. The second objective of this study is to understand the district heating companies' perspective on increasing amounts of heat pumps in their systems. Based on the simulations, the largest potential for heat pumps is in small district heating systems, where they reduce the use of fossil fuels. In medium and large systems with economical combined heat and power production, the potential of heat pumps is smaller. The findings of the simulations together with insights from the interviews imply that the viable amount of heat pump based heat production in DH systems would be around 10–25% in Finland, which is much higher than the current 3%. Highlights • The viability of large heat pumps in existing district heating systems is examined. • The role and advantages of heat pumps were analyzed with simulations and interviews. • Heat pumps have higher potential in district heating systems compared present level. • Heat pumps bring needed diversity for district heating systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The transition in household energy use from conventional to clean energy sources plays a critical role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating climate change. In this study, we systematically considered the driving-inducing mechanisms of household residential energy transition from both external scenarios and internal psychological aspects. Based on data from 361,127 samples spanning 2005–2021, this study innovatively proposed the driving-inducing mechanism of the household energy transition. With the help of meta-analysis and meta-regression analysis (MRA), we comprehensively analyzed the psychological and behavioral differences in the process of household energy transition in different countries and different clean energy types, and revealed the evolution pattern of household residents from transition awareness to transition behavior in response to external scenarios and internal psychological changes. The results showed that the optimal drivers and inducers of household energy transition vary according to the diversity of clean energy types, and policy utility dislocation is the key external inducer that influences the transition from awareness to behavior of household residents. Further, the policy strategy should be tailored by region and type to better promote household energy transition. • Driving-inducing mechanisms of the household residential energy transition. • Advocacy guidance is more effective for solar, wind, and photovoltaic energy. • Policy utility dislocation is a key external inducer. • Promoting clean energy by "region and type" is a wise policy strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Trinidad and Tobago, a hydrocarbon economy and a Caribbean small island developing state (SIDS), transitioned from oil to 100% natural gas as a feedstock in its power generation sector in the 1980's. The island state is now entering its second energy transition to include renewables in its power generation sector to support the fulfilment of its nationally determined contributions (NDCs) to the Paris Agreement on climate change. As such, the time is appropriate to examine if energy justice is accommodated in energy policies. This study reviewed the existing national energy policies and evaluated them through the lens of energy justice. Some tenets of energy justice have alreadybeen outlined in native studies, national policy documents and recent activities. However, it is recommended that an overarching framework on energy justice is needed to embed the key tenets of energy justice into its current and future energy policy framework and to support existing policies and policymakers in enabling a just and inclusive energy transition as Trinidad and Tobago pursues the inclusion of renewables for power generation. Other small island economies undergoing such an energy transition can adopt this approach to apply an overarching energy justice framework which considers existing energy policies. • Explored the role of energy justice in a SIDS undergoing an energy transition. • Examined the energy sector of a hydrocarbon rich SIDS through the lens of energy justice. • Applied energy justice principles to a SIDS transitioning from 100% natural gas power to include renewables. • Case made for embedding key tenets of energy justice in policy of developing small island economies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photovoltaic (PV) and wind energy production modelling essentially follows bottom-up approaches, based on physical considerations. These models focus mostly on the calculation of Energy Return on Energy Invested (ERoEI), while some also present calculation of energy payback time or energy cannibalism, to evaluate the ability of these technologies to handle energy transition. Besides, sigmoïd or S-curve function are often used to fit the production of these industries over time, based on economical considerations, rather than physical ones. This paper aims at coupling net production and ERoEI, using energy conservation and ERoEI definition, to develop a model that could reproduce a S-curve function and allow to investigate the net energy delivered by PV and wind industries. This approach allows to explain the inconsistency which sometimes exists between bottom-up and top-down studies on PV ERoEI calculation. It also explains why the classic relationship between net and gross energy, that is a ratio equal to (E R o E I − 1) / E R o E I , does not apply to low carbon energy industries before they reach a steady-state or a quasi-static evolution. As an example, net PV production is still close to zero whereas wind production began to produce a net substantial energy around 2007–2010. It finally allows to investigate how fast the energy transition can physically be to see if a risk of energy disruption exists during that transition, due to fossil fuel depletion. • Development of a production and ERoEI coupled dynamic model, applied to PV and wind. • Study of photovoltaic and wind investment trend. • Evaluation of photovoltaic and wind net production. • Development of an objective index to compare low carbon technology growing capacity. • Evaluation of the physical feasibility of a smooth energy transition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The energy transition rests on several pillars including the electrification of heating, transportation, and industry to enable the better exploitation of renewable energy sources. This changes the geography of the energy system, where power changes from being centrally produced to being more geographically distributed. The electrification will add new, large point demands to the electricity system. The distributed generation, point demands and a higher level of electricity transit all suggest grid impacts beyond design levels. Concurrently, the transition relies on coordinated actions at local and national levels with potential mismatch issues. This article probes into these developments for a larger Danish region. Based on a survey of local actions, it investigates whether the transmission grid can withstand the changes and to what extent grid limitations create barriers for industrial development. The work is based on geographical information system (GIS)-based analyses of production and demand, survey-based stakeholder consultation to unveil expected demand and production development, and grid analyses. Results indicate that the transmission system limits the development, and that permissions should not only be based on local conditions as reported by municipalities but should also factor in spatially distributed national targets. This thus calls for improved coordination between administrative levels. • Survey of near-and mid-term electricity demand increases. • Survey of near-and mid-term electricity production changes. • Energy system and transmission system load simulations for future scenarios. • Transmission grid sets a strong limitation on feasible development trajectories. • Analyses reveal a strong need to coordinate energy system and regional development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we apply a combination of methods for understanding how business models need to change to meet changing business conditions in the future (time horizon 2050). The process of applying the value proposition canvas and the business model canvas for understanding the future business models to the case of district heating has been documented. The energy transition necessitates a combination of new and existing solutions. District heating is one existing and enabling technology. The sector is, however, facing several challenges that will impact the way that business must be conducted in the future. We provide new knowledge about the characteristics of the future district heating business model and illustrate that technical development must be accompanied by business development otherwise the competitiveness of new technology is reduced. Main results show that a high level of digitalisation, enabling customers to make choices that are efficient to the district heating system, is a key future feature. Additionally, co-creation with a small group of dedicated customers will drive the sector's ongoing development. The results from the study are replicable and of relevance to other sectors undergoing large change. • By a combination of methods, it is possible to derive a qualified estimation of future business models. • Technical change must be accompanied by business model change for a competitive result. • District heating companies will need a business model in 2050 that is much different from the one in use today. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]