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The increase of Renewable Energy (RE) production to fight the climate crisis is posing new technological and financial challenges, due to the availability and variability of RE Sources (RES). These challenges can be addressed by selecting the most suitable mix of RES to optimise power production, to assure grid resilience and to promote local energy use. To facilitate the selection of such combination, this paper presents an original methodology that allows to compare mixing scenarios with different RES, also in presence of batteries and backup system. It simultaneously optimises the energy surplus with respect to the eventual external electrical load and the missing energy with respect to the same electrical load. This method, which can cope with isolated or plugged-to-grid systems, is here applied to a novel case study, an oil&gas platform under decommissioning, located in the Adriatic Sea (Italy). The RE production from wind, wave and solar panels is supposed to support other activities for the platform reuse, such as aquaculture, monitoring and mineral deposition. In this case, solar energy is providing the greatest contribution to the optimal mix in terms of production, while wave energy assures the most relevant contribution in terms of continuity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate change and scarcity of energy sources have put developing countries in a situation that demands emergency future planning for matured renewable technologies in order to continue sustainable progress and provide clean and cheap energy to masses. This paper provides a comprehensive structure of site suitability for utility scale solar PV and wind energy projects considering criteria critical to each technology while only using criteria with absolute necessity for varying scenarios incorporating Multi Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) along with Geographic Information System (GIS). A novel approach is also considered for far-off areas potentially deprived of electricity access for small scale solar PV implementation. A total of eight sub-criteria were considered in site selection process regarding wind and solar energy, analyzed using Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) in order to rank criteria depending on their importance to selection process. Resulting methodology was applied to case study of Pakistan, a developing country with growing climate change emergency and ongoing power crisis. End results showed 25.28% area suitable for utility scale solar PV farms, 5.93% area suitable for utility scale wind farms and 40.02% suitable area for small scale solar PV farms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates the connectedness among the climate change index, green financial assets, renewable energy markets, and geopolitical risk index from June 1, 2012 to June 13, 2022, using Quantile Vector Autoregressive (QVAR) and wavelet coherence (WC). The Total connectedness index (TCI) varies as long as the highest TCI originates in the upper quantile. We also note that the higher TCI decreases after the second wave of COVID-19 and increases during the first 100 days of the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Moreover, the results show that Geopolitical risk (GPR) is a net transmitter of the climate change index during the Russian invasion of Ukraine. The green bond and clean energy markets are negatively connected to the GPR at extreme 10 th and 90 th quantiles. The wavelet coherence confirms the QVAR results that the climate change market can be a safe haven against GPR during the Russian invasion. The climate change index, green financial assets, and clean energy are strong influencers in the financial markets and are vital to international peace, reducing geopolitical risk. The study reports a few novel conclusions and implications from a sustainable development perspective. • Connectedness among climate change index, green financial assets, renewable energy markets. • Daily data was used from June 1, 2012 to June 13, 2022. • Role of geopolitical risk for green financial assets and renewable energy market. • Climate change index, green financial assets, and clean energy are strong influencers in the financial markets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Changes in the ground surface temperature, as it can occur in built-up areas or due to climate change, affect the temperatures of geothermal boreholes. Analytical models for the thermal simulation of boreholes and considering this factor have been proposed. However, they all impose a uniform heat extraction boundary condition along the borehole walls. This boundary condition overestimates the temperature change in the underground caused by the borehole heat extraction and underestimates it in case of rejection. More accurate results are most often obtained by imposing a uniform temperature boundary condition. In this paper, we propose a new model to calculate the boreholes wall temperature taking into account both the heat extractions/rejections from all the boreholes in the area and the change in ground surface temperature. The model is tailored for areas with independent ground source heat pumps and imposes a uniform temperature boundary condition along the borehole walls, overcoming the limitation of the existing models. We apply the new model to a real Swedish neighbourhood and show that existing systems may already be significantly affected by the increased ground surface temperature due to urbanization. We also compare our new model with an existing similar model and show that while the two models provide similar results for smaller areas, their difference tends to be relevant for bigger areas – including the real Swedish neighbourhood analysed - thus making the application of our model important for neighbourhood- and city-scale studies. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the interactions among climate change, carbon emission allowance trading, crude oil and renewable energy stock markets, especially the role of climate change in this system is of great significance for policy makers, energy producers/consumers and relevant investors. The present paper aims to quantify the time-varying connectedness effects among the four factors by using the TVP-VAR based extensions of both time- and frequency-domain connectedness index measurements proposed by Antonakakis et al. (2020) and Ellington and Barunik (2021) [8,48]. The empirical results suggest that, firstly, the average total connectedness among climate change, carbon emission allowance trading, crude oil and renewable energy stock markets is not so strong for the heterogenous fundamentals underlying them. Nevertheless, the time-varying total connectedness fluctuates fiercely through May 2005 to September 2021, varying from about 8% to 30% and rocket to very high levels during the global subprime mortgage crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic. Furthermore, the total connectedness mainly centers on the short-term frequency, i.e., 1–3 months. Secondly, climate change is generally the leading information contributor among the four factors, although not particularly strong, and its leading role also performs mainly on the short-term frequency (1–3 months). Thirdly, renewable energy stock market and crude oil market show tight interactions between them and they are the two major bridges of information exchanges across various time frequencies (horizons) in this system. Finally, we confirm the evidence that the primary net connectedness contributor and receiver switch frequently across different time frequencies, implying that it is extremely essential for policy makers, energy producers/consumers and investors to make time-horizon-specific regulatory, production/purchasing or investment decisions when facing the uncertain effects of climate change on the interactions among carbon emission allowance, crude oil and renewable energy stock markets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper describes the core model that lies behind an online modeling environment for photovoltaic (PV) energy generation in the Netherlands, called the Dutch PV Portal 2.0 (PVP 2.0). PVP 2.0 realizes three functionalities: (i) a real-time system efficiency breakdown figure, (ii) an estimate of national solar electricity production, and (iii) an economic analysis for small-scale to large scale PV systems. The unique and novel aspects of this website are the dynamically updated climate database, the rainfall-dependent soiling loss calculation, and the orientation-dependent inverter sizing factor. This paper also justifies the PVP 2.0 capabilities in large scale studies. First, the PVP 2.0 modeling approach was validated by yield comparison with 26 real PV systems distributed over the Netherlands. The validation resulted in −11% to +5.5% deviation from measured data. Then, a back-end sensitivity study found that a rain-free summer in the Netherlands results in an AC energy loss of 3.4% in that period, while a change in wind speed or ambient temperature could lead to losses around 2–4.5 GWh/year (0.58%–1.16%) on province scale. The core of the approach presented in this paper can be used to develop similar websites for other countries of interest with adapted add-ons depending on the target climate condition. Such study tools could eventually provide more quantitative insights about the impact of climate change (by applying probable scenarios) on the renewable energy production of the World. • A comprehensive website for solar electricity in the Netherlands was created. • The website contains multiple innovative features not present in other websites. • The website database provides real-time meteorological data for public use. • The website enables back-end sensitivity analysis. • The methodology behind the website can be replicated for other countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solar energy has developed rapidly in recent years, and its impacts on climate have been revealed mainly through model simulations and limited field observations. However, the representation of solar plants in these models is highly simplistic and does not account for dynamical effects, which may pose risks under the simulations for tracking photovoltaics (PV). To make a more comprehensive assessment of the PV-induced climatic impacts, it is relevant to further develop a more sophisticated PV module based on the observed PV-induced impacts from specific cases. To remedy the deficiencies in the existing PV energy models, the newly sophisticated PV module established in this paper includes both the land surface radiation balance, sensible heat balance and the surface physical dray process over the locations of PV plants. It is then used to simulate the local climatic impacts of PV plants through three parallel sensitivity experiments. Comparison analysis between control run and two PV installation scenarios showed obvious changes in the 10-m wind speed, land surface temperature, and 2-m specific humidity were found locally over the locations of PV plants during both the warm and cold periods. The magnitudes of these changes are positively related to the installed capacity of the PV plants, but are much smaller than the natural climate variations. It is expected that the observation-based PV module established in this paper is a meaningful attempt for the model simulation on this field. • A newly sophisticated PV model is firstly developed based on observations. • PV-induced reduction of 10-m wind speed is ∼0.7–1.0 m/s. • Land surface temperature decreases by ∼ 1–2 K during daytime. • PV-induced drying change is obvious in January (∼0.1 kg/kg) but not in July. • The local climatic impacts are much smaller than the natural climate variation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the growing need for residential buildings as a result of population growth, the building sector is a high-priority area in climate change due to its large share of CO 2 emissions, the significant energy saving opportunities it represents, and the increasing expectations for occupant comfort. This paper presents the results of climate change impact assessment on a typical mid-rise residential building in four representative cities with different climatic characteristics in Turkey. Three different scenarios that characterize different solutions towards space cooling are developed, from naturally ventilated to fully air-conditioned. The energy requirements and corresponding CO 2 emissions due to space conditioning as well as occupant thermal comfort are the investigated building performance metrics. The preliminary results based on energy simulations indicate that pronounced overheating will be experienced in the future, which will have a strong effect on cooling energy use and/or occupant comfort. The projected energy demand also points to the future need to explore measures for climate change adaptation of buildings and the importance of the decarbonization of the electricity industry for climate change mitigation. The analysis results presented in this paper provide a basis for future studies on building retrofit for climate change. • Evaluation of climate change impact on a typical residential building in Turkey. • Cooling is to dominate thermal loads due to increased temperatures. • Warmer climates to be influenced most by negative effects. • Severe overheating for poorly ventilated, highly insulated buildings. • Adaptation measures needed for climate-proofing existing buildings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, the performance of photovoltaic (PV) systems has strategic role for satisfying the standard of net or nearly zero energy building with in-situ production. In this frame, the novelty of the paper is the proposal of a combined experimental and numerical approach for evaluating the mismatch between PV production and consumptions during design, operational and future performance under expected emissions scenarios. First of all, it proposes a comparison of production estimation by means of several tools for the evaluation of the energy balance in the design phase; then the expected and real behavior is compared with also the evaluation of the performance ratio (PR) evolution as function of cell temperature. Finally, a sensitivity analysis is proposed in the short and medium scenarios by varying the size of installed system and considering the degradation rate under future weather conditions. The approach is applied to a case study in a typical Mediterranean climate, starting from the monitoring data available for the building energy request and the renewable production (2016–2022). The results of the case study indicate that the PR greatly influences the performance, mainly under expected climate changes, since the operational emissions could increase of more than 15 % compared to actual performance also if the zero energy balance is satisfied. Furthermore, through a sensitivity analysis on the PV-system size, the study demonstrates that with a maximum linear degradation rate of 1.51 %/year, the building could be configured as nearly zero energy in the medium term (20 years) also with lower peak power. The analysis also suggests that the maximization of installed power is a prerequisite to follow the implementation of positive energy goal because, under all considered climatic evolutions it can balance the penalties both due to technical aspects that to modification of consumption and production profiles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper focuses on climate change in Turkey caused by energy consumption using an Autoregressive Distributed Lag and Toda-Yamamoto causality analysis. The motivation and aim are: Finding evidence of causality for the relationship between energy consumption, growing economies and climate change depending on parameters that vary over time, which are observed and argued through political implications. Temperature and precipitation are the dependent variables for climate change; energy types and Gross Domestic Product per capita are the independent variables for economic determiners. Data was collected annually from various institutions between 1980 and 2019. According to the Toda-Yamamoto test, a negative relationship is determined between renewable energy consumption and temperature in both the short and long term. The results reveal that a 1% increase in renewable energy reduces the temperature by 0.031%. The increase of renewable energy may help in decreasing temperature. Precipitation and non-renewable energy consumption have a positive relationship in both the short and long term, with a 1% increase in non-renewable energy consumption causing a 0.175% increase in precipitation, indicating a negative effect on climate change. Encouraging renewable energy consumption through government incentives can be a powerful solution to decrease the negative effects of climate change in Turkey. • This study examines the relationships between climate change and energy consumption. • It conducts an ARDL analysis and Toda-Yamamoto causality tests in a growing economy. • Renewable energy consumption has a positive effect (reduces) temperature. • Non-renewable energy consumption has a negative effect (increases) precipitation. • Renewable energy consumption is critical mitigating global warming in Turkey. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The main goal in this paper is to supply a national load by multiple renewable power connections to utility grid at different geographic locations. The national load demand of the country of Jordan is supplied in this case study by finding the optimal configurations and locations (near cities). Cities of higher potential for wind and/or photovoltaic (PV) energy location are selected for connecting to renewable power. The annual system cost of energy (ASCE) for this optimized renewable energy system is shown to be 32.57% less than the conventional grid energy price. Further, the Carbon Dioxide (CO 2) emissions are reduced by 80.13%. These are excellent indications for the feasibility and environmental benefits of retrofitting conventional grid with renewable power in developing countries. Multi-figure of merits (MFOM) based on a Nondominated Sorting Genetic Algorithms (NSGA) optimization cases are investigated which include annual emission indicator (AEI), ASCE, levelized cost of energy (LCOE) and renewable penetration (RP). Results are either two dimensions (2D) or three dimensions (3D) Pareto frontier, where various competitive non-dominant solutions exist. A sweet spot selection (triple-S) procedure is proposed to help select the best point in the two (figure of merits) FOMs Pareto frontier to have both environmental and feasible solutions. Highlights • The contributions of this paper are multi-point connection to a national grid, holistic definition and modeling of the engineering and financial problems, optimal design tool solutions to the multi-point connection problem definition and model, suggesting this as a case study of the concept of "local solutions for a global problem." Such a holistic approach is recommended especially in the developing countries. • The importance of moving toward sustainable energy stems from global climate change and the need to provide access to affordable energy to all of humanity. The ultimate goal is to satisfy a country's national load demand by establishing multiple utility grid connections to various geographic locations of high wind or solar energy resources. This is done by building a new optimization design tool which investigates economic feasibility and environmental impacts. Then, Single figure of merit and multi-figure of merits optimizations have been investigated. • A mathematical modeling is developed for each component, and the optimal configuration is determined for each city. The annual system cost of energy (ASCE) is optimized to be 32.57% less than grid energy price, and the CO 2 emissions (AEI) are reduced by 80.13%. These are excellent indications for the economic feasibility and the environmental benefits of the designed system. The levelized cost of energy (LCOE), total net present cost, renewable penetration (RP) and AEI are 0.058212 $/kWh, $8.713857 billion, 59.49817% and 4.576 Megatonne/year respectively. • A new equation to calculate the salvage cost has been developed in this paper. Moreover, a new procedure in a multi-optimization problem was developed in this paper, which is the Sweet Spot Selection (triple-S) procedure. It is developed to help select the sweet point in the two FOMs Pareto frontier to have both environmental and economic feasible solutions. • Multi-figure of merits (MFOM) optimization cases based on a non-sorting genetic algorithm are investigated such as: AEI vs. ASCE, AEI vs. LCOE, AEI vs. RP and (RP, LCOE, AEI). The MFOM optimization results are either 2D or 3D Pareto frontier, where exists various competitive non-dominant solutions. The sweet spot selection (triple-S) procedure is proposed to help select the sweet spot in the two figure of merits Pareto frontier in order to have both environmental and feasible solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract This work analyzes the impacts of climate change in the revenues of hydropower plants. One important input for designing and evaluating investment opportunities in hydropower is the water inflows historical data. Unfortunately, the use of such information alone may not project well the future power generation due to the influence of climate change in the water inflow patterns. This paper introduces spatio-temporal information of the future climate into the operational planning of the Brazilian hydropower system. Global climate models from IPCC are considered along with downscaled regional climate models. Our results at the individual hydro plant level show the importance of taking into account climate change information when performing hydro generation planning studies. Highlights • We present a new framework to evaluate climate change impacts in hydropower plants. • An interaction among regional climate, water inflows modeling, and optimization dispatch models is showed. • Relevant results for distinct configurations of the Brazilian system are presented. • This paper can help to support decision-making regarding investments in new hydro plants. • This multidisciplinary research provides guidance for future planning of the generation system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present paper aims to formulate a novel framework of probabilistic model for long-term significant wave height to facilitate accurate probabilistic analysis and further decision making in engineering practice. It is found that there are several sources of inconsistency through the investigations of the records of significant wave height and correspondingly, three main challenges in the probabilistic modeling together with the relevant characteristics of long-term significant wave height are presented. A cluster based probabilistic model, in which the extremes are highlighted, is derived afterwards by optimization to ensure that it keeps consistent with the information conveyed from the records. Further, the model will also evolve with the recognition of the inconsistency between the records collected from different lengths of period. Finally, a framework for the analysis is formulated and its application is illustrated. • Main challenges in the probabilistic modeling of significant wave height are presented. • A cluster based probabilistic model, in which the extremes are highlighted, is derived by optimization. • The proposed model would evolve with the records collected from different lengths of period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With increasingly challenging climate crisis, carbon neutrality has become a necessary path for the whole world. However, there still lacks a comprehensive investigation on the optimal capacity expansion planning for a low-carbon transformation while considering multiple uncertainties. In this paper, a multi-period optimal capacity expansion planning scheme for regional integrated energy systems considering multi-time scale uncertainties and generation low-carbon retrofit is proposed. First, to better describe the short-time scale uncertainty caused by renewable energy and load fluctuations, a multi-dimensional tempo-spatial correlated scenario generation method is proposed to more accurately capture stochastic features with the least amounts of representative scenarios. Second, a multi-period optimal planning model considering generation low-carbon retrofit and short-/long-time scale uncertainties is developed. The proposed model combines information gap decision theory and chance constraints to stress both uncertainties simultaneously, which is further linearized to facilitate the computation. Third, an improved bilinear Benders decomposition (IBBD) method is utilized to efficiently solve the proposed large-scale optimal planning problem. Finally, numerical experiments of a real world test system of WF city show: 1) the maximum errors of PDF and CDF between generated scenarios and historical data are 0.108 and 0.016, validating the effectiveness of the proposed scenario generation method; 2) the low-carbon retrofit reduces system carbon emissions by 14.12 × 107 kg, while the total system cost is $956,411,387 with additional energy coupling units and renewables installed, indicating the reliability of the multi-period planning model; 3) the IBBD algorithm demonstrates applicability and efficiency in solving the proposed multi-period optimal expansion planning problem, reducing computation time by over 80.39 % compared to commercial solvers, such as GUROBI. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The marketplace of climate solutions has grown considerably. Three technologies, in particular, exhibit strong potential for disruptive change and advancement in the residential sector: electric vehicles (EVs), rooftop photovoltaics (RPVs), and efficient heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. Many scholars have studied the adoption of these technologies; we address their co-adoption. Using a survey conducted in Georgia, we examine pro-environmental behavior, risk tolerance, and energy-related knowledge as social-psychological drivers for the co-adoption of RPVs, EVs, and efficient HVACs (including heat pumps). We conclude that some but not all of these drivers are relevant to the adoption and co-adoption of the three transformational climate solutions. Pro-environmental behaviors, for instance, appear to create conditions for "positive spillover," propelling consumers toward adopting multiple climate solutions, whereas energy knowledge has no clear relationship with co-adoption. At the same time, the = influence of these drivers are unique to different combinations of technologies – one notable example is the significance of risk tolerance when RPV is added to technology bundles. Our paper contributes to the literature by broadening the understanding of the adoption of bundled (or co-adopted) climate solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the influence of dust and extreme dust events in the renewable energy generation in the island of Tenerife has been studied. Two different models have been proposed: one model to estimate the influence of atmospheric Particulate Matter (PM) in the Photovoltaic (PV) generation, and a second model that captures the influence of a set of weather and temporal variables, including PM, in the renewable generation of the island. Additionally, the hypothetic situation of extreme dust events occurring in a future 100% renewable electric system in the island of Tenerife is analyzed. Results show the interconnections between PM2.5, PM10 and wind resources on the present and future power output in the Island, and how the future storage capabilities need to take into account these events for a necessary increase in resilience related to climate change and related extreme weather events. • Extreme dust events in renewable energy generation for islands is studied. • Models are based on the influence of atmospheric PM in the PV generation. • The hypothetic situation in a future 100% renewable electric system is analyzed. • Results show the interconnections between PM2.5, PM10 and wind resources. • Storage capabilities need to take into account for a necessary increase in resilience. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solar-powered irrigation system, a low-cost option, ensures varieties of co-benefits both in the domains of climate mitigation and adaptation, and thus has been incorporated as a part of climate project. However, its co-benefits in climate adaptation have not been sufficiently explored, which may result in a lack of insights about co-benefits and prevent wider roll-out and scaling-up. This paper aims at exploring co-benefits of solar-powered irrigation, an adaptation measure, taking a project in a drought-prone area of the northwest part of Bangladesh as a case. Using both interviews and focused group discussion, this research finds that besides generating co-benefits in climate mitigation, there are substantial adaptation co-benefits in various forms including vulnerability reduction and enhancement of resilience. However, many of the co-benefits in climate adaptation are indirect and less visible and realizable in the long-term, such as informal social group formation, improved financial strength, and employment opportunity. Making co-benefits more visible among various stakeholders, and launching a feed-in option may help to scale up solar-powered irrigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The climate impacts of deep enhanced geothermal systems (EGS) have been understudied in the academic literature. Using life-cycle analysis (LCA) conducted in accordance with ISO 14040 and ISO 14044 standards, this paper explores the climate change impacts of two deep EGS. The first study was in Reykjanes, Iceland, where a single well, IDDP-2/DEEPEGS, was drilled to a depth of 4.6 km for the purposes of additional electricity production from an existing power plant. The second study involved two wells with side-tracks (depth > 5000 m), drilled to serve a new heat and power co-generation plant located on an old oil field site in Vendenheim, France. Climate change impacts for the sites were estimated in the range 1.6–17.4 gCO2e/kWh and 6.9–13.9 gCO2e/kWh for Reykjanes and Vendenheim, respectively. Although the EGS projects are very different, both outcomes are low when compared to non-renewable alternatives and akin to best-in-class renewable alternatives. The main impact at the Reykjanes demonstration site were the greenhouse gas emissions released from the borehole, an effect that could be avoided by carbon capture and storage/mineralisation/utilisation. In the case of Vendenheim, further reductions in emissions could be achieved via more extensive adoption of circular economy principles in design and procurement. • First two life-cycle assessments of deep enhanced geothermal systems (EGS). • Climate change impacts for Reykjanes estimated in the range 1.6–17.4 gCO2e/kWh. • Climate change impacts for Vendenheim estimated in the range 6.9–13.9 gCO2e/kWh. • Emissions reductions at Reykjanes achievable through carbon capture and storage. • Circular economy design/procurement principles could reduce emissions at Vendenheim. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over the past few years, there has been a growing global consensus related to the importance of renewable energy to minimize the emission of greenhouse gases. The solution is an increase in the number of renewable power plants but unfortunately, this leads to a high dependence on climate variables which are already affected by climate change. Brazil is one of the largest producers of electricity by renewables through its hydro-dominant power generation system. However, hydro-generation depends on water inflows that are directly affected by climate change that consequently affect the electricity production. Therefore, these changes need to be considered in the operation and planning of a hydro-dominant power system. In this paper, we present the effects of different climate scenarios in the water inflows produced by the regional Eta climate model. Normally, studies use an optimization model to make decisions in case of a hydro-thermal scheduling problem and use the assured energy to evaluate the hydro-production. In this analysis, water inflows used in the optimization process consider different trends according to its associated climate scenario. Our paper shows that climate change may drastically impact the system assured energy and consequently, the system's capability to supply load. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, as a result of the rapid increase in population and industrial development, the need for energy has increased. Many investments are made especially for electrical energy which is an inevitable requirement for the industry. Most of these investments are made by using fossil resources in countries' lands. Fossil sources are known to be consumable as well as too poisonous gases they give to the atmosphere during energy production. This situation causes global climate change. To prevent climate change, the carbon emitted to the atmosphere has to be brought under a certain control mechanism. In this context, the first Kyoto Protocol and then Paris Climate Agreement was signed. Under these agreements, countries will be responsible for the level of their greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. This situation led to the carbon trade among countries. This situation accelerated the transition of countries from fossil sources to renewable energy sources. In this study, the effect of hydroelectric power plants, one of the renewable energy sources, on carbon emissions was investigated. According to the results, based on fossil sources of 408,533.57 tCO 2 per year from Turkey Gökçekaya dam has been shown to reduce the carbon footprint. • The paper provides a comparison of carbon emissions between hydroelectric and fossil fuel energy sources. • The article examines carbon emission reduction from a perspective of carbon markets and the legal framework. • The study also provides an analysis based on the example of Gökçekaya HEPP in Turkey. • The study provides an economic analysis of the Gökçekaya HEPP with the feasibility analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Open Cycle - Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OC-OTEC) is one of the most important renewable energy sources that generate electricity and fresh water from seawater utilizing the temperature gradient between the warm surface seawater and the cold deep seawater. This paper aims to develop non-linear data-driven model-based adaptive Feedback Control (FBC) schemes for the OC-OTEC process to track the output power and a dynamic Feed-Forward Control (FFC) scheme to reject the effects of temperature disturbance on power caused by climate variations in OC-OTEC. The experiments are conducted on a laboratory-scale OC-OTEC experimental setup at the National Institute of Ocean Technology, Chennai. Firstly, linear data-driven models are developed using system identification techniques. Based on the developed models, gain scheduling-based adaptive control schemes are developed: Proportional Integral (PI) control and Model Predictive Control (MPC). Secondly, the closed-loop performances of the developed FBC schemes are analysed under servo and regulatory operations. Furthermore, it is observed from the sensitivity analysis results that the temperature disturbance highly influences output over the manipulated variable. Hence, a dynamic FFC scheme is implemented to reject known disturbance of 1 °C variation in temperature gradient from 18 °C to 19 °C due to Sea Surface Temperature (SST) changes in temperature gradient. The results show that the proposed MPC-based FBC-FF scheme effectively enhances the tracking and disturbance rejection performance compared to the PI-based FBC-FF control scheme with a minimum Integral Square Error (ISE) of 3.055 and Control Effort (CE) of 7.505. This experimental data-based, data-driven modelling and adaptive control research provides a new direction for automating OC-OTEC. Further, these studies will help to develop a rugged and automated upscaling OC-OTEC plant control system with proposed feasible control schemes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of wind power has gained prominence on the world stage, especially in Brazil. In addition to generating energy free of emissions, wind technology is the second cheapest generation option in Brazil. At the same time, it has contributed to reducing hydrological vulnerability caused by climate variation. Although wind power has experienced a steady expansion in the last decade, recent poor outcomes of wind auctions produced uncertainty about the future of this technology in the country. This paper analyses the influence of contract mechanisms used in Brazilian energy auctions for the growth of wind generation. To do this, a scenario analysis based on a hybrid simulation model is used, combining agent-based modelling (ABM) and system dynamics (SD). From the hybrid simulation, the effect of the wind project cancellation policy is analysed, on the one hand, and different ceiling prices for competing sources in the auctions are assessed, on the other. Moreover, the simulation model shows how hydro conditions affect reserve energy auctions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The optimal management of the water-energy-food (WEF) nexus in cropland ecosystems (CEs) can help promote food security and resource sustainability. However, the intrinsic interactions among multisource energy, water, the yield-formation process, and the economic-environmental effect have not been systematically quantified and determined. This paper constructs a WEF-based cooperative optimization model in CEs under climate-change conditions, which is capable of reflecting the reciprocal transformations and coordinated interactions among light energy, thermal energy and biomass energy in CEs and of balancing the energy/water use efficiency, economy and environmental factors considering the biomass residue potential. The method is tested and implemented on the Sanjiang Plain, Northeast China. The results show that (1) a cooperative relationship between energy utilization efficiencies and economic benefits was identified. For example, if the utilization efficiencies of light and heat energy increase by 1%, the economic benefits increase by 13.59%, and the biomass energy production potential increases by 10.82%. (2) The aboveground residue can be reused in power generation, carbonization, anaerobic fermentation, feed preparation and sales applications to increase the economic benefits by 3.38%–20.70%. This study contributes to a deeper understanding of multiple renewable energy management and the bound with water and food production, promoting the sustainable development of agroecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite numerous prior studies regarding public acceptance of climate change mitigation technologies, most academic papers focus on individual technologies in their analyses. Little is known about the acceptance of multiple low-carbon energy technologies. This study bridges this research gap and explores the cross-technology acceptance of various energy solutions at different locations. Thus, we provide a comprehensive understanding of public acceptance patterns by analysing a broader range of technologies concurrently, focusing on: (a) nuclear power, (b) district heating, (c) energy-saving technologies, (d) onshore, nearshore, and offshore wind power (WP), (e) photovoltaics (PV) installed on agricultural land, industrial roofs, and private roofs, and (f) carbon capture and storage (CCS) in offshore, nearshore, rural onshore, and urban onshore locations. Based on Danish nationally representative survey data, our results give strong policy indications that PV on industrial rooftops is accepted at the highest level. In contrast, nuclear power, onshore rural and urban CCS, and nearshore CCS are the least accepted technologies to combat climate change among the Danish public. Additionally, we discover that the acceptance of a specific technology is contingent on locations. Specifically, the public acceptance of PV, WP, and CCS depends on the place of living and the potential location of technology placement. Finally, this study explores subgroup analyses to compare acceptance differences according to gender, age, education, income, and location of residence. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper describes large scale tests conducted on a novel unglazed solar air collector system. The proposed system, referred to as a back-pass solar collector (BPSC), has on-site installation and aesthetic advantages over conventional unglazed transpired solar collectors (UTSC) as it is fully integrated within a standard insulated wall panel. This paper presents the results obtained from monitoring a BPSC wall panel over one year. Measurements of temperature, wind velocity and solar irradiance were taken at multiple air mass flow rates. It is shown that the length of the collector cavities has a direct impact on the efficiency of the system. It is also shown that beyond a height-to-flow ratio of 0.023 m/m³/hr/m 2 , no additional heat output is obtained by increasing the collector height for the experimental setup in this study, but these numbers would obviously be different if the experimental setup or test environment (e.g. location and climate) change. An equation for predicting the temperature rise of the BPSC is proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is a growing interest on how climate change may affect the energy sector, including changes in wind energy generation. This paper builds on existing research adding an economic component that considers how climate change can affect operating margins and investment values in specific wind farms in Spain. A projection of wind speed was carried out using an ensemble of three climate models, two scenarios (RCP 4.5 and 8.5) and two time periods (2018–2041 and 2042–2065) per plant. Using historical power curves, the changes in wind speed were converted to production output. The results show variations in production of up to 8% and changes in operating margins up to 10%. Seasonal generation may fluctuate as well, with an increase in summer and decrease in winter. An investment analysis was also conducted to consider how climate change may influence future developments in the sector. • Climate change will affect wind speed and therefore wind energy production. • In four wind farms in Spain we project variations in wind speed of up to ± 5%. • This will imply changes in production (±8%) and in operative margins (±10%). • The regulatory framework is more relevant in comparison. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Economic growth and development around the world are leading to increasing worldwide demand for energy, whose production still mainly comes from fossil fuels generating large amounts of greenhouse gas emissions, which contribute to global warming and climate change. To mitigate climate change, the European Union implemented an energy policy strategy that encourages firms to implement sustainable energy systems. This could generate investment opportunities in energy efficiency and renewable energy projects around the world for European mutual funds. Therefore, the main aim of this paper is to analyze the financial performance of energy and renewable energy mutual funds using conditional and unconditional models. To this end, we have a sample of 4496 mutual funds commercialized in Europe in the period 2007–2018. Our results indicate that renewable energy mutual funds perform similarly to the market using conditional models. However, they underperform their conventional peers using a specialized market benchmark, reaching similar performance to black energy funds. While the total expense ratio negatively affects renewable energy financial performance, other fund characteristics, such as size or Socially Responsible Investing (SRI) certification, do not affect it. • This study analyzes the financial performance of energy and renewable energy funds. • This study implements conditional and unconditional models. • Renewable energy funds perform similarly to the market using conditional models. • Renewable energy funds underperform their conventional peers in unconditional models. • The total expense ratio negatively affects renewable energy financial performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: In a world constantly shaped by climate change, the search for decarbonising pathways will deliver many innovative technological solutions as well as trigger changes in the way people behave. This however will take time and will require negotiations and new business models. There is increasing evidence that arresting climate change at 2°C is unlikely to be attained in a world where carbon is essential for development. Achieving agreement and commitments between developed and developing countries have proven difficult but is there something that those most responsible for the current levels of CO2e emissions in the atmosphere can do? The paper examines food consumption and argues that there is a lot of potential for decarbonisation if people reduce their meat consumption. The highest levels of meat consumption are observed in the developed world and the livestock sector has been shown to be the largest single contributor for greenhouse gas emissions globally. Estimates indicate that a low-meat diet can reduce the cost of abating climate change. The paper presents an argument as to how flexitarianism – reduced meat consumption to the recommended healthy levels, can help in arresting climate change. Flexitarianism offers an easy way to achieve fast decarbonisation and has the added benefits of contributing towards improving not only the biophysical health of the planet but also that of its human habitants. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This study examines a sample of three Asian Development Bank (ADB) energy projects to determine how they holistically address the energy sector challenges of the region. The paper firstly establishes four fundamental social and environmental sustainability principles that have influenced ADB''s new energy policy. These are (1) improving energy efficiency; (2) promoting renewable energy; (3) reducing energy poverty; and (4) enhancing climate change adaptation. These inform the policy''s new four-fold implementation strategy of scaling up renewable energy, advocating efficiency, enhancing energy access to benefit livelihoods and improving energy sector governance. The study then investigates the historical genesis, drivers, and advantages and challenges facing three recent ADB energy projects: a $76.75 million biomass power plant in Thailand, a $32.6 million energy efficiency initiative in the Philippines, and a $153.5 million program for off-grid renewables in Vietnam. The final part of the study evaluates each of these cases based on how they embody each of the four sustainability principles that uphold the new energy policy. The paper concludes by distilling lessons and presenting general recommendations for planners at the ADB and in Asia more generally. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The paper presents the results of extensive measurements which took place in two sites with different characteristics in terms of street geometry, urban density and materials. The first experiment site was a traditional settlement in the island of Tinos, Greece, while the second was a relatively newly built part of the capital city of Tinos. The experimental measurements, which include air and surface temperature, air humidity and air velocity, were carried out in two sets, during the summer and winter period. The experimental measurements were compared to simulation results obtained by a special computer tool. The comparison led to the conclusion that experimental measurements and program results were in good agreement for the summer period, and the tool was subsequently used in order to perform parametric analysis of microclimate in urban canyons. Main parameters that affect urban canyon microclimate were examined, that is street geometry, street orientation, effect of trees, horizontal surface albedo, wind speed and wind direction. The paper aims in presenting the results obtained by the comparison of the two sites and in analyzing the effect of parameters such as urban layout, street geometry and orientation on urban canyon microclimate, with special reference on the characteristics of traditional architecture of the Cycladic islands. Also, the parametric analysis aims in investigating the parameters involved and their degree of influence on urban canyon microclimate. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract Increasing demands for energy, growing environmental concerns and the constraints of conventional energy sources have generated the need for public education on renewable energy, and the need for government policy to embrace renewable energy technologies. This paper is based on a previous study that explored the beliefs, perceptions and attitudes of the Nigerian public to renewable energy technologies so as to derive implications for science and technology policy and education in the country. A sequential mixed-method approach was employed in the study. First, a survey with close-ended questions was administered to 600 randomly selected participants from Ibadan, Akobo and Asi. This was followed by four focus group interviews held with 23 purposefully selected participants from the study. Statistical and thematic analyses were conducted. The results show that the participants have a low-level knowledge of renewable energy technologies. There is also no relationship between the educational level of the participants and their knowledge of renewable energy technologies. The majority of the participants were not aware of sustainable development. The outcome of this study underscores the need to widen the nation's science and technology policies as well as its educational curriculum to incorporate themes addressing renewable energy and sustainable livelihood. Highlights • There is a general low level knowledge of renewable energy technologies among the participants with the males having a higher score than the females. • There is no relationship between renewable energy knowledge and the educational level of participants. • Many of the participants are not aware of greenhouse emissions and sustainable development. • The majority of the participants got their information about renewable energy technologies from the television. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The paper analyses the possibility of application of PV/T systems in moderate climate conditions. Experimental part of research studies has been developed in Patras, Greece, in October–November. In that time climatic conditions in Greece are similar to summer (warmest) weather conditions in Poland. Some aspects of Polish climatic conditions, especially of solar radiation availability are presented. The liquid single glazed PV/T module has been selected for consideration as the most suitable for described climatic conditions. Experimental outdoor stand with such PV/T module has been designed and constructed to determine its energy performance. A mathematical model of the photovoltaic/thermal solar system operation is presented. Existing formula for determination of the PV/T temperature during its operation has been validated by experimental studies. As a result the correction - design factor has been introduced to the formula. It helps to take into account the design (number of covers) of the PV/T module, when its energy performance and operation are determined through simulation studies. Simulation studies of the dynamics of a microscale PV/T system supplying energy (electricity and heat to Domestic Hot Water system) to a standard single-family house has been performed using own numerical code. Selected results of simulation studies of the operation of different cases (sizes) of PV/T systems are described. Simulation studies of operation of the PV/T systems in micro scale application in high latitude countries show, that for 2 months of a year, in December and January, more electrical than thermal energy is generated by the PV/T system. In summer problems with too high temperature of the working fluid of the PV/T module can occur. As a result, the electrical efficiency decreases. In Polish climatic conditions a PV/T system should be provided with a continuous heat removal system to assure efficient operation of the system. Highlights • Among different types of PV/T modules the liquid single glazed type is the most recommended for high latitude countries. • The design of the PV/T module should be taken into account, when the PV effective temperature is calculated. • Correction factor in equation determining the PV effective temperature in the liquid glazed PV/T module has been formulated. • Problems with too high temperature of a working fluid of the PV/T module in summer in high latitude countries. • Higher electricity than thermal energy gains in PV/T system in winter in high latitude countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The advantage of accurate forecasts is that it solves the main problem related to renewable energies: their variability. Indeed, while renewable energies has not yet replaced fossil fuels, in spite of the efforts of many governments, it is because of their intermittent nature, hence the importance of prediction in this field. The new approach for energy prediction that we propose in this paper, is founded on the analysis of the dynamical behavior of the photovoltaic production of the Faculty of Sciences and Technology of Beni Mellal, Morocco. It consists in performing the phase space reconstruction, which allowed us later to build a database for the input of the neural network and thus take into account the dynamics of the system in the forecasting process. Then, in search of more precision, we introduce the wavelet transformation, to simplify the database constructed from phase space reconstruction. Finally, comparing between the predictions and the actual observations confirmed the efficiency of our approach. Highlights • PV production forecast has an major role in its integration into electricity mix and thus in the fight against climate change. • In this work, we propose a new approach for forecasting, based on the exploitation of the phase space reconstruction. • The proposed model is a hybrid method combining the phase space reconstruction, DWT method and recurrent neural network. • The method is tested on real observations to confirm the efficiency of our approach. • Comparison between predictions and actual data confirmed the effectiveness of our approach given the improved results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract In this paper a model is used to estimate the diffuse radiation using the Boland-Ridley-Lauret (BRL) model, which is developed for Chile, Costa Rica, and Australia. Additionally, artificial Direct Normal Irradiance time series are determined from the diffuse fraction results estimated by the model. Both estimates achieve excellent agreement based on the bias and normalized scatter. The relationship between the predictors of the model and the climatic conditions of each case of study, according to the Köppen-Geiger climatic classification was analyzed, which to the best of the authors' knowledge, it's the first study of this kind. An analysis on correlation and statistical significance was carried out between the model predictors and four determining geographic and climatic variables: altitude, latitude, precipitation and temperature. The statistical analysis shows that two of the six predictors correlate with temperature and precipitation and one predictor is correlated with latitude. Therefore, it can be suggested that the BRL model seems largely insensitive to the different regional climatic conditions, nevertheless, evaluation of the effect of the apparent correlation of the respective predictors and microclimatic and geographical variables points to further research in this area considering a wider selection of locations. Highlights • The BRL model predictors were calculated for Chile, Australia and Costa Rica. • Diffuse irradiance and DNI estimations were performed from GHI measurements. • The observed bias, as well as normalized scatter, were fairly low for hourly data. • BRL model predictors were correlated against the Köppen – Geiger climatic classification. • A non-negligible correlation was found between predictors and precipitation, temperature and latitude. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract In order to mitigate climate change and reduce fossil fuel dependency in Iran, the government of the country has announced its renewable energy policies to increase the use of renewable energies, but the share of the energy generation mix of Iran is very low due to the lack of public acceptance. These challenges continue and can be hard to overcome at all levels. This paper investigates this problem at regional level by measuring public acceptance towards development of climate-friendly technologies in order to provide required feedbacks to policy-makers of the government for ushering changes in their policies already made or in their executing mechanism, possibly deducting future risks such as public opposition from their end and improving the level of acceptance. This study uses a mixed-methods analytical approach for quantitatively taking that level, including creativity techniques and fuzzy cognitive maps (FCMs). FCMs could directly map out policy-makers' cognitions on the problem. This study provides the mathematical formulation of the problem with its conceptual interpretation to import policy-makers' knowledge into FCMs when the knowledge is gained explicitly with creativity techniques. The authors focused on a case of Solar Water Heater adoption in the city of Behbahan in Khuzestan Province. Graphical abstract Image Highlights • A combinative method for measuring public acceptance of clean energy technologies is proposed. • It provides the mathematical formulation of the acceptance problem with its conceptual interpretation. • It focused on a case study of solar water heater adoption in Iran. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Desalinated water is an alternative and feasible water source that can help solve water scarcity problems. However, most desalination plants are operated using fossil fuels, which contribute to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. To face the problem of climate change, many countries are developing policies that promote renewable energy for electricity production. These policies might impact desalination costs. This paper proposes a methodology to evaluate the economics of desalination by integrating investment costs, operational and maintenance costs, and GHG emissions costs. This method will enable us to determine the impact of renewable energy polices on desalination costs. The empirical application was developed for Chile, a country with a promising future in renewable energy, and revealed that the full costs of desalinated water decrease by approximately 22% when the current electricity production mix is changed to predominantly renewable energy production. Moreover, this application illustrated the relevance of adopting a carbon tax to motivate the switch to renewable energy. This study demonstrates that the adoption of renewable energy policies involves a notable synergy with water issues. Highlights • Methodological proposal to estimate desalination costs integrating external costs. • Evaluation of the impact of renewable energy polices on desalination costs. • The adoption of renewable energy policies involves synergy with water issues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract High elevation or high latitude hydropower production (HP) strongly relies on water resources that are influenced by glacier melt and are thus highly sensitive to climate warming. Despite of the wide-spread glacier retreat since the development of HP infrastructure in the 20th century, little quantitative information is available about the role of glacier mass loss for HP. In this paper, we provide the first regional quantification for the share of Alpine hydropower production that directly relies on the waters released by glacier mass loss, i.e. on the depletion of long-term ice storage that cannot be replenished by precipitation in the coming decades. Based on the case of Switzerland (which produces over 50% of its electricity from hydropower), we show that since 1980, 3.0%–4.0% (1.0–1.4 TWh yr−1) of the country-scale hydropower production was directly provided by the net glacier mass loss and that this share is likely to reduce substantially by 2040–2060. For the period 2070–2090, a production reduction of about 1.0 TWh yr−1 is anticipated. The highlighted strong regional differences, both in terms of HP share from glacier mass loss and in terms of timing of production decline, emphasize the need for similar analyses in other Alpine or high latitude regions. Graphical abstract Image 1 Highlights • First quantification of Alpine hydropower production share from glacier mass loss. • Since 1980, 1.0 to 1.4 TWh yr-1 of Swiss hydropower comes from glacier mass loss. • Expected country-scale production reduction by 2070–2090 of 1.0 TWh yr-1. • Notable regional differences despite of continuous retreat of all Swiss glaciers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Energy from waste (EfW) has been identified as a source of ‘green electricity’ and has been used as a way of reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Nevertheless, selecting an EfW strategy for municipal solid waste management is a challenging task not least because of the uncertainty involved in quantifying the potential economic and environmental impacts. This paper analyses five alternatives for managing the municipal solid waste of Sydney for their ‘green electricity’ and GHG savings potential under conditions of uncertainty. The impact of paper recycling on the ranking of alternatives was investigated, too. Our analysis shows that maximizing EfW generation potential does not result in greater GHG saving. A combination of food and green waste composting, recycling of metals, paper, glass and plastics while only landfilling waste fractions that are not recyclable may result in the best GHG savings. Furthermore, recycling of paper does not always achieve the best outcome; anaerobic digestion or composting may yield better results from an environmental and energy generation perspective. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The oil crisis and the global effort to control the greenhouse effect have forced the researchers to think of various alternative energy sources. This decade has seen increasing importance of chemically treated vegetable oil biodiesel fuels for various applications in heat engines. Post-Kyoto negotiations refer to high level talks attempting to address global warming by limiting greenhouse gas emissions. During Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen the potential topics discussed were carbon capture and storage, biofuels, adaptation financing, technology transfer, sustainable agriculture, emissions targets, tropical forests and rural and transport electrification. Our area of interest is biofuels under which nonedible Jatropha oil due to its properties which are very close to diesel fuel is being explored as an alternative fuel. A lot of research is underway in the use of different biodiesel fuels in Internal Combustion engines, but very limited work has been reported in its use in gas turbines. This paper describes the results of an ongoing development program aimed at determining the technical feasibility of utilizing biodiesel in IS/60 Rovers gas turbine. The test rig is equipped with a dynamometer for turbine loading and AVL exhaust gas analyzer has been used to record emissions. The test results of 2 blends have been reported in this paper. Analyzing the results compared with the base line performance using diesel fuel under normal conditions show encouraging outcomes. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Economical design of Ground Heat Exchangers (GHEs) relies significantly on accurate estimations of ground thermal properties, including undisturbed ground temperature, ground thermal conductivity, and GHE thermal resistance. Typically these are measured in situ by a Thermal Response Test (TRT), where the parameters are back-calculated by fitting a heat transfer model to the temperature response. The accuracy of most models relies on an assumption of constant ground temperature with depth, but in reality there are several mechanisms by which this may be invalid, one being seasonal variation in ground temperature. In this paper a study of Infinite Line Source Model performance under different seasonal conditions using a Finite Element model is presented. The study aims to determine the robustness of interpretation of TRTs conducted at different times of the year and the sensitivity of the effect's key influencing variables. Results suggest that there is little variability in effective thermal conductivity but some variation in GHE thermal resistance. A dimensionless parameter was derived and found to be strongly linearly related to the difference in GHE thermal resistance, leading to generalized estimates of the potential impact on design length that were greater than 10% under relatively extreme conditions and for short GHEs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: This paper reports the outcome of the project on “Capacity building in formulating harmonized policy instruments for the promotion of Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency in the ASEAN member countries”. With the growing concerns about green house gas (GHG) emission and consequent climate change, renewable energy sources have become more attractive option for electricity generation around the world. Studies have been made on the status of renewable energy potential and utilization, major barriers in promoting renewable energy in ASEAN countries, major energy policies to overcome barriers, and existing renewable energy and energy efficiency policies in ASEAN countries. Paper concludes that ASEAN has not utilized its renewable energy resources anywhere near to the potential. Analysis found that the key factor that has to be amended is “policies and regulations in renewable energy and energy efficiency” at both country level and regional level. But, ASEAN is not yet ready for the full harmonization of the policies. However, it recommends that, with the project outputs it is possible to focus on the specific policy instruments common to most of the member countries, such that it could use to augment ASEAN Plan of Action for Energy Cooperation (APAEC) initiatives. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Renewable energy generation through biorefineries is increasingly considered as more sustainable in comparison with fossil-based fuels as well as single-product renewable energy systems. However, biorefineries have many system variations, and therefore, the evaluation of their environmental performance and comparison with conventional systems before large-scale deployment is essential. In this paper, the sustainability of three different biorefiney scenarios (Sc-1, Sc-2, and Sc-3) based on Eruca sativa ( ES ) as feedstock were investigated using a life cycle assessment approach from energy balance and environmental point of views. Biodiesel, electricity, ethanol, heat, glycerol, and/or biomethane were the marketable products taken into account under the conditions of these scenarios. According to the results obtained, we argue that although biorefineries offer unique features as most effective alternatives for mitigating climate change and reducing dependence on fossil fuels, the selection of biomass processing options and management decisions can widely affect the final evaluation results. Overall, providing transportation fuel through Sc-2 in which biodiesel, electricity, ethanol, heat, and glycerol were produced could decrease GHG emissions by approximately 140% compared with the combustion of neat diesel while also offering a total net energy gain (NEG) of 4.94E+08 MJ/yr. Nevertheless, if biorefineries are to be used for future transportation fuel production, a great deal of efforts should still be made to achieve better environmental performance in the Human Health and Ecosystem quality damage categories. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this paper is to analyze the factors determining the choice of energy policy setting in favor of renewable energy sources. We investigate if such determinants are different between countries at different stage of development. Finally, we study if the adoption of green energy policies is characterized by complementary or substitution effects. Our analysis aims at responding at two research questions: what are the factors influencing a country's choice for a specific type of energy policy? Is it possible to identify either complementary or substitute policy interventions based on a country's level of economic development? Moreover, are developing systematically different from developed countries in manage public and private resources for renewable energies? The empirical analysis employs a panel probit model estimated over a sample of 56 countries observed between 2004 and 2011. The results show that while context variables have the same impact in developed and developing countries, public operational variables play a different role. Governments in richer countries are bound to play only a role of an arbiter. On the contrary, governments of developing countries are more directly involved in the management of energy policies. Hence, a greater impact is recognized to policies with direct involvement of the government. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The relationship between the wind resource in Southern South America (SSA) and the Antarctic Oscillation (AAO) and El Niño/Southern Oscillation (ENSO) is analyzed in this paper. Daily, monthly, seasonal and annual correlations were calculated between wind speeds at 50 m height derived from MERRA reanalysis and the indices of the mentioned climate drivers. Our results shows that the AAO exerts a significant control over wind speeds on inter annual and seasonal timescales. This relation is stronger during spring and summer, with negative correlations over northern Patagonia, the Argentine and Uruguayan Pampas and Paraguay. ENSO shows weaker relations with wind speeds, mainly on the monthly timescale, with negative correlations over Central Argentina; and during spring, with negative correlations over Southern Patagonia. The relations between AAO and wind speeds are relevant in the context of projected climate changes in the region over the next decades. ENSO might be used as a predictor of wind energy production over monthly and seasonal timescales (mainly during spring) in central Chile and Argentina, and Southern Patagonia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents an assessment of the wave energy resource in nearshore waters along the central coast of Chile (Lat.:32.5° S to 42.5° S). The assessment is built upon the combined use of hindcast and measured data collected specifically for this goal. Offshore and nearshore data at a number of locations were collected with buoys and ADCPs, with dwell times ranging from 3 up to 12 months. These were used to assess the accuracy of modeled data at the both offshore and nearshore locations. Modeled offshore data comprises three hourly sea states obtained from a third generation ocean wave model, covering the 1989–2013 period, thereby allowing long-term estimates. By using the wave model SWAN, these data was propagated to the nearshore shallow waters to obtain modeled wave climate along the entire section of coast. Validation results indicate good model skill, where both offshore and nearshore results are within 10% of the measured data, with an over prediction of wave power. The long-term wave power estimates show an increase of the median power with increasing latitude, fluctuating between 20 and 35 kW/m in areas near the coast. Monthly and seasonal variability also increase with latitude, with higher energy events present during the winter season. These results are qualitatively consistent with previous assessments in the area, albeit the present results are consistently 5–10 kW/m smaller, which suggests that previous non calibrated assessments may have overpredicted the wave power by about 20%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper Kenya’s climate change mitigation ambitions are analysed from an energy system perspective, with a focus on the role of renewable and other low-carbon energy technologies. At COP-21 in 2015 in Paris, Kenya has committed to a ‘nationally determined contribution’ of reducing domestic greenhouse gas emissions by 30% in 2030 in comparison to a business-as-usual projection. An efficient exploitation of the country’s renewable energy resources is key to achieving this target. We use the TIAM-ECN model to characterize plausible development pathways for the Kenyan energy mix until 2050 under different climate change mitigation scenarios. We conclude that the power sector can expand with mostly renewable energy options even in the absence of stringent greenhouse gas abatement targets. On the contrary, on the demand side a substantial deployment of low-carbon technologies is triggered only when ambitious emission reduction objectives are in place. The introduction of these technologies entails additional energy system costs, ranging in 2050 from 0.5% to 2% of the country’s GDP. Our analysis supports the feasibility of Kenyan climate management goals, provided that adequate investments in renewable and other low-carbon energy technologies are timely made available. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Typical Meteorological Years (TMY) provide a basis for modeling solar photovoltaics. Their use, however, assumes continued historical norms inconsistent with climate change. Modifying TMYs with Regional Climate Models (RCMs) responds to this issue and has applications in renewable energy evaluations. This paper provides perspective on using modified TMYs for solar resource assessments, offers methodological improvements, and analyzes the impacts of insolation and irradiation changes on photovoltaic performance. For Ahmedabad, India, a TMY is constructed from Indian Meteorological Department measurements and modified with two Regional Climate Models - REGCM4 and REMO 2009. For each modified TMY and baseline, the performances of three photovoltaic technologies (monocrystalline, polycrystalline, and double-junction amorphous silicon) are considered for 2015–2050. Increases in ambient temperature are found to have small (<1.0%) but increasing negative impacts on monocrystalline and polycrystalline performance through 2050. A less significant positive trend (<0.1%) was observed for double-junction amorphous silicon. Insolation adjustments for REGCM4 were excluded after an error analysis. Insolation changes from REMO 2009 projected a 4% decrease in photovoltaic output by 2050, but should be considered cautiously given concerns over cloud modeling. A sensitivity analysis of monthly insolation modifications on photovoltaic performance revealed the relative impact of insolation changes in different months. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, significant attention has been given to renewable energy integration within the context of global climate change. In the meantime, the energy-water nexus literature has recognized that the electricity & water infrastructure that enables the production, distribution, and consumption of these two precious commodities is intertwined. While these two issues may seem unrelated, their resolution is potentially synergistic in that renewable energy technologies not only present low CO 2 emissions but also low water-intensities as well. Therefore, renewable energy integration has the potential to address both sustainability concerns. And yet, renewable energy integration studies have yet to methodologically consider an integrated energy-water infrastructure. Many of these works rely on a coupled unit commitment-economic dispatch simulation. Recently, a simultaneous co-optimization method has been contributed for the economic dispatch of networks that include water, power, and co-production facilities. This paper builds upon this foundation with the development of the corresponding unit commitment problem. It demonstrates the optimization on several case studies inspired by Singapore & the Middle East. It concludes that renewable energy simultaneously reduces CO 2 emissions and water withdrawals. Furthermore, it shows how water storage can help alleviate binding co-production constraints, flatten production profiles and reduce production cost levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Small hydropower (SHP) has existed for more than a century in Colombia, and is gaining reserved interest as an option to mitigating climate change. In this paper we investigate the prospects for SHP in Colombia based on an analysis of economies-of-scale and learning-by-doing effects. We created an inventory of SHP plants realized in Colombia between 1900 and 2013, and focused on grid-connected SHP stations only. In the economies-of-scale part of our analysis we considered all SHP plants with a capacity lower than 20 MW. However, we exclude plants with a capacity lower than 0.1 MW from the learning-by-doing analysis, given that their cumulative capacity is still too small for a meaningful learning curve estimation. We used an Ordinary Least Squares analysis for estimating the parameters of our economies-of-scale and learning-by-doing models, and observed that infrastructure costs and total costs are mainly driven by economies-of-scale, while equipment costs can also be influenced by learning-by-doing. Our findings suggest that equipment costs for SHP plants with capacities between 0.1 and 20 MW have declined at an average learning rate of 21%. We conclude that both the public and private sectors can benefit from scaling effects for hydropower plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Pacific Small Island Developing States (SIDS) are among the most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. Besides, they are some of the most dependent on imported petroleum products in the world, the use of renewable energy (RE) can help minimize the economic risk associated with the price volatility of fossil fuels. The region is increasingly adopting renewable energy (RE) targets and policies. Successful examples of RE deployment in the Pacific SIDS exist; however, many barriers persist and prevent the use of the region’s RE resources in a larger scale. Challenges for RE deployment in islands can be grouped in six categories: i) lack of RE data, ii) need for policy and regulatory frameworks, iii) scarcity of financial opportunities, iv) lack of human resources, v) costly infrastructure, and vi) socio-cultural impediments. Based on a survey conducted among main stakeholders in the region, within the framework of the Pacific Region Capacity Building Initiative of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) carried out in cooperation with the Secretariat of the Pacific Community (SPC), this paper identifies the specific characteristics of these challenges in the context of the Pacific SIDS, provide a qualitative assessment and identifies recommendations to overcome these challenges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]