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This research investigates the influence of green technology innovation on the energy transition process using machine learning methods and econometric approach. To examine the effect of green technology innovation on the energy transition, we utilize panel data from China covering the years 2005–2020. The research intends to highlight the significance of green technology innovation in fostering the transition to sustainable energy. Our analysis of panel data reveals that green technology innovation significantly benefits China's energy transformation strategy. In particular, the study discovers that financial support for green technology innovation, as indicated by R&D spending and patent filings, has a favorable impact on the energy transition procedure. Additionally, to evaluate the influence of green technology innovation on the energy transition process, the research uses machine learning methods. The study emphasizes the need for increased investment in green technology innovation to support the transition to sustainable energy. Additionally, machine learning methods offer a valuable tool for evaluating how innovations in green technology affect the energy transition process. The research also sheds light on the variables that affect the outcome of energy transition initiatives, particularly emphasizing the role of R&D investments and patent filings in advancing a sustainable energy transition. • Investigates impact of green tech innovation on energy transition in China. • Panel data analysis reveals benefits of green tech investment. • R&D spending & patents have favorable impact on energy transition. • Study emphasizes need for increased investment in green tech. • Machine learning methods offer valuable tool for evaluating impact. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The majority of small district heating systems (DHS) in Poland are supplied with coal and do not have a status of efficient ones according to Energy Efficiency Directive. They should transform into efficient ones by taking an appropriate measures by the end of 2035. At the same time, a significant reduction of CO 2 emissions is expected in this sector. One of the possible solution for such systems is to apply unites fueled with fuels alternative to coal such as biomass. Cost benefits analysis of implementation a biomass ORC (Organic Rankine Cycle) cogeneration unit in municipal district heating system of 22 MW thermal capacity is the subject of the paper. The research included building configuration scenarios of a heat source regarding ORC size and operation modes. Different economic inputs such as electricity, fuel and European Union Allowance (EUA) for CO 2 prices as well as financial support mechanisms were considered. Economic indexes (Net Present Value, Internal Rate of Return and payback times) have been derived for both Polish and German conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The number and importance of renewable energy communities (RECs) are increasing in all European countries due to the support of EU and national policies in order to foster the energy transition through participatory strategies for distributed energy systems. However, their development is rather slow in some countries, including Italy. The paper addressed the issue of the emergence of these socio-technical configurations in Italy, after the related law which entered into force in 2020 allowing the possibility of creating them. Our study focused on the alliances among different actors (professionals, institutions, NGOs, citizens) highlighting possible trends or models for the future that need to be confirmed in further research. The approach proposed to analyse this current process is the Actor-Network Theory, aiming at drawing the assemblages of human and non-human actants at a general level. Accordingly, we selected three case studies in order to show their different ways of organising, the relevance of trust in establishing each REC and the influence of local context on the composition and features of the actor-networks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Paris Agreement targets to halt the progression of climate change necessitate global cooperation and renewable energy uptake in developed and developing countries at similar rates. This study explores the energy transition pathway options for Egypt across the power, heat, transport, and desalination sectors as a representative case study for other emerging sunbelt economies. The LUT Energy System Transition Model has been used to investigate the feasibility of six scenarios, including four variations of best policy, delayed policy, and current policy scenarios. The least-cost solution, achieving 100% renewable energy and zero CO 2 emissions by 2050, is dominated by solar photovoltaics at 90% of the total primary energy demand. Key transition enablers are the excellent and low-cost solar resources, energy storage, and Power-to-X technologies allowing high electrification and full sector coupling. The results reveal that the current and delayed policy scenarios are the most expensive pathways, highlighting the value of leapfrogging into a fully renewable system. Such a transition would require policy reforms that balance investment risks in emerging economies and enable its financial mobilisation. The structural results of this study provide a reliable guide for energy transition planning in Egypt as well as other emerging sunbelt economies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper examines the neighbourhood-level spatial determinants of residential solar photovoltaic (PV) adoption in the Netherlands. We investigate the roles of place-specificities and spatial interaction effects by utilising high-resolution spatial data on 13,205 Dutch neighbourhoods. Unlike other studies, we use impact measures on the basis of a spatial Durbin model to distinguish between direct and indirect effects of the spatial determinants. We find significant neighbourhood-level spatial interaction effects in residential solar PV adoption. Where there is a spatial dependence, household income, property value, population density, housing type and household type are among the factors that influence residential solar PV adoption. • Spatial factors that influence residential solar photovoltaic (PV) adoption are identified. • Spatial econometric models are applied using high-resolution spatial data on 13,205 Dutch neighbourhoods. • Direct and indirect effects of the spatial determinants are distinguished. • Significant spatial interaction effects are identified. • Neighbourhood-level spatial differences influence solar PV adoption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In following a pathway towards decarbonisation of energy systems, Australia has successfully accelerated the adoption of solar technologies, with approximately three million small-scale distributed solar panels installed on rooftops of Australian homes. This study, in seeking to explore the effects of socio-economic variables on solar energy uptake, firstly explored the historical diffusions of household solar panels across 2668 Australian postcode areas, and classified the postal areas into three groups through K-means clustering according to their solar penetration status, namely the regions with low, medium, and high solar-level. Subsequently, this study carried out a hierarchical regression analysis investigating the significant socio-economic factors impacting solar adoption in each of the three region types. The results indicate that the three solar groups have different significant impacting factors. In addition, factors, such as detached house and multi-person household, positively contribute to the solar panel uptake, while factors like population density and middle-aged people provide negative contributes. The findings suggest new directions that could be taken for future policies and viable business models, and that specific measures for the varied socio-economic factors to be considered at different stages of solar energy development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Renewable energy transition is an imperative agenda of the Conference of the Parties. It has a tremendous role in limiting carbon emissions, and environmentalists have recently highlighted the critical need to identify the factors influencing the energy transition. By evaluating the evidence of the G7 from 2000 to 2020, this study broadens the scope of this argument by providing potential determinants of the energy transition. This study explores the dynamic influence of renewable energy investment, financial structure, and environmental regulation on renewable energy transition. The study applied the cross-section autoregressive distributed lag (CS-ARDL) model to resolve the issues of slope heterogeneity and cross-section dependency in panel data analysis. The results exhibit that green energy investment, financial development, and environmental policy stringency stimulate sustainable energy transition in the long run. Manifestly, the interaction term of financial development and ecological regulations offer comparatively stronger influence than their individual effects, implying that effective environmental regulations direct the movement of financial resources toward the renewable energy transition. Similar results are also affirmed through the augmented mean group estimator. It suggests that the policymakers would formulate integrated policies to strengthen the ecological regulations and financial sector development, reducing financial barriers and introducing new green financial products. • Renewable energy transition (RET) is an imperative agenda of COP26. • Green investment and financial development (FD) stimulate RET. • Environmental regulations stimulate RET. • Environmental regulation moderates the impact of FD on ETI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Global energy markets are experiencing an unprecedented confluence of events that are driving up gas prices and bringing energy security to the forefront, adding further complexity to already uncertain prospects following global economic recovery from COVID-19. This article examines the factors that have led to the current surge in natural gas prices and the role of green investment in enhancing energy security and accelerating the transition pace for a sustainable world. It also discusses the potential short- and long-term implications of ongoing spikes in energy prices on global energy transition. The analysis highlights that while renewables could provide a promising solution to enhance energy security, the current energy crisis has revealed that the current scale of renewable energy investments is not ready to address ongoing energy needs, forcing countries to re-unlock further hydrocarbon fuel sources such as coal, putting global energy transition on hold. The paper concludes with policy recommendations that enable unlocking clean energy investments amid a strained geopolitical context. • We focus on how to balance climate mitigation and energy security goals. • We examine the role of green finance and investments in accelerating the energy transition. • We also discuss the potential short- and long-term implications of ongoing energy spikes. • The current scale of green energy investments is not ready to address ongoing energy needs. • We conclude with policy recommendations that enable unlocking clean energy developments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Through the United Nations Climate Change Conferences, industrial economies have been urged to formulate stringent environmental regulations. This study adds to the current deliberations by exploring the role of energy transition and environmental innovation on ecological footprint for the top ten manufacturing countries. The time period of analysis runs from 1995 to 2019. We have added other energy and macro variables to reduce the omitted variable bias. The panel estimation methods confirm significant association across the concerned variables. Our findings from CS-ARDL, AMG, CCEMG, and FMOLS confirm that environmental innovation, renewable energy and energy transition have a significant negative association on ecological footprint. On contrary, financial development, economic growth and urbanization lead to environmental deterioration. Given the findings we propose some policy suggestions. In particular governments should foster technological and structural changes that are necessary for energy transition to enhance long-run economic efficiency. Further the manufacturing economies should encourage renewable energy consumption to reduce the burden on ecological footprint. To this end the countries can foster development of solar industry and upgradation of infrastructure in the context of other renewables. • We evaluate how energy transition and environmental innovation impact ecological sustainability. • We use empirical dataset from top-ten manufacturing countries from 1995 to 2019. • Energy transition, renewable energy, and environmental innovation mitigate environmental degradation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

South Korea announced a hydrogen economy roadmap and hydrogen regulations aligned with its decarbonization plan. However, the environmental, economic, and social sustainability of the hydrogen economy in South Korea has not been thoroughly studied. Under the Energy Trilemma framework, we compared the positive and negative impacts of hydrogen with other energy carriers, including nuclear, coal, gas, and renewables. The selected evaluation criteria included the energy return on energy investment, greenhouse gas emissions, levelized cost of electricity, import dependency, and long-term energy storage. As a result, we argue that green hydrogen improves environmental sustainability and energy security by reducing the carbon emission intensity of the energy sector and energy dependency on imported sources. We propose three critical policy implications to maximize the benefits of hydrogen while minimizing its negative economic impact. First, the rapid expansion of renewables, particularly large-scale wind power, is required. Second, clean hydrogen portfolio standards must be aligned with South Korea's decarbonization plan. Third, governmental investment in research and development activities and demonstration projects will reduce hydrogen production costs by maximizing the utilization of renewable resources. • Green hydrogen is crucial for decarbonizing South Korea's energy system while improving energy dependency. • Clean hydrogen portfolio standards and clean hydrogen certificates are required to promote green hydrogen. • Expanding offshore wind capacity reduces the cost of green hydrogen production. • Research and development activities and demonstration projects will reduce the cost of hydrogen production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Underground natural gas storage is a promising solution to lowering greenhouse gas emissions and attaining sustainable development goals. However, several issues prevent the application of storage projects on a global scale. An accurate estimation of the delivered amount of natural gas from each storage site might be used for supply and demand. Due to this fact, this study proposed hybrid intelligent models integrating the least square support vector machine (LSSVM), differential evolution (DE), imperialist competitive algorithm (ICA), cultural algorithm (CA) , teaching learning-based optimization (TLBO), genetic algorithm (GA), and particle swarm optimization (PSO) for approximating the deliverability of underground natural gas storage in different geological formations. We have employed vast data sets of 782 reservoirs from depleted fields to train and validate the proposed intelligent models to predict underground natural gas storage deliverability in the USA. The visual and analytical assessments were used to investigate the performance of the developed intelligent systems. The predicted results showed that all of the intelligent models agreed with the recorded data. Moreover, the statistical indicators revealed that the LSSVM coupling TLBO model shows the highest accuracy in predicting the deliverability of natural gas storage in the depleted field among three intelligent models. Also, the optimal intelligent model accurately predicts 880 and 600 data measurements of saline aquifers and salt domes, respectively. The optimal intelligent model yields a root mean square error (RMSE) value of less than 0.022. The correlation factor (R2) is over 0.998, 0.999, and 0.906 for the depleted field, saline aquifers, and salt domes, respectively. The results highlight the importance of combining smart approaches with nature-inspired strategies in forecasting storage site deliverability. In light of these findings, researchers are better equipped to reduce petroleum energy usage and increase community acceptability of natural gas as part of the transition to green energy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Numerical simulations based on Computational Fluid Dynamic techniques are performed to analyze the possibility of feeding a biomass-derived syngas into the combustion chamber upstream of the hoods for tissue-paper drying, to replace fossil fuels and thus decarbonize the plant. It was observed that, in the context of Favre-Averaged Navier–Stokes equations simulation, syngas requires detailed kinetics and finite-rate approaches, as the fast-chemistry ones, largely employed in the industrial practice for conventional fuels, lead to unreliable results. The actual chamber, originally designed to be fed with liquid petroleum gas, does not operate properly when fueled with syngas, with incomplete oxidation of carbon monoxide. Numerical simulations have proven how very few modifications of the chamber can be devised to permit feeding efficiently the syngas, obtaining low pollutant emissions and meeting the desired requirements in terms of flow and thermal uniformity for the drying process. The solution proposed in the present study, with the effective use of a biomass-derived syngas to feed the drying section of a tissue paper plant, will allow saving approximately 8500 ton/y of CO 2 emissions in comparison with today's fossil fuel carbon footprint. [Display omitted] • Use of syngas from biomass gasification to decarbonize a tissue paper plant. • CFD simulations to comprehend the behavior of chamber and hood fed with bio-syngas. • Need for detailed kinetics to model with CFD the bio-syngas combustion. • Modification of the combustion system needed to limit CO with the bio-syngas. • Reduction of 8500 ton/y of CO 2 emissions in comparison to today's LPG. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transitioning to renewable energy is vital to reduce greenhouse gasses and mitigate climate change. As large-scale renewable energy development expands, more land use conflicts are arising between renewable energy development, ecological conservation, and local communities. Spatial planning methods are becoming more widely used to address such conflicts, however, they often lack local community input and values. In this study, we develop a Participatory Least Conflict Solar Energy Siting Framework based on energy justice theory which uses place-based stakeholder engagement paired with Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) and Geographic Information System (GIS) based multi-criteria decision making. We operationalize a case study in Southwestern Taiwan to identify and evaluate suitable solar development sites and demonstrate how the framework can be used. The results of our AHP surveys show a general consensus that protecting the natural environment is important as the top three prioritized factors: "Avoid Environmental Protected Land", with a priority of 20.8%, "Avoid Other Important Natural Areas", with a priority of 11.9%, and "Avoid Other Natural Areas" with a priority of 8.2%. In addition, if only 12% of the land with medium to high suitability are developed for solar energy generation, Tainan City and Chiayi County alone could support the Taiwan government's solar development goal of 20 GW of installed solar capacity for the entire country by 2025. Our study also reveals that the use of participatory methods in site evaluation and final site design is important to ensure true suitability with local ecological, social, and economic systems. This methodology helps to normalize a more holistic multi-goal strategy of solar development that recognizes renewable energy infrastructure as part of a social-ecological-technical systems and Climate Justice. We suggest this framework be used to address the spatial mismatch between national level policy and local implementation that supports place-based renewable energy collocation for energy democracy and community ownership, and develop policy and regulations to support a just transition toward carbon neutrality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The transition away from fossil fuels towards renewable energy is critical in preventing perilous climate change, and cities around the world have a significant role in enabling this transition. Cities are innately centres of human, economic and intellectual capital, also contributing to the growing energy demand around the world. This research is a first of its kind to explore the technical feasibility and economic viability of 100% renewable energy systems including power, heat, transport and desalination sectors for a global megacity like Delhi within the North Indian grid region. It presents a technology-rich, multi-sectoral, multi-regional and cost-optimal energy transition pathway for Delhi, which is a hub within the regional energy system. The results of this research indicate that a megacity such as Delhi can benefit and drive a regional energy transition, with reduction in primary energy of over 40%, reduction in energy costs by over 25%, reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, air pollution and associated health costs. While creating more than three times the number of direct energy jobs as of today across North India and Delhi. With the case of Delhi within the North Indian grid, this research provides snapshots of the current and future energy landscapes and discusses several aspects of an energy transition pathway that could lead to an affordable, efficient, sustainable and secure energy future for megacities around the world. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research presents a completely decarbonized system structured with renewable energies for the fragile ecosystem of the Galapagos Islands of Ecuador, with a horizon to the year 2050. The transition process begins with clear legal actions and allocating economic resources that clearly promote a change in the energy matrix and the transition would be achieved until the year 2050. The Galapagos Islands are the second largest marine reserve on the planet, declared a World Heritage Site in 1978 for UNESCO. The archipelago, a beautiful ecological attraction, has tourism as its main economic source. The biggest problem is in the supply of energy that mainly comes from fossil fuels, in addition to that, the smell of fuel in several places is out of tune with the harmonious nature and its species. The efforts began to be noticed when in the Archipelago the new implementations of renewable energy began to become a reality with the purpose of stopping using fossil fuels. In this sense, there is the potential to take advantage of the resources available in specific sites, especially the photovoltaic and wind solar considered in the National Plan All a Life. The change in the productive matrix from the national level also implies a change in demand, including at the transportation level with the use of electric vehicles and the use of electric stoves in homes. The purpose is that energy services in the Galapagos Islands progressively increase, on the one hand, replacing fossil fuels and on the other, supplying the growing demand with a view to 2050, taking advantage of renewable energies until reaching 100%. • The scenario outlined is 100% renewable energy by 2050 in the Galapagos Islands. •The Galapagos archipelago has great renewable energy potential. •The decarbonization in Galapagos will have a positive impact on the socioeconomic and environmental aspects. •Decarbonization is feasible by 2050 depending on the economic situation. •The electricity system of Galapagos will allow it to maintain its status as a Cultural Heritage of Humanity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The climate crisis coupled with energy poverty and injustice in Africa requires strategic measures to proffer sustainable solutions. A transition to a defossilised power sector is obtained for Africa by 2050, evolutionarily developed to fulfil the Paris Agreement. With the LUT Energy System Transition Model, the role of biomass in a least-cost power sector for Africa is investigated from 2020 to 2050 in five-year time steps. Techno-economic assumptions of employed technologies are applied. The study considers the current generation portfolio, lifespan of power plant technologies, and the current and future electricity demand to ascertain the best generation mix by 2050. Biomass potential of 334 TWh (17.5%) of the total African biomass potential of 1911 TWh is applied to the African power sector to develop two Best Policy Scenarios: a scenario without bioenergy (BPS-1) and a scenario with bioenergy (BPS-2). The results indicate a positive impact of bioenergy on the power sector: The total generation, total installed capacity, grid utilisation, levelised cost of electricity, and storage output decreased by 8.6%, 8.4%, 12.9%, 10.2%, 47.1% by 2050 respectively in BPS-2 relative to the BPS-1. In addition, flexible generation from biomass offers balancing to enhance variable renewable energy resources integration onto the power sector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study uses a Vector Autoregression - Error Correction Model to examine the price dynamics of Fatty Acid Methyl Ester (FAME) in the Portuguese market. The importance of this research is that failure to meet the targets of the Renewable Energy Directive jeopardizes Portugal's efforts to improve the sustainability of the transport sector. The results suggest that FAME prices are susceptible to fluctuations in agricultural commodities, ethanol, and fossil fuels, particularly diesel. Specifically for soy, FAME prices did not return to baseline levels by the end of the period, indicating a persistent impact. The volatility of FAME prices in response to ethanol and agricultural commodity prices underscores the need for strategic interventions to optimize these relationships. In the case of ethanol, this correlation could be strengthened, while in the case of agricultural commodities, feedstock diversification is essential to decouple FAME from first-generation biofuel sources and avoid competition with food crops. Moreover, biodiesel FAME, which serves as substitute and a complement to diesel, has a price sensitivity to changes in diesel prices. Policies and incentives to diversify feedstocks and promote advanced biofuels are essential for maintaining FAME's competitiveness and mitigating diesel price impacts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photovoltaic (PV) will have a prominent role in the future energy mix to achieve the energy and climate targets. However, its variability requires that its exploitation must be improved to minimize its integration costs. The objective of this research is to provide a methodology applicable to any energy system modelling tool for assessing the benefits of flexible demand as an option to better manage the PV variability and to reduce its integration costs. Two strategies are used to shift the flexible demand within three different scenarios based on the Italian energy system and its planned evolution to the year 2030. The effects of flexibility are investigated through an expansion capacity optimization of battery energy storage systems (BESS) and powerlines transport capacities in three different scenarios. Results suggest that flexible demand allows to reduce the BESS capacity of around 2 %–6 %, and powerlines capacity in the range of 2%–10 %, thus the resulting VRES avoided integration costs varies from 758 M€ to 8611 M€. However, it has negligible effects in boosting RES penetration and lowering the CO 2 emissions. The estimated DSM remuneration opens up interesting possibilities for applications in the context of energy communities and electricity market aggregators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The German government's goal of achieving climate neutrality by 2045 and increasing the use of renewable energy, particularly wind and solar power, has public support. However, the local siting of wind and solar farms is highly controversial due to land-use conflicts. We have developed a comprehensive Geographic Information System (GIS) model that integrates criteria from the literature to identify optimal locations for ground-mounted photovoltaic (GM-PV). The model is based on a holistic approach considering energy-related factors and broader environmental and climate aspects. The unique feature of the model is its integration of socio-technical and environmental criteria, including a novel approach to achieving a dual land-use climate benefit by protecting erosion-prone soils and conserving soil carbon in areas prone to organic matter decomposition and associated CO 2 release. Our multi-criteria GM-PV model includes 12 restrictions and five suitability criteria representing key socio-technical, economic and environmental aspects. Scenario analysis highlights the sensitivity of Germany's GM-PV potential to defined criteria. In Scenario 1, with minimal constraint, 14.2 % of Germany's land is available for GM-PV, decreasing to 1.9 % in the highly constrained Scenario 12. Suitable areas (>10 ha) account for 0.4 % of Germany's land area, which could cover 8.1 % of Germany's electricity consumption in 2045 in the highly restricted scenario. The spatial distribution results show that the innovative approach of the model changes the preference of GM-PV locations based on factors such as solar radiation in the south and soil carbon storage in the north of Germany. The application of restriction and suitability criteria significantly reduces the potential for GM-PV in Germany but also potential pitfalls for decision-makers. The GIS model can be applied in regional context to integrate stakeholder values and generate region-specific scenarios, as criteria and thresholds can be easily adapted to regional characteristics, preferences, and concerns, including those related to agriculture, biodiversity, and social acceptance. • The model considers climate aspects and integrates socio-technical and ecological criteria. • The novel approach includes soil erosion and CO 2 release from the decomposition of organic matter. • Ground-mounted PV meets at least 8.1 % of Germany's electricity demand in 2045, using 0.4 % of the country's land. • The innovative approach of the model changes the preferred locations for Ground-mounted PV. • The model can integrate stakeholders' local preferences and generate region-specific scenarios. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study delves into the critical nexus between energy transition and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions across the G7 nations from 1970 to 2021. Its primary aim is to elucidate the influence of energy consumption composition on GHG emissions within these economies. A notable feature of this investigation is the incorporation of a novel metric known as the green quality of energy mix, which offers a significant perspective on the energy landscape. To unravel the complexities of this interrelationship, the study employs sophisticated statistical methodologies, leveraging quantile-based approaches such as quantile regression and quantile-on-quantile regression (QQR). By harnessing these advanced techniques, the research endeavors to capture the nonlinear dynamics inherent in the dataset, thereby enriching our understanding of the intricate interplay between energy transition and GHG emissions within the G7 nations. To bolster the reliability of our findings, the KRLS estimator is introduced as a supplementary validation tool for both the QQR and QR estimators. The results show that energy transition promote ecological quality by reducing GHG emissions in the G7 nations. This study's findings hold significant promise in augmenting ecological quality and bolstering sustainability efforts within these economies. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The transition to an energy system with a focus on electricity sector is becoming more and more crucial to increase the life expectancy of fossil fuels, but also to meet the current commitments regarding greenhouse gas emissions. This paper presents the most credible options to increase the share of renewable energy resource in the Algerian electricity power system by 2050. Screening curve method is used to assess the levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) of different technologies for electricity generation and EnergyPlan tool is used to estimate total annual cost, annual investment cost, renewable energy resource share and CO 2 emissions during the time horizon. The efficiency and the simplicity of multi-objective cuckoo search algorithm make it a powerful approach for solving energy strategy multi-optimization problem. Considering LCOE economic order and the availability of renewable energy resource, the energy transition strategy is established by minimizing the total annual cost and maximizing renewable energy share in 2035, 2040, 2045, and 2050 using multi-objective cuckoo search algorithm. The results revealed that achieving 75% is technically feasible but will require significant investment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Islands have the potential to be precursors in the transition to clean energy, by adopting new technologies and applying innovative solutions that can serve as showcases at an international level. This paper is a contribution towards understating the importance of community engagement on energy transition processes. It covers multiple aspects of a green transition process, including technical, environmental, social, and economic issues. Starting by a participatory diagnosis process, the community of a small island located in Portugal (Culatra Island, Algarve), was challenged to lead the transition process and define different pillars of energy transition. The process brought together local authorities, academia, citizens and companies. Using practical examples, it is shown how the community is succeeding in tailoring new technological solutions for a green transition, according with the specific needs of the island, as expressed by the islanders themselves, including batteries, electric vehicles, retrofitting of homes, or heat pumps, which, when combined, could lay the foundations for the creation of a Renewable Energy Community and leverage socioeconomic benefits. •The vision is to create an island' energy community based on participatory economy. •Energy generation, revenues and internal rate of return are presented. •The energy layout plant can generate 35% of the total energy consumed in the island. •There is a potential to the island become autonomous in terms of energy production. • Adjusting consumption to generation can be achieved through demand response. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper describes a multi-criterion decision-making approach for optimal off-shore wind location assessment by including fuzzy geographical information systems to prioritize the different locations and alternatives. The multi-objective framework involves a variety of elements, such as climatic, geographic, social, environmental, location, and economic factors. The proposed decision-making solution is based on a multicriteria evaluation method divided into two steps: an analytic hierarchy process and a prioritization of the alternatives in comparison to a parallel approach based on a fuzzy geographical information system solution. The Gulf of Maine (USA) is considered as a case example, owing to the relevant offshore wind potential of such an area. A descriptive statistical evaluation of the wind resource was previously carried out to characterize this area with wind speed field measurements for 10 years (2010–2019). A design proposal for a 1 GW offshore wind power plant is used in a case study based on a 15 MW variable speed wind turbine prototype recently proposed by the IEA Wind Task 37. The results include prioritization of optimal offshore wind power plant sites, levelized cost of electricity estimation, and avoided emissions in comparison to traditional supply side scenarios, mainly based on fossil fuel generation units. • MCDM approach for optimal offshore wind sites by including fuzzy-GIS. • AHP-TOPSIS and fuzzy-GIS comparison of prioritized alternatives. • Gulf of Maine (USA) considered as case example, with 10 years data measurements. • 1 GW rate power offshore wind installation based on a 15MW VSWT IEA Wind Task 37. • Offshore wind sites, electricity levelized cost and avoided emissions are included. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research evaluates the South American Electric Energy System and its features related to the inclusion of renewable energies into the transition processes to leave fossil fuel-based energy systems behind. Analysis of the Ecuadorian case is a novel approach because in the first instance its matrix was based on the use of fossil fuels, with dire consequences of pollution, especially in the Amazon. Interest is growing in terms of economic, legal and social renewal, leaving behind the rapidly depleting oil systems which have been a polluting source. This research presents a novel analysis of the state of the Ecuadorian electricity system and after a flexible analysis in Energyplan, proposes the feasible renewable energy sources and their shares to guarantee the new demand in 2050 and an Ecuadorian 100% renewable electricity generation system, having a positive impact on the monetary, increasing production levels and improving the quality of life of its citizens. Installed power by 2050 is expected to be 20 GW and will require an annual production of 72.24 TWh. Hydro (6.02 GW), solar PV (5.7 GW) and wind (5.61 GW) will have the most impact on the Ecuadorian energy matrix. The average production cost of 1 MWh will be approximately 18 US cents. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over the years, Governments of South Asia have faced the challenge of achieving the goal of sustainable development. On the one hand, they must satisfy the ever-growing demand for energy and, on the other hand, the interminable deterioration of the environment is causing great concern among political economists. The widening gap between the demand and supply of energy, over-reliance on the use of fossil fuels, and increasing import bills due to rising global prices are the challenges that South Asia is facing. These can be overcome by using its great potential in renewables. This paper uses SWOT methodology to identify that the poor financial situation of the distribution companies, due to power losses and non-cost-reflective tariffs, and the lack of credit opportunities, due to high interest rates and inaccessibility of loans for the long-term, are the major impediments to the growth of the renewable energy sector of the region. Moreover, there is a conflict of interest between the manufacturers of renewable energy equipment and the developers of renewable energy projects in terms of Government policy concerning the imposition of import duties. India is moving towards protection of the former, while the latter see opportunities in the renewable energy sector of Pakistan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aluminum industry consumes about 4% of global electricity but requires stable power supply as long power outages are catastrophic. We investigate how the aluminum industry can maximally integrate variable renewable energy resources while remaining competitive. This can be achieved by (i) modulating production and (ii) utilizing storage. We develop an hourly linear optimization system for integrating variable energy sources and apply it for identifying the optimal configuration and operational profile for UAE-located smelter. Operating with the optimal renewable energy and fossil mix and a novel power modulation scheme, consistently reduces costs between 2.2% and 5.3% for fuel prices ranging between $2.4-$8 per MMBtu and integrating more than 40% of power by solar PV without storage. This reduces process emissions intensity from 5.13 to 2.87 tCO 2 /tAl. In all cases of RE integration, modulation confers a significant cost advantage with savings ranging from 7.5% to 10% for the fuel price range. Operating the smelter with 100% renewable energy portfolio could be achieved by installing 5.4 GWp single-axis tracking PV, 0.2 GWp wind, 18 GWh of battery storage and 47 GWh of hydrogen storage but with a 26% premium for 2020 high gas-price system costs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article explores the transition to renewable energy for all purposes in developing countries. Ethiopia is chosen as a case study and is an exemplary of developing countries with comparable climatic and socioeconomic conditions. The techno-economic analysis of the transition is performed with the LUT Energy System Transition model, while the socio-economic aspects are examined in terms of greenhouse gas emissions reduction, improved energy services and job creation. Six scenarios were developed, which examine various policy constraints, such as greenhouse gas emission cost. The Best Policy Scenarios cost less than the Current Policy Scenarios and generate more job. The results of this research show that it is least costing, least greenhouse gas emitting and most job-rich to gradually transition Ethiopia's energy system into one that is dominated by solar PV, complemented by wind energy and hydropower. The modelling outcome reveals that it is not only technically and economically possible to defossilise the Ethiopian energy system, but it is the least cost option with greatest societal welfare. This is a first of its kind study for the Ethiopian energy system from a long-term perspective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cities are expected to be protagonists of the energy transition and, among other challenges, the decarbonation of the residential consumption could greatly benefit from photovoltaic generation in the built environment. To assess its potential, the present study analyses the possibility to cover the electric demand of the city of Valencia with rooftop-installed PV panels. Specific types of buildings has been selected to study the potential of each one of them with respect to their demand and with a specific production/consumption model. The total potential energy production for the city of Valencia is estimated to be enough to satisfy the demand of domestic electricity. The economic investment scenario has been analysed (best- and worst-case scenarios), and the corresponding environmental benefits have been studied. The results of the present article are encouraging in the context of a global energy transition, necessary in the present times to keep human consumption within the planetary limits. • Potential energy generation with rooftop PV panels has been estimated. • Rooftop PV can cover almost completely the domestic electricity demand. • Best- and worst-case scenarios for economic investments have been estimated. • Environmental considerations and emission estimations are reported. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sub-Saharan Africa is a region with a large population living without electricity. This study investigates the grid balancing role of bioenergy in a sub-Saharan Africa's fully renewable power sector to address the energy poverty challenge in the region, using Ghana as a case country. Two methods are employed: the bioenergy estimation method, for deriving Ghana's technical bioenergy potential, and the LUT model, for the power sector transition modelling. The Ghanaian bioenergy potential of 48.3 TWh is applied on the power sector using the LUT model to develop six alternative scenarios, emphasising on the role of bioenergy, greenhouse gas emissions costs, and climate change mitigation policies. The results of the Best Policy Scenario reveal that with an electrical efficiency of 37.2%, 18 TWh of electricity, which is 16.9% of Ghana's electricity demand by 2050, could be produced from bioenergy for grid balancing. Also, the levelised cost of electricity declines from 48.7 €/MW in 2015 to 36.9–46.6 €/MWh in 2050. Whereas the cost of electricity increases to 76.4 €/MWh in the Current Policy Scenario without greenhouse gas emissions costs. The results show the viability of a relatively cheap and bioenergy balanced sustainable renewable power system for the sub-Saharan African region. • The role of modern bioenergy is examined in renewable energy (RE) dominated power systems. • A comprehensive bioenergy potential assessment for the case of Ghana is presented. • Bioenergy provides flexibility in hybrid solar PV-battery dominated power systems. • Levelised cost of electricity for 100% RE ranges from 37 - 46.6 €/MWh in 2050. • Sustainable modern bioenergy contribution in power systems substantially reduces system costs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents an overview of current electricity generation and consumption patterns in the Arctic. Based on published data and new data collection this paper provides an overview of the installed capacity per energy source. A more detailed view of electricity systems is also presented, showing how different types of resources can be used and combined within Arctic communities. The paper briefly discusses which aspects of transmission systems are of special interest under the harsh climatic conditions of the Arctic. A description is given of the various electricity generation technologies that have been proven to be effective for use in Arctic environment, and those that are currently in use, including diesel, hydropower, photovoltaic, and wind power, in addition to discussion of different back-up options. Furthermore, for a more holistic view concerning such energy systems the socio-economic dimension is addressed with a focus on energy security, through an investigation of energy availability and affordability in the Arctic. The availability of energy in the harsh Arctic environments can be crucial for survival and affordability, and can have a huge impact among low-income communities. • Overview of current electricity generation and consumption patterns in the Arctic. • Potential use of different energy resources in the Arctic. • Arctic Energy security. • Socio-economic dimension of energy systems in the Arctic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rural off-grid renewable energy solutions often fail due to uncertainties in household energy demand, insufficient community engagement, inappropriate financial models and policy inconsistency. Social shaping of technology (SST) of household appliances provides a critical lens of understanding the involved socio-technical drivers behind these constraints. This study employs an SST lens to investigate appliance uptake drivers in 14,580 households in Rwanda, such that these drivers can aid in policy design for green growth at the grassroots level. The methodology includes an epistemological review of non-income drivers of appliance uptake. Empirical analysis using a binary logistic regression, based on which disruptive innovation pathways were derived for fostering green growth. Results showed that appliance uptake was highly gendered and skewed across the Ubudehe (social welfare) categories. ICT-devices like mobile phones and radios had a higher likelihood of ownership than welfare appliances like refrigerator and laundry machines. Fans and cookers also demonstrated a greater probability of ownership. Disruptive innovation pathways were derived from leveraging the ICT-driven wave of appliance ownership, creation of service sectors through off-grid renewable solutions and promoting cleaner fuel-switching of cooking energy at the household level. Further policy implications were drawn to support the creation of consumption identities for green growth. • Social shaping of technology analysis of appliance uptake in 14,580 household in Rwanda. • Derived policy pathways using disruptive innovation for green growth at grassroots level. • ICT driven solutions and cleaner cooking fuel switching are key for inclusive renewable policy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The severe environmental degradation and huge energy demand for economic growth necessitate an urgent shift to a cleaner and more efficient energy system. Using data from 32 high-income countries from 2000 to 2020, the study highlights the important roles of green financial policy, environmental tax, economic complexity, and globalization in the energy transition. Green financial policy, environmental tax, and globalization are found to exert beneficial impacts at the selected quantiles of the energy transition distribution. Meanwhile, the quantile regression reveals a U-shaped impact of economic complexity in the first half distribution of the energy transition while an inverted U-shaped linkage is discovered in the second half distribution. This paper is unique in the intention of studying the varying co-benefits of four important factors, which provide valuable insights into the existing literature on the finance-socioeconomic-energy nexus. They facilitate the design and implementation of relevant schemes leading to the accomplishment of environmental sustainable goals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The severe environmental degradation and huge energy demand for economic growth necessitate an urgent shift to a cleaner and more efficient energy system. Using data from 32 high-income countries from 2000 to 2020, the study highlights the important roles of green financial policy, environmental tax, economic complexity, and globalization in the energy transition. Green financial policy, environmental tax, and globalization are found to exert beneficial impacts at the selected quantiles of the energy transition distribution. Meanwhile, the quantile regression reveals a U-shaped impact of economic complexity in the first half distribution of the energy transition while an inverted U-shaped linkage is discovered in the second half distribution. This paper is unique in the intention of studying the varying co-benefits of four important factors, which provide valuable insights into the existing literature on the finance-socioeconomic-energy nexus. They facilitate the design and implementation of relevant schemes leading to the accomplishment of environmental sustainable goals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explores the advantages of combining variable renewable energy sources like solar and wind with a pumped storage hydroelectric (PSH) system for grid integration. The hybrid modeling systems considered in this study consist of four distinct schemes and seasons to ensure their adaptability to real-world conditions. Each scheme is defined by specific rules and algorithms, including those without PSH, with PSH, with PSH adjustments, and with an optimized schedule for the PSH storage system. The last scheme of daily simulation with an optimization solver is used to optimize the integration of PSH with a hybrid power system that uses solar and wind energy as primary renewable sources by minimizing the daily operating costs. The optimal value is derived from the minimized operating costs and incoming and outgoing energy accumulation. The dispatch system includes load demand satisfaction considering the intermittent nature of solar and wind sources and demand fluctuations presented with a hybrid system of PV solar, wind turbines, PSH, and other power generators as backup. Limitations of the study include considering various factors influencing the integration of a PSH unit, such as different ecological and geographical conditions, distinct atmospheric data, and varying load and demand patterns, which may result in different outcomes in different situations. The results show that using the developed model to optimally schedule the integration of PSH with renewables and the hybrid system in each season provides significant cost savings and CO₂ emissions reductions while meeting the same load patterns. Namely, it can be inferred from the tested schemes that PSH plays a crucial role in facilitating the transition to sustainable energy sources. This is evident through project financing results, which indicate a favorable positive Net Present Value (NPV) and a relatively short payback period of 5 years. Furthermore, Scheme 4 demonstrates the potential for a substantial 84 % reduction in CO₂ emissions during the summer season, and daily costs can be significantly lowered by over 90 % across all seasons. Overall, two simplified net present value and payback period estimation models have shown feasible project financing for a simulation period of 25 years with an interest rate of 10 % for the combined PSH and hybrid system. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present article sets out to examine the connection between energy transition and factors associated with renewable energy sources, buildings and other sectors, placing emphasis on France. The methodology includes: Collection of scholarly writings, classification, identification of research questions, bibliographic analysis, identification of important findings, discussion. The results of a study (EDF, Le nucléaire en chiffres) demonstrated that, in 2019, around 80% of the electricity production from nuclear energy (in France) was provided by 4 regions: Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes , Grand Est , Centre-Val de Loire , Normandie. France has a high dependence on nuclear power generation and, for this reason, renewable-energy penetration is an imperative part of the French energy transition. Numerous studies show that energy transition requires actions based on burgeoning and avant-garde technologies, and effective policies. Moreover, energy transition poses challenges: decisions on nuclear power plants, sustainable development of small-island economies, etc. A discussion on the energy transition in Corsica (France) is also provided. Regarding the French overseas territories Corse (Corsica), Guadeloupe , Martinique , Guyane , Mayotte , Réunion , the findings of a study (Rakotoson and Praene, 2017) demonstrate that thanks to renewable energy sources/network interconnection, Corsica and French Guiana have lower emissions in comparison to the other territories: 0.505 and 0.373 kg CO 2.eq /kWh e , respectively. • The role of renewable energy sources in energy transition has been analysed. • Factors related to buildings, industry, etc. have been discussed (emphasis: France). • France, 2019.→ ≈ 80 % of the nuclear electricity generation was provided by 4 regions • There are challenges such as energy storage and decisions on nuclear plants. • Corsica and French Guiana: emissions 0.505 and 0.373 kg CO 2.eq /kWh e , respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pathways towards a defossilated sustainable power system for West Africa within the time horizon of 2015–2050 is researched, by applying linear optimisation modelling to determine the cost optimal generation mix to meet the demand based on assumed costs and technologies in 5-year intervals. Six scenarios were developed, which aimed at examining the impact of various policy constraints such as cross-border electricity trade and greenhouse gas emissions costs. Solar PV emerges as the prime source of West Africa's future power system, supplying about 81–85% of the demand in the Best Policy Scenarios for 2050. The resulting optimisation suggests that the costs of electricity could fall from 70 €/MWh in 2015 to 36 €/MWh in 2050 with interconnection, and to 41 €/MWh without interconnection in the Best Policy Scenarios by 2050. Whereas, the levelised cost of electricity without greenhouse emission costs in the Current Policy Scenario is 70 €/MWh. Results of the optimisation indicate that a fully renewables based power system is the least-cost, least-GHG emitting and most job-rich option for West Africa. This study is the first of its kind study for the West African power sector from a long-term perspective. • Solar PV emerges as the prime source in a 100% renewable electricity system. • Hybrid PV-battery systems emerge as the least-cost solution. • 100% renewable electricity system is the least-cost and most job-rich option. • 100% renewable electricity system can operate without long-term seasonal storage. • No new coal and nuclear power plants would be built in the least-cost scenario. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Colombia faces several challenges to secure a reliable, affordable, and climate-friendly energy supply. Persistently low reserve-to-production ratios in oil and gas, together with advancing climate change, are putting the country's energy system at risk. Heavily relying on hydro-power, Colombia's electricity system will become more vulnerable with extreme weather patterns such as El Niño. This paper offers a multi-method study of the role of photovoltaic (PV), specially prosumage systems, to support a slowly starting energy transition in Colombia. First, qualitative data from an expert elicitation in Colombia's energy sector is analysed. Second, a model to calculate the internal rate of revenue for households is used to identify optimal sizes for household PV or prosumage systems under the new regulatory framework. Key concerns emerging from the expert elicitation include lacking substantial financial aid, insufficient tax incentives, and high equipment prices, which raise investment and operation costs. Also, model results confirm net-metering implementation as an enabler of widespread deployment of household PV systems. Most profitable system configurations include PV systems without storage technology. Our findings show that financial instruments are still insufficient to scale-up household level PV deployment. • Photovoltaics are an important element for Colombia's energy transition. • For Colombian households, small-scale PV without batteries are the most profitable. • Additional support is needed regarding regulatory framework & financial instruments. • Interviewed experts would prefer the introduction of power purchase agreements. • Net-metering can act as an enabler of deployment of household PV in Colombia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transition of Iran's power system from 2015 to 2050 through three scenarios was modelled. Two scenarios present a transition pathway towards a fully renewable run power system with different involved sectors (power only, power sector coupled with desalination and non-energetic gas sectors). The third scenario is based on the country's current policies. The energy model performs an hourly resolution to guarantee meeting energy demand for every hour of the whole year. It is found that renewable energy resources in Iran can satisfy 625 TWh of power sector demand in 2050. Further, it is technically and economically feasible that electricity demand for supplying 101 million m3 desalinated water and 249 TWh LHV synthetic natural gas for non-energetic industrial gas demand can be supplied via renewable resources. A 100% renewable power system with 54 €/MWh el levelised cost of electricity (LCOE) is more cost-effective than the current power system in Iran with 88.3 €/MWh el LCOE in 2015. LCOE of the system can decrease further and reach to 41.3 €/MWh el in 2050 via sector coupling. On the other hand, the current policies of the country lead to an inefficient power system with a LCOE of 128 €/MWh el and 188 Mt/a emitted CO 2 in 2050. • Transition to 100% renewable energy power system for Iran by 2050. • Zero GHG emission system at an optimal cost. • Desalination system based renewable energy a potential solution for water crisis. • Multi-node approach with hourly resolution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The integration of renewable energy in the built environment, improving the energy efficiency of buildings, and optimizing distributed energy systems are three interconnected activities that are central for the transition to sustainable cities. Here, a methodology is developed to quantify not only these three activities simultaneously but also link them to the urban form. Two development scenarios (densification and expansion) are proposed for the village Hemberg in Switzerland for the years 2030 and 2050. The results show that, with reference to 2017, global warming increases the cooling demand of the buildings by 70% in 2030 and by 115% in 2050. The results also suggest that renovation is the key element for the future energy management and efficiency improvement in Hemberg because the building insulation has much greater effect on the energy demand than the urban form. Furthermore, the results suggest that a grid-integrated energy hub consisting of wind turbines and PV panels can supply 77% of the annual energy demand in 2050. Also, urban form has great effects on building-integrated PV generation and, in general, on the integration of renewable technologies. The results contribute to efficient energy planning and policy-making for the future energy transition in Hemberg. • The great effects of urban form on building-integrated photovoltaic generation. • Quantifying the effects of future urban form on distributed energy systems. • Assessing sustainable development scenarios for a Swiss village to 2050. • The integration of urban form in the optimization of urban energy systems. • Proposing scenarios (densification and expansion) for the future city development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Implementation of large-scale photovoltaic (PV) and e-fuels in Canada could help mitigate GHG emissions while also producing enough energy to meet demand. This study examines the potential of PV electricity to meet Canada's energy demand at three levels: replacement of GHG-emitting electricity, replacement of GHG-emitting secondary energy use, and replacement of fossil fuel exports. Secondary energy is replaced with direct electrification and e-fuels created using solar electricity. Energy exports are in the form of e-fuels, produced using solar energy. The amount of land and increased electricity generation needed is calculated. If Canada were to simply decarbonize its grid, an equivalent of only 7.3% of the land currently used in oil and gas production in Alberta would be needed for PV panels. To replace both electricity and GHG-emitting secondary energy uses, Canada would need a 4.7- to 7.7-fold increase in its current clean electricity generation. To completely decarbonize all domestic energy, and maintain current levels of energy exports, Canada would need to increase its current clean electrical generation by 13.4 to 16.5 times. PV panels would cover less than 1.6% of Canada's land mass. • Solar power and e-fuels are a pathway to decarbonizing Canada's energy supply. • E-fuels can be created using photovoltaic electricity, replacing fossil fuels. • Electricity production and land requirements for PV power are analyzed. • The cycle efficiency of e-fuels leads to an increased need for electricity. • Transition to solar/e-fuel requires a 13x increase in electricity production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Revenue recycling is crucial for carbon pricing to achieve inclusive decarbonization and energy transition. Several studies have documented carbon pricing recycling, but few focused on mixed recycling schemes that allocate revenues across multiple institutions. To fill this knowledge gap, we employ a newly developed recursive computable general equilibrium model to explore the socioeconomic consequences of various recycling schemes in the context of China. We find that: (1) Although carbon pricing promotes renewable energy, it adversely affects social welfare and urban–rural equality. When executing the recycling scheme, this negative effect is alleviated. (2) All single recycling scenarios fail to yield a double dividend. They remain detrimental to social welfare and urban–rural equality. (3) Despite small welfare loss, a moderate-share renewables-based mixed recycling scheme reduces urban–rural inequality while favoring decarbonization and energy transition. Our study calls for incorporating mixed recycling options into the policy toolbox in advancing carbon pricing. • Effects of various carbon pricing recycling schemes are investigated. • Renewables-based mixed recycling scheme yields a double dividend. • It promotes renewables development and urban-rural equality, with only minor welfare losses. • Recycling schemes should be incorporated to mitigate negative impacts in carbon pricing. • A moderate-share mixed recycling scheme is more attractive to latecomers with climate ambitions like China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Island territories, due to their specific energy context, are at the forefront of energy transition studies with the aim of achieving energy autonomy. This is the case of Reunion Island, where the electricity mix is currently 70% carbon-based and where imports provide 80% of the energy consumption. In this context, this article assesses the facilities to install in the medium and long term to progressively reduce energy imports. Several scenarios of installed power generation capacities are studied for 2030 and 2050, associated with two scenarios for electricity consumption. Simulations are performed according these scenarios in order to define the electricity mix and the investments in new batteries and in the electricity transmission network reinforcement. For 2030, results show that a reduction in consumption compared with the trend could enable reduce costs and environmental impacts. For 2050, investments in new electricity generation technologies are essential to meet the needs of a 100% electrified vehicle fleet. If the overall consumption does not follow an energy demand management plan, all the energy sources on the island will have to be exploited to their maximum. The energy transition will also require large storage facilities and little reinforcement in the current electricity high voltage network. • A set of scenarios for 2030 and 2050 are generated. • More expensive scenarios consume less water and emit fewer greenhouse gases. • Electrical facilities can take up to 3% of the island's surface area in the long term. • Up to 2GWh of storage could be needed to reach the island's electrical autonomy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study follows a multi-disciplinary approach to implementing an Energy Community (ECs) in Vega de Valcarce, a rural community in Spain. ECs are entities that encompass collective actions of citizens and other actors towards the open, democratic governance of renewable energy sources; ECs can take various technical and organisational forms. This study developed and evaluated socially accepted, technically optimal and feasible options for the implementation of the EC at Vega de Valcarce. We conducted a participatory multi-criteria analysis incorporating the results of mixed-integer linear programming for energy system optimisation and regulatory analysis of ECs under Spanish law. Our study showed that the main objectives of local stakeholders are the reduction of the energy bill and emissions. The limited liability company fulfilled legal and regulatory restrictions the best by implementing a bigger-sized EC. We summarise the key challenges of implementing an EC in a rural context, mainly legal and financial, and conclude with recommendations on how to overcome these. While contributing to understanding the roll-out of ECs in Spain and Europe, our research aims to provide a structured approach for the uptake of renewable energy in rural areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Two transition pathways towards a 100% renewable energy (RE) power sector by 2050 are simulated for Europe using the LUT Energy System Transition model. The first is a Regions scenario, whereby regions are modelled independently, and the second is an Area scenario, which has transmission interconnections between regions. Modelling is performed in hourly resolution for 5-year time intervals, from 2015 to 2050, and considers current capacities and ages of power plants, as well as projected increases in future electricity demands. Results of the optimisation suggest that the levelised cost of electricity could fall from the current 69 €/MWh to 56 €/MWh in the Regions scenario and 51 €/MWh in the Area scenario through the adoption of low cost, flexible RE generation and energy storage. Further savings can result from increasing transmission interconnections by a factor of approximately four. This suggests that there is merit in further development of a European Energy Union, one that provides clear governance at a European level, but allows for development that is appropriate for regional contexts. This is the essence of a SuperSmart approach. A 100% RE energy system for Europe is economically competitive, technologically feasible, and consistent with targets of the Paris Agreement. Highlights • Two transition pathways featuring 100% renewable energy were simulated for Europe. • Flexible electricity generation, grid exchange and storage support the transition. • Higher levels of grid interconnection result in 9% lower overall power system cost. • Solar PV prosumers with battery storage reduce the need for interconnections by 6%. • Policy and technological development should proceed in a SuperSmart manner. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract This paper analyzes the ongoing transition to sustainable energy in Australia, moving from traditional large-scale plants to distributed renewable generation by studying the time series of coal and gas consumption as well as onshore wind and solar. Even though most of energy generation, especially in the form of electricity is currently being generated from coal and gas, a quantitative assessment of their evolution is necessary to understand whether, and to which extent, renewables are competing in the marketplace with conventional production means. A well-accepted innovation diffusion model is used to capture and interpret the underlying dynamics of the competitive transition in generation. The results show that renewables are exerting a competitive pressure on coal and collaborate with gas towards the transition. The view that gas should play a key role in transition is confirmed by our findings, because it is found to have a competitive role towards coal, while aiding the uptake of renewables. Highlights • Analysis of the ongoing transition to sustainable energy in Australia. • Study to understand whether renewables are competing in the marketplace. • A diffusion model used to capture the dynamics of the competitive transition. • Renewables exert a competitive pressure on coal and cooperate with gas. • Gas plays a competitive role towards coal, and aids the uptake of renewables. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report on the carbon footprint of 22 scenario pathways for the transition of the Australian electricity sector to predominantly renewable energy (RE). The analysis employs a dynamic and discrete numerical model that takes into account what we have termed renewable energy ‘breeding’, i.e. RE technologies are being made increasingly with renewable electricity as the transition progresses. Our results show that every scenario under investigation fails to achieve the sector's share of Australia's national carbon budget for a 1.5 °C global warming limit and around one-third fail the 2 °C target by 2050. In most of the scenarios considered, the reduction in annual life-cycle CO 2 e emissions in the year 2050, from taking into account the effect of RE breeding, was substantial, in some cases reducing annual emissions by more than 90%. But, the reduction in cumulative CO 2 e emissions resulting from RE breeding only became significant post-2040. Unless a very rapid transition is made to more than 80% renewable electricity in Australia well before mid-century, any positive ‘breeding’ effect is simply dwarfed by fossil-fuel derived emissions prior to and during the actual transition. Therefore, early, decisive, wide-scale deployment of a suitable mix of RE technologies is needed to reduce cumulative emissions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluates the economic impact of a shift towards renewable electricity mix in the Netherlands using the neo-Keynesian CGEM ThreeME (Multi-sector Macroeconomic Model for the Evaluation of Environmental and Energy policy). This scenario has been inspired by the Urgenda's report ‘Energy 100% Sustainable in the Netherlands by 2030’, which have been quantified using the Energy Transition Model (ETM) developed by Quintel. Using the output of the ETM regarding the change in the electricity generation shares as input in ThreeME, we derive the impact in terms of key economic variables (GDP, employment, investment, value-added, prices, trade, tax revenue, etc.). We find that transition to renewable energy may have a positive impact on the Dutch economy, creating almost 50 000 new jobs by 2030 and adding almost 1% of gross domestic product. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We use the concept of Energy Return On energy Invested (EROI) to calculate the amount of the available net energy that can be reasonably expected from World oil liquids during the next decades (till 2040). Our results indicate a decline in the available oil liquids net energy from 2015 to 2040. Such net energy evaluation is used as a starting point to discuss the feasibility of a Renewable Transition (RT). To evaluate the maximum rate of Renewable Energy Sources (RES) development for the RT, we assume that, by 2040, the RES will achieve a power of 11 TW (10 12 Watt). In this case, by 2040, between 10 and 20% of net energy from liquid hydrocarbons will be required. Taking into account the oil liquids net energy decay, we calculate the minimum annual rate of RES deployment to compensate it in different scenarios. Our study shows that if we aim at keeping an increase of 3% of net energy per annum, an 8% annual rate of RES deployment is required. Such results point out the urgent necessity of a determined policy at different levels (regional, national and international) favoring the RT implementation in the next decades. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Consumers can choose from a wide range of electricity supply contracts, including green power options. Electricity produced from renewable energy involves information asymmetries. With a sample of more than 2,000 German electricity consumers, we tested the proposition of a “lemon market” for renewable energy in a discrete choice experiment. Specifically, we found that, compared to investor-owned firms, additional willingness-to-pay for renewable energy is approximately double when offered by cooperatives or municipally-owned electricity utilities. Consumers who are experienced with switching suppliers have an additional willingness-to-pay of one Eurocent per kilowatt hour for cooperatives and two Eurocents for public enterprises. The results demonstrate that organizational transformation in dynamically-changing electricity markets is not only driven by political initiatives but also by consumers' choices on the market. Public policy may reduce information asymmetries by promoting government labeling of green energy products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

After many years at the forefront of renewable energy (RE) implementation both in Europe and worldwide, Spain experienced a sudden transformation in 2012 to its RE development model in which national government backing and financial incentives for renewables were removed, throwing the RE sector into a paralysis which continues to the present day. This is in marked contrast to the case of the other major European RE leader, Germany, where it has been argued that RE implementation has produced a “regime shift” that has transformed the energy generation model to a new resilient pathway. In this paper, key differences between Spanish regions are identified in the way the RE implementation process has been carried out. The research brings these different characteristics into focus and analyses the strengths and weaknesses of the RE implementation process in each region. If stakeholders at all levels are empowered and motivated towards the implementation process goal, it is less likely that a few, very powerful actors (e.g. multinational energy companies or governments) can dominate the process, and thus systemic instability can be reduced. In this way, lock-down situations like the current one can be avoided in future and a more resilient system can be designed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]