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In this study, a techno-economic analysis tool for conducting detailed feasibility studies on the deployment of green hydrogen hubs for fuel cell bus fleets is developed. The study evaluates and compares five green hydrogen hub configurations' operational and economic performance under a typical metropolitan bus fleet refuelling schedule. Each configuration differs based on its electricity sourcing characteristics such as the mix of energy sources, capacity sizing, financial structure, and grid interaction. A detailed comparative analysis of distinct green hydrogen hub configurations for decarbonising a fleet of fuel-cell buses is conducted. Among the key findings is that a hybrid renewable electricity source and hydrogen storage are essential for cost-optimal operation across all configurations. Furthermore, bi-directional grid-interactive configurations are the most cost-efficient and can benefit the electricity grid by flattening the duck curve. Lastly, the paper highlights the potential for cost reduction when the fleet refuelling schedule is co-optimized with the green hydrogen hub electricity supply configuration. • Techno-economic analysis tool for a green hydrogen hub is developed. • Comparative analysis of five electricity supply configurations. • Comparison of green hydrogen economics across 5 cities in Europe. • Influence of Capex, wholesale electricity prices, and PPA price on LCOH. • A hybrid photovoltaic-wind-grid system with hydrogen storage is cost-optimal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper probes the effectiveness of competitive industrial performance (CIP) and renewable energy in enhancing load capacity factor in top-10 CIP economies for the period 1990–2018. We run panel econometric techniques that address cross-sectional dependence, endogeneity and heterogeneity to provide policy recommendations with the applications of industry, innovation, and infrastructure (SDG 9), which is linked to affordable and clean energy (SDG 7) and climate action (SDG 13). In the empirical analysis, two different environmental quality indicators such as CO 2 emissions and load capacity factor are used. While cointegration between variables cannot be detected in the emissions model, evidence for the existence of cointegration is presented in the load capacity factor model. The findings in the paper suggest that economic growth and competitive industrial performance adversely impact environmental quality, while renewable energy consumption and human capital can improve load capacity factor. The result shows that human capital and renewable energy consumption can be strong tools for stimulating load capacity factor in top-10 CIP economies. Countries with high competitive industrial performance need to return to a green economy without losing their competitiveness. • SDG-based environmental policies was presented for the top-10 CIP economies. • A battery of second generations methods was employed. • Investigating the impacts of Competitive industrial performance on environmental quality. • Competitive industrial performance has a negative impact on environmental quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A life cycle assessment (LCA) of solid recovered fuel (SRF) was conducted. • SRF production process contributes to about 35.6 kg CO 2 -eq per ton. • A maximum of −1752.03 kg CO 2 -eq was obtained with about 80 % of SRF biogenic carbon. • A footprint of −542.09 to −1729.05 kg CO 2 -eq can be found due to coke substitution. • The study recommended SRF production to mitigate the global carbon footprint. Solid recovered fuel (SRF) from non-recyclable waste obtained from source separation and mechanical treatments can replace carbon coke in cement plants, contributing to the carbon neutrality. A life cycle assessment (LCA) of the SRF production from non-recyclable and selected waste was conducted in an Italian mechanical treatment plant to estimate the potential environmental impacts per ton of SRF produced. The analysis would contribute to evaluate the benefits that can be obtained due to coke substitution in best- and worst-case scenarios. The avoided impacts achieved were assessed, together with an evaluation of the variables that can affect the environmental benefits: SRF biogenic carbon content (in percentage of paper and cardboard); transportation distances travelled from the treatment plant to the cement kiln; the renewable energy used in the mechanical facility. On average, about 35.6 kgCO 2 -eq are generated by the SRF transportation and production phase. These impacts are greatly compensated by coke substitution, obtaining a net value of about −1.1 tCO 2 -eq avoided per ton of SRF. On balance, the global warming potential due to SRF production and consumption ranges from about −542 kgCO 2 -eq to about −1729 kgCO 2 -eq. The research recommended the use of SRF to substitute coke in cement kilns also in low densely-populated areas to mitigate environmental impacts and achieve carbon neutrality at a global level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The global energy issue is undergoing transformation owing to various factors, such as climate change and geopolitics. In the long term, the primary pathways to achieve sustainable energy development remain the clean energy and global cooperation. As the largest energy consumption centers, the Asia Pacific and North America possess complementary energy profiles and developmental needs for cooperation. This paper analyses various electricity or hydrogen transmission technologies suitable for the Pacific Rim energy system. The liquid hydrogen superconducting energy pipelines possess the potential to fulfill the demands of long-distance and large-scale energy transmission. Building upon this technology, a super energy pipeline project connecting East Asia and North America across 12 time zones was proposed. It is composed of pipelines and relay energy stations, which can realize large-scale storage and transportation of renewable energy as well as the diversified energy supply at terminals. The techno-economic evaluation of the project has been comprehensively conducted, and the investment can be recovered within 10 years. The project is expected to boost the progress of renewable energy, ensure regional energy security and promote the sustainable development of global energy. [Display omitted] • Proposes cross-continental energy transmission scheme for Pacific Rim. • Highlights the potential of liquid hydrogen superconducting energy pipelines. • Identifies the future requirements for the energy storage and transmission. • Presents a review of the existing global energy mix. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper has sorted out the general logic of the impact of COVID-19 on energy consumption. In the short term, the epidemic has forced governments to adopt different levels of lockdown measures. The total electricity consumption decreased and the share of renewable energy has increased. Based on the International Energy Agency's (IEA) data on electricity production and consumption, this paper analyzes the long-term effects: The COVID-19 pandemic does affect overall electricity demand and market structure in the short term, but in the long term, the impact of the pandemic is detrimental to the proportion of electricity generated from renewable sources. Increased, especially in hard-hit countries. The impact on countries with different levels of development is different, and countries with higher levels of economic development are better able to resist such exogenous shocks. The pandemic is still ongoing, how to steadily promote sustainable development? In this paper we suggest that to cope with climate change, to accomplish energy transformation and upgrading or even sustainable development, we should not only rely on reducing human activities, but give more support to countries with low development levels in realizing sustainable development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of large-scale sustainable energy has affected the security of electricity systems. Virtual power plant (VPP) realize multi-energy synergistic complementation and efficient operation mainly with electricity. The paper proposed a flexible resource dynamic aggregation regulation method of VPP to ensure more renewable energy generation, which enables the efficient operation of multiple energy sources with electricity as the main source through collaborative and complementary measures. Firstly, the operating mode of VPP under market mechanisms is proposed, and the operating mechanism for VPP's participation in the market is established. Secondly, the types of flexible resources are identified, a cooperative game relationship between multiple autonomous agents within the power grid and VPP is formed to support an intelligent control method for VPP considering the complementarity of multiple energy sources and carbon emissions. Finally, a novel inverse cotangent compound differential evolution (NICCDE) algorithm is proposed by combining the innovative composite differential evolution algorithm with the tangent function, which realizes the flexible synergistic utilization of multiple energy sources. and reduces the training cost of the algorithm. Case studies from the conducted case study demonstrate the significant cost reduction achieved by the proposed method in comparison to conventional approaches when applied to VPP. Moreover, the utilization of this method enhances the precision and comprehensiveness of the search outcomes, thereby augmenting the overall effectiveness of the VPP system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper is the editorial for the virtual special issue (VSI) of Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews (RSER) dedicated to three Sustainable Development of Energy Water and Environment Systems (SDEWES) Conferences held in 2022, namely: (i) the 5th South East European Conference SEESDEWES 2022 held from May 22 to 26, 2022 in Vlore, Albania; (ii) the 3rd Latin American LASDEWES 2022 held from July 24 to 28, 2022 in Sao Paulo, Brazil and (iii) the 17th SDEWES 2022 held from November 6 to 10, 2022 in Paphos, Cyprus. The VSI collected both high quality review papers and original research articles presented at these conferences, aligning with the aims and scope of RSER. Following a rigorous peer review process, seventeen articles were accepted and published. These articles explore techniques and technologies essential for advancing feasible Renewable and Sustainable Energy Systems. Spanning multidisciplinary topics, many of them address almost all the Sustainable Development Goals, offering feasible solutions for much-needed decarbonization pathways. • The VSI SDEWES 2022 presents the ready solutions for Renewable and Sustainable Energy Systems. • Five clusters for presenting the Renewable and Sustainable energy cutting edge solutions. • The positioning in the scientific context of the Renewable and Sustainable Energy Systems. • Feasible solutions for much-needed decarbonization pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of autonomous vehicles for marine and submarine work has risen considerably in the last decade. Developing new monitoring systems, navigation and communications technologies allows a wide range of operational possibilities. Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs) are being used in offshore missions and applications with some innovative purposes by using sustainable and green energy sources. This paper considers an AUV that uses a hydrogen fuel cell, achieving zero emissions. This paper analyses the life cycle cost of the UAV and compares it with a UAV powered by conventional energy. The EN 60300-3-3 guidelines have been employed to develop the cost models. The output results show estimations for the net present value under different scenarios and financial strategies. The study has been completed with the discount rate sensibility analysis in terms of financial viability. • This paper considers an AUV that uses a hydrogen fuel cell, achieving zero emissions. • This paper analyses the life cycle cost of the UAV and it is compared with a UAV powered by conventional energy. • The EN 60300-3-3 guidelines have been employed to develop the cost models. • The output results show estimations for the net present value under different scenarios and financial strategies. • The study has been completed with the discount rate sensibility analysis in terms of financial viability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The global economic costs of environmental pollution increase the importance of renewable energy sources. This paper analyzes the impact of financial development on renewable energy consumption in 34 upper middle income developing countries from 1994 to 2015. The long-term relationship between variables is estimated by applying Panel Pedroni cointegration and Kao cointegration tests. The long run effect of financial development on renewable energy consumption is investigated by using Fully-Modified OLS (FMOLS) approach. The empirical results indicate the presence of long run relationship between renewable energy consumption and financial development. Moreover, financial development increases the demand for renewable energy. Economic growth has a negative effect on renewable energy consumption, but consumer prices have a statistically insignificant impact on renewable energy consumption. The empirical evidence reveals that financial development triggers in increasing demand for environmentally friendly energy sources, i.e., renewable energy. Renewable energy consumption reduces the amount of greenhouse gases in nature as opposed to fossil energy consumption. Therefore, to achieve sustainable development goals, governments should implement incentives and tax policies that increase the demand of enterprises for renewable energy resources. In addition, investment opportunities in renewable energy resources to be created by public-private cooperation via financial arrangements should be increased. - This paper examines how financial development affects renewable energy consumption? - The panel Pedroni cointegration and Kao cointegration approaches are applied. - The Fully-Modified OLS (FMOLS) approach is employed for long run association. - Financial development promotes renewable energy demand. - Economic growth declines renewable energy consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current energy structure of most economies must be upgraded to a renewable energy source (RES) to help mitigate ecological dilapidation and achieve sustainable development goals. The transition to RES has recently received attention from energy experts, international bodies and environmental scientists. However, there is contrasting evidence on what factors affect the evolution and deployment of RES, especially from the perspective of emerging African economies. Hence, the current analysis sought to explore the influence of economic development (ECD), carbon emission (CEM), human capital (HUC), financial development (FID), and the country's risk factors, such as political risk (POR) and institutional quality (INQ) on the development of RES. The research employed a panel dataset from 1990 to 2020 and used the newest estimation approach of Cross-Sectional Augmented autoregressive Distributed Lag (CS-ARDL) to establish the long-run connection among the variables. The study confirmed the prevalence of the "energy-led ECD hypothesis". In addition, the empirical findings indicated that RES deployment could be facilitated through ECD, CEM, FID and HUC. Moreover, the country's risk factors, which include POR and INQ, had an inverse connection with the deployment of RES. Lastly, there is a unidirectional causality between CEM, FID, HUC, INQ and RES, while a directional causality exists between ECD, POR and RES. The paper highlights a variety of policy angles to help with the expansion of RES in emerging regions. • The study confirmed the prevalence of the "energy-led ECD hypothesis. • RES deployment could be facilitated through ECD, CEM, FID and HUC. • POR and INQ, had an inverse connection with the deployment of RES. • A directional causality exists between ECD, POR and RES. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rapid growth in population and economic development in Iran and its neighboring countries has resulted in a dramatic increase in electricity demand over the past few years. A substantial amount of electricity must be produced to meet this growing demand in this region. By installing conventional fossil power plants, using renewable energy, and interconnecting with neighboring countries, this growing demand can be accomplished. The main aim of this research is to identify prospects and challenges in the electrical sector around Iran. To this end, this paper evaluates the existing and future state of the electrical sector in Iran and its neighboring countries. Despite the fact that there is still a long way to go in terms of renewable energy in this region, there are some promising targets for the future that will allow fossil fuels to be replaced effectively. Notwithstanding this, we should point out that a number of cross-border interconnection projects are being pursued by Iran and its neighbors in order to integrate their networks and supply this growing demand. Finally, this study presents an overview of the future prospects and challenges of electricity capacity expansion, cross-border interconnections, and electricity transmission corridors in this region. The review results provide comprehensive background knowledge to all the researchers in order to investigate further into the field. This paper assists energy policy makers regarding the development of sustainable energy planning. • •In addition to providing a general overview of the geographical location, population growth, and economic indicators of Iran and its neighboring countries, this paper presents the current state of the Iranian electricity sector and its neighboring countries in light of the trends in electricity production, energy mix, price, and exports and imports. • •This paper explores the existing and future states of electricity capacity expansion in the region, specifically focusing on renewable energy sources. • •The existing and future states of cross-border electricity interconnections are examined to present a comprehensive overview of the cross-border interconnections in this region. • •This region's potential electricity transmission corridors are proposed to create the opportunity to transmit electricity across countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates the potential of 15 RCEP (The Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership) member countries to advance green investments from 2000 to 2021. Based on the results from the Panel Pooled Mean Group (PMG) technique, the investment potential has positive short- and long-term coefficients. The EKC (Environmental Kuznets Curve) hypothesis exists, indicating that gross domestic product per capita in the short term is the factor that inhibits the growth of renewable energy consumption. The financial development index has a non-significant coefficient in the short term. However, it has a positive coefficient in the long term. The climate policy uncertainty negatively impacts renewable energy deployment in the short- and long-term. The conclusions provide some policy implications, such as the support of green SMEs, the establishment of a digital green financing market, and the creation of green multilateralism through the establishment of a green investment network. • Environmental Kuznets Curve hypothesis exists in RCEP economies. • Financial development index has a positive and significant effect coefficient. • The climate policy uncertainty negatively impacts renewable energy deployment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Renewable energy is one of the most promising technologies for developing sustainable energy systems. This paper presents empirical evidence on the finance-green energy nexus. We use an extensive database on financial development (depth, access, efficiency, stability) from 1960 to 2017 for 214 countries, providing the first, to our knowledge, comprehensive empirical investigation on all four dimensions. We show macroeconomic and energy development conditions (public/social awareness and willingness, policy and legal framework, fossil fuels orientation, energy sector competition) are crucial to leverage financing and improve financing conditions for renewable energy entrepreneurs. Our empirical findings show that the financial system in East Asia and the Pacific is a significant constraint for investments in sustainable technologies. The cost of capital and debt, as well as the cost of equity and assets, for green investors, is commonly 30% higher than for non-green investors. Our findings support the crowding-in effect for South Asia. Here we supply empirical knowledge on the policymakers' and investors (governments, institutions, markets) goals, policies, and instruments targeting green financing and sustainable development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

By considering the significant role economic growth has played in environmental function between 1990 and 2019, this paper examines the relationships between renewable energy development, trade openness, and institutional quality in the development of green finance in South Asian countries. The effectiveness of institutions and trade transparency are factors in green finance. We use a panel data model to ascertain the cointegration among the variables. The study employs the OLS fixed pool method along with a quantile regression to assess the model and reveal that, although growth in renewable energy development and trade openness worsen the ecological environment, institutional quality and the use of renewable energy promotes green finance development. The findings indicate that trade openness and institutional quality have a positive link with green financing. Institutional quality drives the use of renewable energy, whereas gross domestic product (GDP) drives the environmental impact. In light of these findings, policymakers can put in place beneficial policies for renewable energy development as an economic instrument to minimize ecological footprints and enhance green finance development. • Trade openness. • Renewable energy development. • Green finance. • Institutional quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study analyzes the impact of green finance and renewable energy on energy efficiency in E−7 economies. We analyzed the nonlinear and asymmetric effects of green finance and renewable energy on energy efficiency. We collected data from 1985 to 2017 and applied the NARDL and 2SLS methods. The results reveal that the differences in green finance development in the E−7 region are as follows: China (0.61), Brazil (0.55), India (0.53), Indonesia (0.49), Mexico (0.37), and Russia (0.39). In 2019, the Gini coefficient was the largest in Russia (0.57), followed by Turkey. Based on empirical findings, the largest barrier to green energy efficiency is insufficient private and governmental investment in the energy sector to improve access to power, to increase energy security and promote economic growth in an environmentally sustainable manner. The findings point to a promising but vulnerable future for renewable energy and energy efficiency deployment in E−7 countries. This paper emphasizes that green financing and renewable energy policy limitations must be addressed to realize the funding potential of energy efficiency in E−7 countries. • We have analyzed the barrieres for renewable energy and energy efficiency. • Non-linear and asymmetric effects is observed on energy efficiency. • We have applied NARDL model to examine the relationship among variables. [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]

Green innovation is a feasible and potential option that governments can adopt to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and speed the transition to renewable energy sources. This study analyzes the relationship between green finance development and green innovation using listed Chinese companies to investigate the role of green finance. In the preliminary analysis, it employs Poisson and negative binomial distributions based on the sample characteristics. The additional research considers enterprises' internal and external characteristics and adds a zero-inflated factor with enterprise-scale and bank competition. Our main findings suggest that green finance positively improves green technological innovation, and zero-inflated factors can significantly lower the possibility of enterprises refusing to engage in green innovation. By using a representative green finance policy in 2012 as a quasi-natural experiment, this paper also demonstrates the promoting effect of green finance development. The above results are still valid by the robustness test. Furthermore, this paper applies the panel threshold model and finds that the enterprise scale and bank competition not only affect the choice of the enterprise but also stimulate the promotion intensity in different development stages. This paper contributes to targeted policy implications for the renewable energy transition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Renewable energies (RE) are rapidly reforming the power sector because they have become more economically competitive, thereby enabling nations to overcome high dependence on energy imports (i.e. reducing energy security concerns), as well as reducing their negative environmental footprints. Therefore, both the public and private sectors need to uncover the future technological trajectory of renewable energy. As part of an entity-linking approach, this paper examines REs developments from 2000 to 2021 and explores high-potential topics by analyzing hot topics during the period to identify evolutionary trends of relevant research interests (using published research papers). The results are analyzed and classified to determine how and when RE development issues "burst" into the public eye. The article tells the story of RE development from the past, the present, and the likely future hot topics for research. We analyze the results and cluster them into five categories: (1) energy sources, (2) sustainable development, (3) technological developments, (4) supply chains, and (5) energy management systems.se Findings reveal signals about the potential future energy market shifts and how REs evolve and contribute to the market. Signals are converted to policies and future market interpretations using an expert-based process. Analysis and methodology outcomes reveal that digital technologies have become an important factor in market changes. The findings of the study highlight how sustainable development actions and digital technologies will likely transform RE supply and management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The modern lifestyle and economic development of the European Union countries are closely connected to high energy consumption and environmental pollution. Renewable energy has arisen as one solution to this problem, even though the obstacles and challenges regarding the deployment of renewable energy lie in high costs, technology and legislation. The investigation of the determinants of renewable energy has become very attractive and popular because of the Sustainable Development Goals and COP26 targets. Therefore, this paper aims to explore the role of energy taxes and environmental taxes in addition to that of economic and environmental indicators in renewable energy development for the panel of EU countries by applying reliable and robust econometric techniques to the annual data from 1995 to 2019. The empirical results suggest that an increase in economic growth and oil prices supports renewable energy while environmental taxes and energy taxes have a negative impact on renewable energy deployment in EU countries. Thus, it is crucial to reform the structure of taxes to support the use of renewable energy. In addition, increasing environmental taxes to transform EU countries into energy-efficient economies will require additional EU policy adjustments. [Display omitted] • The nexus between energy and environmental taxes, and renewable energy is analyzed. • Several reliable and robust econometric techniques are employed for estimations. • Environmental taxes negatively impact on renewable energy deployment. • Energy taxes decrease renewable energy. • Economic growth and oil prices support renewable energy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The energy communities based on the integration of microgrids make it possible to gain economic, environmental, technical, and social benefits. The paper aims to propose a unified multi-criteria approach covering both the planning stage and the stage of managing the energy community, in the context of various interests of its participants. Planning stage should take into account the long-term goals of the community and possible changes in external conditions. Therefore, we suggest an approach relying on the multi-attribute value theory considering the uncertainty of decision makers' preferences. Interval estimators used to express preferences enable a choice of community configuration with robust performance under changing conditions within some limits. In the operation stage, the new multi-criteria model of an intelligent "energy community operator" is proposed. It is based on bi-level programming and reinforcement learning, implementing the structure of a fair local market for sustainable development of the community. To optimize the operation of individual microgrids within the community, the multi-objective Monte-Carlo Tree Search (MCTS) algorithm is used, which helps to improve the convergence in the Stackelberg game. The multi-criteria version of the MCTS algorithm allows implementing an adaptive local automation model to solve a multi-objective lower-level problem: minimize operating costs, risk of power shortage, and CO2 emissions; smooth load peaks, and optimize power exchange between microgrids. At the top level, a management strategy that will be beneficial to all members of the community is chosen to guarantee their long-term aggregation. The effectiveness of the proposed approach is demonstrated by the example of an energy community created for three remote villages located on the coast of the Sea of Japan. The natural and climatic conditions of the area allow the efficient use of wind, solar, and biomass resources. Building the community involves the consideration of three scenarios, in which priority is given to economic efficiency, environmental efficiency, or balanced development. • The practical multi-criteria approach for development a sustainable energy community. • Energy community sizing under uncertainty of decision makers' preferences. • Bi-level programming for a "fair" community operator model. • Monte-Carlo Tree Search algorithm for multi-criteria community management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To achieve green and low-carbon development in the logistics industry, logistics operators are promoting the electrification of logistics fleets, which imposes requirements for well-developed charging facilities and integrated renewable energy sources. Due to the specific characteristics of logistics activities, which are different from those of normal vehicles, the infrastructure planning for logistics delivery needs to be considered in coordination with the logistics system's operation. The coupling of planning and operation poses challenges for decision-making. This paper presents a planning–operation coupling optimization framework for low-carbon logistics delivery. The planning level optimizes the location and capacity of charging facilities, photovoltaic (PV), and energy storage systems (ESSs) based on the idea of charging demand matching. The operation level uses deep reinforcement learning (DRL) to simulate the logistics fleet's action patterns, optimize routes and charging behaviors, and extract charging demands. Benefiting from the advantages of DRL, planning and operation can interact well through charging demands, mutual coupling, and iterative adjustment. Numerical experiments based on real-world data show that the proposed framework effectively reduces charging costs and carbon emissions and also provides a benchmark for the cost evaluation of carbon reduction in logistics delivery activities. • A joint planning–operation framework suits the properties of logistics delivery. • The infrastructure planning model adopts the idea of charging demand matching. • DRL is used to extract charging demands and interact with the planning model. • Numerical experiments with real-world city data validate the method's effectiveness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study extends the research on the convergence analysis of energy-related variables to cover renewable energy intensity by focusing on 26 OECD countries from 1990 to 2021. While there have been several studies on the convergence of different energy variables including renewable energy, the intensity dimension has been largely ignored in the literature. As some non-zero carbon emissions are associated with deploying various forms of renewable energy resources, ignoring their intensity of GDP fails to address the question of efficiency. To address this gap, this study employed a battery of econometric techniques including the novel panel unit root tests that capture abrupt or smooth breaks in the presence of cross-sectional dependence to test for the presence of unit roots in relative renewable energy intensity. The study also examined different clusters of the sample to check the existence of convergence or otherwise at different levels. The results suggest that 21 countries are convergent and only Germany, Japan, Netherlands, Poland and Switzerland are not convergent when the full sample is considered. However, these countries are convergent when other clusters of the countries are examined. Policy implications of the study have been discussed in the paper. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The necessity of making reliable decisions is exceptionally important in the field of sustainable development, particularly when evaluating the management of renewable energy sources. A thorough analysis becomes imperative in complex decision problems where various factors influence outcomes. Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) methods have emerged as valuable tools for addressing such challenges, enabling decision-makers to navigate through conflicting criteria and make informed choices. Combined with sensitivity analysis approaches, comprehensive assessments can be achieved, ensuring the robustness of decision-making processes. To increase the reliability of the results, different aspects of input data fluctuations should be examined to provide a broader view of the stability of the results. This paper proposes a comprehensive multi-dimensional sensitivity analysis approach to assess the robustness of renewable energy source (RES) development in selected European countries. By evaluating RES management in terms of electricity and energy consumption and generation, the study addresses key components of sustainable development. It offers a holistic perspective on result reliability and stability by analyzing five sensitivity dimensions: a comparative analysis of four MCDA methods, varying criteria weights scenarios, probabilistic modifications, criteria relevance identification, and ranking stability. This approach enhances decision-making in sustainable energy development, providing valuable insights for policymakers on prioritizing sustainable technologies. The provided open-source implementation promotes transparency and accessibility in decision support systems. • Novel sensitivity analysis for robust RES in Europe. • Advances decision-making in sustainable energy. • Guides policy with insights & open-source framework. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The sustainability of economic growth has recently become a major objective for the global economy. Innovation is a newly emerged key factor for an efficient energy market and sustainable development. It can reduce pollution by increasing production efficiency (the first effect of CO 2 e reduction) and direct involvement in renewable energy development (the second effect of CO 2 e reduction) by replacing fossil fuel instruments with their counterparts that rely on renewable energy. The main question of this research is: Will the impact of innovation on per capita CO2e be the same on a threshold with different levels of renewable energy consumption? This paper explores the impact of innovation on CO 2 emissions in a panel of 29 selected EU countries from 2000 to 2019 using the fixed-effect panel threshold model. The results indicated that innovation had a significantly negative effect on per capita CO 2 e. In the early levels of the use of renewable energy, innovations have been directed more towards clean energy (the second effect on CO 2 e). Innovations were directed more towards clean energy in using renewable energy at early levels. It can be concluded that this policy has led to more innovation in clean energy production and more use of renewable energy, thus reducing CO2e considerably (the second effect). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

— Seasonal and location dependence of renewable energy resources have limited their applications in power generation. Energy storage systems are promising solutions to the intermittence of renewable energy resources. Rural electricity grids are faced with economic sustainability challenges due to low power demand and poverty. A rural grid design around economic drivers like agriculture and micro industries can mitigate poverty and improve economic sustainability of rural grids. This paper presents an integrated design for photovoltaic power generation with a pumped hydro storage system for irrigation and community utilization. The design explored the natural availability of water body in an elevated settlement area that offers a natural storage height for hydro energy storage. A photovoltaic generation plant was designed to power a pump as a turbine system for water storage and generation. HOMER® energy simulation software was deployed in the simulation. The result shows a satisfactory net present cost for the possible integration of a pumped hydro storage system in a photovoltaic generation plant as the most viable option to provide power at a power supply probability of 99.9% and water for irrigation. The benefits from the irrigation and water supply will enhance the community's socio-economic development and sustain the investment. [Display omitted] • We proposed a strategy to help an African community to have access to electricity. • The scheme will provide irrigation facilities and water supply to the community. • Photovoltaic Generation System was deployed as the primary energy source. • Intermittence of renewable energy was addressed through pumped hydro storage. • The result shows a satisfactory net present cost and 99.9% power supply probability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the context of sustainable development, the renewable energy technology innovation (RETI) may have a potential impact upon the industrial structure upgrading, while green finance will play a moderating part. This paper studies the role of green finance and renewable energy technological innovation on industrial structure in China. We found that RETI has contributed significantly to the adjustment of industrial structure. The research results of PVAR (Panel Vector Autoregressive) model further prove this dynamic and continuous positive promotion. The threshold regression results indicate that with the improvement of green finance, there is a non-linear relationship between RETI and industrial structure. In areas where green finance is relatively low, RETI can inhibit the upgrading of industrial structure. When the degree of green finance development is relatively high, the influence of RETI on industrial structure is remarkably positive. Heterogeneity analysis shows that in eastern China, renewable energy technological innovation has significantly promoted the industrial structure upgrading. Therefore, policy makers should take various measures to expedite the green finance development and strengthen the green finance support to renewable energy technology innovations. Chinese government has the need to continue to implement related green credit policies and expand the source of green funds. • Study the impact of renewable energy technology innovation on industrial structure. • Green finance is a moderating variable. • Threshold regression model is used to study nonlinear relationship. • Renewable energy technology innovation positively impacts industrial structure. • Green finance has a positive moderating effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Green economic growth and sustainable development are inextricably linked, and encouraging green economic growth has practical implications in today's world. In this context, this study examines the impact of environmental regulation on renewable energy development and China's green economy from 1990 to 2018. We look at how environmental regulations affect green economic growth and renewable energy technologies. Using the Meta frontier SBM model's super-efficient data envelopment analysis, it is possible to determine the relative level of green economic growth in China's provinces based on their energy efficiency. Environmental regulations were also assessed using an improved fuzzy inclusive appraisal method. Finally, we investigate the possible mechanism and discuss our findings. The study discovered an unreliable indicator of green growth during the research period, attributed to the non-serious nature of government strategies. The results show that the DEA method consistently confirms how the piece is put together. On the other hand, the sub-results models invariably affect countries with high GDP per capita. Finally, the impact of environmental regulations on the growth of renewable energy sources was studied. Green economic growth depends on environmental regulation policies, which contribute significantly to renewable energy development. Population size, economic development level, technological innovation, industrial structure, urbanization, environmental regulation, and FDI influence green economic growth, but the spatial effect of each influencing factor varies. The findings of this paper form the basis for China's pursuit of green economic growth and the development of renewable energy policies. • Proposed a novel framework on R & D expenditures, low carbon energy transition and green economic growth. • Study analyzes the effects of the multiple R & D expenditures in the context of Belt & Road Initiative economies. • Dynamic linking is considered when the connections of players' change. • Established vibrant empirical model and suggested implications for green economic recovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As countries implement renewable energy policies, it's important to understand the impacts of policies on sustainability. Population, economic and production changes affects in land use, water consumption and emissions along with trade-offs for limited resources to achieve food and energy security. Thailand faces increasing electricity imports and agricultural production, causing residue burning, a resource utilized for electricity generation. Thailand implemented a renewable energy policy and another to curb sugarcane residue burning addressing above challenges. The paper uses an extended input-output model in Thailand and the Northeast to understand impacts of these policies on output, labor income, employment, land and water use, etc. The study concludes these policies lead to supplementary increase in income, employment and value added contributing towards achieving SDGs through energy security, climate action, decent work and economic growth. At a national level, renewable energy policy is unable to capture a large potential of biomass electricity, while the no burn policy is better able to achieve sustainability through total output, income, employment, and water use. The renewable energy policy in Northeast Thailand is better able to capture the electricity potential. The Northeast also sees land use shifts from rice to cane, which could cause food security challenges. • Thailand faces growing challenges with energy security and crop residue burning. • To address the challenges, they implemented RE policies and crop burning policies. • The study uses extended input-output models in Thailand and Northeast Thailand. • We see positive effects of the policies on the economy, society and environment. • The policies fall short in capturing the full potential of biomass electricity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a result of the COVID-19 epidemic, a worldwide economic slump has reduced the depletion of natural resources, lowering their costs. The loss of renewable energy profitability might hinder the attainment of specified goals of sustainable development goals. By using Chinese provinces data from 1995 to 2020, this research examined the relationships between renewable energy investment (REI), green finance (GFI), growth of the economy (GDP), renewable energy production (REP), and private sector participation (PSP) in China. According to this analysis, REI, REP, and GFI are more variable throughout the given period than GDP. And PSP. A bidirectional substantial causal correlation between REI and REP was identified using the Generalized method of moments (GMM). Still, the regression coefficient between GDP and REI and REI. and GFI has a one-way causal relationship. There was no evidence that the PSP directly impacted the REI. Based on the empirical findings of this research, we propose that policies be designed to reduce volatility in REI GFI, and REP and increase support to improve sustainable economic development and environmental and renewable energy production. Examine between green financing and environmental conservation for long-term environmental quality. • There is a dire need to measure the examined the relationships between renewable energy investment (REI), green finance (GFi). • Bidirectional substantial causal correlation between REI and REP was identified using the Generalized method of moments (GMM). • There was no evidence that the PSP had a direct impact on the REI. • This paper improve sustainable economic development as well as environmental and renewable energy production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Integrating electric vehicles (EVs) into the electric power system poses significant challenges to grid operation and planning due to the potential constraints on the power system. To minimize grid congestion, the best option is to increase the production of photovoltaic (PV) energy for domestic use and EV charging stations. This paper addresses the nexus of technical, financial, and environmental effects of customer involvement in economic development and load management. In this paper, a new model design of solar-powered EV charging stations is proposed and implemented in HOMER Grid, and a case study has explored how economic, technical, and energy management benefits can be achieved through customer energy involvement and the integration of PV-based charging stations. The proposed PV-based charging stations contribute toward the energy management of the region, and the study observes the real-time optimal charging and discharging strategy of PV-based grid-connected charging stations. The case study results show that the investigated area can produce 1,070,804.096 MWh/year of energy through maximum customer involvement, consequently reducing overall energy costs. Moreover, the study demonstrates that the selected region can produce 86,961,688 kWh/year through the PV system, achieving 363,899 charging sessions per year, offering maximum advantages and facilitation for EV charging. The proposed model applicability shows that large-scale customer involvement can bring significant techno-economic benefits and attract regional investments. • This paper proposes a new design of a grid-tied renewable energy system. • It investigates the energy economics and environmental effects for a practical location. • The research examines energy management including PV systems and electric vehicles. • The results of proposed model are compared with other models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present situation, renewable energy has become a vital source to mitigate energy crises and environmental threats. In order to ensure that women's contributions, knowledge and opinions represent a significant portion of the expanding energy sector, it is crucial to approach the development of renewable energy from a gender perspective. Bibliometric analysis was performed to identify prior research on two primary terms, "Gender" and "Renewable Energy", from 1995 to 2022. Identifying the most influential countries, authors, publications, journals, and co-occurrence of keywords helps to understand the evaluation and trends of the research through network visualisations by bibliometric approach. This paper presents a comprehensive bibliometric review of the influence of gender on renewable energy. The result of this paper gives details picture of the gender impact on renewable energy during the period from 1995 to 2022. The paper centred on bibliometric and cluster analysis based on the two most important databases, Web of Science and Scopus. The study involved utilising various bibliometric tools, including R Studio, VOSviewer, and Biblioshiny. The study revealed an increase in publications and citations during the third period since 2017, after the United Nations set the target of the Sustainable Development Goal. Most influential countries and productive authors belong to China, the United States of America, and the United Kingdom. Energy Research and Social Science are predominated in publications on the research topic. In addition, the co-occurrence of keywords found major keywords related to this topic, such as renewable energy, gender, women, knowledge, sustainability, climate change and sustainable development. Finally, the study observed a huge research gap because developing nations are more affected by the lack of gender-influencing policies on the growth of renewable energy. Thus, the study provides a comprehensive overview of research in this field that can help researchers and stakeholders identify potential ways for future research in gender considerations on renewable energy access by formulating effective policies to change society and reach the Sustainable Development Goals. • Gender has become a focal point of interest within the renewable energy sector. • Using network visualisation, bibliometric analysis examines research trends by keyword occurrence and country collaborations. • Publication, citation, journal, and authorship contribution trends are to be analysed. • The research growth across different periods was discussed for potential future studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The production of electrical energy is always a substantial contributor to a country's economy; in particular, integrating renewable energy sources into the existing power system has tremendous techno-economic implications. However, the optimal penetration of renewables and dynamic loads management is highly complex while considering the multiple variables, time-varying characteristics, and operational uncertainties. This paper proposes a new model design of a grid-tied renewable system. It investigates energy economics and forecasts for the practical locality of the Muzaffarabad area in Azad Jammu and Kashmir. The proposed research examines the annualized energy estimation concerning varied customer PV system participation. The impact of consumer feedback on energy production is briefly examined. Various aspects, such as energy economics, including annual revenue generation, energy prices, and energy sell-back, are demonstrated in detail. The proposed study also looks at the connection between the rising usage of renewable energy and falling greenhouse gas emissions and energy prices. Moreover, it shows how customer input has altered energy economics via each district taking part in energy sharing. Also, it illustrates the relationship between energy bought and sold and how the grid and PV's share of energy interact. Based on the research study findings, PV systems can provide 61% of the total region's energy needs with maximum consumer involvement. The study found that when PV is integrated at a maximum level, grid energy purchases fall to 52%. Polluting gas emissions were reduced by 64% courtesy of the recommended approach, and energy cost was cut from $0.20 per kWh to $0.09 per kWh. The recommended system produces 81,635,608 dollars in revenue yearly and achieves a renewable part of 46.17% with the highest level of customer interaction. [Display omitted] • This paper proposes a new model design of a grid-tied renewable system. • It investigates the energy economics and forecasts for a practical location. • The research examines annualized energy estimation concerning PV systems. • The results of proposed model are compared with other models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate change and global warming create considerable problems for people, such as intense droughts. One of the biggest causes of global warming is the preference for fossil fuels in energy production. In this context, renewable energy has been considered an effective way to promote environmental quality. Several empirical studies have evaluated the impact of economic growth and energy on environmental quality. However, the possible influence of banking development on carbon emissions in South Africa has been ignored. Thus, this study contributes to the extant literature by assessing the impact of banking sector development on the environmental quality in South Africa over the period 1986–2017. For this purpose, the linkage between energy, economic growth, banking sector development and C 0 2 emissions are assessed by using the new technique of bootstrap autoregressive distributed lag. The findings from the ARDL estimations affirm that renewable energy consumption affects negatively C 0 2 emissions. However, the main conclusion of this study is that banking sector development has a negative influence on the environmental quality in South Africa through GDP and energy factors. The finding reveals that an increase in credit from banks to markets will lead to a rise in projects and investments, as well as strengthen risk management systems, potentially affecting economic growth and energy consumption and therefore increasing C 0 2 emissions. Hence, the outcome suggests that policymakers in South Africa must use the growth of the banking sector to enhance environmental quality by promoting investment in energy and production through renewable energy. • This paper examines the impact of banking sector development and renewable energy on environmental quality. • Renewable energy promotes environmental quality. • Banking sector development reduces environmental quality. • South Africa must increase the usage of renewable energy to have economic growth accompanied by a sustainable environment. • South Africa must use the growth of the banking sector to minimise environmental degradation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Local renewable energy initiatives, that involve the local population, can help empower the communities, economically, culturally, and socially. In many cases, the ambitions of energy projects go beyond mere electricity production and involve issues of energy justice, environmental awareness, and environmental citizenship. However, these aspirations are often forgotten during project assessments, or they fail to include local voices, especially those of women and other marginalized groups. Gender has been given little attention in the energy scholarship and especially during the post-implementation assessment of energy projects due to the belief that energy technologies are gender neutral and beneficial for the whole community. The present study, with a focus on two local energy projects with mixed ownership, challenges this notion. The two case studies are the islands of El Hierro in Spain and Tilos in Greece. A detailed survey based on a series of indicators drawn from the energy justice framework is used to evaluate women's perceptions. By following a feminist approach, this work draws attention on the difference experiences of women and how these are often not acknowledged during the assessment of renewable energy projects. Local renewable energy does not automatically imply energy justice and pluralism. More effort is needed from policy makers to include women in the decision making and to ensure a fair distribution of the benefits of the projects. • This paper examines the impact of two innovative renewable energy projects through gender lenses • Two case studies from the Global North are presented • Sex disaggregated results from a detailed survey were analyzed • The energy justice framework is the underlying conceptual tool for the analysis • The differences in energy perceptions and benefits/harms from the projects between genders are discussed [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Philippines is exploring different alternative sources of energy to make the country less dependent on imported fossil fuels and to reduce significantly the country's CO 2 emissions. Given the abundance of renewable energy potential in the country, green hydrogen from renewables is a promising fuel because it can be utilized as an energy carrier and can provide a source of clean and sustainable energy with no emissions. This paper aims to review the prospects and challenges for the potential use of green hydrogen in several production and utilization pathways in the Philippines. The study identified green hydrogen production routes from available renewable energy sources in the country, including geothermal, hydropower, wind, solar, biomass, and ocean. Opportunities for several utilization pathways include transportation, industry, utility, and energy storage. From the analysis, this study proposes a roadmap for a green hydrogen economy in the country by 2050, divided into three phases: I–green hydrogen as industrial feedstock, II–green hydrogen as fuel cell technology, and III–commercialization of green hydrogen. On the other hand, the analysis identified several challenges, including technical, economic, and social aspects, as well as the corresponding policy implications for the realization of a green hydrogen economy that can be applied in the Philippines and other developing countries. • A green hydrogen economy could be feasible in the Philippines. • Renewable energy potential from geothermal, hydropower, wind, solar, biomass, and ocean for green hydrogen production. • Utilization pathways for transport, industry, utility, and energy storage. • The hydrogen economy faces challenges from technical, economic, and social perspectives. • Green hydrogen economy can be achieved by transforming the energy and other sectors to 100% renewables. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Under the banner of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goal 7 (SDG 7), governments, industry, and civil society organisations have supported many energy access projects since 2015. Notably, funding and investments allotted to renewable energy are regarded not only to provide 'energy for all' but also support the delivery of other SDGs related to climate change, food security, health, and poverty reduction, among others. With less than 10 years left to meet the SDG 7 targets, it is timely to take stock and examine how the provision of access to energy is driving development initiatives, impacting local communities, and influencing governance processes. This paper offers a critical review and analysis of the impact of access to energy projects based on empirical work from eight country case studies across Africa, Asia, and Latin America. It interrogates how these projects contribute towards achieving SDG 7 and other sustainable development goals, highlights challenges, and then draws lessons for research, policy, and development practice. To advance SDGs, it recommends action in four areas: addressing rural-urban disparities, ensuring that energy is linked to sustainable outcomes, balancing top-down and bottom-up agendas, and appraising implications of techno-economic factors. [Display omitted] • Energy access has been constrained by multiple factors outside of policy decisions. • Governance decisions have overlooked local actors who are key to project sustainability. • Improved efficiency is more vital to energy security and access than increased generation. • Alignment between policies, governance processes, and institutional commitments is crucial. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Integrating renewable energies into district heating systems has a large potential to reduce CO 2 -emissions in the heating sector. As district heating systems offer the possibility of incorporating renewable energies into the heat supply, new systems have to be built and the existing networks must be maintained. This study investigates ways to optimize existing district heating systems in order to ensure economic sustainability in the long-term. Previous case studies have elaborated on a variety of optimization measures. However, to date, these measures have neither been collected nor consistently assessed for a wider application range. Therefore, in the study presented here a system for assessing the ecological and economic benefits of optimization measures was developed and applied. The assessment method utilized showed that optimization of district heating consumer substations and adding of a central buffer storage tank has a high optimization potential in comparison to intermittent operation strategy, which has a significantly lower optimization potential. From this information and the transferability data, a district heating operator can determine which optimization measure should be prioritized, which is shown at the end of the paper on an example case. • A method was developed to assess benefits of optimizing district heating systems. • A survey was conducted to assess the ecological and economic value. • Optimization measures for DH systems were compared using the new method. • A guideline is provided to offer operators a suggested approach to take. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The EU has committed to make Europe the first climate-neutral continent by 2050. Reaching this objective requires massive changes in the region. The biggest challenge is that the green transition happens without sacrificing economic progress and guaranteeing justice and inclusiveness. This pledge implies that every country be capable of addressing the trade-offs between targets while remaining committed towards the common decarbonisation goal. Our paper analyses the success with which countries are carrying out the energy transition. We propose an enhanced hyperbolic distance function and a stochastic frontier analysis approach to model the joint attainment of economic development, environmental sustainability, and energy equity. We apply our model to an unbalanced panel dataset of 29 European countries for the period 2005–2018. Our estimates show that the average performance of the economies has improved over time. The results also highlight the pivotal role of a sustainable economic development with clean energies for both slashing CO 2 emissions and fostering energy equity. Moreover, we find convergence in countries' performance, being this convergence slightly higher for the EU-15 countries compared to the rest. Finally, we show that a higher share of renewable energy sources helps countries that are lagging behind to reach their optimal performance level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the strategies for achieving sustainable development goals is to close the gap between environmental vulnerability and economic progress (SDGs). The significance of renewable energy in harmonizing environmental and economic conditions is becoming a touchy subject in current debates. Against this backdrop, the major objective of this paper is to assess whether economic growth and environmental sustainability can promote renewable energy consumption in the Indian economy by using ARDL and Novel Dynamic ARDL estimation techniques. The results obtained from both the methodology shows that rising efficiency in the economic growth coupled with environmental sustainability leads to an increase in renewable energy consumption. We also find, from the frequency domain causality test, that there is a unidirectional causality between renewable energy consumption and economic growth & renewable energy consumption and environmental sustainability in both the short- and long run. The former causation validating the conservation hypothesis for the Indian economy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Small islands are fragile and dependent territories in many sectors, especially energy. Hence, renewable energy microgrids (MGs) can offer an opportunity for environmentally sustainable energy supply but also a driver for new development strategies in these territories. This paper aims to analyse the role that MGs can play in insular spaces for the achievement of more sustainable communities. Initially, MGs played a crucial role in ensuring energy supply in spaces characterised by a difficult supply. However, with technological improvements in both generation and storage, as well as institutional and legislative changes, MGs can play a fundamental role in achieving more socially cohesive and environmentally sustainable spaces beyond their role as energy suppliers. We discuss three main topics after a meta-analysis of 18 MGs, both on-grid and off-grid, located in insular spaces: 1) the characteristics of MGs built in insular territories in the last 25 years; 2) MGs influence islanders' well-being and lifestyle; and 3) how MGs can encourage responsible consumption and promote postgrowth strategies. Thus, this paper explores the role that MGs have played in the past and present and what role they could play in the future of small island spaces. It might be concluded that MGs are a key factor in the development of more sustainable societies. However, they must be accompanied by changes in our economies, societies and lifestyles in a direction other than the pursuit of economic growth traditionally understood as a limitless increase in consumption and production. [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]

Over the past seven years, the advancement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is gaining increasing attention in the African context. Consistent with this effort, the present study aims to review the existing literature systematically to document contribution and methodological gaps. Specifically, the review systematically explores, through bibliometric literature and systematic method reviews, authors, countries, cited papers, journals, author's keywords, topic dendrogram, and methodological choices of papers associated with Africa SDGs scholars. The R Studio software is used to analyze 200 papers on SDGs, authored by 606 scholars and published in 102 peer-reviewed leading sources between 2015 and 2022. The results reveal that SDGs literature in Africa is an imminent study area, and there are two main strands of literature advancing SDGs in Africa: (1) business growth, entrepreneurship, and poverty reduction, and (2) renewable energy, tourism, and ICT. Key findings from the analysis of the papers are discussed, and implications for future research directions consisting of research questions, research methods and designs, and SDGs research are provided. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bangladesh has encountered several challenges, including issues like overpopulation, energy shortage, and global warming for the last few decades. Addressing the increasing energy demand has become a crucial concern because of rapid increase in population and lack of growth in the economic. The electricity production of a country heavily relies on fossil fuels, particularly natural gas, which makes up approximately 54% of the current installed capacity. Bangladesh is an agrarian nation and biomass stands out as a source of renewable energy having significant potential to mitigate the demand for heat and electricity. Biomass resources in the country mainly comprise animal dung, agricultural crop residuals, solid waste from municipalities and forest residues. The existing biomass resources contribute to producing a high amount of energy and content of around 1574.16 PJ of energy equivalent to 437.28 TWh of electricity in which agricultural residues, animal manure, municipal solid waste, and forest residues impart around 852.32 PJ, 399.04 PJ, 112.16 PJ, and 210.64 PJ of energy respectively. This paper explores the extent, possibilities, and technologies associated with biomass energy conversion. Additionally, the study delves into the several biomass projects that the government, as well as non-governmental groups, are working on for environmental sustainability along with plans, challenges, and methods that are being utilized to encourage biomass technologies across Bangladesh. [Display omitted] • The biomass potentiality in Bangladesh for heat and electricity generation is emphasized. • The energy scenario and necessity of alternative energy sources in Bangladesh are discussed. • The available energy conversion technologies from biomass in Bangladesh are presented. • The existing biomass resource content of around 1574.16 PJ (437.28 TWh of electricity) of energy. • The economic aspects and challenges of biomass conversion into energy are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The global call to address climate change and advance sustainable development has created rapid growth in research, investment, and policymaking regarding the renewable energy transition of Indigenous communities. From a rightsholder perspective, Indigenous Peoples' vision of sustainability, autonomy, and sovereignty should guide research on their energy needs. In this paper, we present a multi-method, inductive examination to identify gaps between Indigenous communities' expressed needs and rights, and the questions researchers and policymakers investigate in energy transition research conducted in the context of Indigenous communities located in Canada. We combine a systematic review of the extant literature, a scoping review of the grey literature on off-grid communities by Indigenous and non-Indigenous governments and non-governmental policy bodies, qualitative primary data collected via fieldwork, and an in-depth study of an Indigenous-led renewable energy transition study conducted by Haíɫzaqv Nation's Climate Action Team. We holistically examine these different perspectives and identify emergent themes to recommend ways to bridge the gaps between off-grid renewable energy research and stated Indigenous community priorities. Specifically, we recommend designing equitable research practices, understanding community worldviews, developing holistic research goals, respecting Indigenous data sovereignty, and sharing or co-developing knowledge with communities to align with community priorities closely. • There is a research-practice gap in Indigenous communities' energy transitions. • We used a multi-method inquiry integrating Indigenous and Western approaches. • Renewable energy literature diverges from the Indigenous community vision and goals. • Indigenous research methods can reduce the research-practice gap in high-tech fields. • Community-based approaches can use traditional laws to yield actionable outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Virtual power plants possess the capability to effectively manage the inherent conflict between dispersed electricity generation and user demand, hence optimising market advantages. Nevertheless, the presence of severe weather conditions, geopolitical factors, the phenomenon of global warming, and several other global concerns greatly enhance the level of uncertainty related to the establishment of sustainable energy sources and the corresponding demand from users. Consequently, these factors expose the limitations of virtual power plants in effectively controlling power supply. The active involvement of community members has the potential to invigorate the process of development. This study presents a novel model, referred to as the CE-based cVPP (CE-cVPP) model, that combines the principles of circular economy (CE) and community-based virtual power plant (cVPP). The objective of this model is to enhance the effectiveness of sustainable development efforts. This research redefines the concept of a CE-cVPP, elucidates its defining features, scopes, and classification, and constructs a technological framework, together with an explanatory community case structure. The CE-cVPP energy life cycle framework is constructed based on the principles of the circular economy paradigm. This study investigates the enduring and sustainable benefits of the CE-cVPP across four dimensions: energy, environment, economics, and society. In conclusion, this paper provides a comprehensive examination of the energy, digital, and circular economy perspectives, encompassing critical analysis, problems, prospective analysis, and future directions. • Circular economy and community-based Virtual Power Plant (CE-cVPP) is a paradigm for the future energy sector. • CE-cVPP is a novel sustainable pattern that combines circular economy and community virtual power plants. • CE-cVPP features renewable energy, electricity, gas, cold, heat, and biodegradable waste. • CE-cVPP promotes economic, social, and ecological sustainability. • CE-cVPPs enhance the power and energy system's adaptability, versatility, and stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Green financing is essential because it guarantees that initiatives that seek to reduce the world's reliance on fossil fuels receive the necessary funding to be successful. Green financial metrics can be simultaneously made possible by specialized technological innovation and natural resource rent, thereby encouraging the adoption of sustainable energy. In this paper, we investigate the mediating mechanisms underlying the relationship between green financial indicators and renewable energy consumption RNEC and we contribute to the ongoing discussion surrounding this relationship. Our observational example is derived from data collected for 66 countries between 2004 and 2019 using a panel threshold regression model defined with the difference generalized method of moments (GMM). We find that green funding initiatives have accelerated the adoption of renewable energy sources by encouraging increases in the proportion of renewable energy in the fuel supply. Multiple analyses of reliability corroborate the existence of this link. Green funding has been shown to have an encouraging effect on the transition to renewable energy, and our findings indicate that technological advancement and natural resource leasing serve to mitigate this effect. To assist policymakers in reducing the world's reliance on polluting energy, our study demonstrates how green financial markets can be established through improved technological innovation and natural resource management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper refers to the current energy situation in the European Union (EU) countries with a particular focus on energy produced from renewable energy sources and coal – sources that provide opportunities for balancing the energy of the region. The strengths and weaknesses of coal mining in Poland were also identified, along with its opportunities and threats (SWOT analysis). Innovative and sustainable development based on the Triple Helix Model (THM), as well as the Open innovation (OI) concept and Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) principles were identified as opportunities for its sustainable development. The combination of these solutions should enable sustainable development of the industry, preserving its economic and social importance and reducing its negative impact on the environment. The use of new clean technologies in the operation and combustion of coal should reduce emissions of harmful substances into the environment. Intensive and government-supported cooperation between the scientific and research community and industry should significantly facilitate these processes. Another aspect important for the changes to be introduced is the social factor, for which the current situation represents an opportunity to preserve jobs in the mining industry, but also a challenge for its sustainable development. These seemingly mutually exclusive elements should form the basis of a new opening for Polish and European mining as an innovative industry based on knowledge and preserving the basic principles of ESG. The paper also outlines the most significant challenges facing the Polish mining industry on its way to innovative development. The article provides a new and relevant to the current reality perspective on the Polish mining industry in the context of the entire EU, for which the current geopolitical situation forces the necessity of setting a new direction of development. The geopolitical changes that have recently taken place in the global economy such as the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus pandemic and the armed conflict within Ukraine have caused very great turbulence in the energy market. Enthusiasm and uncritical adoption of green concepts in the EU has caused, along with the reduction of gas and coal imports from Russia, turbulence in the energy market. This situation has created a great opportunity for the development of the mining industry in Poland, which has not yet managed, following the example of other EU countries, to extinguish the industry. In order to take advantage of this opportunity and obtain a permanent place in the energy mix in the EU, it is necessary to rapidly develop the mining industry in a sustainable manner based on innovative solutions. [Display omitted] • The role and importance of Polish mining in the new geopolitical situation in the EU have been presented. • Challenges, opportunities and threats to mining on the path to its innovative and sustainable development have been identified. • A model of IO cooperation for sustainable and innovative development of the Polish coal mining industry has been developed. • Relationships between mining industry stakeholders have been identified, taking into account the IO and THM models and ESG principles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biobased products are complete or partial derivatives from naturally occurring/growing materials such as agricultural, plants, and forest materials and serve as an alternative to traditional product derivatives of petroleum. Technically, biobased product counterparts can replace almost every fossil resource-based industrial material. Adopting life cycle analysis and circular economy concepts has also accelerated the move towards biobased products. It meets the criteria for easy recycling and can facilitate the shift from linear fossil-based productions to a greener circular economy. In line with the Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews (RSER) policy, this Virtual Special Issue (VSI) published two types of articles, high-quality review papers and original research papers with a strong review component. After a rigorous peer-review process, 32 articles were accepted and published in this VSI. This editorial overview these articles and examines their contribution to the field. This RSER VSI has contributed with new insights on value-added biobased products from various bioresources to their applications, technical challenges and advancement in a sustainable manner. • VSI is focused on the recent development of biobased biorefineries. • Greener technologies offering biobased products. • Sustainable bioprocesses and bioproducts development from bioresources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pine needles are a major cause of forest fires in the western region of the Himalayas in India. There is a need to explore avenues for utilizing this forest bio residue. Pine needles in the form of briquettes are an important source of renewable energy as it has low carbon emissions, low-cost technological interventions, easy accessibility and direct community benefits. The purpose of this paper is to list, classify and rank the enablers supporting energy generation using briquettes made from dried pine needles. This study ranks the enablers by using the fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process which is a multi-criteria decision-making approach. This paper finds that technological enablers are key to such interventions using dried and fallen pine needles for energy generation. The second category is environment-related enablers that directly impact the environment, followed by the market-related factors including good demand for the bio briquettes by the industry, viable fuel linkage, and a sense of business approach among the main actors. Economic enablers are next in importance, including factors such as employment generation, additional income, and self-sufficiency making such initiatives attractive enough to be adopted by people. Government and lastly, social and community-related enablers are next in priority for such projects. This is the first research that recognized, classified as well as ranked these enablers to pine needle-based energy generation in Uttarakhand in achieving United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals for 2030 such as climate action and affordable and clean energy. • To categorize and assess the major enabling factors supporting energy generation using Pine needles. • AHP with Fuzzy logic approach used for prioritization of barriers. • Managerial and practical implications for these enablers. • Technology related enablers are key to pine needle based energy generation. • Low maintenance of machinery has topmost global ranking as enabler. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]