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This paper examines the potential of solar and hydrogen (H 2) energy-based hybrid energy systems for residential applications. The growing need for energy and the demand for sustainable energy sources have led to the development of integrated energy systems that combine renewable energy resources to meet energy needs. This paper overviews recent studies on hybrid energy systems for on-grid and off-grid residential utilizations. It discusses the system configuration and components of hybrid energy systems, including solar panels, electrolyzers, fuel cells (FC), and batteries. It also covers the technical optimization of integrated energy systems, including sizing, control strategies, and economic analysis. The key findings of this review paper indicate that hybrid energy systems can offer dependable and sustainable energy for residential applications. Through numerical analyses, the optimal dimensioning of the system elements and control strategies can significantly enhance the system's performance and lower the cost of energy. This study also highlights the challenges and opportunities for integrating hybrid energy systems within residential applications. Overall, it provides in-depth perspectives on the possibilities inherent in solar and hydrogen energy-based hybrid energy systems for residential applications. The findings can guide future research and the advancement of hybrid energy systems for sustainable energy solutions. • Comprehensive review on solar and hydrogen-based residential applications. • Holistic approach to system configuration, optimization, and economics. • Detailed analysis of interconnected components enhancing system efficiency. • Unique focus on real-world residential applications and scenarios. • Broad applicability across diverse geographical regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrogen is a kind of clean renewable energy with great development potential. However, traditional electrocatalytic water splitting methods often require high energy consumption and expensive catalysts, which limits their practical application. Transition metal selenides (TMSes), as a new type of hydrogen production materials from electrolytic water, have been the focus of research in recent years. The basic principle of electrochemical water cracking and the preparation of TMSes are reviewed in this paper. The electrocatalysts for hydrogen evolution, oxygen evolution and integral water cracking based on TMSes, including single metal selenides, binary metal selenides, and multinary mixed metal selenides, are discussed. Finally, the future research direction and the development prospect of TMSes electrocatalysts are prospected. • Eley-Rideal and Langmuir-Hinshelwood mechanisms were used to analyze the OER reaction mechanism. • The production and properties of transition metal selenides in recent years are introduced in detail. • In this paper, transition metal selenides are introduced from single TMSes, binary TMSes and multinary mixed TMSes. • The physical properties and electronic structures of transition metal selenides are described in detail. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is a great desire to integrate multiple energy systems by forming low-carbon energy hubs. Among various energy platforms, the integration of power and gas networks via Power-to-Gas (PtG) technologies is introduced as a promising solution to enhance the flexibility of power grids and facilitate seamless adoption for high penetration levels of renewable energy resources. In addition, the production of green hydrogen from waste/inexpensive clean electricity has recently been identified as a potential means for large-scale energy storage, deployment of hydrogen mobility, and decarbonization of several processes that utilize hydrogen. As integrated hydrogen-based energy hubs (H 2 Hubs) attract more attention for widespread deployment, the security of such new platforms against various cyberattacks is also becoming a critical topic for investigation. This paper proposes a new data estimation technique, developed and integrated with H 2 Hubs scheduling models, for real-time optimal adaptive collection and organization of the system operating parameters for cybersecurity assessment. A new formulation is presented for the adaptive formation of a newly proposed concept, referred to as the system feasibility area , via real-time acquisition of the system operating information. The created feasibility areas are utilized for real-time post-occurrence detection of the bad scheduling data that is invisible to the existing cybersecurity layers. Numerical studies are conducted to demonstrate the efficacy and feasibility of the proposed model. The results demonstrate that the historical data can be adaptively collected in real time and successfully utilized to create feasibility areas to categorize the system operating points. • An optimal scheduling model is proposed for hydrogen-based energy hubs (H 2 Hubs). • A new data estimation method is developed and integrated with the scheduling model. • A new formulation is given for the adaptive creation of the feasibility area. • Simulation case studies are presented and discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper explores the feasibility of utilizing lead-free multilayer piezo stacks, particularly focusing on Zr-doped 0.95(Bi 0. 5 Na 0.5)TiO 3 -0.05(BaTiO 3) piezoceramics, for energy harvesting. Various lead-free BNT-BT disk samples with different Zr concentrations undergo structural, microstructural, and electrical characterizations. The results illustrate that Zr-doping improves piezoelectric constitutive parameters, notably at a 2.0 mol% concentration. Electromechanical tests were conducted on multilayer piezo stacks, involving variations in electric load, mechanical load, frequency, and number of stacked disks. These tests demonstrate the ability of the multilayer transducer to produce up to 1.5 V (peak) under particular conditions: a 250 Hz frequency, a 10 N mechanical load, and an open circuit electric load, utilizing a stack comprising 5 disks. Employing an analytical mathematical model, an effective d 33 e f f of the system is determined, yielding values ranging from 588 to 625 pC/N for a stack composed of 5 disks. These findings highlight the considerable potential of lead-free multilayer piezo stacks in energy harvesting applications, offering crucial insights for the development of sustainable and eco-friendly energy solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper examines the complex relationship between the role of H 2 , carbon emissions and their impact on global warming and the economy. Despite improvements in energy efficiency, fossil fuel consumption continues to increase. CO 2 from industrial activities at high temperatures, such as cement, iron, steel and glass production, have increased rapidly, resulting in an increase in the concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. These emissions accelerate climate change, leading to dangerous consequences such as increasing average atmospheric temperature and decreasing agricultural productivity. To combat this, it is advocated to reduce CO 2 emissions by using renewable energy sources such as hydroelectricity, biomass, wind solar energy. Current study also discusses carbon reduction methods, including oxy-fuel combustion capture, pre-combustion capture, and post-combustion capture. Despite their unique advantages and disadvantages, these methods play an important role in reducing CO 2 emissions from power plants. Additionally, the article highlights the importance of H 2 as a cornerstone in the development of synthetic fuels and future energy systems. H 2 from renewable sources holds the potential to use carbon-neutral synthetic liquid fuels and revolutionize transportation. Although traditional H 2 production methods are associated with emissions, sustainable H 2 production techniques can facilitate low-carbon fuel production. The article concludes by highlighting the importance of sustainable energy practices and the role of H 2 in reducing carbon emissions, highlighting research efforts to improve production methods, integrate renewable energy, and develop carbon capture technologies for a sustainable future. • Methods used in synthetic fuel production and sources of hydrogen production. • Carbon capture methods and their comparative discussion. • The importance of hydrogen production in synthetic fuel production and future plan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on the evidence from listed company microdata and data from 285 cities in China, this paper studies the coordinated development of two-way FDI (CDFDI) in improving green energy efficiency (GEE). In particular, this paper examines the spatial heterogeneity effects of CDFDI on GEE. The results showed that CDFDI had a positive impact on the GEE of local and surrounding cities. Mechanistic examinations show that the effects of CDFDI on GEE are mediated by technological diffusion, nationalization, and environmental regulation. After dividing different city types, the impact of CDFDI is also different. By constructing a spatial decay weight matrix, this paper also finds that the positive spatial spillover effect of CDFDI is limited to 1050 KM. Finally, different investment motive portfolios also has a heterogeneous impact on the local and surrounding cities' GEE. After dividing the time nodes, the effect of this heterogeneity is more prominent. • We use multiple undesired output indicators covering eight pollutants to measure green energy efficiency (GEE). • CDFDI has a significant boost to GEE in local and surrounding cities. • The impact of CDFDI on GEE is moderated by technological diffusion, nationalization, and environmental regulation. • The spatial spillover effects of CDFDI are heterogeneous by city category and geographic distance. • CDFDI with different investment motives has heterogeneous effects on local and surrounding cities' GEE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Considering the escalating global warming and its severe consequences, the exploitation of hydrogen, an eco-friendly energy carrier, is gaining great interest. This paper comprehensively reviews the most common hydrogen production, storage, transportation and utilization processes, while their effectiveness is explored from energy, water, economic and environmental perspectives. Their main characteristics, advantages, shortcomings and challenges are discussed as well. The research reveals that the hydrogen's water footprint, energy consumption, carbon emissions, and cost vary significantly depending on the specific technologies used throughout its life cycle, from production to end use. For instance, fossil fuel-based hydrogen production methods, such as steam methane reforming, offer elevated energy performance and cost-effectiveness, but have a significant carbon footprint. In contrast, water electrolysis is environmentally friendly, but requires more water and has lower energy efficiency. Besides, high-pressure containers are the preferred method for hydrogen storage, while liquid and solid storages are better suited for high-energy-density applications. Regarding hydrogen transportation, pipelines are effective over long distances, whereas tankers are convenient for short distances. Furthermore, fuel cells are more energy, carbon and water efficient when using hydrogen as fuel, but they are generally more expensive than internal combustion engines. [Display omitted] • Hydrogen production, storage, transportation and utilization methods are reviewed. • Their energy efficiency, water use, cost, and environmental impact are explored. • Key recommendations to boost the utilization of hydrogen systems are outlined. • Fossil fuel-based technologies are more energy-efficient and cost-effective. • Renewable-based processes are more environmentally friendly but water-intensive. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, an integrated system is proposed for the production of turquoise hydrogen from methane cracking using solar energy. The produced hydrogen and carbon by-products are used in fuel cells to generate clean electricity. Syngas is produced through power generated via photovoltaics, using a solid oxide electrolyzer cell (SOEC). The SOEC co-electrolyzes the exhaust CO 2 from the direct carbon fuel cell, along with H 2 O. The resulting syngas is subsequently converted into methanol. The system is modelled using Aspen Plus to obtain the thermodynamic evaluation. Mass, energy, entropy, and exergy balances are performed over the system's units. The energy and exergy efficiency of the subsystems is determined, with solar methane cracking system achieving energy and exergy efficiencies of 82.2% and 92.5%, respectively. The overall system produces methanol and generates 7.71 MW of electricity with the overall energy and exergy efficiencies of 40.6% and 37.5%, respectively. • Energy and exergy analysis of an integrated methane cracking system. • Carbon black by-product is used in a direct carbon fuel cell. • Produced CO 2 is co-electrolyzed with water to produce syngas. • Processes modelled on Aspen Plus to obtain thermodynamic evaluation. • The proposed system has an energy and exergy efficiency of 40.6% and 37.5%, respectively. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The All-electric ship (AES) concept has revolutionized the maritime sector. Indeed, AES is a promising solution for modern vessels where decreasing emission pollution, suppressing fossil fuel consumption, and making economical operation are its brilliant merits. Fuel cell (FC) technology based on clean hydrogen energy sources can play a significant role in meeting these requirements in the AES platform. Because of the slow transient response of the FC, an energy storage system (ESS) is required to improve AES performance in different operation scenarios. Therefore, optimal sizing of the FC and the ESS and proper design of energy management strategy is a challenging problem. This paper proposes a systematic approach for the optimal design of hybrid FC-ESS of AES power systems. The proposed method is based on an optimization technique to determine the optimal sizing of the FCs and the ESS. Capital investment, fuel consumption, personnel electrical safety, and occupied volume of the AES power system are the main objectives. The FC size, the battery size, the scheduled output power of the FC, and the battery are the decision variables. Genetic Algorithm (GA) is used to solve the optimization problem. To validate the numerical results, the optimization problem is also solved by Mayfly Algorithm (MA) separately. To assess the feasibility of the proposed strategy, the optimal design of hybrid FC-ESS for a vessel is implemented based on the proposed method. The simulation results validate the proposed approach's sufficiency to investigate and optimize the economic, safety, and dimensional aspects of designing the FC ship's IPS. Numerical results are reported for each design aspect. Considering the minor differences of the numerical results obtained by GA and MA, the optimum points are validated by the two techniques. Using the obtained results, various perceptions can be derived from the FC ship's IPS design. For example, the IPS cost in the cases with optimum volume, weight, and safety, has 2.3%, 2.6%, and 7.3% penalties, respectively compared to the case with the minimum cost. • Fuel cell-based electrification of a fishing ship based on practical information. • Systematic approach for optimal power system design of hydrogen-powered ship. • Proposing safety objective function for integrated power system of fuel cell ship. • Fuel cell hybrid IPS optimization based on volume, mass, cost and safety. • Estimation of propulsion power demand based on ship's resistance and speed profile. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With rapid industrialization, rising fossil fuel consumption, and environmental concerns, developing clean and green energy is an inescapable option. Hydrogen has emerged as a significant potential energy carrier and a viable future replacement fuel for fossil fuels due to its renewable and pollution-free properties. Previous review papers have significantly contributed to the body of literature on the various technologies for producing hydrogen by revealing key insights into their working principles and conditions, as well as the economic and environmental aspects. In addition, they also highlighted the potential pathways to enable the application of these technologies in the context of carbon neutrality. However, these studies have not broken down the evolutionary patterns and developmental progress of either fossil fuel-based or renewable energy-based technologies used to produce hydrogen. In addition, the currently available literature does not contain the most recent research that focuses on the evolution and life cycle of each technology category from a chronological point of view. The key drivers, countries/regions, and their contributions to the field's development have received little attention. As a result, it is critical to monitor technological advances in hydrogen energy production and investigate the key enablers of these advancements. Against this backdrop, the current study employs patent analysis tools to achieve four primary goals: (1) to track the development trends in the field of hydrogen production from 2000 to 2019; (2) to identify and compare the recent development trends in the last five years according to the feedstock, i.e., fossil fuel, water, and biomass-based technologies; (3) to predict the technology life cycle of the two main groups of hydrogen production technologies (fossil and renewable); (4) to identify and compare the key drivers of hydrogen production technologies from a statistical standpoint. The findings of the study may aid in identifying technical prospects in the field of fossil and renewable-based hydrogen production, and decision-makers may use them as a reference in developing a strategic plan for future technological growth. • Patent review on hydrogen production technologies from 2000 to 2019. • Japan, US, China are the leading countries in the field. • Recent developments are focused on renewable energy-based technologies especially water. • Technology maturity rate of renewable-based technologies is about 57%. • R&D expenditure strongly promotes hydrogen production innovations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work aimed at solving the environmental problem of the hottest greenhouse gas reduction. The paper identifies the energy electricity demand, proposes solutions, and calculates the greenhouse gases emitted in each of the interconnected networks available in Cameroon. For a total production estimated at 1292 MW, the country's electricity production depends heavily on hydropower plants (57%), thermal power plants (42%), and only 1% of biomass. Specifically, biomass would contribute to 40% of the supply of the demand if it is sufficiently exploited. Hydroelectricity needs transmission for long distances. The electricity demand in the median economic scenario is the basis of this study. GHGs were calculated using the tool MESSAGE. The results of this study show that it will be possible, without taking into account the fact that biomass is clean energy, to avoid 462 kt of CO 2 eq and 14 kt of CO 2 eq for South Interconnected Network and East Interconnected Network respectively. The amounts of CH 4 , SO 2 , and NO x are not statistically significant. This study takes into account the main existing energy sources in the country. The specificity of this study is to treat the three interconnected networks of the country separately. The use of biomass in local power plants was proposed to reduce dependence on fossil fuels. This study shows that to reduce the GHG emission and the loss of electricity due to its transmission in the country, it is better to use biomass instead of fossil fuels for the production of electricity in Cameroon. [Display omitted] • Electricity demand of the country was identified. • The quantity of GHG emitted from electricity generation in Cameroon was estimated. • Biomass power plants were introduced in the electricity mix of the country to promote local production. • Local realities were taken into account and dependence of imported fossil fuels was reduced. • Biomass instead of fossil fuels was to avoid emission of 462 kt of CO 2 eq. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As the solar energy utilization technology for renewable clean energy, actual parabolic trough receivers are subject to tracking errors and absorber tube installation errors, and the bellows and Kovar ring under these errors have a significant impact on the receiver's safety. Based on the MCRT-FVM-FEM principles in this paper, a receiver's optical-thermal-stress mathematical model is modeled and the thermal-stress performance and safety of the receiver's key components under two errors are evaluated. The correlation between the bellows and Kovar ring's performance and the two errors is analyzed. The results demonstrate that the lower tracking errors and larger installation errors markedly increment the absorber's deformation and have a negative impact on the receiver safety. Bellows and Kovar ring's asymmetrical temperature distribution causes variable swell and uneven stress under tracking and installation errors. Temperature gradient variation of bellows is more sensitive under errors than Kovar rings. Kovar ring's compressive stress rises substantially as the Y-directional installation error varied from −15 mm to 15 mm compared to other errors. With tracking errors exceeding 8 mrad, bellows' tensile stress and Kovar ring's compressive stress diminish under installation error. Thus, larger tracking errors significantly reduce the threat to the receiver when installation errors exist. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A bibliometric analysis of the relevant literature on tunnel lighting was conducted. • The literature is sorted by energy saving, visual comfort, and low carbon. • The relationship between energy saving and low carbon is discussed. • The relationship between energy saving and comfort is also discussed. • The optimization methods of tunnel light environment are summarized. A reasonable and applicative tunnel light environment is important to ensure driving safety. This review aims to contribute to this growing area of research by exploring the tunnel lighting, which expands from safety to visual comfort, energy saving, and low carbon This paper employs bibliometric method to a visual analysis of the relevant literature and summarizes current research efforts and development directions. Firstly, the literature is visually presented by CiteSpace to elaborate the state-of-art with the dimensions of the timeline graph, the keyword co-occurrence graph, and the institutions & countries co-occurrence graph. Afterwards the literature is reviewed from three major perspectives: energy saving, visual comfort, and low carbon. Current research is mainly on luminaire arrangement, auxiliary lighting and other measures to reduce energy consumption. Visual comfort is mainly improved by optimizing the light environment's physical quantities, e.g. luminance, color temperature, color rendering etc. Current measures to achieve low carbon targets include green energy, green photoconductivity, green luminaires and green operation. Energy saving, visual comfort and low carbon are interrelated and complementary. However, a systematic understanding of how tunnel lighting contributes to carbon emission is still lacking. There is still room for development in tunnel lighting to achieve full intelligent control and the goal of carbon neutrality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As stated in Sustainable Development Goals number 6 and 13, clean water and sanitation and energy-related carbon emissions as climate action issues have emerged as serious issues within the United Nations. Around 150 countries rely on seawater desalination plants as their water resource. Reverse osmosis membrane technology is the most widely used seawater desalination technology for water supply. Taking water resources, developing renewable energy, and recycling resources have become the United Nations' core sustainable development goal. Therefore, this paper aims to provide an overview of renewable energy in reverse osmosis, especially newly developed renewable energy such as wave power. This paper includes technical issues, environment, and economic impact. In addition, compared with other energy sources, photovoltaic and hydropower energy utilization leads to a lower carbon footprint. Both energy produce a carbon footprint of around 0.08 kg CO 2 eq/m3. Control systems and energy storage management are the challenges in developing integrated renewable energy with reverse osmosis. Suitable pretreatment and the effect of direct use of renewable energy on the reverse osmosis process, especially on membrane and pump lifetime, should also be considered in future studies. [Display omitted] • Fluctuations and intermittence in wind and PV would affect on the process performance. • Energy storage management helps to keep the system stable • Water storage can assist in having enough water and store extra • PV and hydropower energy produce carbon footprint around 0.08 kg CO 2 eq/m3. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The motivation of this paper is to investigate the resistance of countries' energy research and development (RD&D) expenditures to random shocks. The analysis includes the five countries (France, Germany, Japan, the United States, and the United Kingdom) that are the biggest investors in RD&D in fossil fuels, renewables, energy efficiency, and nuclear energy. Thus, economies will be able to take precautions against global shocks in producing sustainable energy policies. To achieve this aim, this paper uses the artificial neural network approach, which uses a distributed computing model that can store and generalize data after a learning period. Empirical results widely depend on countries and distinct energy technology policy fields. The key findings provide evidence that RD&D expenditures, except for renewables, do not tend to mean revert. The economies of Japan, Germany, and the United States should make more renewable investments to reduce the resistance of renewable energy sources to shocks and thus produce policies for both environmental sustainability and energy security. The economies of France and the United Kingdom can ensure energy security by continuing their sustainable energy policies. • Applied SDG policies focused on energy technology RD&D are presented. • The stochastic characteristics of energy technology investments are examined. • Carbon-reducing policies are recommended for the top five economies. • Energy technologies are perused through artificial intelligence approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent decades, the use of fossil fuels has had a harsh impact on the climate, and the frequency and intensity of various extreme weather events have increased, which has triggered an increased the use of renewable energy sources and reflection on technological advances. Many countries are trying to promote renewable energy to reduce their impact on climate change, but the impact of national energy policies in the climate risk framework remains poorly understood. Based on the panel data of 84 developed/developing countries around the world from 2006 to 2019, this paper studies and analyzes the impact of renewable energy use on climate risk. The study found that the increase in the proportion of renewable energy use can reduce the climate risk, and this result is still robust after undergoing robustness tests such as changing variables, samples, and research methods. The findings offer an important solution for European countries, where climate risks are most acute. The heterogeneity analysis shows that the higher the level of economic development, population density and the lower the level of incorruptibility, the weaker the inhibitory effect of renewable energy use on climate risk. The mechanism analysis also shows that the increase in the proportion of renewable energy use can reduce climate risk by reducing carbon dioxide (CO 2), methane (CH 4), nitrogen monoxide (NO), PM2.5 emissions, and the proportion of fossil fuel use, but it does not reduce climate risk by increasing biodiversity. In particular, we find that technological progress has not played a role in the use of renewable energy to reduce climate risk, breaking the stereotype. The policy recommendation of this paper is that under the increasing pressure of climate change, the transition to clean energy is an indispensable option, and the need to accelerate the energy transition becomes more urgent. There is a greater need to further protect biodiversity and enhance technological progress. • The increase in the proportion of renewable energy use can reduce the climate risk. • The mechanism is to reduce CO 2 , CH 4 , NO, PM2.5 emissions and fossil fuels use. • The use of renewable energy cannot reduce climate risks by increasing biodiversity. • The impact of renewable energy use on climate risk is heterogeneous. • Technological progress has not played a role in the use of renewable energy to reduce climate risk. [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]

Hydropower renewable energy is known to be pro-environment: flexible and affordable. Above all, it is compatible with other energy frames and also with the policies that otherwise prove to be inimical towards its future. Where environmental stability is concerned it needs an assiduous study coupled with research by the policymakers to get around knowing the different perspectives of hydropower renewable energy. The study has taken nine different and diverse perspectives of hydropower renewable energy into account to stop the process of environmental degradation. EKC framework has been put to use in a case study of South and East Asia economies. Time period has been selected from 1975 to 2020 to measure the long-term impact. GMM model has been used for the panel estimation besides getting future dynamics. The results which have come about confirmed EKC in the selected countries. Non-renewable energy (coal and gas) had an adverse impact on environmental stability. However, switching towards hydropower renewable energy can mitigate these environmental losses. Empirical findings have proved that more use of clean energy production can bring about a considerable amount of environmental stability. Insofar as East Asia economies are considered they have reached the second stage of EKC with a turning point of $13844 (per capita income). This paper, therefore, suggests that the future depends upon renewable hydropower energies in South and East Asia economies. That being said, there appears to be a dire need to undertake the role of various socioeconomic and geographic factors that influence hydropower renewable energies to check the long-term effect. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the background of exhaustion of the traditional fossil energy sources and environmental deterioration, developing renewable energy has become a strategic choice for countries to achieve energy sustainable utilization and carbon neutrality target. Different renewable energy technical plans have different characteristics under multiple criteria. Therefore, before the further exploitation of renewable energy sources, it is of great significance to evaluate the comprehensive performance of different plans and then determine the best renewable energy sources. However, the commonly used weight calculation methods in the existing renewable energy evaluation have obvious shortcomings, such as the randomness of the subjective method is strong and the gap in the weight allocation of the objective method is too large, which affect the reliability and accuracy of the sorting result. In this paper, a novel weight calculation method based on non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm (NSGA-II) is proposed, and is applied to renewable energy evaluation. The study in this paper focuses on methodology. Firstly, for the linear normalized and Zeros normalized evaluation data, the differences between renewable energy plans in the two normalized evaluation data are measured, and the ranking deviations of the two normalized data are calculated. Then, the multi-objective weight solving model is constructed in terms of plans differences minimization and ranking vectors deviations minimization. The NSGA-II algorithm is applied to the optimization of multi-objective functions to find the Pareto non-dominated solution, so as to determine the weight values of each evaluation index. Finally, the TOPSIS method is used to determine the relative closeness value of each plan, and the rankings of renewable energy technical plans are achieved. Based on the actual renewable energy development data of a province in China, experiments were carried out to investigate the effectiveness of the proposed method. Experimental results show that the proposed method performs better than some popular renewable energy evaluation methods. [Display omitted] • Propose a novel evaluation method for renewable energy technical plans. • Apply non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm II to determine the index weights. • Compared with the existing evaluation method, the proposed method performs better. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to investigate the factors of renewable energy consumption in the fifth Technology Revolution with specific evidence from ASEAN countries. The study applies an autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) approach. The paper also uses the unrestricted fixed and random panel data methods. The manuscript identifies significant factors such as technological innovation, governmental policies, public awareness, electricity consumption, country population, foreign direct investment inflows, imports, exports, and economic growth that have influenced the renewable energy sector in these nations. This study also investigates the determinants that influence renewable energy in the context of international integration and the fifth technology revolution in ASEAN countries. The research analyzes data spanning two decades, from 2000 to 2022, through a combination of econometric modeling and machine learning techniques. Preliminary findings indicate that technological innovation, government policies, and public awareness significantly affect renewable energy consumption in these countries. The empirical results offer insights for policymakers and stakeholders in leveraging technological advancements for sustainable energy development. The findings from this study on the determinants of renewable consumption in the context of the Fifth Technology Revolution in ASEAN countries also have several important policy implications for the sustainable development goal. • This study aims to investigate the factors of renewable energy consumption in the fifth Technology Revolution. • The study uses panel data analysis, and the paper identifies significant factors that have influenced the renewable energy sector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A new DPV-5G BS-ES communication and power mutual coupling system is developed. • A BSSCP model is proposed to minimize the number of 5G base station deployments. • The ISOM model is used to optimize the microgrid connection lines in 3D space. • Economically optimal simulation experiments are conducted for different PV systems. The emergence of ultra-dense 5G networks and a large number of connected devices will bring with them significant increases in energy consumption, operating costs, and CO 2 emissions. At the same time, the deployment of distributed photovoltaic (DPV) in megacities plays an important role in promoting the integration of "building-photovoltaic", adjusting the city's clean energy supply system, and building a green, and low-carbon smart city. The development of a new "DPV-5G Base Station-Energy Storage (DPV-5G BS-ES)" coupled DC microgrid system and its pre-deployment investment costs are fundamental factors to be considered when the problem of large-scale DPV and BS deployment in cities has to be addressed. There are almost no published papers on this issue in the literature, which only consider the problem of maximizing the deployment of 5G BS service coverage or only perform optimization analyses for the performance of microgrid systems without considering the economic optimality and low-carbon green issues in the construction of urban utilities. In order to solve the problem of 5G BS deployment and economic optimization of topology in the "DPV-5G BS-ES" coupled DC microgrid system, a novel deployment strategy is proposed in this paper. The strategy is divided into: (a) The Geographic Information System (GIS) for extracting and analyzing 3D data from all buildings in the area. (b) A GIS-based formulation of a mixed integer quadratic constrained planning model (BSSCP) under discrete fixed radius coverage constraints is used to delineate building clusters within the area and determine the optimal deployment location of 5G BS under each sub-cluster. (c) An Improved Self-Organizing Mapping (ISOM) model combines GIS and microgrid performance parameters to address the economically optimal connection of grid lines for DPV in 3D space. (d) Simulation experiments were conducted for the power output and profitability of eight different PV panels and tracking systems to calculate the economically optimal type of DPV generation hardware. The experimental results show that the BSSCP model proposed in this study reduced the 5G BS deployment cost input by up to 35.8974 % compared to that of the control experimental model. Meanwhile, the ISOM model obtained an average reduction of 52.3741 % in the cost of connecting cables for the optimized 25 DPV planning and DC microgrid topology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Prevalent quality assessment of drying materials with solar energy was reviewed. • The potential application of solar drying for high-quality dried products was introduced. • The physical and chemical mechanisms of quality transformation during drying process were clarified. Solar energy is a green and renewable clean energy. Using this as main or auxiliary energy to dry agricultural materials could reduce energy consumption and improve product quality. In the drying process of agricultural materials, not only drying technologies but also drying parameters would affect the quality of materials. This paper provides a guided technological tour on solar drying through a literature research. An overview about the drying technologies to evaluate the drying quality, such as traditional sun drying, solar tunnel drying, solar greenhouse drying, solar-assisted drying system, is presented to demonstrate advances and application potential of solar drying. Finally, variable temperature drying is preliminarily proposed and tested to verify its superiority of energy saving and drying quality improvement. The literature research in this paper gives a reference on the effective application of solar drying through specifying the mechanisms of quality transformation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates the sustainability of Tabriz City focusing on its decarbonization. Statistical, quantitative, and comparative research methods are used to analyze the total energy consumed, conversion of primary energy, final exergy, and losses analysis according to the renewable and carbon-based energies. Then, the renewable resource potentials of the city are simulated using Grasshopper plug-in-Rhino simulator, THERM, PVSyst photovoltaic software, and ArcMap. In terms of the socio-economic assessment, non-oil Per Capita GDP, emissions, and energy intensities are analyzed concerning the B2DS scenario by 2050. The per capita GDP of the city is 71% of the country's average value. Tabriz's real GDP growth averaged −1.11% per year, primary energy demand increased by an average of 6.1%, CO 2 emissions from energy use grew by an average of 6% annually and the emission intensity of the economy increased by a total of 52.02%, in the period from 2011 to 2019. Finally, it is shown that the city consumes 58050 GWh/year of different carbon-based resources that only produced 20110 GWh/year of useful work with 5.63 MT CO 2 emissions, while the same work could locally be supplied by 30000 GWh/year RE with a minimum rate of 0.18 MT CO 2 emissions. The city Landfill receives 1000 tons/day of MSW, but two-thirds of this amount can be recycled. Regarding different sectors, buildings produce half of the CO 2. The cement industry with dual pollutants (17%) is the most polluting factory. Carbon-based electricity (66%) is the most polluting form of energy. In terms of carbon sequestration requirements with trees, shifting from fossil fuels toward green energies, EE, and recycling MSW can plunge required trees from 81.9 to 1.16 million trees. This paper highlights the importance of electrification of transportation based on RE, energy performance of buildings, and all sectors. • Large city decarbonization strategies • Application of RE according to geographic and climatic factors. • Electrification of sectors based on RE locally. • MSW recycling and sequestration by trees for decarbonization regarding the LULC and NDVI analysis. • Conversion and storage efficiencies of carbon-based fuels vs RE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Renewable Energy Communities (RECs) are being deployed all around the World as a technically feasible solution to decreasing users' dependence on fossil fuels. Several demonstration facilities have shown their potential to provide final consumers with clean energy and all associated environmental benefits. However, the economic evaluation of these systems as a whole set is more complex than evaluating generation technologies individually, which can be considered a barrier, and it may be more complicated to calculate its uncertainty with precision. This paper deals with this challenge and adapts a model for the evaluation of the global Levelized Cost of Electricity (LCOE) of a polygeneration microgrid to the characteristics of a typical REC, allowing the assessment of the distribution of the LCOE depending on the uncertainty of the input parameters. Thanks to its simple analytical formulation, the proposed model, that can be used for any combination of technologies (both renewable and conventional), provides relevant information on uncertainty propagation in a symbolic way that avoids the need to run numerical simulations or make assumptions on the distribution of the random input parameters. A case study has been presented, considering a typical small electrical REC with photovoltaic plants and micro wind turbines. Although the model can be defined to any market, as a representative example, it has been evaluated according to the current Spanish and Italian regulations, which are analyzed in depth with reference to the scientific literature. Results show that uncertainties in parameter estimates give rise to a very large scatter in the LCOE, pointing out a set of quantities whose role is crucial for a reliable estimate, among which electricity purchase and selling prices, yearly power load, and self-consumption / virtually-shared energy rates stand out. [Display omitted] • The global LCOE for a typical REC has been defined. • The uncertainty propagation in the LCOE formulation has been studied. • The proposed model has been applied to an electrical polygeneration REC. • As an example, the Spanish and Italian regulatory frameworks have been considered. • The LCOE of RECs is mainly sensitive to the electricity price and the power load. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

China's rural solar photovoltaic projects (SPVPs), as an innovative initiative to improve livelihoods through clean energy, have played a positive role in poverty reduction. However, whether this measure can enhance energy services for rural families remains unconfirmed. This paper employs a quasi-experimental method from the perspectives of energy service accessibility and affordability to quantify the net contribution of China's rural SPVPs to enhancing family energy services. The results indicate: (1) SPVPs can significantly improve family energy services, with a net effect of 14.7 % on the energy service accessibility and a net effect of 44.5 % on the energy service affordability. (2) SPVPs can increase the energy consumption capacity, energy supply capacity and energy equipment utilization rate by 2.6 %, 7.1 % and 5 %, respectively. Furthermore, these initiatives can effectively slash the energy costs of rural families by 4.3 %, bolster the energy access affordability by 3.9 %, and catapult energy investments by an impressive 44.9 %. (3) These projects also perform well in the family energy consumption cleanliness. (4) The effect of SPVPs in providing energy services presents a regional difference, with the best performance observed in 'Type III' solar resource areas. Meanwhile, the implementation of China's rural SPVPs does not involve "elite capture." • We analyze the changes of energy accessibility and affordability in rural China. • We quantify the energy services effect of solar PV projects (SPVPs). • SPVPs perform well in improving family energy consumption cleanliness. • The energy services effect of solar PV projects has spatial heterogeneity. • The implementation of China's rural SPVPs does not involve "elite capture.". [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The transfer of energy-intensive projects to areas abundant in clean energy resources holds promise for optimizing the energy structure. After obtaining specific information on transferred projects of listed energy-intensive firms through search or phone contact, this paper innovatively constructs a three-dimensional panel containing 1,859,220 observations to empirically examine the attraction of clean energy to energy-intensive projects under the carbon intensity constraint policy (CICP). Our findings reveal that: (1) the CICP promotes the transfer of gray energy-intensive projects, leading to the transfer structure trending towards graying. (2) Furthermore, we observe a positive correlation between the proportion of thermal power in transfer-out areas and the outflow of gray energy-intensive projects. Conversely, areas with higher wind power and photovoltaics attract a greater inflow of gray energy-intensive projects. (3) Notably, clean energy predominantly attracts the inflow of gray projects rather than green projects. Our findings provide micro evidence and valuable insights into the transfer of energy-intensive industries, informing the design and implementation of future environmental policies for policymakers and stakeholders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Prefabricated buildings (PB) are assembled using prefabricated components, known for their cost-effectiveness and high efficiency. They are seen as an effective means to achieving sustainable development goals and mitigating climate change. This paper examines the impact of prefabricated buildings on urban green total factor energy efficiency (GTFEE) using panel data from 278 cities in China. The analysis is conducted through the application of a super-efficiency slack-based measure (SBM) model and a difference-in-differences model. The results of the study indicate that the promotion of PB can significantly improve urban GTFEE; there is heterogeneity in the improvement of urban GTFEE by PB; the innovation effect, industrial effect and marketization effect of PB are the main ways to improve urban GTFEE. Specifically, PB exerts an innovation effect by promoting technological innovation. It influences consumer and investor demand, leading to increased activity in the secondary industry, thereby creating an industrial effect. Moreover, PB facilitates the marketization effect by phasing out outdated industries, encouraging autonomous enterprise innovation, and fostering the growth of new advanced enterprises. This study reveals the critical role of PB in urban GTFEE improvement. It clarifies its mechanism of action, which provides a reference for urban sustainable development strategies and energy efficiency. • Prefabricated buildings can improve green total-factor energy efficiency. • Urban green total-factor energy efficiency has been measured. • PB improves GTFEE through innovation, industry and marketization effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on Green Slow model, this paper builds a framework to achieve carbon peak driven by manufacturing, energy-conservation and energy substitution technology concurrently.Through a panel dataset from 2000 to 2018 at the province level, we find that the increasing carbon emissions effects from manufacturing technology are primarily due to increased levels of disposable income resulting from technological advances applied in production, which increases the demand for energy consumption and results in the emission of more carbon dioxide. China's carbon emissions have been significantly reduced by energy-conservation and energy-substitution technology, which reduce the amount of fossil energy used in the generation of clean energy while increasing its share. These results suggest that to achieve carbon peak and further improve the carbon reduction effect of energy-conservation and fossil fuel alternatives technologies, local governments should strive to create an enabling environment for technology development. • Theoretical analysis for achieving carbon peak is conducted. • Manufacturing technology drives carbon emission. • Enlarging the production scale is the reason contributes to the increased carbon emissions. • Energy conservation and substitution technology mainly cause this emissions reduction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Modular Gravity Energy Storage (M-GES) systems are emerging as a pivotal solution for large-scale renewable energy storage, essential for advancing green energy initiatives. This study introduces innovative capacity configuration strategies for M-GES plants, namely Equal Capacity Configuration (EC) and Double-Rate Capacity Configuration (DR), tailored to optimize energy storage efficiency and stability. Through comprehensive MATLAB/Simulink simulations, we demonstrate each configuration's distinct power characteristics and operational advantages. Our findings reveal that while the EC configuration offers enhanced power accuracy and stability, it requires a larger number of units. In contrast, the DR configuration, characterized by fewer but larger units, shows a trade-off with reduced power stability. This paper contributes significantly to the field by presenting a first-of-its-kind comparative analysis of these configurations, offering insights into their practical applications and scalability. The proposed strategies and findings lay a foundation for future research and development in gravity energy storage systems, marking a step forward in pursuing sustainable and reliable energy solutions. [Display omitted] • Two typical unit capacity configuration strategies for M-GES power plants are proposed. • The unit scheduling method of the M-GES power plant is proposed. • The coordination control method is provided for each proposed configuration strategy. • Equal capacity configuration has better power accuracy but requires more units. • Double rate configuration needs fewer but larger units and less power stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper addresses the critical challenge of sizing hybrid renewable energy systems over their lifespan while accounting for uncertainties in energy sources and load demands. By leveraging stochastic programming, we introduce a novel modeling technique that ensures robust optimization without compromising numerical tractability. Unlike conventional methods, which determine system parameters for the entire project duration upfront, our approach enables annual adjustments to the renewable components' sizing. This dynamic strategy alleviates early-stage under-utilization, aligning system capacity with evolving demand patterns. Central to our approach is the reformulation of the two-stage stochastic program as a quasi-optimal control. This reduces the number of optimization variables significantly, simplifying the solution process. Moreover, thousands of constraints are replaced with a system of differential equations, enhancing computational efficiency. By minimizing capital costs and dynamic operating expenses, we achieve an optimal system size. Through a real-world application in a rural area of South Africa, we demonstrate the effectiveness of our approach. The results showed a remarkable improvement in problem-solving efficiency, reduced under-utilization, and heightened adaptability to unpredictable weather conditions. This innovative framework represents a substantial leap forward in hybrid renewable energy systems design, offering a more agile and efficient solution for sustainable energy generation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Solar-hydrogen hybrid system integration proposed for oil & gas industry. • Techno-economic-environmental optimization using novel Fick's Law Algorithm. • System sizing using Fick's Law Algorithm show an optimization in efficiency and cost. • Study shows 45% solar, 35% fuel cell, 20% gas turbine power contribution. • Renewable energy integration in oil & gas cuts CO2 emissions, boosts sustainability. The global demand for sustainable energy solutions in the oil and gas industry has stimulated interest in the integration of renewable energy sources. This paper investigates the techno-economic and environmental aspects of incorporating a solar-hydrogen-based hybrid renewable energy system (SHRES) into oil and gas processing facilities. The proposed SHRES, comprising Solar PV modules, hydrogen production and storage systems, and a gas turbine generator (PV-FC-EL-Tank-GT), aims to enhance energy efficiency and reduce the carbon footprint of energy-intensive operations. The study utilises a multidisciplinary approach, encompassing engineering, economics, and environmental analysis. The techno-economic evaluation employs detailed modelling and optimisation using Fick's Law Algorithm, ensuring efficient energy production and cost-effectiveness. Ecological assessments quantify potential reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and other environmental impacts. The technical and economic evaluation identifies the electrolyser system as the most significant cost contributor (57%). The optimised system balances energy sources with 45% from PV modules, 35% from fuel cells, and 20% from gas turbines, showcasing substantial reliance on renewable energy while maintaining required power generation. Addressing the urgent need for sustainable energy solutions in the oil and gas industry, the study highlights the potential of SHRES integration. By employing Fick's Law Algorithm, alongside with 80 % of renewable energy integration, the research optimises system components to optimise the annualised cost to be $57,539.85, decrease to zero the Loss of Power Supply Probability (LPSP), and mitigate CO2 emissions to a lowest value of 0.147 gCO2eq/kWh (by 80 %). The electrolyser system's pivotal role and the distribution of power generation sources are emphasised. This study presents a novel approach to integrating solar-hydrogen systems into oil and gas processing facilities, aiming for sustainability. The findings underscore the significance of the electrolyser system and the distribution of power generation sources in optimising the SHRES. Recommendations for renewable energy integration and potential reductions in CO2 emissions and costs are discussed, providing valuable insights for future energy policies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The OECD community consumes excessive amounts of raw materials and materials, which leads to pollution and increases the material footprint. The material footprint is directly linked to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)-8 and 12. The main reason for the material footprint is the usage of fossil fuels, and the dependence of OECD countries on fossil fuels continues to this day. By expanding renewable energy utilization due to rising energy security risk, a community can take steps to improve ecological quality and reduce its material footprint. In this context, the paper focuses to examine the impact of energy security, green innovation, economic policy stringency and income on the fossil fuel material footprint for 24 OECD countries over the period 1995–2018. To this end, the paper uses the Augmented Mean Group (AMG) method and novel Half Panel Jackknife (HPJ) causality and estimation approach. The study adds value to existing knowledge by empirically testing the determinants of fossil fuel material footprint for OECD countries for the first time using the novel HPJ approach. The results of the AMG show that increasing energy security risk index reduces the material footprint, while green innovation and economic policy stringency have no impact on environmental degradation. The environmental Kuznets curve (EKC) in the form of an inverted U and an inverted N are valid for OECD countries. The HPJ approach also illustrates that there is a causality from green innovation and energy security risk to material footprint, and innovation and risk are support footprint reduction. Based on these results, the study recommends that OECD policymakers pay attention to ensuring energy security to reduce the material footprint by expanding renewable resources and allocate more economic resources to green innovations with higher returns, considering the validity of the EKC. [Display omitted] • Applies second-generation panel data methods. • Investigates the fossil fuel material footprint for 24 OECD countries. • The EKC hypothesis holds for the fossil fuel material footprint of OECD countries. • Green innovation and energy security risk reduce fossil fuel material footprint. • Increasing risks and technological development contribute to SDGs 8 and 12. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The drive for improved energy efficiency and flexibility has birthed an innovative solution: an energy hub. This hub operates in sync with natural gas and electricity grids, integrating batteries and thermal storage to optimize renewable energy use, reduce costs, and bolster network stability. In addressing these objectives, a mathematical optimization model for energy hub operation is developed in this paper. This model captures the intricate interplays between electricity and natural gas networks, accounting for the intricacies posed by uncertainties and variations in renewable energy sources and demand profiles. Also, this paper uniquely delves into the integration of load response programs, an approach geared towards amplifying the energy hub system's flexibility and reliability. Through these programs, subscribers gain the agency to calibrate their energy consumption based on real-time pricing signals and incentives dispensed by the energy hub. The simulation findings serve as a compelling testament to the efficacy of the proposed system. Operating costs witness a substantial reduction, the adoption of renewable energy sources is markedly heightened, and the stability and reliability of the upstream energy networks are tangibly ameliorated. The integration of load response programs emerges as a particularly effective strategy in mitigating peak demand and augmenting the system's overall energy efficiency. Underpinning the entirety of this innovative solution is the transformation of the challenges into an optimization problem. This catalyzes the employment of a newly developed particle community algorithm, custom-tailored to surmount the challenges of local optima. This algorithm inherently bolsters the system's search capabilities, minimizing the risk of entrapment within localized solutions. Ultimately, the proposed energy hub system encapsulates a promising trajectory toward the realization of a sustainable and adaptable energy landscape. By seamlessly integrating diverse energy sources and storage systems, augmenting energy flexibility and efficiency, and aligning with broader energy transition and decarbonization goals, this solution presents a formidable contender. The simulation outcomes underscore its potential by showcasing a substantial 4.57 % reduction in the cost of procuring energy from the upstream electrical network. • Holistic energy hub engages in upstream electricity and heat markets, optimizing profit. • Empowered energy hub actively influences markets with optimized strategies. • Robust optimization ensures stable operations in uncertain renewable sources. • Advanced load management optimizes profiles, aligning consumption with pricing. • Particle swarm optimization algorithm enhances search for optimal solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is increasing crucial to improve the sustainable use rate of energy and contribute to carbon neutrality and environmental footprints reduction. This work features cutting-edge selected extended papers and developments that were presented at the 25th Conference on Process Integration, Modelling and Optimization for Energy Saving and Pollution Reduction, held on 5–8 September 2022 in Bol, Croatia. More than 400 papers were accepted and presented at this conference. Out of these papers, the 45 contributions in this Virtual Special Issue represent a selection of the most cutting-edge developments in the topic of the Sustainable Use of Energy Contributes to Carbon Emissions Neutrality and Environmental footprint reduction. This paper provides a review of these contributions and above, and groups them into four research themes: (1) Energy Conversion, Storage, Recovery and Efficiency Improvement, (2) Energy Management, Planning and Optimization, (3) Energy, Environment and Economy, and (4) Heat Transfer, Heat Pumps and Heat Convection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transferring industries to clean energy-producing regions and improving energy efficiency are feasible and important strategies for regional control of energy consumption in energy-intensive industries of energy-rich regions. This paper constructs a three-party evolutionary game model including governments of transferred-in and -out regions, and energy-intensive enterprises. This model explores the cooperation mechanism of multi-players in the inter-regional transfer of energy-intensive industries under different policies and circumstances. The results are as follows. (1) Some certain conditions create a stable equilibrium state in which governments of transferred-in and -out regions choose a cooperative strategy, and the energy-intensive enterprises choose a transfer strategy. (2) Costs are key factors influencing the transfer of energy-intensive enterprises. Also, transferred-in regions should optimize their business environment and formulate their acceptance strategy based on their current energy consumption constraint and clean energy reserve situation. (3) The policy support from governments of transferred-in and -out regions can promote the orderly transfer of energy-intensive enterprises. The findings of this paper can provide a reference to formulate policies for the transfer of energy-intensive enterprises. • Constructed an evolutionary game model for inter-regional transfer of energy-intensive industry. • Explored inter-regional transfer mechanisms of energy-intensive industry. • Government policy support promote the transfer of energy-intensive enterprises. • Provide a reference to formulate transfer policies of energy-intensive enterprises. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The world is experiencing unprecedented development in the clean energy sector in residential and industrial applications. This paper provides a case study assessing different scenarios of greenizing the electrical energy demand in El-Mostakbal city in Egypt. Three scenarios are studied with consideration of a photovoltaic (PV) system integrated with the grid-connected city with different integrated system configurations. The scenarios for the grid-connected city are scenario-I: only PV, scenario-II: PV with batteries for electricity storage along with grid electricity, and scenario-III: PV with hydrogen production, storage, and utilization for covering the electric demand along with grid electricity, these scenarios are assessed technoeconomically, and the results show an optimized case where the electricity demand of the city can be met with 64.3% produced from solar energy, at $71.7 M of the net present cost. • Energy demand is evaluated using different proposed green scenarios that are assessed techno-economically. • Electricity demand of the city can be met with 64.3% produced from solar energy. • The cost of energy generation for scenario-I is found to be $0.0512 per kWh. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Clean energy productions depend on technology advancements such as renewables and ICTs (Information Communication Technologies), with the ultimate goals to enhance human development. In the past two decades, individual effects of renewables or ICTs on the human development index (hdi) were studied in prior literatures without consistent roadmaps for the future human development. Recently, the authors observed the interesting effects on hdi when renewables and ICTs are combined. In this paper, impacts on hdi due to renewables, ICTs and their combinations are analyzed by static and dynamic panel models for 26 countries between 2000 and 2018. Other factors include carbon dioxide emissions, economic developments, primary energy consumptions, and populations. Firstly, the impact on hdi due to renewables alone is generally insignificant in short- and long-terms. Secondly, the impact on hdi due to ICTs is positive in the short-term, however, such effect becomes insignificant in the long-term. Thirdly, the combinations of renewables and ICTs significantly promote hdi in the short- and long-terms. Fourthly, economic developments promote hdi, while carbon emissions negatively impact hdi, in both terms. Fifthly, primary energy consumptions promote hdi in the short-term, but hinder hdi in the long-term. Lastly, population growth negatively affects hdi in the long-term. • Renewables-ICTs combinations significantly promote hdi in short- and long-terms. • Individual effect of renewables on hdi is generally insignificant. • Individual effect of ICTs on hdi is positive in short term, but insignificant in longterm. • Primary energy consumptions promote hdi in short-term, but hinder it in long-term. • Economic development positively impacts hdi, but carbon emissions negatively impact it. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to unveil the heterogeneous impacts of import product diversification and institutional factors for achieving energy efficiency in Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) countries. In doing so, the study employs robust econometric techniques such as Fully modified ordinary least squares (FMOLS) co-integration, pooled Ordinary Least Squares (OLS), Feasible Generalized Least Squares (FGLS), pool mean group regressions, fixed effects, and random effects for panel data from 1990 to 2015 for selected OECD countries. The detailed empirical outcomes suggest that import product diversification is conducive to reducing the energy and carbon intensity (improvement in energy efficiency) in OECD countries. The empirical conclusions provide various guidelines to achieve cleaner and greener growth and align with various Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 7: Affordable and clean energy, SDG 9: Industry, innovation, and infrastructure, and SDG 13: Climate action) of OECD countries. The paper elaborates fruitful policy suggestions regarding the diversification of imports and energy use-carbon emission-nexus for the OECD member nations. Based on the findings, policymakers and environmental scientists should strengthen the trade-energy and import portfolio policies to attain energy efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Decoupling of GDP from all energy sources under multiple principles are examined. • World economy achieved weak energy decoupling in most years during 2000–2011. • World economy coupled with coal use and tended to couple with cleaner energy use. • None of studied economies achieved long-term GDP-embodied energy decoupling. • Decoupling delusions occurred when only considering direct and total energy use. Decoupling indicators are widely used to understand links between economic growth and energy use. However, traditional decoupling analyses mostly focus on domestic energy consumption (i.e., the production-based principle) and neglect off-site energy use across global supply chains to satisfy an economy's final consumption (i.e., the consumption-based principle). Moreover, analyses for total primary energy conceal an economy's preference for different energy sources. Therefore, this paper evaluates decoupling states of GDP from all types of primary energy use under consumption-based principle, for world economy and eight typical economies during 2000–2011. Regarding total primary energy, world economy witnessed weak decoupling in most years, and most economies studied (e.g., USA, Japan and China) achieved decoupling initially but performed negative decoupling finally. For EU, USA, Japan, Russia and India, production-based decoupling performances were generally better than consumption-based ones. Decoupling phenomena detected under production-based principle even became coupling or negative decoupling under consumption-based principle in some cases. As for each energy source, world economy decoupled from oil use, but still coupled with coal use, and gradually showed a trend to couple with natural gas and renewables use. Different energy sources showed distinct decoupling degrees from GDP, affected by individual embodied energy requirement structure. This paper uncovers potential energy decoupling delusions to deepen the understanding of relationships between energy use and economic growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The authors perform systematic search for high-performance and cost-effective materials toward electrochemical applications for Co-P system via advanced structural prediction. • Current results identified several stable monolayers, such as CoP, Co 2 P, and Co 3 P 2. • Especially, CoP was predicted to become as potential HER catalyst and anode material. • The paper disclosed the possible multifunctional applications for Co x P y monolayers and provided some theoretical guidance in designing electrocatalysts and anode materials from 2D transition-metal materials used in electrochemical processes. Exploring high-performance and cost-effective materials for electrochemical applications to meet eco-friendly and sustainable energy demands remain as an urgent need all the time. Large specific surface area and robust chemical activity endow two-dimensional (2D) materials with the potential as excellent candidates for electrochemical applications. Herein, we systematically study the 2D morphology for the Co-P system via advanced structural search and identify a series of stable monolayers, such as CoP, Co 2 P, and Co 3 P 2. Detailed first-principle calculations reveal that these monolayers showcase inherent metallicity which benefits boosting the electrochemical process. For hydrogen evolution reactions (HER), the activity of CoP could reach 54 meV, which is comparable to that of Pt. As anode material potassium-ion batteries, CoP exhibits a suitable open circuit voltage and high capacity to store metal ion. This work disclosed the possible multifunctional applications for Co x P y monolayers and provided some theoretical guidance in designing electrocatalysts and anode materials from 2D transition-metal materials used in electrochemical processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on 196 prefecture-level cities in China from 2006 to 2021, this paper constructs a weight matrix of urban economic geography and uses the spatial differential model to verify the impact of smart city policies on urban green energy efficiency. The results show that the efficiency value of green energy fluctuates in Chinese cities. Different test results show that smart city policies can effectively improve urban green energy efficiency, but mainly from the time effect rather than the individual effect. It means the improvement in urban green energy efficiency comes more from the fast-growing of the Chinese economy and urban construction in this period than from the country's smart city pilot policy. In addition, from the spatial spillover effect result, China needs to design a better urban spatial development plan to improve the capacity of smart city energy services and vigorously develop intelligent technology represented by information and communication science. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper explores the viability of utilizing agricultural biomass-based energy potential, employing mathematical, engineering, and economic modeling techniques. Moreover, the potential of a biogas-based co-digestion (CD) system, integrating its techno-economic performance and environmental sustainability in terms of electricity generation, has also been studied. In this investigation, the categorization of 25 different plant species into two groups: arable field crops (AFCs) and horticultural plants (HPs), was performed. Data was collected during the 2021‐–2022 cropping season in Bangladesh from various sources, including literature reviews, governmental, and non-governmental organizations. The findings revealed that the available agricultural biomass residues, totaling 1,02,585.75 KT, have the capacity to generate 1,33,815 million m3/year of biogas. This energy potential corresponds to 291,125.85 TJ/year or 9231.60 MW of electricity, which can fulfill 88% of the national total energy demand. In terms of levelized cost, the proposed approach is more competitive and shows a greater promise compared to other technologies. Furthermore, it demonstrates environmental friendliness by reducing CO 2 emissions by 156 tons at a cost of $7/ton while earning $1092 annually from the potential carbon-credit market. This approach presents a potential solution to address Bangladesh's energy crisis. The payback period of the system ranged from 2.93 to 3.75 years, with and without the inclusion of a slurry, respectively. The recommended methods hold significant promise for meeting national energy demands. A case study was provided as a proof-of-concept (PoC) to validate the approach. This study is the first of its kind, providing valuable insights into the renewable energy potential in Bangladesh. The results will assist policymakers in formulating sustainable energy policies. • Mathematics, engineering, economics and environmental modeling explored renewable energy. • Techno-economics and environmental sustainability validated the proposed methodology. • Bioenergy-based electricity could supply 88% of the national energy demand of Bangladesh. • A case study was provided as a proof-of-concept (PoC) to validate the approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Application of membrane technology to textile wastewater treatment is summarized. • Trends and research hotspots are analyzed using bibliometric tools. • Comparison of pollutants removal by membrane technologies is shown by Circos. • Characteristics and improvements of different membrane technologies are discussed. • Membrane material and integrated process are explored to ease membrane fouling. The textile industries hold an important role in the world, while a large amount of textile wastewater is generated every year. It is important to develop effective technologies for textile wastewater treatment, and membrane technologies showed great promising applications in this field. This review focused on membrane technologies for the treatment of textile wastewater. Firstly, the quantity and chemical composition of textile wastewater were discussed. The change in research hotspot and co-occurrence analysis from 2000 to 2021 were analyzed using bibliometric tools. Following this, the removals of primary pollutants using typical membrane technologies were compared. Then, current research on state-of-the-art membrane technologies for textile wastewater treatment was systematically evaluated. The performance of a range of membranes is evaluated, and the primary characteristics and influencing factors of these technologies were discussed. In terms of factors that reduce treatment efficiency, membrane fouling has the largest and broadest impact. This paper discussed mitigation measures for membrane fouling, such as membrane modification and addition of pretreatment. Performance optimization and energy consumption reduction measures for the combinations of multiple membrane processes were analyzed. Membrane modification, process optimization, and the use of clean energy were proposed as the future research directions of membrane processes in textile wastewater treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper analyzes possible paths for Mexico's Electricity System. It shows that under the current dispatch order and minimization of electricity production-cost guidelines, Mexico will not reach the 50% clean electricity goal in 2050; however, this goal could be achieved before 2030 if the government favors CO 2 minimization, with a low impact on energy costs. The effects of pollution are analyzed considering cost and CO 2 minimization guidelines, combining four energy demand growth scenarios and three investment growth scenarios. Finally, we show that if Mexico wants to take advantage of nearshoring, it is essential to consider the presented alternatives. • Description of Mexican electric system. • Twenty-four paths of the energy transition for Mexico are analyzed. • Reaching the Mexican goal of clean electricity by 2030 with the current energy policy will not be possible. • Not reaching electricity generation goals will halt the growth of nearshoring in Mexico. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Literature has highlighted the existence of a gap in clean fuel usage between the social groups in most emerging nations across the world, which is detrimental to global efforts to achieve Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 7 (access to clean energy) and SDG 10 (reducing inequalities) and just energy transition with recognition justice. This paper, assesses the clean fuel gap across social groups in India using three rounds of representative data (2004, 2014, and 2018) by applying the logit model, exogenous switching treatment effect regression (ESTER), and the Blinder–Oaxaca Decomposition Model. Such an analysis is instrumental in identifying the clean energy usage gap and its causes, thereby providing insight to policymakers to design policies to achieve just energy transition and carbon neutrality by 2060. The results show a substantive clean fuel gap between social groups in India, which is a cause of concern for just energy transition. Clean energy utilization gaps among social groups are alarming across geographical locations and consumption quartiles, highlighting the importance of recognition justice for just energy transition. The results show that in rural areas, only 19.6 % of the General Caste households and 14.5 % of the disadvantaged social groups (Scheduled Tribes, Scheduled Castes, and Other Backward Class) in quartile one use clean energy, while in urban areas, the shares are 60.4 % and 46.3 %, respectively. To achieve a just distribution of the benefits of energy transition, energy policies should focus on disadvantaged social groups and simultaneously target General Caste households from a lower economic status and those residing in rural areas, indicating the need for targeting the neglected regions. [Display omitted] • Clean energy use has steadily increased among all social groups in India, indicating some improvement in energy justice. • Clean energy access gap among social groups has declined, but this gap still persists. • Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes are the most disadvantaged social groups in terms of clean energy. • All social groups from low-income families have limited access to clean energy. • All social groups from households with low education have limited access to clean energy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The operation of solar photovoltaic installations for many years may lead to problems such as reduced energy efficiency and aging of components. Under this framework, replacing certain components in the facility to extend the service life of the power plant is viewed, in some cases, as a feasible strategy. However, despite its enormous strategic interest for the solar PV industry, we find that revamping PV installations has been the focus of very few scientific publications, and even less so when it comes to analyzing real facilities. Thus, this paper performs a techno-economic analysis of three revamping strategies at a real PV power plant located in the south-east of Spain. The strategies consist of substituting, in each case, the PV modules, the inverter, and both components. The simulated results show that the highest production value by installed power is obtained when both the modules and the inverter are replaced. In the same vein, the economic analysis reveals this scenario as the most favorable in terms of profitability. Based on the results obtained, an interesting future line of research would be focused on the extension of the analysis at country level to study the joint impact of numerous revamping actions. • Techno-economic analysis of revamping projects of a real solar PV power plant. • Replacing modules and inverter emerges as the most feasible strategy. • Study's applicability extends to other revamping initiatives and geographical regions. • Economic outcomes allow the most cost-effective alternatives to be determined. • This research can contribute to efficient and sustainable energy planning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the comprehensive progression of China's electric power reform, the participation of hydropower in the spot market has become inevitable. For hydropower-dominated power grids, the tight hydraulic and electric coupling relationship between cascade hydropower plants and the policy requirement of clean energy consumption greatly increase the challenge of optimal scheduling. Based on the market characteristics and actual demand of the hydropower-dominated power grids, this paper discusses the day-ahead spot market trading mechanism to promote the guaranteed consumption of renewable energy. On this basis, a day-ahead optimal scheduling model is established which aims to minimize the comprehensive power purchase cost of the power system. The nonlinear factors in the scheduling model, such as the relationship between the water level and storage capacity of hydropower plants, the relationship between the water level and water consumption rate, and the constraints on the start-up and shutdown durations of thermal power units, are linearized through multiple linearization techniques. The original nonlinear model is transformed into a mixed integer linear programming (MILP) model and is then solved using a CPLEX solver. The developed model is verified by taking 10 thermal power plants and 22 hydropower plants in Yunnan Power Grid as a case study. The calculation time is 183.6s, the comprehensive power purchase cost of the system is 155.35·million CNY, and no abandoned water is generated in the three basins. The simulation results show that the proposed model has high solution accuracy and efficiency, and maximizes the hydropower consumption under the premise of meeting the minimum comprehensive power purchase cost. The findings of this study can provide a scientific basis for the development of the day-ahead spot market of hydropower-dominated power grids. [Display omitted] • A day-ahead spot market trading mechanism to promote consumption of renewable energy. • Day-ahead optimal scheduling of hydropower-dominated power grids under a spot market environment. • A novel MILP approach is employed to solve the model. • Proposed model has high solution accuracy and efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

• Establishment of a power-gas network system model for efficient energy absorption and smart grid load shifting. • Introduction of a novel ADMM-based cooperative regulation scheme, enhancing convergence through dynamic step size adjustment. • Development of an improved cooperative scheme, addressing inequality constraints with privacy guarantees and flexible initial conditions. This paper considers the optimal capacity allocation of integrated energy systems (IESs) with the power-gas systems for clean energy consumption. First, power-gas network models are established with equality and inequality constraints. Second, a novel full distributed cooperative optimal regulation scheme is designed to deal with the optimal capacity allocation problem. Moreover, to deal with the inequality constraints in IESs, a distributed projection operator is developed such that the system states can be guaranteed within the constraint conditions. Then the convergences of those distributed optimization algorithms were proved for strictly convex objective functions. And the initial conditions of systems for the algorithm are free. The simulation is provided to demonstrate the effectiveness of the distributed optimazation approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]