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In response to the pressing need for sustainable and greener energy alternatives, this study investigates into the exploration of hydrogen energy as a promising solution. The purpose of this study is to identify the common challenges and potential solutions in hydrogen energy transition and to validate their applicability in Malaysia through expert interviews. This research utilizes various methods: literature review identifies challenges and solutions, bibliometric analysis validates findings, and interviews with Malaysian hydrogen experts validate their applicability for the country. Thematic coding analysis using NVivo software is used to analyse the interview data. From this study, top three challenges are identified as the most applicable in Malaysia: high cost, ambiguous policy and limited infrastructure. Additionally, three potential solutions are considered as the most relevant: establishment of clear policy, encouragement of public-private partnerships, as well as investment in technologies and infrastructure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the impact of cushion gas type and presence on the performance of underground hydrogen storage (UHS) in an offshore North Sea aquifer. Using numerical simulation, the relationship between cushion gas type and UHS performance was comprehensively evaluated, providing valuable insights for designing an efficient UHS project delivery. Results indicated that cushion gas type can significantly impact the process's recovery efficiency and hydrogen purity. CO 2 was found to have the highest storage capacity, while lighter gases like N 2 and CH 4 exhibited better recovery efficiency. Utilising CH 4 as a cushion gas can lead to a higher recovery efficiency of 80%. It was also determined that utilising either of these cushion gases was always more beneficial than hydrogen storage alone, leading to an incremental hydrogen recovery up to 7%. Additionally, hydrogen purity degraded as each cycle progressed, but improved over time. This study contributes to a better understanding of factors affecting UHS performance and can inform the selection of cushion gas type and optimal operational strategies. • Compositional numerical simulation of underground hydrogen storage in a North Sea aquifer utilising CMG-GEM. • Hydrogen recovery efficiency improves with the utilisation of cushion gas. • CO 2 exhibits highest storage capacity; N 2 and CH 4 improve recovery efficiency. • CH 4 as cushion gas leads to 80% recovery efficiency, minimizing lateral spreading and viscous fingering. • Cushion gas density dictates the efficiency of the underground hydrogen storage scheme. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In aiding India's effort to become carbon neutral, this research focusses on its Southeastern (SE) region, investigating its potential for decarbonization and using of green hydrogen as alternate fuel for industrial operations. The study analyzed the total CO 2 emissions from the power and industrial sectors in the region, and estimated an annual emissions of 307.8 million tonnes. Considering different GDP growth scenarios, this study estimated the demand for energy and green hydrogen until 2050 for achieving energy transition. Based on the region's renewable energy capacity, an optimal energy mix of 5% small hydro, 45% wind and 50% solar power is recommended for green hydrogen production. This study found that the Cauvery and Krishna-Godavari basins have the storage potential to continuously deliver the stored hydrogen for seven years to the region, ensuring energy security. Finally, by decarbonizing industrial operations in SE region, the global temperature rise could be reduced by 0.003842 °C. [Display omitted] • Power plants are the leading CO 2 emitters, contributing to 64% of total CO 2 emissions. • Energy demand projected till 2050, with Andhra Pradesh as leading consumer. • Quantified green hydrogen and solar energy demand to achieve energy transition. • Hydrogen storage capacity of Cauvery and KG basins for energy security are assessed. • Cauvery and KG basins can potentially deliver the stored H 2 continuously for 6 years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Underground hydrogen storage (UHS) in aquifers, salt caverns and depleted hydrocarbon reservoirs allows for the storage of larger volumes of H 2 compared to surface storage in vessels. In this work, we investigate the impact of aquifer-related mechanisms and parameters on the performance of UHS in an associated North Sea aquifer using 3D numerical compositional simulations. Simulation results revealed that the aquifer's permeability heterogeneity has a significant impact on the H 2 recovery efficiency where a more homogenous rock would lead to improved H 2 productivity. The inclusion of relative permeability hysteresis resulted in a drop in the H 2 injectivity and recovery due to H 2 discontinuity inside the aquifer which leads to residual H 2 during the withdrawal periods. In contrast, the effects of hydrogen solubility and hydrogen diffusion were negligible when studied each in isolation from other factors. Hence, it is essential to properly account for hysteresis and heterogeneity when evaluating UHS in aquifers. • Numerical compositional simulation utilising CMG-GEM of underground hydrogen storage in a North Sea aquifer. • Hydrogen recovery efficiency improves as the storage cycles increase. • Heterogeneity and hysteresis are the most impactful mechanisms on underground hydrogen storage. • Hydrogen solubility and diffusion in water have a minimal impact on the storage process when studied separately. • Solubility and diffusion effects become more pronounced when studied in combination with each other and hysteresis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Green hydrogen offers a promising solution to energy transition challenges. However, a comprehensive understanding of its scenario in Brazil is lacking, hampering the formulation of strategies to enhance domestic market competitiveness. This article identifies Brazil's panorama of green hydrogen, the barriers, drivers, and investment potential for developing this market. It also proposes strategies to stimulate the growth of this industry at the national level. Based on qualitative methods, including literature analysis and interviews with 17 experts, the study reveals that regulatory and political issues and infrastructure readiness necessitate collaborative efforts between the public and private sectors. Overcoming technical hurdles like cost-effective large-scale production and efficient storage demands research investments. Challenges like high production costs and an underdeveloped national industry impede market expansion. By fostering players' collaboration, Brazil could harness its potential in the green hydrogen sector, promoting economic growth, job creation, and environmental sustainability to attain a global leadership position. • The panorama of green hydrogen in Brazil was presented. • Barriers that limit the development of the green hydrogen chain were analyzed. • Strategies to strengthen the green hydrogen market were presented. • Reasons for investing in green hydrogen in Brazil were discussed. • Brazil can become one of the leading exporters of green hydrogen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Green hydrogen potential as a clean energy carrier presents promising prospects in the fight against climate change. The most efficient method of producing decarbonized hydrogen is through electrolysis, which involves splitting water molecules using renewable sources of electricity. Morocco boasts various advantages that enable it to play a pivotal role in bringing this vision to fruition. Lately, the nation has devised an ambitious strategy for green hydrogen and implemented significant changes related to industry and water resource management. This document presents a thorough examination of Morocco's energy sector, with a special focus on the substantial hurdles that must be surmounted to establish an economy centered on green hydrogen, with the capacity to generate employment opportunities and achieve carbon neutrality. Numerous impediments require cooperation with Europe and other international allies to establish a green hydrogen industry in Morocco. These challenges encompass bolstering the competitiveness of green hydrogen, scaling up production, and cultivating the requisite expertise. • Morocco is identified as one of the countries with the highest potential for green hydrogen export. • Green hydrogen roadmap for Morocco is presented and analyzed. • Technological, economical, environmental and societal challenges for green hydrogen development in Morocco are outlined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

When developed countries invest in developing countries there is often a trade-off between economic growth and environmental quality, but is this inevitable? Previous studies have concluded that one consequence of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) is the transfer of polluting industries. However, there has been insufficient analysis of the pollutant consequence of this investment, as this may arise from the lack of renewable energy infrastructure to satisfy peaked energy demand. Using data from 17 developing countries from 2000–2020, this study undertakes an in-depth analysis of the effects of FDI and Private Participation in Energy Infrastructure (PPEI) investment on economic growth, pollution, and energy transition using a Seemingly Unrelated Regression model. The results reveal that FDI increases pollution and non-renewable energy consumption but, conversely, PPEI promotes energy transition, potentially mitigating the polluting impact of FDI. Developing countries can pursue long-term environmentally-sustainable economic growth by attracting private investment in their energy infrastructure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Along with the popularity of the environment, social and governance (ESG) concerns, the circular economy concept has gained tremendous attraction from the industries, policy makers and academicians. On a firm level, this is implemented through the so-called Circular Business Model (CBM), which is seen through various initiatives. This includes firms in the energy industry, who are transitioning from conventional to renewable energy sources. Nevertheless, despite of the importance and the omnipresence of the practice, there is still lack of empirical research within the CBM topic. In particular, empirical research combining the CBM and technological innovation topic within energy industry (as technology-intensive and high risk industry) in developing country such as Indonesia, is still lacking. To answer this gap, using literature review as research method, this paper has arrived into the following propositions as main result; (1) there is a positive relationship between firm's level of CBM and technology innovation adoption to firm's performance, where (2) the two antecedents that are positively impacting firm's level of CBM and technology innovation adoption are leader's innovativeness and perceived level of technology. For academicians, this research is expected to provide contribution to the energy transition literatures within CBM and technology innovation adoption topic. Propositions provided in this paper is expected to serve as valuable basis in conducting further empirical research. For practitioners, this research is expected to provide valuable insights to make improvements and/or innovations in terms of business model, technology adoption, and strategy. At last, this research is expected to support energy transition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

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

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

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

• Different electricity matrix scenarios for Brazil are modelled up to 2050. • Three additional scenarios are considered for the maximization of biomass, wind and photovoltaic sources. • Environmental and economic feasibility of Brazil's electricity matrix scenarios is assessed. • Scenario 3 (Wind source) is the best one: GWP of 0.121 kgCO 2 /kWh and a LCOE of 0.0438 USD/kWh. The energy transition from fossil to renewable sources is of paramount importance to reduce GHG and air pollutants emissions from energy generation processes while promoting socioeconomic development. This study investigates the long-term changes in prospective scenarios' environmental and economic performance in Brazil's electricity matrix. The reference Scenario represents the government's Energy Research Office (EPE) energy expansion plan, and in addition three different scenarios were developed. All of them assumed that fossil fuel use would be constant and equal to the values in 2019. In Scenario 2, we assumed that fossil fuel growth from the EPE plan would be replaced by maximum biomass penetration in the 2030-2050 timeframe. In Scenario 3 this replacement will be made by the maximum penetration of the wind source while in Scenario 4 by maximum solar photovoltaic source penetration. The best performance in terms of lower GWP is to Scenario 3, with 0.121 kgCO2/kWh. The lowest LCOE is reached in case of Scenario 3, at 0.0438 USD/kWh. Based on the obtained results the renewable sources evaluated in this study are advantageous in bringing environmental and economic benefits in Brazil, even in relatively small fractions. The results can be a support for energy policy decision-makers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

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

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

Peru is committed by international agreements such as the Paris Agreement and the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development to reduce its Green House Gas (GHG) emissions. Although Peru began promoting power plant projects based on renewable energies in 2008, the institutional impulse seems to have ceased today. Nonetheless, adopting renewable energy sources not only aids in fulfilling these commitments but also reduces electricity prices, fostering a more competitive economy. This study aims to provide a thorough analysis and evaluation of the impact that integrating Non-Conventional Renewable Energy Resources (NCRER) has on Peru's wholesale electricity market. Specifically, it focuses on the net total savings for the system, calculated as the difference between the reduction in energy costs traded and the cost of the renewable premium. To reach that goal a simplified yet analytical tool has been developed based on a multivariable regression of the real data of the market. The volume of natural gas not consumed and the volume of GHG emissions avoided will also be evaluated. The results show that based on the 2021 scenario, a NCRER share of 28.26 % would lead to a net saving for the final users of 316.04 MUSD in the annual energy traded in the market. The reduction of conventional thermal generation prevents the annual burning of 2.04 normal km3 of natural gas and the emission of 4.99 million tons of CO 2-eq. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first time that the impact of NCRER production in the Peruvian electricity system has been quantitatively evaluated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A methodology to assess carbon neutrality in district and communities is defined. • The proposed methodology is implemented in a ready-to-use and user-friendly tool. • The proposed approach aims at supporting the energy transition of cities. Positive Energy Districts are expected to play a major role in the energy transition of cities. Hence, this paper aims at introducing a novel methodology useful for district energy and environmental analysis and intended to support the accomplishment of the targets of Positive Energy Districts at the district or community level. The proposed approach relies on the basic concepts underpinning the "Baseline Emission Inventory" but encompasses the ambitious and challenging objectives characterizing Positive Energy Districts. For making the proposed evaluation framework accessible to as many user categories as possible (researchers, local institutions, urban planners, etc.), the calculation steps have been transposed in a user-friendly, ready-to-use tool called "En-to-EnD. Energy and Environmental analysis of Districts". The applicability and replicability of the outputs of this work have been proven through the energy and environmental assessment of a reference case study. In particular, the district being analysed is in the South of Italy and is equipped with photovoltaic plants and a wind turbine. The results obtained show that the proposed approach may serve not only to prove the achievement of the Positive Energy District status, but also to guide the design of more sustainable district-based energy systems, thus supporting the decarbonization of cities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Sustainable development discourse has been dominated by individualist perspectives. • SDG 7 currently does not respond sufficiently to calls for energy justice by the Global Majority. • Sustainable development is tied to values, power dynamics and human perception. • The Zimbabwean case study shows that sustainable development must be transformative, not just utilitarian. • There is a need for relational Ubuntu-informed sustainable development. Globally, one Sustainable Development Goal (SDG 7) has gained currency as a lever for sustainability and a reference point for energy transition. That said, we know little about contested views of this goal. Thus, this paper explores competing views of experts versus communities. Further, we analyse alternative architectures of knowledge and practice that constitute different understandings of sustainable development. Drawing on qualitative research, it emerged that the elite (government authorities, NGOs and experts) are inclined to the hegemonic 'Western' and modernist view of sustainable development. On the other hand, communities contest this view arguing that sustainable development should be relational, context-dependent and shaped by their knowledge and culture. Insights into these differences are a launchpad for a new relational and forward-looking sustainable development agenda. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study presents a renewable energy (RE) optimization study to model the pathway to achieve 100 % carbon abatement, focussing on options for storage, using Indonesia's national electricity grid as a case study. Utilizing the PLEXOS energy simulation tool, the study covers the period 2021–2045. It employs an optimization of cost minimization function approach, encompassing investment, operation, maintenance, and unserved energy. The study integrates various components, including electricity supply and demand, transmission, renewable sources, and energy storage, while considering operational, build, and renewable energy target constraints. A range of scenarios are explored, varying in RE targets, battery capacities, and whether to include open-cycle gas turbines. The key novelty of this study is considering multiple versions of battery storage, with different options for the number of hours of storage. The findings indicate that higher RE targets lead to increased total installed nameplate capacity, with a significant portion from battery storage. In the early phases, batteries with 2-hour of capacity prioritized for short-term needs. As the focus shifts to more extended targets, batteries with a 4-hour capacity are recognized as more cost-effective and become the predominant choice. Over time, the least-cost strategy evolves to incorporate 10-hour capacity batteries to meet long-term energy storage requirements. To achieve a 100 % RE target by 2045, it is estimated that alongside every 100 MW of wind and solar capacity, there should be a corresponding 42 MW of energy storage. However, interpretations of these findings must consider the limited temporal resolution, uncertainties in demand and cost, and challenges related to grid inertia from energy storage, which may affect the stability and feasibility of the proposed solutions. This research offers crucial insights for energy policy and infrastructure development in renewable energy and storage system implementation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

Modern electricity networks may face inertia shortages based on increasing inverter-based renewable energy penetration, along with the (often concurrent) decommissioning of aging synchronous thermal generators. In the South African network, the market share of coal generation is projected to decrease significantly based on the country's energy policy, primarily to be replaced by wind and solar PV. In this paper the inertia adequacy on the future South African network is evaluated, and the viability of converting retired synchronous generators to synchronous condensers is assessed based on sufficiency of inertia support provided and economic viability. It is found that by 2030, the South African network will have insufficient inertia for a significant portion of the year. However, significant improvements in Rate of Change of Frequency and frequency nadir are observed when incorporating inertia from converted synchronous condensers during multiple-contingency trip events. Finally, the conversion of synchronous generators to synchronous condensers is found to be the least-cost solution when compared to the installation of new synchronous condensers or of large-scale battery systems. The contributions made in this paper highlight the importance of considering network inertia in establishing a national energy policy, while also informing solutions to future inertia constraints. • The future South African electricity network will face significant inertial shortages by 2030. • Converting retired synchronous generators to synchronous condensers will significantly reduce inertia shortages. • The conversion of retired synchronous generators to synchronous condensers is cost-effective as an inertia support mechanism [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The transition to renewable energy sources is crucial for combating climate change and enhancing energy security. However, along with well-acknowledged benefits, the energy transition may impose overlooked and unintentional risks to sustainability, stemming from patterns of trade between countries. The buildup of solar and wind energy capacity requires critical metals and equipment that are often imported, while too ambitious renewable energy and climate policies may lead to the offshoring of energy- and carbon-intensive industries, resulting in carbon leakage. This study uses principal component and cluster analyses to estimate indicators of trade-related energy security and carbon dioxide emissions embedded in trade of the sixty-four countries. The analysis indicates that wealthier countries, particularly those that are not energy self-sufficient, are more likely to utilize solar and wind energy. Solar and wind energy use is also associated with higher imports of embedded energy and emissions, as well as imports of metals and equipment required for renewable energy production. In contrast, energy-self-sufficient countries, being net exporters of both energy and energy embedded in products, barely use solar and wind for electricity generation and hardly import metals or low-carbon technologies. This study highlights the need to account for possible cross-border dependencies and displaced emissions, which may result from higher reliance on distributed renewable energy sources. [Display omitted] • The energy transition faces sustainability challenges due to cross-border trading. • Principal component and cluster analyses applied to analyze country-level data. • Renewable energy is linked to reliance on imported emissions and embedded energy. • Renewables may elevate dependence on imported metals and low-carbon equipment. • The World Energy Trilemma Index should account for cross-border interdependencies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Relying on traditional biomass for cooking has become less common in many regions worldwide, however, most of the Sub-Sahara African population lacks access to clean cooking and still uses charcoal and firewood for cooking. Thus, seeking sustainable development in Sub-Sahara Africa regions would be hindered due to the consequences connected with replying on traditional cooking which leads to greenhouse gas emissions and environmental degradation, and resulting in high death rates each year. This study explores the potential and challenges of energy transition and household cooking sustainability enhancement in Sub-Sahara African regions. The results show that innovative solutions related to the improved cookstoves and renewable energy sources are emerging to address these challenges and pave the way for a more sustainable future. However, there are various factors hindering the implementation of these innovations, including cultural factors, financial aspects, awareness, technical and logistical barriers and policy frameworks. This study also identifies a link between households cooking sustainability and the potential of achieving numerous Sustainable Development Goals. Furthermore, the study highlights some examples of sustainability interventions to enhance the widespread adoption of sustainable cooking practices in Sub-Sahara Africa, including financial, technical innovations, policy support and research and development. Therefore, this research provides valuable insights for policymakers, researchers, and practitioners seeking to promote households cooking sustainability and facilitate sustainable development progress in the region. • There is potential of household cooking sustainability in Sub Sahara Africa. • A framework of co-benefit of cooking sustainability on SDGs was introduced. • A challenge is limited access to clean fuels and Improved cookstove. • Enhancement of energy transition could be a way for household cooking sustainability. • Collaboration and investments are key solutions to energy transition in Sub Sahara Africa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite having multidimensional positive externalities of renewable energy (RE) in theory, the literature on RE's economic and environmental determinants is still very nascent. We have addressed this research gap by considering a balanced panel of 38 OECD nations attempting a phase-by-phase energy transition. We have used data spanning from 2000 to 2020 and deployed the novel method of moments quantile regression (MMQR) approach. Our results unveil that economic complexity reduces the consumption of renewable energy among the OECD nations, indicating that as the export becomes diversified, energy consumption at the production level becomes more dependent on non-renewable sources. This further suggests that OECD nations are yet to meet their renewable energy generation threshold. Moreover, energy efficiency fosters the consumption of renewable energy, substantiating that energy efficiency and renewable energy share complementary co-movement among the OECD nations. Furthermore, we unravel that environmental technology and natural resource rent have heterogeneous effects on renewable energy consumption in OECD. For instance, environmental technology only boosts RE consumption at the higher quantiles (70th to 95th), whereas revenue from natural resource rent curbs RE consumption. Our conclusions hold after a series of robustness checks. Overall, we propose that OECD nations should only export those products with absolute comparative advantage to reduce excessive dependence on fossils. Additionally, investment in renewable energy technology development should be escalated to ensure energy efficiency in the long-term. • The impacts of economic complexity (ECI), environmental technology (ENT), natural resource rent (NRT) and energy efficiency (EFX) on green energy use explored. • We use novel non-parametric method of moments quantile regression approach for OECD countries. • The ECI curbs the consumption of renewable energy while EFX is a boon for it. • ENT and NRT have heterogenous effects on RE consumption. • We also note different causal relationships to rectify the results' robustness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The uptake of renewable energy sources is intensifying in detached houses in the Nordic countries. Survey results (N = 4276) among a detached-house owner association members in Finland imply that the energy transition has progressed further than believed. In the sample, 89 % of households had two or more systems which suggests an accumulation and parallel use of heating systems instead of removing older energy technologies. The phenomenon concerns houses with electric heating, wood heating and air-source heat-pumps, and the owner-occupant sample is rather even across socio-demographic backgrounds. However, larger homes had a higher number of energy technologies, and hybrid arrangements were also adopted more by male respondents. Women, unemployed, and families with three members or more had higher odds for relying only on one energy technology or fuel. The results call for urgent updates in European energy statistics and classifications and the energy policy measures targeted at residential sector, both from energy justice and heating decarbonization perspectives. This is one of the rare studies focusing on hybridization of residential heating in Nordic countries. • Three different energy technologies was the most popular arrangement in detached houses surveyed (N = 4276). • Owners of larger homes and male respondents possessed highest variety in energy technologies. • GSHP and district heating owners are most reliant with their single unit. • Unemployed, and families with children often had only one system. • Official statistics are incapable of capturing the versatility of heating practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The phase-out of unabated coal power is crucial for meeting climate agreements in coal-dependent economies such as Indonesia and Vietnam. Despite both countries committing to the 2021 Global Coal to Clean Power Transition Statement, translating phase-out pledges into action poses considerable challenges. Drawing insights from interviews with government, civil society, and industry experts, this study identifies the key barriers hindering coal phase-out in each country. Concerns about potentially escalating electricity prices and power shortages loom large, with the former being more prominent in Indonesia and the latter more prominent in Vietnam. The obstacles appear particularly significant in Indonesia for reasons including its higher coal dependence. We conclude that prioritizing renewable energy growth, as well as halting the construction of new coal plants, would be the most practical and viable way forward for both countries rather than an oversized early focus on coal plant closures. The analysis is of high relevance to informing plans under the two countries' Just Energy Transition Partnerships. • Indonesia and Vietnam face significant challenges in coal power phase-out. • Prioritizing renewable energy uptake is crucial for both nations. • International support should emphasize renewable energy. • Vietnam's conducive investment environment positions it for faster progress. • Carbon pricing is highlighted as a key mechanism by Indonesian experts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Critical minerals are essential in numerous industrial applications, particularly those related to green energy production. Nonetheless, the mining and processing of these minerals are severely energy-intensive, relying predominantly on diesel, coal, and gas as sources of power in Australia. Consequently, the use of diesel, coal, and gas as power sources results in a substantial carbon footprint. An important research gap that remains to be explored in the Australian mining sector is investigating the potential for decarbonising the mining of critical minerals through the implementation of renewable energy to attain sustainable mining. This study examines the potential of using solar photovoltaics (PV) and wind energy towards the decarbonisation of critical mineral deposits, taking into account both the intrinsic mineral characteristics such as ore grade, ore depth, and co-existing mineral clusters, as well as external factors such as the capacity factor (CF) and the periods of low energy generation (lull times) of solar PV and wind, which are crucial in assessing the availability of the renewable energy sources explored. The results from this study indicate that a considerable number of critical mineral deposits in Australia are remotely located from the existing national transmission line infrastructure. These deposits often form geographical clusters and typically have favourable conditions for solar PV and wind energy implementation, characterised by high capacity factors and minimal lull times in solar PV/wind. This clustering presents a promising opportunity for powering mining activities with solar PV and wind energy, thus facilitating the decarbonisation of mining operations in Australia through the utilisation of shared renewable energy infrastructures. Moreover, the study identifies specific mineral deposits that are most suitable for decarbonisation with solar PV and wind energy integration. The research method used in this study proposes an evaluative framework that correlates the capacity factor of solar PV and wind with lull times from these sources, as well as with mineral intrinsic characteristics within deposits. This framework enables a comparative analysis of different deposits, assessing their relative suitability for the integration of solar PV and wind energy technologies. This framework is versatile and can be employed to assess different renewable energy sources, making it applicable to various global contexts. The findings from this study underscore the transformative potential of renewable energy sources, indicating that solar PV and wind energy offer new opportunities for attaining decarbonised and sustainable mining in Australia. • Critical mineral deposits in Australia have outstanding solar PV/wind potentials. • A significant number of critical mineral deposits have high solar PV/wind capacity factor and low lull time. • Deposits often form clusters and have several co-existing minerals. • Solar PV and wind offer new opportunities to decarbonise critical mineral deposits. [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 investigates the moderating role of economic complexity in the relationship between energy transition and economic growth, utilizing panel data from 124 countries spanning 2000–2020 and employing the robust weighted least squares (RWLS) estimation method. Our findings indicate an overall negative impact of energy transition on economic growth. Notably, economic complexity emerges as a positive moderator, alleviating the adverse effects of energy transition. This novel insight challenges existing literature, contributing to a more comprehensive understanding of the interplay between renewable energy adoption, economic growth, and economic complexity. Policymakers should acknowledge the intricate dynamics involved in transitioning to renewable energy sources and consider the role of economic complexity in shaping outcomes. • Economic complexity plays a positive moderation in the effect of energy transition on economic growth. • Countries with greater economic complexity experience more economic growth benefits from transitioning to renewables. • Decision makers should formulate policies promoting economic complexity to align energy transition with economic growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transitioning to sustainable energy is a global imperative for countries to develop policies to achieve Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 7 and 13. Given the possible association between digital inclusion (DIGI) and the energy transition (EGTN), we examined the impact of DIGI on the EGTN while controlling for environmental taxes (ENTX) in the top-5 greenest economies in the world using quarterly data from 2001 to 2021. We examined the association at short-, medium-, and long-term frequencies using comprehensive approaches such as the Method of Moments Quantile Regression (MMQR) for panel analysis and Wavelet techniques, i.e., wavelet coherence, multiple wavelet, and partial wavelet for country-specific assessment. According to the MMQR results, DIGI has a significant and positive effect on EGTN, with a coefficient value ranging from 10.95 to 5.980 while moving from lower (0.25) to higher (0.95) quantiles. Similarly, ENTX has a positive and significant effect on EGTN, with a coefficient value ranging from 1.770 to 3.132 as the quantiles increase. In addition, the results of wavelet coherence expose a strong and positive connectedness between DIGI and EGTN in each sample country. Furthermore, multiple wavelet results for each country demonstrated that ENTX significantly strengthens the interaction between DIGI and EGTN. Our findings result in developing SDGs-oriented policy guidelines, specifically the policy strategy for addressing SDG-7 and SDG-13. The study endorses that the sample countries take initiatives to accelerate the EGTN process by improving digital inclusion and implementing an effective environmental taxation system. • We evaluated the role of digital inclusion on energy transition. • The study also considers the role of environmental taxes. • The study employed panel data from 2001 to 2020 for the greenest economies. • Digital inclusion and environmental taxes promote energy transition. • The panel results are validated by the wavelet analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article aims to examine and compare the energy transition process in three EU capitals – Copenhagen, Helsinki, and Stockholm. All three EU Nordic capital cities have similar climate conditions as well as demographic and economic potential. They work towards the transition from fossil fuel energy to renewable energy, and their achievements in this field are evidenced by their positions in the most influential rankings. As the capitals of EU members, all cities are obliged to contribute to ambitious climate policy targets such as the European Green Deal, aimed at GHG emission reduction by 2030 and becoming climate-neutral by 2050. The article focuses on similarities and differences in pathways followed by the three cities and describes the factors that facilitate their energy transition as well as problematic issues that may delay the process. It is based on a comparative case studies model that involves gathering and analysing both qualitative and quantitative data. • The article compares Copenhagen, Helsinki, and Stockholm's progress in energy transition. • They follow a generally similar pattern of energy transition and their efforts concentrate on ensuring carbon neutrality. • The energy transition in transport is the biggest challenge for all cities. • Consequently, the implementation of the EU's targets by Copenhagen, Helsinki, and Stockholm is not as simple as expected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

• South Australia is leading low carbon energy transitions in Australia. • Socio-technical transitions are complex, non-linear and follow multiple adaptive pathways. • Complex adaptive systems and risk society theory can be integrated to better understand transitions. • Bold leadership and innovative policy are required to navigate transitions in a reflexive modernity. • Governance can exploit crises to justify transition policy in response to future risk and uncertainty. Renewable energy transitions are occurring across the globe in response to climate change. Such socio-technical transitions are complex and non-linear. They require bold leadership and innovative policy, both in response to environmental risk and to navigate political, technical and socio-economic conditions. This paper integrates complex adaptive systems and risk society theory to inform a discussion on regional socio-technical transitions. South Australia is forging its own adaptive pathway, and in doing so, is leading energy transitions in Australia. Utilising the complex adaptive cycle to frame the state's renewable energy transition, the path can be seen to be evolving from a simple first modernity to a multi-dimensional second modernity. Socio-technical transitions are partly a by-product of responses to risk. While there is no single map for navigating societal transitions, this paper proposes that risk, in the context of risk society theory, is an important guiding dimension for understanding transformational change in socio-technical systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

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

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

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

• Analyzes the social equity impacts of the renewable energy transition. • The renewable transition generally improves social equity outcomes. • Challenges remain, particularly in rapidly developing nations. • Holistic evaluation of the energy transition has ramifications for policy making. This research examines the societal impacts of varying energy policy approaches and the progress of the energy transition toward a low carbon energy-based regime internationally. Using indicators relevant to energy policy and the energy transition, five critical social equity impacts of environmental improvement, health, employment, participation, and energy cost are investigated from the viewpoint of an 'equitable' energy transition. We investigate the correlation between quantitative social equity impacts and the shift toward new renewable energy-based electricity (i.e., wind, photovoltaic, geothermal, tidal, biomass etc.) from 1990 to 2015, for 99 nations with differing development levels, energy resources and policies. We find that increased levels of new renewable energy deployment generally accompany social equity improvement, however geography, national income level and complementary energy policies are also important. Our results highlight specific issues for developing nations, whereby electricity needs are often met by fossil fuels prior to the large-scale penetration of renewables. These nations enjoy short-term social equity benefits, at the risk of long-term negative social equity outcomes. This study's holistic evaluation of energy transitions and social equity outcomes could be used as an input to proactive policy development contributing to the realization of a more equitable energy transition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Energy transition process is evaluated on Italian regions according to their different urbanization levels. • Transition matrices showed weakness and strengthens according points of the regions. • The evaluation of the determinants allows to define policy indication according to different level of urbanization. • Findings showed that different energy paths are associated to different urbanization areas. Renewable energy and energy efficiency are recognized among the key factors of transitioning towards a low-consumption and low-carbon society. In order to achieve such transition, the government policies should be aimed at meeting the renewable energy generation and energy efficiency targets of specific localities. Nonetheless, these targets vary between different urban regions, and there is limited knowledge on the correlation between energy transition and urbanization levels. The aim of this paper is to identify that correlation in urban regions. This study places Italian regions under the microscope of an empirical investigation. The study adopts a two-step analysis that provides a useful model for regional analyses. The results of the study consolidates our understanding and highlights that the energy transition process requires greater efforts concerning social participation and provision of incentives for renewable energy production, mainly in the less urbanized areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

Ensuring that electricity systems maintain reliable power supplies is critical to sustaining political support for the low-carbon energy transition. Therefore, it is crucial to analyze the recent electricity disruptions in China and evaluate the government's response. Since 2020, China has faced three unprecedented power outage affecting multiple provinces for weeks. This study investigates the interplay of various factors contributing to China's power crisis and examines the government's policies aimed at addressing immediate issues while advancing broader reforms. Key policy measures involve adjusting the electricity market to allow greater price fluctuations for coal-fired electricity and opening the wholesale market to industrial and commercial users. While this reform is expected to boost market competitiveness, the present market structure falls short of what is likely needed to ensure that power sector dispatch, pricing, and investment can work together to ensure reliable electricity supply in the context of China's transition towards carbon neutrality. To create an advanced, resilient, and flexible renewable energy grid, more intricate reforms across the electricity system, market, regulatory framework, and institutions will be essential. [Display omitted] • Power reliability is critical to keeping political support for energy transition. • A combination of factors led to power curtailments in China in recent times. • Policy responses to address China's power crisis are examined. • Implications of these policy changes are assessed. • An integrated solution framework is recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The energy crisis caused by the Russia–Ukraine war (RUW) has affected the energy supply chain. The countries most impacted by the sanctions imposed on Russia due to the invasion of Ukraine focused on replacing the countries they import their energy from in the short term and switching fuel, for example, from natural gas to coal in Germany. The objective of this article is to verify how the war has impacted energy trade and electricity generation in Germany and the United Kingdom (UK). The results indicate that the RUW had consequences on these countries' energy sector, significantly affecting fuel trade and electricity generation in the immediate aftermath of the war. • Russia's invasion of Ukraine sparked a global crisis in energy supply chains. • The Russia–Ukraine war led countries, such as Germany, to reactivate coal plants. • The UK replaced Russian fuel imports with those from other countries, like the USA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to avoid dangerous climate change and to satisfy the global energy needs energy systems have to change. Hopes are especially high in countries of the Global South for the low-carbon transition to propel sustainable development. Yet, while the energy transition provides opportunities, it also raises questions on how to avoid new global inequalities. This study presents the first quantitative approach to measure the extent to which the energy transitions in the Global South incorporate elements of energy justice. In doing so, this study builds on a rich literature on energy justice that differentiates between distributional, recognition, and procedural justice, thus taking into account social and development objectives such as affordability and accessibility of energy, the inclusion of marginalised parts of society, as well as broader community involvement and participation. Though much important conceptual and qualitative work has been done, what has been lacking so far is a quantitative measure of the degree to which the energy transition lives up to the imperative of energy justice, going beyond the much-studied Global North. The proposed energy justice index is designed and applied to select countries from Southeast Asia (Malaysia), sub-Saharan Africa (Kenya), the MENA region (Jordan), and Latin America (Chile). The index stands the test of the empirical application and demonstrates significant variation between countries along the different dimensions of energy justice. The study also emphasizes the importance of further testing and of improving data quality for informed policy making of energy justice issues in the Global South. [Display omitted] • The low carbon energy transition raises questions on how to avoid new global inequalities. • This study presents a quantitative index that measures energy justice in the Global South. • Four country case studies are empirically assessed: Kenya, Jordan, Chile, and Malaysia. • Results demonstrate significant variation along the different dimensions of energy justice. • The analysis also highlights the importance to improve data availability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The decarbonization of energy systems requires the deployment of intermittent renewables (wind and solar) with increasingly low costs. The growth of these renewables impacts power prices, which may influence hydropower investments and the adoption of fossil-fuel options for baseload electricity. It thus remains unclear whether deploying more intermittent renewables would reduce the net carbon emissions across energy systems in the absence of well-designed policy. This study first developed a techno-economic optimization model to explore the impacts of future projections of intermittent renewables on long-run electricity prices and the subsequent hydropower investments, using Hubei Province of China as a case study. The carbon emissions associated with the change in hydropower investment were then quantified. Results indicate that the new policy-driven renewables deployment reduces the electricity prices by 36 % on average over 2021–2100, compared to the case with the policy specified in the prior (13th) National Five-Year Plan. Without intervention, the lower electricity price could result in a 42 % reduction in hydropower investments by 2050. With increased intermittent renewables and decreased investments in hydropower, the energy system is expected to deploy more backup fossil-fuel options, which could increase carbon emissions by 45 %. Therefore, deploying more renewable energy would depress the investments in hydropower plants and further hinder decarbonization unexpectedly, suggesting a possible paradox in the energy transition. This possible paradox calls for a new, and robust policy to ensure the benefits of decarbonization are realized regardless of potential changes electricity prices. [Display omitted] • A dynamic techno-economic optimization model is developed to derive hydropower investments. • Long-term electricity prices are shaped by policy-driven projections of renewable energy. • Ambitious intermittent renewable projections depress hydropower investment by reducing electricity prices. • Carbon emissions relating to energy system evolution are quantified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

With growing gas and oil prices, electricity generation based on these fossil fuels is becoming increasingly expensive. Furthermore, the vision of natural gas as a transition fuel is subject to many constraints and uncertainties of economic, environmental, and geopolitical nature. Consequently, renewable energies such as solar and wind power are expected to reach new records of installed capacity over the upcoming years. Considering the above, North Africa is one of the regions with the largest renewable resource potential globally. While extensively studied in the literature, these resources remain underutilized. Thus, to contribute to their future successful deployment and integration with the power system, this study presents a spatial and temporal analysis of the nature of solar and wind resources over North Africa from the perspective of energy droughts. Both the frequency and maximal duration of energy droughts are addressed. Both aspects of renewables' variable nature have been evaluated in the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) context. The analysis considers the period between 1960 and 2020 based on hourly reanalysis data (i.e., near-surface shortwave irradiation, wind speed, and air temperature) and the Hurrel NAO index. The findings show an in-phase relationship between solar power and winter NAO index, particularly over the coastal regions in western North Africa and opposite patterns in its eastern part. For wind energy, the connection with NAO has a more zonal pattern, with negative correlations in the north and positive correlations in the south. Solar energy droughts dominate northern Tunisia, Algeria, and Morocco, while wind energy droughts mainly occur in the Atlas Mountains range. On average, solar energy droughts tend not to exceed 2–3 consecutive days, with the longest extending for five days. Wind energy droughts can be as prolonged as 80 days (Atlas Mountains). Hybridizing solar and wind energy reduces the potential for energy droughts significantly. At the same time, the correlation between their occurrence and the NAO index remains low. These findings show the potential for substantial resilience to inter-annual climate variability, which could benefit the future stability of renewables-dominated power systems. [Display omitted] • A negative correlation between NAO and wind power in northern coastal regions. • Energy droughts dominate coastal regions. • Solar-wind hybridization reduces energy droughts in North Africa. • Seasonal NAO index does not correlate significantly with energy droughts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Community renewable energy is increasing globally, but many northern and remote Indigenous communities remain energy insecure. Community appropriate sustainable energy solutions requires more than building renewable energy projects – it requires local socio-technical capacity to design, implement, and maintain renewable energy projects. Yet, notwithstanding advances in renewable energy technology there is limited understanding of the socio-technical capacity of northern and remote Indigenous communities to engage in energy transitions. Based on a review of energy transitions scholarship and northern contexts and informed by a workshop engaging northern and Indigenous community members from Canada and Alaska, this paper presents foundational pillars for assessing the socio-technical capacity needs of communities to pursue and sustain local energy transitions. These pillars are inter-dependent and emphasize the importance of local energy champions and inter-local energy networks to enable innovation and capacity building; community values that articulate immediate and longer-term goals for energy transition, including the social and economic opportunities to be realized by a more sustainable energy system; community knowledge of local energy resources, technologies, and opportunities, and embedded skills to support transitions; and the skills innovation to pursue and manage new energy systems, coupled with youth engagement as future community energy leaders. The proposed framework is intended to support the early stages of community energy transition planning. • Energy transition in remote communities involves more than building new projects. • Socio-technical capacity is critical to renewable energy security in remote off-grid areas. • Seven pillars are proposed to guide local capacity assessment for community energy. • Renewable energy in remote communities means self-sufficiency and self-determination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Currently, the research agenda of energy transition is gaining momentum. This paper conducts a comprehensive review of this body of research by presenting a framework that describes the connotations, mechanisms, and effects of energy transitions. The study concludes that the energy transition will lead to the reconstruction of energy system elements beyond the energy sector, with the dual connotations of explicit transition and implicit transition. The explicit transition is usually captured by statistic data and information, for instance, energy utilization type, structure, form, transportation mode, and spatial pattern. The implicit transition involves shifts in energy security, geopolitical structure, energy power, energy justice, and energy governance, which receives relatively less attention in current literature. The energy transition is a highly socialized process, driven by many intertwined factors such as technological innovation, market mechanisms, policy arrangements, and sociocultural factors, triggering profound socio-economic and ecological effects. Looking ahead, it is urgent to pay attention to the multi-scale effects of energy transition, avoid the risks brought by energy transition, and ultimately achieve just energy transition. This paper provides a novel perspective and contributes to the literature on theoretical understanding and advancement of energy transition. • This paper proposes an analytical framework to enrich energy transition research. • Energy transition has dual connotations of explicit transition and implicit transition. • Energy transition is a highly socialized process driven by a multitude of factors. • Energy transition brings profound socio-economic and ecological effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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