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This study addresses the microbial risks associated with Underground Hydrogen Storage (UHS), a critical component in the transition towards renewable energy systems, by employing an innovative multi-reactor system (Bio-xplorer) to simulate UHS conditions in two Italian reservoirs. The microbiological risk assessment (MRA) of Reservoir A and B was evaluated by subjecting them to gas mixtures of 10 % H 2 and 90 % CH 4 , and 99 % H 2 and 1 % CO 2 , respectively. In Reservoir A, the stability of pressure and temperature, the negligible optical density, and lack of microbial metabolites suggested a low risk of microbial activation. Molecular analyses confirmed the absence of sulphate-reducing bacteria (SRB) and limited growth of hydrogenotrophic methanogens (HM). Similarly, in Reservoir B, the absence of SRB and limited occurrence of HM indicated a low microbiological risk. Overall, the present work supports the safe and efficient implementation of UHS , a promising mitigation technique for climate change, using an innovative tool for MRA. [Display omitted] • Microbial risk assessment for UHS in Italy. • Innovative HP & HT bioreactors system (Bio-xplorer) for UHS lab tests. • Novel approach for UHS Microbial risk assessment in two Italian NG reservoirs. • Reactor-based assessment of SRB, HM, AB activity by mimicking reservoirs environment. • No sensible hydrogen consumption registered for both the reservoirs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study addresses the imperative transition towards renewable energy for the powering of desalination technologies, focusing particularly on island contexts. The Canary Archipelago serves as a unique wind energy-desalination laboratory, with numerous experimental projects conducted since the late 1980s. The lessons learnt that are identified in this paper highlight the critical factors influencing project success or failure, including the modernization of desalination plants, the optimal selection of wind farm sites and turbine technology, adequate resources for operating and maintenance tasks, and optimal battery sizing to minimize system shutdowns. In this context, reverse osmosis emerges as the most advantageous technology for variable operating conditions. System interfaces between wind turbines and desalination units are also discussed and it is identified that further research is needed for mechanical or hydrostatic interface systems, while electrical interface systems suit low-medium water demand areas. Recommendations are given for system design and maintenance with the aim of providing valuable information for other island communities grappling with the water-energy nexus and climate change mitigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Energy transitions in Indigenous, Northern and remote communities in Canada promise benefits that go beyond reliable, clean and affordable energy services. The Federal and Provincial governments have committed funding to get remote communities off diesel, acknowledging energy transitions' global and local benefits. Besides climate change mitigation, other benefits, including job creation, income generation, community ownership and local economic growth, are fundamental components of the value proposition of renewable energy projects. However, despite the promises, little evidence of the impacts of renewable energy on communities' local conditions exists. This article looks at the relationship between renewable energy projects and community well-being in Canada. We construct a panel of Indigenous communities and well-being levels using Census data and information about renewable energy projects for the period 1981–2016. The findings suggest that renewable energy is associated with higher levels of well-being. Concretely, having access to renewable energy increases overall well-being by 1 to 5 points on the 0–100 well-being scale, depending on the component of the well-being index considered in the analysis. • Renewable energy and community wellbeing is an essential relationship for successful energy transitions. • The size of the renewable energy projects is strongly associated with higher community wellbeing. • Communities that hold majority ownership of renewable energy projects exhibit higher wellbeing levels. • Solar and wind energy projects are associated with higher wellbeing levels, whereas hydropower is associated with lower ones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Our study investigates the relatively unexplored relationships between socio-economic factors and perceptions of climate change and their influence on household energy preferences in developing contexts, taking the case of Nepal. We aim to achieve two objectives: to create a robust model identifying key socio-economic and climate perception variables affecting household energy behaviour; and to compare the respective impacts of these factors. Applying a mixed-method approach, we surveyed 323 households across 49 districts and three physiographic regions (high hills, mid hills and Terai plains) of Nepal. We fixed the explanatory and response variables through literature review and evaluated three ordinal logistic regression models: one focused solely on socio-economic factors, the second only on climate perception and the third a composite model integrating both. Data statistics showed that 47 % of the respondents preferred no change to their existing energy status, 23 % opted to rely completely on grid-electricity, 14 % favoured switching to renewables, while 16 % preferred an optimal combination of grid-electricity and renewables for their household use. The Composite-model was found to be the best fit model for our dataset. The identified key socio-economic factors include urbanization, education levels, and the availability of energy alternatives indicating a wide disparity in the energy access and use across the different socio-economic categories of Nepal. Likewise, magnitude and timing of summer and winter rainfall, changes in the household energy demands and community level subsidies were found to be the significant climate change perception variables. Hence, our findings highlight the need for better access to modern energy and financial incentives, mostly to the rural remote areas, and community-awareness initiatives throughout the country supported by comprehensive energy policies for sustainable renewable energy transition at the household level as well as in mitigation of the impacts of climate change. By enhancing this policy-science-society interface, our research contributes valuable insights for developing effective strategies to promote renewable energy adoption in similar developing contexts. • People's energy preferences are impacted by multiple factors. • Composite model outperformed its counterparts. • Socio-economic and climate change perception parameters need to be dealt holistically. • A significant contribution to the policy-science-society interface. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the potential of utilizing carbon credits to finance innovative local energy communities in Europe, addressing a significant gap in academic literature. Despite the growing interest in voluntary carbon credits as a mechanism for offsetting carbon emissions, there is limited evidence connecting local energy systems to voluntary carbon markets. The study explores whether carbon credits could serve as a practical tool for funding the development of energy communities, contributing to sustainable energy transitions and climate mitigation strategies. The research employs a comprehensive methodology to assess the quality of carbon credit projects and examines ten innovative energy community projects in Europe. Key findings reveal there is potential for using carbon credits to finance energy community initiatives. However, challenges persist, particularly regarding financing barriers and the volatile nature of carbon markets. The study underscores the importance of policy support in establishing clear standards for voluntary markets and promoting the accessibility of carbon offsets. Furthermore, it suggests potential solutions such as pre-financing agreements and the utilization of carbon market derivatives to enhance project viability. Overall, the study offers insights into the intersection between voluntary carbon markets and local energy initiatives, providing a foundation for further research and policy development in the field of local sustainable development and climate change mitigation. [Display omitted] • Innovative local energy communities in Europe have significant carbon emissions reduction potential. • Carbon credit issuance could financially support the development of local energy initiatives. • Challenges persist in accessing financing and navigating volatile carbon markets. • Policy support is crucial in establishing clear standards for voluntary carbon markets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research aims to explore the current evidence on the sustainability of Bioenergy with Carbon Capture and Storage under a life cycle approach and to understand how research on this topic has evolved in the last decade. A systematic literature review was performed, and the main focus was identifying methodological shortcomings and analysing Global Warming Potential results. Forty-seven studies were selected for in-depth revision. Results show that the number of Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) studies on BECCS has increased in the last couple of years and that most of these studies report near-carbon neutral or carbon-negative results for electricity, biofuel energy, and other products. However, in many cases, some aspects have been omitted from the discussion, such as proper accounting of land use impacts, impact allocation procedure, accounting of leakage from storage sites, and impacts related to carbon utilisation. Despite this methodological variability, Global Warming Potential results are mostly carbon-negative and carbon-neutral for both power BECCS and industrial BECCS systems. Consequently, current scientific evidence suggests climate change mitigation benefits from BECCS despite methodological variability. However, it is still insufficient to reach a consensus on the sustainability of this technology as a solution for a global energy transition. It is recommended that further LCA research deals carefully with methodological and product systems variability, which may affect environmental impact results. Moreover, carbon capture approaches with high potential benefits should be further analysed, and the most optimal BECCS typologies should be identified. Finally, additional life cycle impact categories should be reported, along with the assessment of the economic and social dimensions of BECCS. [Display omitted] • Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) of Bioenergy with Carbon Capture and Storage (BECCS) was reviewed. • LCA methodology choices were discussed. • Global Warming Potential ranges between −3.873 and 0.366 kg CO 2 eq per MJ. • Current evidence is insufficient to confirm that BECCS is a sustainable solution for climate change mitigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon neutrality strategies have a significant role in climate mitigation efforts. As global concerns regarding climate change continue to increase, achieving carbon neutrality has emerged as a paramount objective for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and limiting the adverse impacts of anthropogenic activities on the environment. This research investigates a wide range of scholarly works to conduct an in-depth analysis and synthesis of the relevant information about carbon neutrality strategies. The review introduces carbon neutrality principles and terminologies, highlighting their importance in climate mitigation. It then proceeds to explore the wide range of strategies employed across different sectors and industries, investigating their effectiveness, scalability, and potential challenges. A multidimensional analysis contrasts the United States Nationally Determined Contributions pathway 2023, China's Nationally Determined contributions 2023, and the EU Directive 2023/2413, assessing their economic, environmental, political, and social impacts. The study evaluates strategies' effectiveness, scalability, and innovation for transitioning to a sustainable, low-carbon future. It fills a gap by analyzing global approaches across the US, China, and the EU, which account for about 50% of the world's total GHG emissions. It evaluates the novel application of diverse strategies, from renewable energy transitions to innovative policy measures, highlighting their potential to mitigate climate change effectively. By providing a multidimensional analysis of these strategies' impacts, the research not only enhances understanding of effective carbon neutrality tactics but also underscores the importance of international cooperation in realizing a sustainable, low-carbon future. • Identifies and analyzes carbon neutrality strategies, emphasizing the need for diverse US, Chinese, and EU approaches. • Evaluate renewable energy, carbon capture, and policy tools for carbon reduction effectiveness, scalability, and innovation. • Highlights the study's novelty in synthesizing current knowledge on carbon neutrality, addressing a significant research gap. • Concludes with strategic ideas for international collaboration and policy development for low-carbon futures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate change has impacted development progress and increased global inequality. Therefore, all emitters, both developed and developing countries, must implement climate change mitigation and adaptation actions. Indonesia is one of the developing countries that signed the Paris Agreement. In its NDC document, Indonesia has pledged to reduce greenhouse gases emission by 29% using domestic resources (unconditional) and 41% with international support (conditional) from the business as usual (BAU) scenario by 2030. This commitment gives Indonesia the right to take advantage of various types of support, including ICF opportunities offered by the ADB through the non-UNFCCC financial scheme and the Global Green Growth Institute through the UNFCCC financial mechanism. This paper explores to what extent ICF supports the achievement of Indonesia's Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) target. The study uses qualitative analysis to provide a general overview of ICF in Indonesia, its climate finance strategies, and the case study of the energy sector. The study finds that ICF in Indonesia continues to develop, albeit with many limitations. Several ICF channels could be utilized more optimally such as, loan and grant instruments. Indonesia cannot rely solely on international support to meet its enormous climate finance needs; it must develop innovative financing through various instruments, such as green sukuk. ICF also plays a role in facilitating the energy transition from coal-based to renewable energy sources and increasing energy efficiency. • Climate change has impacted development progress and increased global inequality; therefore, all emitters, both developed and developing countries, need climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts. • Several ICF channels can be utilized more optimally, both on loan and grant instruments. • To meet climate finance needs, developing countries (e.g Indonesia) cannot rely solely on international support, and it is necessary to develop innovative financing through various instruments. • ICF also plays a role in encouraging a transformation in terms of energy use from coal-based energy sources to renewable and more efficient energy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Illinois passed the Energy Transition Act (i.e., the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act or CEJA) in 2021, which established clean energy mandates with an emphasis on social equity. We examine CEJA and related policies to understand the politics of Illinois' energy transition. While CEJA has been praised as an approach to a just transition, critics argue that it exacerbated Illinois' rural-urban dichotomy by distributing benefits to urban areas defined as 'environmental justice communities' and tangible costs, in the form of clean energy infrastructure, to rural communities. We demonstrate that, leading up to and in response, 1) local governments deployed measures to oppose renewable energy development and 2) the state, in turn, scaled authority for energy governance upward to inhibit opposition. By framing reduced participation as necessary for just climate action, Illinois undermined procedural forms of justice viewed as critical to a just transition and reinforced energy as a partisan political issue. This case illustrates how a narrow definition of justice can contribute to distributive conflict in the energy transition and identifies a need for more inclusive strategies to manage such conflict. • Environmental (EJ) not energy justice metrics guide Illinois' energy transition. • Approach unevenly distributes benefits and burdens across an urban-rural gradient. • Illinois limits local authority over energy development to inhibit rural opposition. • Procedural injustice fosters climate action but threatens a just transition. • Policymakers must inclusively manage distributive conflict in the energy transition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Net-zero energy system configurations can be met in numerous ways, implying diverse economic effects. However, what is usually ignored in techno-economic and economy-wide analysis are the distinct social-political drivers and barriers, which might constrain certain elements of future energy systems. We thus apply a model ensemble that defines social-political storylines which constrain feasible net-zero configurations of the European energy system. Using these configurations in a macroeconomic general equilibrium model allows us to explore economy-wide effects and ultimately the cost-effectiveness of different systems. We find that social-political storylines provide valuable boundary conditions for feasible net-zero designs of the energy system and that the costliest energy sector configuration in fact leads to the highest European-wide welfare levels. This result originates in indirect effects, particularly positive employment effects, covered by the macroeconomic model. However, adverse public budget effects on the transition to net-zero energy may limit the willingness of policymakers who focus on shorter time-horizons to foster such a development. Our results highlight the relevance of considering the interaction of energy system-changes with labor, emission allowance and capital markets, as well as considering long-term perspectives. • Model ensemble covers social, technological and economic factors of net-zero energy. • Costliest system is associated with highest welfare due to economy-wide feedbacks. • Public budget effects show how fiscal space for supporting the transition changes. • Economic model allows for consistently contextualizing the costs of mitigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

Renewable energy consumption is a crucial aspect of global sustainability efforts, particularly in light of climate change mitigation and the pursuit of energy security. Technological innovation can play a pivotal role in driving the advancement and adoption of renewable energy. However, geopolitical risks can exert profound influences on the landscape of renewable energy deployment, posing challenges to energy security and the transition to a sustainable energy future. This study contributes to the existing literature by providing new empirical evidence on how geopolitical risk, along with technological innovation, environmental taxes, and environmental degradation affect renewable energy consumption in G7 countries. The findings indicate that geopolitical risks exert a negative influence on renewable energy consumption in G7 countries, whereas environmental degradation, technological advancements, and environmental taxes have positive effects. The results further indicate that at different quantile levels, the impact of each variable on renewable energy consumption has heterogeneous characteristics. Panel Grager causality results revealed a one-way causal relationship between environmental taxes and renewable energy consumption, while other variables have a two-way causal relationship with renewable energy consumption. Based on the results, the study suggests design policies to address geopolitical tension, increased funding for research and development to drive technological innovation, and supportive regulatory frameworks that incentivize renewable energy investment and innovation to achieve Sustainable Development Goal 7 (SDG7). • Explored the determinants of renewable energy consumption in G7 countries. • Advanced panel data estimation methods are employed. • Geopolitical risk negatively affects renewable energy consumption. • Technological innovation and taxes promote renewable energy consumption. • Designed a policy framework to achieve Sustainable Development Goal 7. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This empirical research investigates energy industry restructuring to accelerate the renewable energy transition. Moving away from fossil fuel reliance is critical for mitigating the climate emergency, reducing harmful pollution, and realizing many United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. This research combines economic and sustainability arguments to clarify government policy direction for restructuring toward a green transition. Findings show that more renewable energy innovation, reflected in patent counts, supports higher GDP. Moreover, pollution taxes facilitate renewable energy innovation, working together to effectively contribute to GDP. Also, government and industry support for fossil fuel industries negatively affects a country's renewable energy innovation. Thus, the theory and analysis of this work suggest that a robust economy is related to industry restructuring so that renewable energy innovation can thrive. Fostering novel scientific discoveries in clean energy innovation should be prioritized while reducing uncompetitive industry formations and organizations such as fossil fuel oligopolies and industry associations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In a comprehensive analysis of the global transition towards renewable energy, the study revealed significant disparities in adoption rates and technological advancements across nations, while also underscoring the potential for an extensive shift in energy paradigms. Utilizing data from the renewable energy map scenario, findings indicate that renewable energy sources could command up to two-thirds of the global primary energy supply by 2050, a stark contrast to the modest 24% contribution predicted by the reference scenario. European Union countries, particularly Denmark and Germany, emerge as frontrunners in this transition, with impressive wind energy integrations and overall renewable mixes. In Asia, rapid strides are evident with countries such as China and India demonstrating an annual growth rate surpassing 30% in solar and wind sectors. The Americas, represented robustly by the United States, Canada, and Brazil, highlight a diverse renewable integration, each varying in their contributions. Meanwhile, Middle Eastern countries, are progressively diversifying their energy portfolios, and while Africa displays potential, the transition is constrained by infrastructural challenges. The study underscores the tangible global momentum towards renewable energy but emphasizes the continued disparities influenced by a myriad of geopolitical, technological, and economic determinants. The outcomes of this research not only elucidate the current state and trajectory of renewable energy adoption but also underscore the critical importance of tailored policies, investments, and collaborations to accelerate this global shift. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We argue in this study that higher electricity expenditures increase voter support for the radical right because these parties oppose costly climate mitigation policies. We use data from Sweden, which experiences extremely high demand for heating energy during winter months. The demand for electricity differs greatly between geographical regions due to large temperature differences, from 0 in the southern regions to −50 Celsius in the north. We create our independent variable of electric grievances based on this variation, which increases faster with the spot price of electricity in neighborhoods with a low disposable income relative to the average electricity bill in that area. Using this setup, we find that electric grievances are associated with increased support for the radical right. We argue that soaring electricity prices tend to hurt parties with a mainstream profile since voters associate them them with more ambitious decarbonization policies, while the radical right gain support, since they tend to oppose costly solutions. Our results suggests that the transition to renewable energy can grind to a halt when electricity prices rise higher because voters may abandon the parties who push for the green transition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

This paper assesses the difference of optimal operation of energy communities (ECs) with respect to economic and technical goals. ECs have emerged as a promising solution for accelerating the transition to more sustainable energy systems and therefore climate change mitigation. While cost optimization (economic goal) is most commonly used in ECs, optimizing their resilience (technical goal) can be an important part of operating a distribution grid with high photovoltaic (PV) and electrical vehicle (EV) penetration in the future. This paper presents a comparative analysis of the impact of those two objective functions on overall EC costs as well as individual member costs. The findings highlight the trade-off between the flexibility measures required for a resilient EC and the cost associated with them. This study helps quantify the subsidies that would be required to incentives EC to operate in a resilient matter as a form of grid service. • An energy community optimization model with multiple objective function options. • Energy production, flexibility and grid constraints in single energy community model. • Considering grid tariffs and energy allocation to members. • Cost optimization results show high demand/production peaks. • Resiliency optimization results show high financial burden on members. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The green energy transition is aimed at mitigating the impact of climate change. Yet, the current emphasis on 'green' is narrowly centred around decarbonisation, or CO 2 reduction, often side-lining the roles of other gases, such as sulphur hexafluoride (SF 6) and PCF-14 (CF 4), which have a respective 24,300- and 7380-times higher global warming potential than CO 2 on a time horizon of a century. In addition, any energy transition is a complex affair that simultaneously impacts the environmental, economic and social systems, with significant system-level interactions. For example, the material requirement for renewable energy is known to be substantial, at a factor of 15 times greater than natural gas-based energy for offshore wind generation, and almost 7 times greater for solar. The resulting increased competition for materials is reducing the appetite for global collaboration. In addition, the global capacity to deploy renewable energy technology or participate in climate change mitigation is geographically variable and no single solution is universally viable. This study examines an expanded definition of 'green' energy and proposes a beyond-decarbonisation approach that is more comprehensive and globally inclusive, in pursuit for a sustainable transition. The increased diversity of our approach promises advantages such as heightened global collaboration, diminished geopolitical tension, improved energy access, expanded market opportunities, and socio-environmental co-benefits. Strategies pivotal to this approach involve understanding the role of carbon-based energy systems in the transition, amplifying renewable resources, augmenting cross-sector energy efficiency, implementing effective carbon markets, and integrating nature-based as well as carbon removal technologies. Moreover, it is imperative to implement all-cost and all-benefit monitoring and evaluation systems to optimise existing decarbonisation methods systematically. This could entail the use of composite metrics that normalise the gain in climate change mitigation against economic, social or environmental metrics. Addressing societal apprehensions requires a focus on pragmatic and fair outcomes, geopolitical stability, market impacts, developmental objectives, effective public engagement, and recognition of the role of enterprises. Policymakers are important in fostering global synergy by implementing policies that encourage international collaboration, investment, enterprise engagement, institution fortification, and cross-sector policy integration. • The green energy transition is currently mainly decarb-centric. • We propose a beyond-decarbonisation approach that is multi-faceted and inclusive. • Realistic strategies and achievable targets will ensure a sustainable transition. • Inclusion supports developing nations, facilitates knowledge and technology transfer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Provide an in-depth analysis of the recent advances, challenges, and future perspectives in HPTSU technologies. • Discusses various methods of hydrogen production and highlights the developments in transportation and storage solutions. • Explores the potential applications of hydrogen across different sectors, and identifies the key research areas for further improvement and large-scale deployment of hydrogen technologies. Hydrogen has been recognized as a promising alternative energy carrier due to its high energy density, low emissions, and potential to decarbonize various sectors. This review paper aims to provide an in-depth analysis of the recent advances, challenges, and future perspectives in hydrogen production, transportation, storage, and utilization (HPTSU) technologies. The paper discusses various methods of hydrogen production, highlights the developments in transportation and storage solutions, explores the potential applications of hydrogen across different sectors, and identifies the key research areas for further improvement and large-scale deployment of hydrogen technologies. This review provides a valuable resource for researchers, engineers, policymakers, and industry stakeholders seeking to understand the latest technical advancements in HPTSU technologies, and their potential to accelerate the transition to a sustainable energy future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To foster the energy transition towards a low carbon economy, countries must set and report climate policy instruments. Since the Paris Agreement, nations have been strongly encouraged to increase ambitions and reduce carbon emissions in the coming decades. However, a wave of emerging parties has gained momentum around the world, advocating a hostile stance on climate change mitigation policies. Brazil, one of the traditional leaders of the climate agenda, has experienced an uptake in its greenhouse gas emissions, with no expectation of reversing this trend. The government has signaled that only economically attractive mitigation options will be considered. For this reason, it is crucial to develop scenarios that consider this upward trend. The model estimates carbon emissions at the highest level of detail available, providing abatement cost over time. The results indicate that Brazil has potential to meet its transport related NDC commitments, with 13% cuts by 2030 (26MtCO 2 e) achieved with an intensive use of biofuels. However, the cost-benefit of this strategy would not correspond to the mitigation potential, with financial losses above 1US$/tCO 2 e. The most suitable alternatives would be investments in electromobility and infrastructure, with gains exceeding 200US$/tCO 2 e. These outcomes may aware decision-makers about the cost-effectiveness of certain policies. • We conduct an in-depth assessment of transport-related energy transition paths for 2030. • Three scenarios were developed based on different political commitment. • Brazil has potential to meet its transport related NDC commitments. • The most suitable alternatives would be investments in electromobility and infrastructure. • The outcomes may aware decision-makers about the cost-effectiveness of certain policies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transitions to low-carbon energy technologies and other forms of climate mitigation tend to involve disempowerment and environmental injustices of various kinds. This paper argues that such tendencies are inherent in the social rationale of technological systems promoted by the logic of the world market. The production and operation of technological artifacts are imbued with economic rationality and must not be conceptualised as distinct from the organisation of society. This is illustrated by the energy transition that occurred during the Industrial Revolution, in which the underlying incentives of ecologically unequal exchange and environmental load displacements were transmuted into seemingly neutral concerns of economic rationality and technological progress. The distributive dimensions of markets and technologies become apparent as we now aspire to abandon the fossil energy regime, revealing how our concepts of 'energy' and 'technology' may obscure global processes of appropriation of human labour time and natural space. Such processes are as insidiously inscribed in low-carbon energy technologies as in the fossil-fueled technologies that they are intended to replace. To identify such pervasive injustices as inherent in technologies rather than contextual contingencies requires an acknowledgement of the social essence of technical artifacts. This in turn requires a deep transdisciplinarity that links physics, industrial ecology, the philosophy of technology, social theory, world trade, and the history of ideas. Current efforts to transcend the distinction between the social and the material pervasively fail to integrate social theory and physical resource theory. Rather than investigate the social and ecological repercussions of technological systems, the focus of energy justice research should be to discover the tacit, distributive functions that are inscribed in the technologies to begin with. • Technological artifacts are imbued with economic rationality. • Injustices are inherent in technological systems promoted by the world market. • Concepts of 'energy' and 'technology' obscure global appropriation of time and space. • Unequal exchange is transmuted into seemingly neutral concerns. • Global social theory must be integrated with physical resource theory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Energy planning in Illinois and Denmark toward climate-neutral goals was analyzed. • Energy planning processes are not linked well with urban planning goals in the US. • Illinois signed a new CEJA aiming to become a national leader in climate action. • Strategic and practical barriers exist in energy planning in both US and EU. • Multilevel interaction should be an effective energy planning strategy in Illinois. After signing a new Climate and Equitable Jobs Act legislation in September 2021 and establishing the state of Illinois (USA) as a "national leader on climate action," the processes of the implementation of this act take the permanent attention of legislators, policymakers, and customers. The shift that this act could potentially provide represents a new technological foundation for both state and municipal energy planning. This article explores the historical context of energy legislation and energy planning in the United States with a focus on the state of Illinois and makes a comparative study with Denmark (European Union) – one of the global leaders in the transition to green energy, an innovator in the sustainability realm. The driving similarity is that both Illinois and Denmark now have the same declared goal – to rely on 100% renewable energy and have a climate-neutral society by 2050. This paper examines two different approaches to energy planning in a broader realm of urban planning in Illinois and Denmark. Municipalities play an important role as local energy planning authorities in the design and implementation of future energy systems, so this article will additionally focus on the two largest municipalities in both territories: Chicago and Copenhagen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • First-time framing of renewable energy priority zones. • Definition of optimal combinations of advanced meteorological-technical criteria. • Application of wavelet analysis and coherence in a multi-criteria site assessment. • Wind energy priority zones found in 2–12% of Germany based on restriction scenario. • Solar energy priority zones found in 5–22% of Germany based on restriction scenario. The intensification of climate change impacts requires a fast and efficient transition of energy systems and deployment of renewable energies worldwide. An adequate site assessment strategy forms the basis for expanding installed capacities and energy yield. This study applies a set of meaningful criteria to determine site suitability for Germany's onshore wind and utility-scale solar photovoltaics facilities. An aggregated priority index involving meteorological-technical, economic, and environmental criteria is developed and used in a new concept for identifying renewable energy priority zones, where installations of wind and solar energy facilities should be prioritized. As a novelty, this resource-centered approach does not only analyze the mean energy potential as a meteorological criterion but also accounts for other characteristics such as variability, complementarity, and predictability. The results indicate that reducing legal restrictions substantially facilitates wind and solar energy capacity expansion in prioritized zones. With weak restrictions, up to 22% and 12% of Germany represent priority zones for an efficient and sustainable use of solar and wind energy. However, due to the intermittent nature of wind and solar resources, mismatches between generation potential and electricity demand would persist even with substantial capacity expansion. Future energy systems must advance the expansion of renewable energy capacities just as the flexibilization of demand or an increase of storage capacities to guarantee future energy security and mitigate climate change. The newly developed renewable energy priority zones are a starting point and can be transferred to other study areas by specifically adapting criteria and their weighting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract This study reviews conservative political party policy positions in six European countries with high greenhouse-gas emissions (France, Germany, the Netherlands, Poland, Spain, and the U.K.). Using party platform statements from recent election campaigns, the positions of moderate conservative parties are compared with those of far-right political parties to investigate similarities and differences on energy-transition policy. Three areas of policy are considered: climate-change mitigation, fossil-fuel development or sunsetting, and renewable energy and energy efficiency development. In the countries examined, moderate conservative parties generally remain committed to climate-mitigation policy and renewable energy and energy efficiency policy, but there are some roll-backs of support, and there is variation in their support for fossil-fuel development. Far-right parties tend to show evidence of rejection of climate science, opposition to decarbonization in general, support for natural gas hydraulic fracturing technologies, support for continued use of coal, and opposition to some types of policy favorable to renewable energy and energy efficiency. However, some far-right parties, notably in France and Spain, share several important positions with the center-right parties. The study cautions against assuming an automatic linkage between far-right parties and opposition to energy-transition policies and against assuming that far-right parties will oppose all types of energy-transition policies. Highlights • Skepticism and rejection of climate science appears in some of the platforms of far-right Euroskeptic parties. • The far-right parties of Germany, the Netherlands, and the U.K. are strongly opposed to a range of energy-transition policies. • The far-right parties of France and Spain have more moderate positions that are close to center-right parties. • Far-right parties tend to be opposed to wind power but less so to energy efficiency and distributed solar. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The Canadian province of Quebec has set for 2030 a greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reduction target of 37.5% below 1990 levels. Meeting such a reduction target requires in particular a rapid transition to a low-carbon energy system. This paper proposes prospective energy scenarios for Quebec up to 2030, under different GHG emission reduction constraints (up to a 40% reduction). The main objective is to explore the role of bioenergy in achieving the reduction targets. Our analysis is based on the North American TIMES Energy Model (NATEM). It belongs to the MARKAL/TIMES family of models supported by the International Energy Agency, and includes a detailed bioenergy sector. Compared to the reference case (baseline), our results indicate a larger share of bioenergy in 2030 (up to a threefold increase in the most stringent GHG reduction scenario), with up to a fourfold increase in the total amount of feedstock used for bioenergy production. Our study envisions thus a much larger penetration of bioenergy than the one proposed by the government of Quebec in its 2030 Energy Policy. Highlights • Prospective energy scenarios for the Province of Quebec under GHG reduction targets. • Use of a TIMES optimization energy model to derive socially optimal solutions. • Explore the role of bioenergy in achieving the reduction targets. • Results indicate a larger penetration of bioenergy than the one proposed by the government of Quebec in its 2030 Energy Policy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electricity as a clean cooking fuel is economically and environmentally efficient compared to other cooking fuels, and induction stoves are among the most efficient that could contribute to the sustainable energy transition. Nepal is rich in water resources, having resources four times higher than the global average. With increasing hydroelectricity generation, promoting induction stoves for cooking is a viable way to reduce the use of traditional fuels and Liquified Petroleum Gas imported from other countries. This study aims to identify the underlying product-specific factors influencing households' preference for electric cooking using induction stoves and assess the impact of awareness about the benefits of induction stoves on choice probability. We used a randomized conjoint experiment along with a randomized controlled trial collecting primary data of 9500 choice responses from 950 households in the Nuwakot district of central Nepal to achieve the objective. Among the six product-specific factors considered in the conjoint analysis, monthly expenses and supply of electricity were found to be significant determinants for choosing electric induction cooking, while cooking time, sickness rate, and environmental conditions also had a certain degree of influence, whereas the effect of installation cost was found to be statistically insignificant. The lower bound of households' willingness to pay for electric induction cooking was found to be as high as 4% of their monthly income. The information treatment increases the uptake rate of the induction package by 5% and willingness to pay by 9.58%. This indicates the role of awareness and behavior change in driving a sustainable energy transition, highlighting the need for policymakers to promote cleaner cooking technologies through the effective dissemination of information The results of this study will enable policymakers to make informed decisions to promote the use of induction stoves as the primary cooking fuel, thereby contributing to efforts toward climate change mitigation. • Promoting clean cooking fuel transition is essential for addressing global sustainability challenges. • However, prospects of the adoption of clean cooking fuels are uncertain. • We identify determinants of household preferences for clean cooking fuel transition. • Nepal government is prioritizing the provision of free induction stoves to households. • Instead, reducing monthly expenses and regular supply of electricity should be prioritized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Four scenarios investigated for CO 2 removal services and e-fuels/chemicals exports. • First study to explore the impact of such services on an exporting sunbelt country. • Offering such services and exports lowers several domestic cost metrics. • Concentrated solar thermal and solar PV equally optimal for CO 2 removal. • Regional distribution of installed capacities relies on renewables' full load hours. Transitioning to 100% renewable energy to mitigate climate change requires solutions for hard-to-abate energy sectors. It must also be complemented with negative emissions technologies to ensure climate security. Previous studies have investigated the feasibility of e-fuels and e-chemicals production for export and some carbon dioxide removal technologies in several regions. This study investigates, for the first time, the techno-economic impacts of offering such services on an exporting country's energy system as it transitions to 100% renewable energy by 2050. Egypt is used as a representative case study for sunbelt countries with adequate land area. Four scenarios with different system configurations have been investigated using the LUT Energy System Transition Model and compared to a reference 100% domestic renewable energy system. The results show that Egypt can technically provide 5% of the required global carbon dioxide removal capacity starting from 2035, and 10% of Europe's demand for e-fuels and e-chemicals starting from 2025 within land use constraints. The provision of both services enhances the domestic energy system performance by reducing the levelised costs of important feedstocks, carbon dioxide and hydrogen, as well as other domestic cost metrics and system losses. These findings are extendable and relevant to similar sunbelt countries. They are also relevant to European countries looking to fulfil their climate targets while diversify their energy imports sources. Overall, this study is an important step in 100% renewable energy transition research and international climate change mitigation efforts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Policy responses to (un)sustainable consumption have overlooked contextual drivers of action. • A novel contextual, human-centred approach to studying dynamics in consumption is presented. • A web of contextual drivers, incl. technology, economics and planning policies, shape action. • Patterns of social differentiation in the experience of socio-technical change are identified. • Policies responses require a greater challenge to social contexts than is currently recognised. Abstract Understanding how social change has intersected with transformations in key resource-intensive domestic consumption practices that comprise part of the fabric and experience of daily living is of central relevance to questions of sustainable development. Despite recent advances in contextual approaches to consumption, little is known about how wider socio-technical transitions have been experienced in the context of lived lives and everyday performances. As a result, sustainable development policies have been largely removed from the lived challenges and experiences people face in their daily lives. This paper explores the value of a human-centred, contextual approach to energy transitions research for revealing the intersections of lives, practices and contexts in energy systems change. Investigating the question of how everyday practices have intersected with processes of social-technical change, it reports on findings from a recent Irish-based qualitative biographic investigation of dynamics in domestic consumption. Analysis reveals that a complex web of contextual processes, including technological change, economic transitions and planning policies, have shaped consumption in the home. Furthermore, social differentiation in the lived experience of socio-technical change along dimensions of gender, social class and geography was observed. The paper concludes with reflections on the international relevance and implications of these findings for sustainable development policy, suggesting sustainable consumption requires a much more fundamental challenge to social contexts than is recognised by dominant approaches. Here it is argued that human-centred, contextual approaches to sustainability transitions that consider social differentiation in complex lived experiences are necessary to design more integrated and resilient energy futures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous studies have noted the importance of electricity storage and hydrogen technologies for enabling large-scale variable renewable energy (VRE) deployment in long-term climate change mitigation scenarios. However, global studies, which typically use integrated assessment models, assume a fixed cost trajectory for storage and hydrogen technologies; thereby ignoring the sensitivity of VRE deployment and/or mitigation costs to uncertainties in future storage and hydrogen technology costs. Yet there is vast uncertainty in the future costs of these technologies, as reflected in the range of projected costs in the literature. This study uses the integrated assessment model, MESSAGE, to explore the implications of future storage and hydrogen technology costs for low-carbon energy transitions across the reported range of projected technology costs. Techno-economic representations of electricity storage and hydrogen technologies, including utility-scale batteries, pumped hydro storage (PHS), compressed air energy storage (CAES), and hydrogen electrolysis, are introduced to MESSAGE and scenarios are used to assess the sensitivity of long-term VRE deployment and mitigation costs across the range of projected technology costs. The results demonstrate that large-scale deployment of electricity storage technologies only occurs when techno-economic assumptions are optimistic. Although pessimistic storage and hydrogen costs reduce the deployment of these technologies, large VRE shares are supported in carbon-constrained futures by the deployment of other low-carbon flexible technologies, such as hydrogen combustion turbines and concentrating solar power with thermal storage. However, the cost of the required energy transition is larger. In the absence of carbon policy, pessimistic hydrogen and storage costs significantly decrease VRE deployment while increasing coal-based electricity generation. Thus, R&D investments that lower the costs of storage and hydrogen technologies are important for reducing emissions in the absence of climate policy and for reducing mitigation costs in the presence of climate policy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The European Union (EU) faces a double crisis: both economic and environmental, which has brought into stark relief the question of whether climate change mitigation and economic growth are mutually exclusive. Is saving the environment a ‘luxury’ reserved for wealthy countries, with less affluent countries being too poor to be green? We seek to address this important and timely question using fuzzy-set Qualitative Comparative Analysis (fsQCA) to analyse the causal relationship between economic growth and stability, and the expansion of renewable electricity shares among the European Union's (EU) 28 member states during the recent economic recession (2008–2013). Our paper, analyses the recent economic and financial crisis and its effects on sustainability transitions, and establishes a new indicator for progress in renewable electricity transitions in the context of Europe's 2020 targets. It therefore extends the ‘sustainability as a luxury’ debate to include renewable energy. The analysis reveals an ambivalent picture of the role of wealth in renewable energy transitions (RET) in Europe. Indeed, driven by the EU's common renewable energy targets, the findings suggest that RETs are promoted both because, and in spite of the means. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Limiting global warming well below 2 °C requires substantial increase in the installation of low-carbon electricity generation technologies (EGTs). EGTs however require several critical materials and materials associated with considerable energy, water and CO 2 emissions. This paper assesses the implications of materials and energy efficiencies for climate change mitigation potential of global energy transition scenarios (GETS). The analysis is carried out using a dynamic material flow-stock model for 21 materials and 15 scenarios combining GETS developed by international organizations including International Energy Agency (IEA) and Greenpeace (GP), materials scenarios, and energy, water, and emissions intensities scenarios. Materials related CO 2 emissions are expected to constitute between 4% and 14% the emissions reported in the IEA Sustainable Development scenario, while expected to be between 10% and 28% in GP Advanced Revolution scenario. Increasing material efficiency and reducing emissions intensities (driven by increasing energy efficiency, renewable technologies in energy supply mix, and recycling) reduce cumulative emissions by 73.2% and 26.3% respectively, while both reduce emissions by 79.5%. Increasing materials efficiency in EGT, energy and water efficiency in mining activities mainly for iron, aluminium, and nickel, and recycling, combined with careful selection of EGTs are significant to realize the full potential of GETS in climate change mitigation. • Materials and energy efficiencies implications for climate change mitigation potential of energy scenarios are assessed. • Dynamic material flow-stock model for 21 materials and 15 combined materials and energy scenarios are used. • Materials related CO 2 emissions constitute between 4% and 14% of emissions reported in IEA Sustainable Development scenario. • Increasing material efficiency and reducing emission intensities reduce cumulative emissions by 79.5%. • Increasing materials efficiency and recycling, and careful selection of EGT are significant for climate change mitigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the recognition of carbon capture and sequestration (CCS) as a credible technology for reducing emissions, its implementation has been stalled, partly due to the public's perception of the technology. The literature on CCS technology diffusion points to negative public perception of the technology as a barrier to implementation, and the role of media in that framing. Yet, there remains a gap in the knowledge of media framing of a successful CCS project. This study analyzes the Saskatchewan case, the first successful commercial scale CCS technology deployment in the world and finds that the media framing of CCS technology in Saskatchewan applied a narrative/storytelling approach by deploying metaphors that connected to local values, beliefs, and norms. Also, it notes certain conditions in Saskatchewan made it possible for some frames to be advanced while others were minimized, discounted, or absent altogether in the discussion. Applying the Socio-Political Evaluation of Energy Deployment (SPEED) framework, the study highlights the role of authoritative voices, mostly within Saskatchewan's political system in reframing CCS technology from uncertainty and risk into opportunity; minimizing and sometimes discounting or ignoring the negative frames that have been identified in previous studies as a barrier. It concludes that in Saskatchewan there was a trade-off in framing, where opportunities to advance frames that emphasize how CCS technology can support long term low carbon energy transition and climate change mitigation were missed. This study adds to the literature in that it analyzes a successful case of CCS technology deployment. • The social context shaping technology deployment is created, shaped, and reinforced through communicative practices that are channeled through the media. • Compared to the literature on the social context of CCS technology deployment, this study found similar themes with different articulation and synthesis (communicative practices). • Two major frames found in this study to have enabled the successful deployment of CCS technology in Saskatchewan are: 'World Energy Leader' and 'Managed Risks'. • An effort to understand the key role of actors as they engage in communicative practices that frame innovative and contentious technology is critical to understanding how social context informs technology deployment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nuclear energy is considered an effective alternative to ensure global energy safety, and it has recently started to be promoted as a climate change mitigation solution to achieve low-carbon energy transition targets. Considering this view, this study aims to assess the environmental cost reduction by using nuclear energy efficiency and technological innovation from the prospects of the globalization process. Therefore, the relationship among carbon emissions, nuclear energy, globalization, and technological innovation was assessed in the top ten nuclear energy-consuming countries from 1990 to 2017 while controlling for economic growth and renewable energy. This study applied Common Correlated Effects Mean Group (CCEMG), Augmented Mean Group (AMG), and Dumitrescu-Hurlin causality techniques for model estimation that solves the problem of cross-sectional dependence and slope heterogeneity. The empirical results indicated that nuclear energy and technological innovation diminish environmental costs by reducing carbon emissions. However, globalization increases environmental costs by releasing more carbon emissions into the atmosphere. Moreover, bidirectional causality exists among nuclear energy, renewable energy, and carbon emissions. Consequently, the highest nuclear energy-consuming countries must utilize nuclear energy efficiency to control environmental costs and a cost-effective path to a low-carbon economy. Finally, this perspective intended to appeal to policymakers to do a better job of substantiating their decisions. • We applied novel panel data methods such as AMG, and CCEMG estimators. • Empirical results explore long-run cointegration in the environment function. • Nuclear energy, renewable energy and technology protect environmental quality. • Globalization and economic growth degrade the environmental sustainability. • Bidirectional causality exists between carbon emission, nuclear, and renewable energy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The deep decarbonization of the power systems is pivotal to the efforts of global energy transition and climate mitigation. The small modular reactor (SMR) is a decarbonized, reliable and secure generating technology that can bring new possibilities for global power-sector transition. However, such a transition involves a variety of complexities even beyond conventional systems. We comprehensively explore the SMR deployment and the decarbonization pathway in a number of diversified power and jurisdictional systems under various complexities associated with multiple variables, objectives, criteria and constraints that have dynamic and interactive relationships. This effort is based on the development of an SMR-embedded multi-region power system management model (SMPM). Using Canada as an example, here we show that SMRs would play different roles in diversified power systems, particularly for fossil-fuel dependent, highly variable renewable energy-penetrated and off-grid. The introduction of SMRs to Canada would result in up to 71% (/48%) emission reduction from 2005 (/2018) level in the country by 2045. Our results would help show the significance of SMRs for supporting the global energy transition. [Display omitted] • An SMPM model is developed to analyze low-carbon power system transition in Canada. • Multiple complexities and uncertainties in power systems are reflected. • SMR development issue is investigated within a power-system optimization framework. • The regional development of Canada is analyzed by a holistic optimization method. • GHG emissions from Canada's power sector would be 48% lower in 2045 than in 2018. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The OECD countries are failing to fulfil their obligation towards the implementation of the objectives of SDG 7 and SDG 13. The failure of OECD countries is major constraint concerning global progress on curbing GHG emissions and mitigation of climatic changes as it provides rationale for developing countries to avoid their commitments. Therefore, the major focus of COP26 was to explore policy options for sustainable transition of energy from fossil fuel to clean renewables. This study analyzes the impact of innovation in environmental technology along with various policy regimes on energy transition in OECD countries from 2000 to 2019. The driving factors of energy transition in OECD countries are analyzed, under moderation of environmental governance regimes. This objective is realized by constructing an Energy Transition Index that accounts for the movement along the energy ladder. This index is developed using the Energy Ladder Hypothesis. Using two-step system-GMM and segregating the sample across level of emissions, the results show that the regional authority augments the energy transition, while enforecement of the climate change laws shows mixed results. Based on the study outcomes, a policy framework is recommended for attaining the SDG objectives by realigning the climate change adaptation and mitigation policies. • Study aims at analyzing the energy transition drivers in the OECD countries. • Moderation of environmental governance is analyzed. • Energy Transition Index is developed. • Climate change adaptation policies are less effective than mitigation policies. • An SDG-oriented policy framework is recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate change mitigation requires sustainable energy transitions, but their political dynamics are poorly understood. This article presents a general dynamic model of renewable energy policy with long time horizons, endogenous electoral competition, and techno-political path dependence. We calibrate the model with data on the economics of contemporary renewable energy technologies. In doing so, we discover transition dynamics not present in economy-energy models, which ignore politics, or in formal political economy models, which ignore long-term technological dynamics. We show that the largest effects of partisan ideology on policy occur when the competing parties disagree on the importance of energy policy. In these cases, the less ideological party appeases the more ideological one, while the more ideological party attempts to appease the electorate. The results demonstrate that political dynamics could have large effects on the development of renewable energy and carbon dioxide emissions over time, influencing the ability of countries to reach various climate mitigation trajectories. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sustainable energy transition, air pollution reduction and climate change mitigation are the most challenging themes in nowadays energy sector. Microgrids (MGs) are one of the most effective ways to integrate Renewable Energy Sources (RES), and among them PhotoVoltaic (PV)-Storage (ST) configuration is relevantly promising. Focusing the attention on the PV and ST converters primary control, the main needs are to properly regulate voltage and frequency and optimally exploit the energy coming from the sun and manage the ST operation without any communication among the converter controllers. The conventional converter control approach presents several drawbacks and thus a strategy based on Higher Order Sliding Mode (HOSM) is presented in this work. The HOSM converter control strategy is fully analysed defining its control laws and the control schemes. A comparison between the HOSM and conventional control is performed with dedicated simulations on a common benchmark MG in order to highlight the advantages of the proposed strategy. • Decentralized control of islanded photovoltaic-storage microgrids. • Higher-Order sliding model application to microgrids. • Robust control approach for islanded power systems. • Combined results of primary and secondary frequency regulation without communication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the main initiatives in the context of global warming brought by the COP26 is global transition to green energy. Bioenergetic utilization of unharnessed renewable resources, such as native rangeland frequently subjected to fires, is a promising alternative to displace fossil fuels. Spartina argentinensis is a native perennial grass that develops in a depressed area of 33,000 km2 in Santa Fe province (Argentine) named "Los Bajos Submeridionales". A life cycle assessment (LCA) was performed analyzing the bioenergetic utilization of S. argentinensis. Two alternative scenarios (AS) were assessed and compared to their business as usual (BAU) counterparts: pellets for i) gasification to deliver electricity to the grid (ASp), contrasted to the Argentinean energy mix (BAUp) and ii) residential heating (ASh) contrasted to natural gas heating (BAUh). Carbon Balance of both AS were negative noticeably lower than BAU and the energy balance was promising considering that the produced energy was higher than that required along the complete system assessed. This is the first LCA of bioenergy from S. argentinensis and according to the results, this biomass resource could collaborate remarkably in climate change mitigation, which is auspicious considering the vast region occupied by this grass and others with similar characteristics. [Display omitted] • Spartina argentinensis can be pelletized without need of an additive. • Pellets can produce syngas for CHP or can be burnt for residential heat. • Renewable energies assessed produce significant lower GHG than fossil counterparts. • Renewable scenarios present high Energy Return on Investment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Positive Energy Districts (PEDs) constitute an emerging energy transition paradigm, with an ambitious timeline for rapid upscaling to match the urgency of climate mitigation and adaptation. Increasingly networked and coordinated actors aim to realise 100 PEDs across Europe by 2025. This resonates with the mission orientation turn of the European Green New Deal, to inspire and enable target-driven innovation. Yet it raises questions that have long perplexed scholars and practitioners in energy transitions: how can rapid diffusion be achieved in a sustained and replicable manner in diverse socio-technical contexts? Identifying the key questions to address and implement fit-to-purpose solutions within short-term project timescales is essential in order to mainstream PEDs. Such solutionism must be accompanied by a healthy dose of scepticism, in order to avoid undesirable outcomes such as exacerbated inequalities, societal backlash, and spatial displacement of invisible burdens. But it also requires proactive sharing of experiences, responsive learning and dissemination, and cooperation across sectors and disciplines. In this timely contribution, thirteen researchers from nine European countries flag ten questions concerning PEDs, and offer preliminary responses in line with cutting-edge insights informed by science and practice. This contribution draws on multidisciplinary competence in steering the Positive Energy Districts European Network, and aims to make emerging knowledge widely available, while also inviting constructive critique and engagement within the PED arena which features a broad range of diverse stakeholders. Authors highlight key pathways forward for a rapid, far-reaching translation of the ambitious PEDs agenda into multi-sited, district-scale beacons of sustainable energy transition. • Reflects upon emergent challenges and opportunities of developing PEDs in Europe. • Combines attention to rapid implementation, context-specificity and replicability. • Identifies three key themes to enable conditions for upscaling PEDs across contexts. • The key themes are: framework conditions, prefiguration and emerging impact of PEDs. • Combines expertise of PED-EU-NET core group, spanning PED initiatives across Europe. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The expected increased share of renewables due to the ongoing energy transition may reduce the estimated potential mitigation effect of wood. Here, we estimated the climate change mitigation effect for five scenarios of wood products use in Europe applying dynamic substitution factors embracing a future energy mix with an increasing share of renewables in accordance with the emission reductions necessary to achieve the Paris Agreement targets. Our innovative modelling approach also included the elimination of eternal recycling loops, the inclusion of more realistic wood use cascading scenarios, and adoption of a more realistic marginal (ceteris paribus) substitution approach. Results show that the mitigation effect derived from material substitution is 33% lower in 2030 than previously predicted, and even 96% lower in 2100, showing its expiry date by the end of the century. Nevertheless, the mitigation effect of wood product use, in addition to mitigation by forests, may represent 3.3% of the European emission reduction targets by 2030. [Display omitted] • A dynamic modelling approach was used to simulate carbon balance in wood products. • Policies should promote the use of long-lived wood products and cascade chains. • Mitigation effect from substitution 33% lower in 2030 than previously predicted. • Mitigation effect from substitution 96% lower in 2100 than previously predicted. • Mitigation by substitution has an expiry date by the end of the century. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Energy conservation and transition to a low carbon system require energy research and development (R&D) policies due to the underinvestment in private R&D. Employing a panel dataset for 18 members of the International Energy Agency from 1980 to 2015, we empirically assess the contributions of energy R&D policies to energy conservation and energy mix. This paper uses the accumulative energy R&D per capita as a proxy variable to reflect the energy R&D policies and constructs a simultaneous equations model to describe the relationships between energy efficiency, energy mix, and public energy R&D. The results show that public energy R&D decreased the overall energy intensity by 12% and contributed 39% to the decarbonisation of the energy mix during the sample period. The mechanism of the impact of public energy R&D can be explained through the channel of patents on climate change mitigation. Moreover, the effectiveness of energy R&D policies present the heterogeneity across countries. Although the results of this study are based on empirical analysis, it is necessary to establish a theoretical framework to analyse the effects of energy R&D policies in the future. • The effects of energy R&D policies in IEA countries are investigated. • Energy R&D policies decreased the overall energy intensity by 12%. • Energy R&D policies contributed 39% to the decarbonisation of energy mix. • Factors of national heterogeneity affect the effectiveness of energy R&D policies. • R&D policies affect energy efficiency and transition through energy innovation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• LCA is a key tool in selecting CCS/CCU technologies. • LCA of CCS/CCU technologies might assist in finding suitable decarbonization technologies. • LCA can reveal the potential of chemical industries for using CCU technologies. • Integrated techniques can provide a broader assessment of CCS/CCU technologies. The need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and tackle climate change has mobilized the whole world towards finding technologies and creating public policies aimed at a decarbonization of different sectors of the economy. Carbon capture and storage/utilization (CCS/CCU) technologies can ease the transition to renewable energy so as to meet the growing energy consumption demand estimated for the next 30 years. However, the environmental benefits gained by these emerging technologies must be critically evaluated, and the life cycle assessment (LCA) has been widely and successfully applied for such a purpose. Thereby, this paper provides an overview of the LCA of CCS/CCU technologies found in literature through a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of publications from 1995 through 2018 in order to highlight the current state and future challenges. The main authors, countries, institutions and research areas that apply LCA of CCS/CCU technologies have been identified through analyzing performance indicators using science mapping software tools. Analyzes have revealed that, driven by climate change mitigation targets, a widespread application of the LCA has addressed different CCS/CCU technologies focused not only on fossil energy generation (electricity and fuels), but also upon renewable energy and industrial processes (mainly in the production of cement and chemicals such as methanol). Scientific gaps have also been identified with the aim of promoting and guiding new studies on the matter at hand. These gaps demonstrate the need to collect primary data for different processes and technologies associated with CCS/CCU and conduct more thorough LCA studies and integrated assessments applied to CCS/CCU technologies. Therefore, the main contribution of this paper is to highlight their evolution and assist new studies on the LCA of CCU/CCS technologies by seeking improvement in this field of research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sweden and Finland have national goals to reach net negative greenhouse gas emissions before mid-century. Achieving these ambitious goals could employ negative emission technologies, such as bioenergy with carbon capture and storage, but it is unclear how this technology could be realized in an energy transition. Sweden and Finland stand out for having a large share of substantial point source emissions of biogenic carbon dioxide, in the production of pulp, heat and power. In the European Pollutant Release and Transfer Register, Sweden and Finland reported 64% and 51% biogenic emissions, respectively, in facilities emitting over 100 kt of carbon dioxide in 2017, while the corresponding collective figure for all European states in the database is 6%. This qualitative study highlights company actors' perspectives on bioenergy with carbon capture and storage within a Nordic regional context and explores their perspective on emerging tensions in the energy transition. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 20 of the 24 companies with the largest point sources of biogenic emissions. The results are framed around four emerging tensions regarding bioenergy with carbon capture and storage from companies' perspectives in this study: (1) absence of reliable long-term policies; (2) limits to companies' climate change responsibility; (3) technical trade-offs of carbon capture; and (4) lack of customer demands for negative emissions. According to most of the companies, it is technically feasible to capture carbon dioxide, but it could be a challenge to determine who is responsible to create a financially viable business case, to enact supporting policies, and to build transport and storage infrastructure. Company representatives argue that they already contribute to a sustainable society, therefore bioenergy with carbon capture and storage is not their priority without government collaboration. However, they are willing to contribute more and could have an increasing role towards an energy transition in an international context. • BECCS discussions are on the horizon, but few companies are first movers. • Large-scale deployment of BECCS would require political and financial support. • Swedish and Finnish companies lack customer demand for negative emissions. • There are trade-offs between energy efficiency and carbon capture. • Companies consider BECCS as one of many climate change mitigation measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vehicle electrification represents a promising solution to address the challenges of energy security and sustainable mobility. The environmental performance of electric vehicles is heavily dependent on the energy structure which is undergoing a profound transition. Moreover, the deployment of electric vehicles is critically affected by policies. In this context, this study investigated the impact of energy structure transition and penetration uncertainty on emissions of electric vehicles in Japan from 2000 to 2030. The results suggested that the greenhouse gas and reactive nitrogen were mitigated for both energy sources of electricity mix transition and ammonia energy carrier compared with the baseline. Trade-off between the electricity mix transition and ammonia energy carrier scenarios was observed. Specifically, the electricity mix transition results demonstrated a more significant emission reduction of reactive nitrogen, while an ammonia energy carrier led to a more significant emission reduction of greenhouse gas. Finally, key policy implications were summarized by providing insights into energy portfolio planning and electric vehicle deployment from the perspective of climate change mitigation and sustainable reactive nitrogen management. • Modeled penetration and energy structure transition for electric vehicles. • Electricity mix transition led to more reactive nitrogen emission reduction. • Ammonia energy carrier resulted in more greenhouse gas emission reduction. • Implications were discussed providing insights into policy making. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A successful transformation from conventional to renewable energy can contribute to climate change mitigation and regional development. As the co-host city of the 2022 Winter Olympic Games and the only National Renewable Energy Demonstration Zone in China, Zhangjiakou urgently needs to transform its conventional energy-dependent industries. This paper establishes a Long-range Energy Alternatives Planning System (LEAP)-Zhang model to examine the environmental and socio-economic effects of renewable energy development in Zhangjiakou by projecting the energy consumption and associated greenhouse gas emissions by various sectors over the 2016–2050 period. Two scenarios are designed, i.e., the business as usual scenario (BAU) and the integrated scenario (INT) (including three sub-scenarios, i.e., renewable energy alternatives scenario (REA), industrial structure optimization scenario (ISO) and energy saving facility scenario (ESF)). Results indicate that under the INT scenario, Zhangjiakou's greenhouse gas emissions would peak in 2030 with 13.23% of lower energy consumption when compared with the BAU scenario. Compared with the conventional energy, renewable energy shows competitive advantages in terms of greenhouse gas reduction, employment opportunities and economic costs. The total number of employees would reach 0.15 million by 2050 under the INT scenario, 1.71 times more than that in the BAU scenario. Feasible low-carbon pathways and co-benefits strategies associated with industrial transformation and renewable energy substitution should be pursued in future actionable plans. Results found in this study could provide importance information for achieving renewable energy transformation and associated socio-environmental benefits within and beyond China. • A LEAP-Zhang model is established to analyze energy-related socio-environmental dynamics. • The energy-related GHG emissions are estimated for the Olympic year and peak year. • The environmental, economic and employment effects of renewable energy transition are estimated. • Feasible energy transition pathways are proposed for achieving socio-environmental benefits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many isolated and indigenous Arctic and Subarctic communities are mixed-subsistence-cash economies. In the 20th century, the integration of motorized transport expanded access to harvestable resources but created energy dependence intricately linking food with energy security. As remote communities became more vulnerable to fossil fuel price fluctuations, they also face new challenges related to climate change such as shorter winter seasons. The transitioning from fossil fuels to local renewable energy sources is widely considered both an adaptation and mitigation strategy. We empirically analyzed the food-energy nexus for nine Arctic and Subarctic communities using a Bayesian hierarchical model. We predict household-level gasoline consumption based on wild food harvest and vehicle type. We found that cars and trucks are the least energy efficient forms of transportation whereas snowmobiles are the most efficient. Also, communities with strong traditional wild food production and specialization are more likely to be energy efficient. The results suggest that indigenous culture is an important contributor to effective climate mitigation, energy, and food security. Our analysis supports community adaptation and planning for improved quantitative understanding of the food-energy nexus in rural Arctic communities. The study assists communities with energy transitions away from fossil fuels towards local renewable energy sources. • Bayesian hierarchical model performs best in predicting household gasoline consumption. • Households adding a car/truck or all-terrain vehicle (ATV) double consumption. • Snowmobiles are most efficient but can only be used in shortening winter season. • Communities with strong traditions and specialization are more energy efficient. • Indigenous culture contributes to climate change mitigation, energy, and food security. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate change mitigation is a topical issue with growing debate in the context of the renewable energy transition, global partnership, governance, and economic growth. The complexness of climate change makes it difficult to predict relationships and formulate policies across varied countries. Motivated by the core mandate of the Kyoto Protocol, we examined the individual, combined and interactive impact of growth in income, renewable energy, foreign direct investment, and governance on greenhouse gas emissions. We decomposed the relationships to account for the theories of scale effect, composition effect and technique effect. The study utilized a dynamic heterogeneous estimation technique with a panel data from 1990 to 2017 in 47 Sub-Saharan African countries. Our adopted empirical framework made it possible to account for heterogeneity, a situation that may be prevalent in countries with varied economic and environmental policies. The empirical results revealed that increasing the share of renewable energy by 1% declines greenhouse gas emissions by as much as 35.32% (95% Confidence interval) while a 1% increase in the coupling effect of income level, governance, and renewable energy consumption intensifies climate change by 0.79%. The interactive effects of scale, composition, and technique indicators were found to worsen climate change. The decoupling effect revealed that while foreign direct investment, income level, and governance exacerbate climate change, renewable energy consumption lessens climate change and its impact. From a policy perspective, the magnitude of the technique effect of renewable energy consumption depends on, inter alia , its share in the energy portfolio, technological innovation, and country-specific policy instruments. The study demonstrated that decoupling renewable energy from economic growth propels the transition from fossil fuels, leading to energy efficiency— explaining the decline in GHG emissions. • Dynamic heterogeneous method is used to develop 13 conceptual tools for mitigating climate change. • Climate change is decomposed into scale, composition and technique effects. • Increasing renewable energy consumption reduces climate change in Sub-Saharan African. • Income level exacerbates pollution intensities which affect climate change and its impact. • The study confirmed the validity of the Pollution Haven Hypotheses in Africa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The transition to renewable energy supply of buildings, especially distributed solar power, is a key element of climate change mitigation. As the policy landscape is shifting and financial incentives for renewables are increasingly phased out, a nuanced understanding of homeowners' intention to install solar panels is key for reaching a broad market appeal. By analysing a dataset of 408 Swiss homeowners' stated preferences in the context of building retrofits, this paper identifies two key segments of likely solar adopters, including a premium segment preferring coloured and building integrated solar modules, and a value segment with more price-sensitive customers. Differences between likely adopters and likely non-adopters, as well as between two distinct segments of likely adopters, are investigated along sociodemographic, psychographic, and social aspects. Our analysis shows that aesthetic aspects of solar panels are key for expanding the customer base, and that likely adopters are more likely than likely non-adopters to be surrounded by neighbours, friends, and relatives who have already installed solar panels. Our results also reveal that the premium segment cares more about aesthetic aspects in general purchasing decisions and shows higher ecological concern than the value segment. • We investigate determinants of homeowners' intention to install solar panels. • Adopters are more likely to have peers who opted for solar than non-adopters. • We profile two segments of future solar adopters: a value and a premium one. • Premium customers care more about aesthetic aspects in their purchasing decisions. • Value customers do not have significantly lower income than premium customers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]