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Tactile sensing is currently a research hotspot in the fields of intelligent perception and robotics. The method of converting external stimuli into electrical signals for sensing is a very effective strategy. Herein, we proposed a self-powered, flexible, transparent tactile sensor integrating sliding and proximity sensing (SFTTS). The principle of electrostatic induction and contact electrification is used to achieve tactile response when external objects approach and slide. Experiments show that the material type, speed, and pressure of the perceived object can cause the changes of the electrical signal. In addition, fluorinated ethylene propylene (FEP) is used as the contact electrification layer, and indium tin oxide (ITO) is used as the electrostatic induction electrode to achieve transparency and flexibility of the entire device. By utilizing the transparency characteristics of this sensor to integrate with optical cameras, it is possible to achieve integrated perception of tactile and visual senses. This has great advantages for applications in the field of intelligent perception and is expected to be integrated with different types of optical sensors in the future to achieve multimodal intelligent perception and sensing technology, which will contribute to the intelligence and integration of robot sensing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper provides a comprehensive overview of policies and incentives aimed at promoting high-temperature heat pumps (HTHPs) globally. It examines the various strategies employed by different countries to encourage the adoption of HTHPs, highlighting both the opportunities and the barriers encountered in these efforts. The analysis includes a review of financial incentives, regulatory measures, and technological initiatives designed to facilitate the integration of HTHPs into industrial applications. By describing different approaches across regions, this paper identifies best practices and potential pitfalls, offering a nuanced understanding of how different policy frameworks impact the deployment of HTHPs. Additionally, this paper explores the technological challenges that influence the effectiveness of these policies. The findings underscore the critical role of supportive policies in overcoming technical and economic barriers, ultimately fostering the widespread use of HTHPs as a viable solution for reducing industrial emissions and advancing global decarbonization goals. Furthermore, utilizing electricity from renewable energy sources (RESs), HTHPs can also contribute to grid stability by reducing electricity peaks. This aspect enhances the integration of RESs into the energy mix, creating a more resilient grid and optimizing energy consumption patterns in industrial applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Against the backdrop of automobile electrification, an increasing number of battery-swapping stations for electric vehicles have been launched to address the issue of slow battery charging under cold temperature conditions. However, due to the separation of the discharging and charging processes for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) at swapping stations, and the circulation of batteries across different vehicles and stations, the operating data become fragmented, making it difficult to accurately identify the battery state-of-health (SOH). This study proposes a BiLSTM-Transformer framework that extracts the Constant Voltage Time (CVT) feature using only charging data, enabling the precise estimation of battery capacity degradation. Validation experiments conducted on battery samples under different operating temperatures showed that the model achieved a normalized RMSE of less than 1.6%. In ideal conditions, the normalized RMSE of the estimation reached as low as 0.11%. This model enables SOH estimation without relying on discharge data, contributing to the efficient and safe operation of battery swapping stations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper examines the problem of modeling lithium–sulfur (Li-S) battery discharge dynamics. The importance of this problem stems from the attractive specific energy levels achievable by Li-S batteries, which can be particularly appealing for applications such as aviation electrification. Previous research presents different Li-S battery models, including "zero-dimensional" models that neglect diffusion while using the laws of electrochemistry to represent reduction–oxidation (redox) rates. Zero-dimensional models typically succeed in capturing key features of Li-S battery discharge, including the high plateau, low plateau, and dip point visible in the discharge curves of certain Li-S battery chemistries. However, these models' use of one state variable to represent the mass of each active species tends to furnish high-order models, with many state variables. This increases the computational complexity of model-based estimation and optimal control. The main contribution of this paper is to develop low-order state-space model of Li-S battery discharge. Specifically, the paper starts with a seventh-order zero-dimensional model of Li-S discharge dynamics, analyzes its discharge behavior, constructs phenomenological second- and third-order models capable of replicating this behavior, and parameterizes these models. The proposed models succeed in capturing battery discharge behavior accurately over a wide range of discharge rates. To the best of our knowledge, these are two of the simplest published models capable of doing so. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study presents a novel, multifaceted approach to evaluating decarbonisation technologies by integrating advanced text-mining tools with comprehensive data analysis. The analysis of scientific documents (2011–2021) and mapping 368 technologies from the IEA's Energy Technology Perspectives identified 41 technology domains, including 20 with the highest relevance and occurrence. Domain readiness was assessed using mean Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs) and linked to six decarbonisation pathways. The "Electrification of uses" pathway ranked highest, demonstrating significant CO2 mitigation potential and high readiness (mean TRL 7.4, with two-thirds of technologies scoring over 7) despite challenges in hard-to-electrify sectors. The findings provide actionable insights for policymakers, highlighting the need for pathway-specific strategies, a deeper understanding of synergies between pathways, and balancing innovation with deployment to accelerate decarbonisation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A huge variety of chemical commodities are built from propylene molecules, and its conventional production technologies (naphtha steam cracking and fluid catalytic cracking) are unable to satisfy C3H6's increasing requirements. In this scenario, Direct Propane Dehydrogenation (PDH) provides a practical and reliable route for supplying this short demand due to the economic availability of the raw material (C3H8) and the high propylene selectivities. The main challenges of propane dehydrogenation technology are related to the design of very active catalysts with negligible byproduct formation. In particular, the issue of catalyst deactivation by coke deposition still requires further development. In addition, PDH is a considerable endothermic reaction, and the efficiency of this technology is strictly related to heat transfer management. Thus, this current review specifically discusses the recent advances in highly dispersed bimetallic and trimetallic catalysts proposed for the PDH reaction in both conventional-heated and microwave-heated reactors. From the point of view of catalyst development, the recent research is mainly addressed to obtain nanometric and single-atom catalysts and core–shell alloys: atomically dispersed metal atoms promote the desorption of surface-bonded propylene and inhibit its further dehydrogenation. The discussion is focused on the alternative formulations proposed in the last few years, employing active species and supports different from the classical Pt-Sn/Al2O3 catalyst. Concerning the conventional route of energy-supply to the catalytic bed, the advantage of using a membrane as well as fluidized bed reactors is highlighted. Recent developments in alternative microwave-assisted dehydrogenation (PDH) employing innovative catalytic systems based on silicon carbide (SiC) facilitate selective heating of the catalyst. This advancement leads to improved catalytic activity and propylene selectivity while effectively reducing coke formation. Additionally, it promotes environmental sustainability in the ongoing electrification of chemical processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sub-Saharan Africa, especially its rural areas, faces significant challenges in achieving universal electrification despite its abundant renewable energy resources. The region has the highest population without access to electricity, largely due to economic, infrastructural, and geographical barriers. Energy poverty is a critical issue that hinders sustainable development and exacerbates inequalities. Namibia's sustainable energy policy aligns with the global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 7, which aims to provide affordable and reliable modern energy access for all. The policy emphasizes mini-grids and decentralized power systems as key strategies for rural electrification. However, despite increased deployment of mini-grids, these solutions often struggle with long-term sustainability. This research explores cost-effective electrification strategies through scenario-based modeling to reduce energy poverty and expand energy access in Namibia's rural communities, focusing on the existing mini-grids in Tsumkwe and Gam. Using a comprehensive methodology that incorporates HOMER Pro for mini-grid capacity expansion and MS Excel for evaluating main-grid extensions, this study aims to identify the most feasible and economical electrification solutions. The analysis compares electricity supply, total net present cost, and the levelized cost of electricity across these systems. The findings will offer insights into addressing energy poverty in Namibia and provide recommendations for sustainable and scalable rural electrification across Sub-Saharan Africa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) has shown exponential growth in recent years, with expectations for further development in the years to come. With such significant expansion, efforts and incentives are shifting from EV sales to projects aimed at expanding charging station infrastructure. In order to sustain this growing trend, a reliable and robust charging infrastructure is needed. However, the entire process of planning, designing, and constructing fixed charging stations (FCSs) is time-consuming and expensive. In this scenario, mobile charging stations (MCSs) offer a complementary solution to ensure the necessary reliability for the improvement of EV owners' experiences in the electrified transportation sector, as they help reduce range anxiety, peak-hour costs, and waiting times. In this sense, this paper aims to disseminate the state-of-the-art research and studies on MCSs, covering topics such as architectures, standards, converter topologies, and market solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents PLEXOS modelling of the Nordic and Baltic low-carbon electricity market until 2030, using a total of 35 different weather years' (1982–2016) ERAA profiles as inputs for the modelling and focusing on the occurrence of severe electricity scarcity situations in Finland, analyzing their duration and depth. The expected development of generation and demand is modelled based on available authoritative sources, such as ENTSO-E TYNDP and national projections. The present amount of nuclear power in Finland and growing amounts of wind and solar generation across the Nordic electricity system are modelled. This study analyzes scarcity situations by calculating residual loads and the expected electricity spot market prices assuming the different weather years with the generation fleet and demand in 2024 and 2030 scenarios. This study finds that, despite the very significantly growing amount of variable renewable generation (42.5 TWh/a increase in wind generation from 2024 to 2030 in Finland only), the frequency and severity of scarcity situations will increase from 2024 to 2030. The main reasons are the retirement of Combined Heat and Power plants and the transition to more electrified district heating in Finland and the expected demand growth. The findings indicate that without further measures Finland is not sufficiently prepared for cold winter periods with high heating and electricity demand and events of serious scarcity can occur. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Substituting the traditional fuel combustion heating mode in hydrogen production reactors with electric heating demonstrates a significant potential for reducing carbon dioxide emissions. An Ni/Al2O3/Ceramic Foam Electric Heating Catalyst was created using a replication template method and a slurry method. On a reactor with dimensions of Φ25 × 800 mm, the differences in the heating rate, axial temperature variance, radial temperature variance, and energy consumption between internal and external heating were analyzed. The results show that: (1) By optimizing the structure of the electric heating wires, the temperature uniformity in the catalyst is enhanced; (2) At 650 °C, 3000 h−1, and S/C = 3, compared to traditional granular catalysts, the internal electric heating reduces the axial temperature variance by 69.4% and the radial temperature variance by 95%; and (3) Achieving a temperature of 650 °C using electric heating only requires 23 min, resulting in a 56.82% reduction in energy consumption compared to external heating. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electrification of private cars is a key mechanism for reducing transport emissions and achieving net zero. Simultaneously, the development of public electric vehicle (EV) charging networks is essential for an equitable transition to EVs. This paper develops and analyses an extensive, nationally representative dataset of EV-charging sessions taking place on a key public charging network in Scotland between 2022 and 2024 to gain insights that can support the development of public charging infrastructure. Data were collated from 2786 chargers and analysed to establish a detailed characterisation of the network's organisation and utilisation. The network considered is government-owned and was fundamental to the Scottish rollout of public chargers. Key insights from our analysis of the developed dataset include quantified disparities between urban and rural charger use-time behaviours, with the most rural areas tending to have charging activity more concentrated towards the middle of the day; an analysis of the numbers of deployed chargers in areas of greater/lesser deprivation; utilisation disparities between charger technologies, with 35% of slower chargers being used at least once daily compared to 86% of rapid/ultra-rapid chargers; and demonstration that charging tariff introductions resulted in a 51.3% average decrease in sessions. The implications of our findings for policy and practice are also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Global warming and CO2 emissions have become increasingly pressing concerns, with the aviation industry contributing significantly to these issues. In response, efforts have been made to develop environmentally sustainable aviation solutions. This paper examines the Direct Operating Costs (DOCs) of the Wright Spirit, one of the options for electric flight, compared to the conventional BAe 146 on which the Wright Spirit is based. Utilising methodologies adapted from previous studies (largely the AEA method), the analysis investigates various factors influencing DOC including battery prices, flight duration, and charging time. The results indicate a 73% increase in overall DOCs from the BAe 146 to the Wright Spirit, largely influenced by battery costs and lifespan. However, an 83% reduction in fuel/energy costs suggests the potential viability of the Wright Spirit, particularly with anticipated reductions in battery prices. For instance, a quartering of battery prices could result in a GBP 5 increase in costs for 1 h flights; compared to the BAe 146. Moreover, the analysis finds the battery lifespan and charging time to be the most important factors to control in order to increase commercial feasibility. Ticket price comparisons suggest that the Wright Spirit's costs align closely with current market prices, with a flight from Paris to Heathrow predicted to cost the airline GBP 136.10 per passenger. Future research could explore alternative electric aircraft designs to further assess their impact on DOCs and ticket prices [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article addresses the developing of a framework to obtain specific GHG emissions for the railway system and proposes mitigation strategies. To achieve this purpose, a comprehensive life cycle assessment (LCA) method was employed with input data from various sources to analyze the contribution of energy consumption and the emissions of the railway system. This paper included gathering data from an infrastructure operation and maintenance for detailed GHG emissions impact. This study also presents a comparative analysis of the GHG emissions in different urban railway transportation systems in Northeast Brazil, providing valuable contextual insights. As a result of the combination of total GHG emissions analysis from the states of the Northeast Brazil railway system, a total of 11,996.11 metric tons of CO2 equivalent (tCO2e) was estimated. The main line traction was a prominent source of the greenhouse gas footprint, especially for the diesel traction systems at Paraiba. The proposed framework shows that significant environmental benefits can be realized with proper decision-making to increase the number of passengers–kilometer transported by rail. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The decarbonization of industrial process heat is one of the bigger challenges of the global energy transition. Process heating accounts for about 20% of final energy demand in Germany, and the situation is similar in other industrialized nations around the globe. Process heating is indispensable in the manufacturing processes of products and materials encountered every day, ranging from food, beverages, paper and textiles, to metals, ceramics, glass and cement. At the same time, process heating is also responsible for significant greenhouse gas emissions, as it is heavily dependent on fossil fuels such as natural gas and coal. Thus, process heating needs to be decarbonized. This review article explores the challenges of decarbonizing industrial process heat and then discusses two of the most promising options, the use of electric heating technologies and the substitution of fossil fuels with low-carbon hydrogen, in more detail. Both energy carriers have their specific benefits and drawbacks that have to be considered in the context of industrial decarbonization, but also in terms of necessary energy infrastructures. The focus is on high-temperature process heat (>400 °C) in energy-intensive basic materials industries, with examples from the metal and glass industries. Given the heterogeneity of industrial process heating, both electricity and hydrogen will likely be the most prominent energy carriers for decarbonized high-temperature process heat, each with their respective advantages and disadvantages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The transition towards sustainable energy systems is a key challenge faced by society. Among the different sectors, road transport becomes one of the most difficult due to the large energy consumption and infrastructure requirements. In this context, although zero-tailpipe-emission vehicle adoption is seen as a promising route, the energy provision through renewable sources is still uncertain, especially with hydrogen. This paper explores a 100% renewable energy supply scenario for both power-generation and road transport sectors in the isolated system of Tenerife. With this aim, the island's energy system has been modelled in the software EnergyPLAN. Taking as reference the current renewable technology roadmap in the island, the impact of a full deployment of zero-tailpipe-emission vehicles on the energy system has been evaluated, providing the power and energy storage capacity requirements. The obtained results indicate the need for 6 GW of renewable power (nearly 20 times the current figures) and 12 GWh of a yet non-existent storage capacity. This deployment must be accompanied with approximately 1 GW of dispatchable sources and 1.3 GW of electrolysis capacity to carry out a complete decarbonisation of the transport sector in the island. Finally, a series of recommendations to policy makers are suggested to support the definition of future roadmaps. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Remotely sensed nighttime light data have become vital for electrification mapping in data-scarce regions. However, uncertainty persists regarding the veracity of these electrification maps. This study investigates how characteristics of electrified areas influence their detectability using nighttime lights. Utilizing a dataset comprising the locations, installation date, and electricity purchase history of thousands of electric meters and transformers from utilities in Rwanda and Kenya, we present a systematic error assessment of electrification maps produced with nighttime lights. Descriptive analysis is employed to offer empirical evidence that the likelihood of successfully identifying an electrified nighttime light pixel increases as characteristics including the time since electrification, the number of meters within a pixel, and the total annual electricity purchase of meters in a pixel increase. The performance of models trained on various temporal aggregations of nighttime light data (annual, quarterly, monthly, and daily) was compared, and it was determined that aggregation at the monthly level yielded the best results. Additionally, we investigate the transferability of electrification models across locations. Our findings reveal that models trained on data from Rwanda demonstrate strong transferability to Kenya, and vice versa, as indicated by balanced accuracies differing by less than 5% when additional data from the test location are included in the training set. Also, models developed with data from the centralized grid in East Africa were found to be useful for detecting areas electrified with off-grid systems in West Africa. This research provides valuable insight into the characterization of sources of nighttime lights and their utility for mapping electrification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the key issues confronting modern greenhouses is the need to supply the necessary energy in an environmentally friendly manner to facilitate heating and cooling processes within greenhouses. Solar radiation entering the greenhouse during the day can sometimes be more than the energy demand of the greenhouse. In contrast, there are cases where the greenhouse must dissipate a significant amount of heat, absorbed over a long period, either naturally or forcibly, during the cooling process. Moreover, the system's efficiency could be enhanced if there is a mechanism capable of capturing heat expelled during greenhouse cooling and redistributing it on demand. Employing thermal energy storage is critical for maintaining stable temperatures, assuring energy efficiency, encouraging sustainability, and enabling year-round production. This technique ensures a safe environment for crops and eliminates temperature fluctuations inside the greenhouse. Nocturnal thermal energy storage, storing thermal energy during the daytime for later use at night, is essential to managing a contemporary greenhouse because it promotes consistent crop growth, sustainability, and profitability, particularly in areas with severe winters and significant day-to-night temperature variations. This work reviews various types of thermal energy storage systems employed in previous works focusing on greenhouse applications by researchers and categorizes them based on efficient factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The challenge of providing reliable electricity during power interruptions, especially in rural and remote regions, has prompted the exploration of Hybrid Renewable Energy Systems (HRESs). This systematic review employs the PRISMA framework to conduct a comparative analysis of HRES configurations, specifically those integrating rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV), diesel generators (DGs), converters, and battery energy storage systems (BESSs). This review assesses the techno-economic performance of these systems in various countries, highlighting the cost efficiency, reliability, and environmental impact compared to traditional single-resource systems. The analysis reveals that HRESs offer significant advantages in managing energy supply during power interruptions, particularly in regions with high solar potential but unreliable grid access. A comparative analysis with other countries demonstrates that while HRES configurations are tailored to local conditions, the integration of solar PV with diesel generators is a consistently effective strategy across different contexts. This review provides essential insights for policymakers and stakeholders, facilitating the optimization of energy solutions tailored to regional needs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of electric vehicle fleets is an important element of today's economic, social, and ecological development. This multidimensional sustainable process, although not easy, generates many tangible benefits for various stakeholders, ranging from environmental to financial and competence issues. Despite the fact that the phenomenon of transformation toward rational energy management is gaining momentum on a global scale, there is a significant disproportion in terms of development levels depending on the origin of the economy. The aim of this research article is to identify the key factors affecting the development of fleet electrification in the transport, shipping, and logistics (TSL) sector in Poland. Based on a literature review, a fleet development framework was developed using a PESTEL (political, economic, social, technological, environmental, and legal) analysis and evaluated by TSL companies. According to the conclusions drawn, the most important stimulants are economic factors and technological factors, which limit the development of electrified transport fleets in the TSL industry. Based on this, the authors propose various solutions to improve economic profitability and technological conditions. In addition, it was found that the attitudes of the decision makers at transport companies and cooperation within the TSL sector are also important. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Australia aims to achieve net zero emissions by 2050, with an interim target of reducing emissions to 43% below 2005 levels by 2030. Electrification of industry processes currently reliant on fossil fuels is a necessary step to achieve these emission reduction goals. This study investigates electrification of steam generation relevant to major industrial operations in the southwest of Western Australia using different renewable energy input levels. The designed system incorporates thermal storage to ensure continuous steam generation. The optimized technology mix, including wind, PV, and concentrated solar thermal (CST) systems for each renewable energy input target, is presented. The optimization process also identifies optimal locations for new renewable energy plants. In summary, the optimization tends towards favouring the development of large CST plants near a demand point. This avoids the use of the transmission network by direct use of the CST system for heating of the storage media, to address the costs and efficiency reductions arising from electrical heating, but the scope of CST use is expected to be limited by site constraints. The levelized cost of heat (LCOH) for the studied renewable energy input targets (i.e., 30–90%) ranges from 15.34 to 36.92 AUD/GJ. This is promising for the 30% renewable energy target, as future natural gas prices in Western Australia are likely to match or exceed the expected LCOH. Cost reductions for renewable generation and storage technologies with further implementation at a large scale in the future may result in more competitive LCOH at higher decarbonization levels, but it is likely that additional technologies will be required for cost competitiveness at very high decarbonization levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate change originating from anthropogenic activities is a key challenge of our time, with unsustainable mobility patterns representing one of the main contributors to polluting emissions in the atmosphere. The situation is particularly critical in urban areas, where traditional mobility paradigms based on private mobility and endothermic vehicles lead to road congestion, environmental degradation, health issues, and economic loss. Many policies are being implemented worldwide to support the envisaged transition to cleaner mobility paradigms, like the EU Fit for 55 Package, which is bound to ban sales of gasoline- and diesel-powered vehicles by 2035. In this context, electrification emerges as the most promising alternative, although battery electric vehicles represent a growing yet small niche, and the market is still expressing many concerns. Through a case study of Italy, a country with a strong automotive tradition and severe air pollution in urban centers, this research investigates consumer attitudes and barriers to electric vehicle adoption, providing crucial insights for future policy and market strategies. This study consists of a survey-based empirical investigation (N = 1533). The findings suggest that skepticism is still strong and requires a joint effort (carmakers, government, media) to frame sound communicational strategies and policies addressing market apprehensions about actual environmental performance, economic convenience, range anxiety, and availability of adequate charging infrastructures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electric vehicle technology is transitioning from mobility based on fossil fuel combustion to one based on vehicle electrification, in which the primary energy is increasingly renewable, and the generation of pollutants and CO2 emissions is being reduced. This paper provides a tour of the key aspects of these systems, reviewing their most important historical, legislative, and grid impact topics. For this purpose, a literature review of publications up to 2022 is conducted. The last decade is the subject of a deeper analysis, shedding light on the essential characteristics of this technology and fundamentally focusing on its integration into electrical distribution networks. This work is carried out based on a review of a selection of articles written by authors worldwide who have researched these topics. We ordered and analyzed the temporal evolution of the defined categories, obtaining their research line direction. A meta-analysis of grid impact was also carried out, prompting clear conclusions about the state of the art and potential future works. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Swarm electrification-driven communities face significant challenges, including implementing advanced distributed control in areas with limited ICT access and establishing trust among villagers hesitant to grant access to their assets. This paper proposes a distributed DC microgrid architecture for P2P energy exchange in these communities, ensuring stability and an effective exchange operation. By implementing a Blockchain marketplace specifically designed to suit the rural context, the proposed architecture ensures tracing of exchange transactions to fairly settle participants. Validation experiments demonstrate its efficacy in achieving peak shaving. It provides 11% of the requester's total demand from the community even while maintaining the constraint of reducing discharge–charge cycles to one per day, thereby preserving battery life. Additionally, the solution reduces prosumer production losses by 16% of the total PV production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biogas has emerged as a valid feedstock for biomethanol production from steam reforming. This study investigates an alternative layout based on an auto-thermal electrified reforming assuming a 1 MW equivalent anaerobic digestion plant as a source for methanol synthesis. The process considers an oxy-steam combustion of biogas and direct carbon sequestration with the presence of a reverse water–gas shift reactor to convert CO2 and H2 produced by a solid oxide electrolyzer cell to syngas. Thermal auto-sufficiency is ensured for the reverse water–gas shift reaction through the biogas oxy-combustion, and steam production is met with the integration of heat network recovery, with an overall process total electrical demand. This work compares the proposed process of electrification with standard biogas reforming and data available from the literature. To compare the results, some key performance indicators have been introduced, showing a carbon impact of only 0.04 kgCO2/kgMeOH for the electrified process compared to 1.38 kgCO2/kgMeOH in the case of biogas reforming technology. The auto-thermal electrified design allows for the recovery of 66.32% of the carbon available in the biogas, while a similar electrified process for syngas production reported in literature reaches only 15.34%. The overall energy impact of the simulated scenarios shows 94% of the total energy demand for the auto-thermal scenario associated with the electrolyzer. Finally, the introduction of the new layout is taken into consideration based on the country's carbon intensity, proving carbon neutrality for values lower than 75 gCO2/kWh and demonstrating the role of renewable energies in the industrial application of the process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Providing electrical power to ships while they are docked, cold ironing allows ships to turn off their engines and reduces emissions of air pollutants and greenhouse gases. This study identifies and assesses ship and port emissions and analyzes the potential for emission reduction achievable by cold ironing in European ports. It includes (1) a review of the current state of cold ironing in European ports; (2) an analysis of the time spent in ports by ships; (3) a quantification of emissions potentially avoided by means of a larger-scale use of cold ironing in Europe; (4) an estimation of the benefits achievable and the perspective to play a role in meeting emission reduction targets, improving air quality in port cities; (5) an analysis of the challenges and limitations of larger-scale cold ironing implementation; (6) potential solutions to overcome them. The results of this study could have important implications for (a) the shipping industry, which could benefit from the need for additional standardized electrical equipment onboard; (b) port authorities, which could benefit from providing additional services to the ships; (c) policymakers working to reduce emissions and promote energy efficiency, who could better approach their local and global targets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study investigates the incorporation of renewable rooftop photovoltaic systems in fully electrified residential buildings and estimates the zero-energy demand building potential in relation to the climatic data of Greece. Specifically, the aim of the analysis is to calculate the maximum possible number of stories and therefore the total building height for a complete transformation to zero-net-energy building. The energy analysis, which is conducted using the DesignBuilder software, focuses on single-floor up to seven-story buildings. The importance of the present work lies in the acknowledgment of the diversity of the Greek residential sector, the adherence to national energy policies, and the European goal of fully electrified buildings. The examined case studies are equipped with electrically driven air-to-air heat pumps serving the space heating and cooling demands and with an air-to-water heat pump covering the domestic hot water requirements. The investigated locations are the four main cities of Greece, Athens, Thessaloniki, Chania, and Kastoria, which represent the country's four climatic categories. The conducted analysis allows for the mapping of the zero-energy building potential for the climatic data of Greece, demonstrating the possibility of striking a positive building energy balance through the integration of on-site renewable energy sources and the production of necessary electrical energy. The novelty of the present work lies in the identification of a key factor, namely, the building height, which determines the feasibility of transforming multifamily buildings into zero-energy buildings. According to the analysis results, the critical number of stories is calculated at six for Chania, five for Athens, four for Thessaloniki, and two for Kastoria. Regarding a three-story residential building, the incorporation of a renewable photovoltaic system can result in an annual surplus electricity production of 13,741 kWh (Chania), 10,424 kWh (Athens), and 6931 kWh (Thessaloniki), and a corresponding coverage of 100% (Chania), 69.0% (Athens), 38.9% (Thessaloniki) and 0% (Kastoria). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Growing environmental concerns have prompted the shipping industry to adopt stringent measures to address greenhouse gas emissions, with fuel-powered ships being the primary source of such emissions. Additionally, alternative forms of ship propulsion, such as internal combustion engine hybridization, low-carbon fuels, and zero-carbon fuels, face significant challenges either in terms of cost or emission-reduction capability at present. In order to decarbonize navigation, countries are focusing the maritime industry's transition towards low-carbon alternatives on transforming energy consumption, with widespread attention on the electrification of ships. Therefore, this paper provides a comprehensive review of the feasibility of fully electrifying ships, covering aspects such as technological prospects, economic viability, and emission-reduction capabilities. Firstly, the current state of research on ship electrification technology is summarized; the applicability of different battery types to electric ship technology is compared. Subsequently, the economic viability and emission-reduction capabilities of five different electric ship lifecycles are discussed separately. The results indicate that ship electrification is a key pathway to achieving zero-emission shipping, with lithium-ion batteries being the most suitable battery technology for maritime use currently. Short-to-medium-range electric ship types have demonstrated economic advantages over traditional diesel ships. As battery costs continue to decline and energy density keeps improving, the economic feasibility of ship electrification is expected to expand. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Progress in numerical models and improved computational capabilities have significantly advanced our comprehension of how aerosol particles impact thunderstorm clouds. Yet, much of this research has focused on employing bulk microphysics models to explain the impacts of aerosol particles acting as cloud condensation nuclei (CCN) on electrical activities in thunderstorm clouds. The bulk thunderstorm models use mean sizes of particles and terminal-fall velocities. This causes calculation deviation in the electrification simulation, which in turn leads to deviations in the simulation of lightning processes. Developing this further, we established a three-dimensional high-resolution cloud–aerosol bin thunderstorm model with electrification and lightning to provide more accurate microphysics and dynamic fields for studying electrical activities. For evaluating the impacts of aerosol particles, specifically CCN, on the properties of continental thunderclouds, aerosols from both clean and polluted continental environments were selected. Cloud simulations indicate that droplets develop a narrower spectrum in polluted continental conditions, and weakened ice crystal growth increases the number of small ice crystals compared to clean conditions. Smaller droplets and ice crystals result in less effective riming and decreased graupel concentration and mass. Consequently, a significant decrease in large ice particles leads to a weakened process of charge separation under conditions of pollution. As a direct result, there is about a 43% reduction in lightning frequency and a delay of approximately 5 min in the lightning process under polluted conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Decarbonizing fossil-fuel usage is crucial in mitigating the impacts of climate change. The burning of fossil fuels in boilers during industrial process heating is one of the major sources of CO2 in the industry. Electrification is a promising solution for decarbonizing these boilers, as it enables renewable energy sources to generate electricity, which can then be used to power the electric boilers. This research develops a user-driven simulation model with realistic data and potential temperature data for a location to estimate boilers' current energy and fuel usage and determine the equivalent electrical boiler capacity and energy usage. A simulation model is developed using the Visual Basic Application (VBA)® and takes factors such as current boiler capacity, steam temperature and pressure, condensate, makeup water, blowdown, surface area, and flue gas information as input. Random numbers generate the hourly temperature variation for a year for discrete-event Monte Carlo Simulation. The simulation generates the hourly firing factor, energy usage, fuel usage, and CO2 emissions of boilers for a whole year, and the result compares fossil-fuel and electrical boilers. The simulated data are validated using real system data, and sensitivity analysis of the model is performed by varying the input data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The process integration and electrification concept has significant potential to support the industrial transition to low- and net-zero-carbon process heating. This increasingly essential concept requires an expanded set of process analysis tools to fully comprehend the interplay of heat recovery and process electrification (e.g., heat pumping). In this paper, new Exergy Pinch Analysis tools and methods are proposed that can set lower bound work targets by acutely balancing process heat recovery and heat pumping. As part of the analysis, net energy and exergy load curves enable visualization of energy and exergy surpluses and deficits. As extensions to the grand composite curve in conventional Pinch Analysis, these curves enable examination of different pocket-cutting strategies, revealing their distinct impacts on heat, exergy, and work targets. Demonstrated via case studies on a spray dryer and an evaporator, the exergy analysis targets net shaft-work correctly. In the evaporator case study, the analysis points to the heat recovery pockets playing an essential role in reducing the work target by 25.7%. The findings offer substantial potential for improved industrial energy management, providing a robust framework for engineers to enhance industrial process and energy sustainability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The global shift towards sustainable transportation, primarily through vehicle electrification, is critical in addressing climate change. Qatar presents a knowledge gap with specific challenges and opportunities in this transition. This study calculates the potential reduction in CO2-eq, NOx, and PM2.5 emissions resulting from substituting Internal Combustion Engine Vehicles (ICEVs) with Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) in Qatar, considering ICEV ban scenarios in 2030, 2035, and 2040, alongside five policy pathways. A Vehicle Stock Model (VSM) simulates Qatar's fleet evolution from 2022 to 2050, focusing on the vehicle's operational phase. An ICEV ban in 2030 would result in a 34% cumulative emission reduction in road transport between 2022 and 2050 compared with the Business-as-Usual (BAU) scenario. For NOx and PM2.5, cumulative emissions for the 2030 ICEV ban pathways are approximately 20% and 9% lower, respectively, compared with BAU. This study underscores the necessity of localising environmental strategies to meet Qatar's specific needs and climate commitments, where results indicate significant emission reductions are possible through BEVs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ongoing electrification of the transport sector is expected to cause an increase in electricity demand and, therefore, trigger significant network investments to accommodate it. This paper focuses on investment decision-making for electricity distribution grids and specifically on the strategic and incremental investment network planning approaches. In particular, the former involves network planning with the consideration of a long-term multi-stage study horizon, as opposed to a shorter–term view of the future that applies to the latter case. An investment analysis that is carried out underlines the economic savings generated from adopting a strategic investment perspective over an incremental one. These economic savings are achieved from the fact that the associated fixed investment costs are incurred only once in the horizon under strategic planning. On the other hand, incremental planning involves a series of network reinforcement decisions, thereby incurring the fixed cost multiple times. In addition, sensitivity analyses that are carried out capture the effect of key parameters, such as investment cost, discount rate and investment delay, on the generated economic savings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The natural gas (NG)-powered compressors/engines used in liquified natural gas (LNG) plants are a major source of methane emission. The Allam–Fetvedt cycle (AFC), an oxyfuel, carbon-neutral, high-efficiency power plant, generates pipeline-grade CO2. This work performed novel process modeling, economic analysis, and greenhouse gas emissions analysis for a heat-integrated, electrified LNG/AFC/air separation unit (ASU) complex (LAA), then compared it to standalone LNG and AFC/ASU plants (baseline) as well as an LNG plant electrified with AFC/ASU without heat integration. The low-grade heat generated from compressors of the LNG plant can enhance the AFC net power output by 7.1%. Utilizing the nitrogens cold energy reduces the compressor power requirement by 1.6%. In the integrated LAA complex, not only are GHG emissions avoided, but the energy efficiencies are also improved for both the LNG plant and the AFC power plant. A cash flow analysis of LAA was performed over a 20-year period with 5%, 7%, and 10% discount rates and three levels of LNG prices. The 45Q CO2 credit of USD 85/T as stipulated by the recent Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) of 2022 has been incorporated. The results clearly indicate the economic and environmental benefits of the proposed electrification and heat/power integration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Most studies on industrial heat decarbonization by electrification focus on energy and greenhouse gas emissions. However, there are additional potential environmental impacts to be considered to make a fair comparison. The aim of the proposed work is therefore to highlight the benefits and drawbacks of switching to electricity, using life cycle assessment (LCA) methodology to explore more environmental issues. In addition, in order to evaluate the environmental sustainability of this transformation, the LCA results are compared with sustainability thresholds defined with two different methods, on a global scale using the "sustainable levels" concept. The first method is based on the current environmental impacts of industrial processes, while the second considers the economic added value. Industrial heat production levels for the Danish and French food industries are used as case studies. The results show a large number of environmental trade-offs associated with electrification, some of which are leading to unsustainable levels. Sustainability thresholds based on economic added value ensure a fairer distribution between sectors, in particular by preventing the most virtuous sectors and processes from being penalized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The accuracy requirements for short-term power load forecasting have been increasing due to the rapid development of the electric power industry. Nevertheless, the short-term load exhibits both elasticity and instability characteristics, posing challenges for accurate load forecasting. Meanwhile, the traditional prediction model suffers from the issues of inadequate precision and inefficient training. In this work, a proposed model called IWOA-CNN-BIGRU-CBAM is introduced. To solve the problem of the Squeeze-and-Excitation (SE) attention mechanism's inability to collect information in the spatial dimension effectively, the Convolutional Block Attention Module (CBAM) is firstly introduced as a replacement. This change aims to enhance the ability to capture location attributes. Subsequently, we propose an improved Whale Optimization Algorithm (IWOA) that addresses its limitations, such as heavy reliance on the initial solution and susceptibility to local optimum solutions. The proposed IWOA is also applied for the hyperparameter optimization of the Convolutional Neural Network–Bidirectional Gated Recurrent Unit–Convolutional Block Attention Module (CNN-BiGRU-CBAM) to improve the precision of predictions. Ultimately, applying the proposed model to forecast short-term power demand yields results that show that the CBAM effectively addresses the problem of the SE attention mechanism's inability to capture spatial characteristics fully. The proposed IWOA exhibits a homogeneous dispersion of the initial population and an effective capability to identify the optimal solution. Compared to other models, the proposed model improves R2 by 0.00224, reduces the RMSE by 18.5781, and reduces MAE by 25.8940, and the model's applicability and superiority are validated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article proposes a particular strategy to proceed with a progressive electrification of public transport systems in cities. Starting from a bus operation model, the possible electrification of two routes is analyzed, one urban and another extra-urban in the city of Pisa. An estimate is made of the energy uses associated with certain operating modes. The maximum level of consumption is estimated at approximately 280 kWh per day per bus for the urban route and excluding some special days, less than 215 kWh per day for the extra-urban route, for which a hybrid bus is proposed. Starting from an estimate of the daily consumption for the management of the two routes, the sizing of a photovoltaic (PV) plant distributed on some modular shelters which serves to power the same routes, is carried out. The resulting system has a power of the order of 190–200 kW. The modular solution is also outlined, and an installation is proposed. The analyzed case lends itself to being easily replicated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study presents a carbon dioxide (CO2), exhaust particulate matter (PM2.5) and nitrogen oxide (NOx) tailpipe emission analysis of passenger cars in nine countries, representing different world regions up to 2050 using a bottom-up calculation method. A diffusion model is used to analyze the development of different drivetrain/fuel technologies in the respective vehicle stocks of each world region. Drivetrain- and country-specific emission factors are weighted according to the modelled stock compositions. The obtained stock fleets' average emission factors are multiplied by the transport demand in order to obtain the total passenger car emissions. Our findings reveal global passenger car CO2, NOx and PM2.5 emissions decrease by approximately 45%, 63% and 54%, respectively, between 2015 and 2050. Gasoline will remain a significant energy carrier in 2050 with about a 25% stock share. However, electric vehicles will be in the lead, especially after 2040. Additionally, rising transport demand offsets emission reductions in some regions. This study aims to provide global and regional insights into future emissions trends and their driving factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ferry electrification has gained attention in the last decade as a potential path to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This study, conducted by APS LABS at Michigan Technological University for the Mackinac Economic Alliance (MEA) and funded by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), looked at the feasibility and potential benefits of electrification of a particular vessel that is part of a ferry service from Mackinaw City, Michigan, USA, to Mackinac Island, Michigan, USA. The study included a comprehensive analysis of the feasibility of retrofitting the current configuration of the ferry into an all-electric ferry based on the availability of components in today's market. A life-cycle assessment was conducted to compare the emissions between the baseline ferry rebuilt with new internal combustion engines and an all-electric ferry to understand the potential environmental benefits of ferry electrification and find the most sustainable solution for propulsion. The final prong of the three-pronged approach to this project consisted of estimating the difference in expenditures and profits for a rebuilt internal combustion (IC) engine versus electric configurations for a company operating the ferry. The analysis indicated that in the current scenario, electrification of the Mackinac Island ferry is not beneficial, and replacing the ferry's current diesel engines with modern diesel engines is the preferred solution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intelligent transportation systems enhance the potential for sustainable, user-friendly, and efficient transport. By eliminating driver costs, autonomous buses facilitate the redesign of networks, timetables, and fleet structure in a cost-effective manner. The electrification of bus fleets offers the opportunity to further improve the environmental sustainability of transportation networks, but requires adjustments to vehicle schedules due to the limited range and charging requirements. This paper examines the intricate relationship between electrification and autonomous buses. To this end, timetables for autonomous electric buses of different sizes were developed for a real bus route in Aachen, Germany. The resulting electric vehicle scheduling problem was then solved using an adaptive large neighborhood search to determine the number of vehicles needed and the total cost of ownership. By eliminating driver costs, vehicles with lower passenger capacity become much more attractive, albeit at a slightly higher cost. In comparison, the incremental costs of electrification are low if the right approach is taken. Fluctuations in typical passenger numbers can be used to modify timetables and vehicle schedules to accommodate the charging needs of autonomous electric buses. In particular, electric bus concepts with fewer charging stations and lower charging power benefit from adapting the timetable to passenger numbers. The results demonstrate that the specific requirements of electric buses should be considered when adapting networks and timetables in order to design a sustainable transport network. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The push for environmental sustainability has accelerated the acceptance of electric vehicles, as well as the exploration of electrified Non-Road Mobile Machinery. This study emphasizes the challenges of electrifying off-highway machinery, which include the many machinery layouts and the presence of Small- and Medium-sized Enterprises in the market. Recognizing the barriers faced by these companies, this paper shows how modeling and simulation can be effective tools for system integration and control optimization, even when lacking extensive expertise in the topic. However, it emphasizes the need for user-friendly modeling tools and methods adaptable to the operational needs of Small- and Medium-sized Enterprises. This study presents a case study of a retrofitted battery-electric hydraulic material handler. The machinery is simulated using Simscape, and the accuracy of the model is confirmed through experimental validation. By simulating a rational duty cycle, this study proposes two solutions for performance enhancement while maintaining the integrity of the hydraulic system. These solutions offer a balanced compromise between energy consumption and productivity and a novel control algorithm to minimize energy consumption. Most importantly, the two proposed solutions can be easily switched by the operator, which can decide to favor productivity over energy saving based on driving needs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The worldwide commitment to the electrification of road transport will require a broad overhaul of equipment and infrastructure. Heavy-duty trucks account for over one-third of on-road energy use. Electrified roadways (e-Hwys) are an emerging technology where electric vehicles receive electricity while driving via dynamic wireless power transfer (DWPT), which is becoming highly efficient, and can bypass the battery to directly serve the motor. A modeling study was undertaken to compare long-haul trucks on e-Hwys with conventional battery technology requiring off-road recharging to assess the most favorable pathway to electrification. Detailed data taken from on-road driving trips from five diesel transport trucks were obtained for this study. This on-road data provided the simulations with both real-life duty cycles as well as performance targets for electric trucks, enabling an assessment and comparison of their performance on e-Hwys or with fast recharging. Battery-only trucks were found to have lifetimes down to 60% original battery capacity (60% SOH) of up to 9 years with 1600 kWh packs, and were similar to conventional diesel truck performance. On e-Hwys smaller pack sizes in the 500 to 900 kWh capacity range were sufficient for the driving duty, and showed lifetimes upwards of 20 years, comparing favorably to the battery calendar life limit of about 26 years. For a 535 kWh battery pack, an e-Hwy DWPT level of 250 kW was sufficient for a 36 tonne truck to complete all the daily driving as defined by the diesel reference trucks, and reach a battery pack end of life point of 60% SOH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work presents a study of the performance of prime mover and hydraulic implement electrification in a backhoe loader. The results are validated through simulation and experimental tests. The construction and agriculture sector has grown in recent years with the aid of compact non-road mobile machines. However, as is common in fossil fuel-powered vehicles, they significantly contribute to increasing emissions. Previous research has primarily relied on powertrain electrification to address the low-efficiency drawbacks. Notably, compact off-road vehicles comprise implements less discussed in the literature. A hybrid series topology is employed, where the rear implement is driven by an electrical drive and the Diesel engine is coupled to a generator. A rule-based energy management strategy is applied. The operation of the Diesel engine and electrical machines in optimal points of the efficiency maps are the basis of the analysis. The design is validated using simulations and experimental tests in a commercial backhoe loader as a benchmark. Experimental and simulation results obtained from the hybrid series backhoe loader applied to the hydraulic implement show a 33% reduction in fuel consumption, demonstrating the effectiveness of electrification in reducing emissions and fuel consumption of compact non-road mobile machines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The maritime industry is addressing environmental issues, and "cold ironing" offers a promising solution. This method involves supplying ships at port with energy, reducing fossil fuel dependence and emissions, and aiding in global climate change efforts. It is especially important for islands like Lesvos, which suffer from high energy costs and environmental issues due to imported fossil fuel reliance. However, research gaps exist in using renewable energy sources (RES) for cold ironing, mainly due to insufficient data on power needs and lack of monitoring for precise calculations and the very limited applications for the case of non-interconnected islands. This study uses real data from the port of Lesvos to evaluate power requirements for cold ironing and assesses the viability of a wind power park for an electrified port with the novelty and uniqueness of developing the application on a non-interconnected island. It also examines potential CO2 emission reductions. Data from Marine Traffic S.A. were used, considering factors like ship arrivals, hoteling duration, and engine types. This study also includes a simulation using RETScreen software for a 20 MW wind park intended for port operations. The findings show that the monthly energy demand at Mytilene port is around 6118 MWh, with an average power demand of 8.2 MW. The simulated wind park could supply about 72,080 MWh yearly, with a significant surplus (14,956 MWh annually) exportable to the grid. However, demand fluctuations mean the port might need an extra 924 MWh from the main grid. This underscores the need for additional strategies like energy storage and demand–response practices to fully transition to 100% RES-powered operations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electrification is increasing in prevalence due to the importance placed on it for achieving global net zero targets. This has led to the proliferation of electrical mobility, including the wide-scale production of passenger vehicles, personal mobility devices and recent announcements regarding electrically powered aircraft, as well as in energy production. Electrical machines provide a cleaner source of energy during operation in comparison to their traditional fossil-based alternatives. The uncertainty and lack of transparency hanging over these green credentials can be attributed to how these products are manufactured and then disposed of at the end of their life. For them to be a truly sustainable solution, improvements need to be made across their entire life cycle. With the projected increase in their numbers due to the advancement of electrification, this current life cycle is not sustainable, directly opposing the intention of these products. This paper will introduce the current demand and challenges. It will also present these motors broken down into their constituent parts and follow each through their typical lifecycle. This paper presents the typical current life cycle of permanent magnet electrical machines, demonstrating the environmental issues associated with the current linear life cycle, and proposing alternative practices, to ease the environmental burden. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Mediterranean region is a hot spot for climate change, with transportation accounting for a quarter of global CO2 emissions. To meet the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), a sustainable urban transport network is needed to cut carbon emissions and improve air quality. This study aims to investigate the electrification of public transport in both developed and underdeveloped countries by examining the existing public transport network of two modes of transportation (buses and trams) across the Mediterranean region. This study suggests that the electrification of public transportation could result in a significant additional demand for more than 200 GWh of electricity, depending on the size and congestion of the city. It also studies the potential reduction of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions through the electrification of buses. Results show that electrification significantly impacts decreasing GHG emissions, helping achieve SDG 13. Furthermore, a financial analysis was conducted to determine the feasibility of using different bus fuel technologies. Regarding economic benefits, electric buses are not consistently optimal solutions, and diesel buses can be advantageous. Our finding shows that, at a 5% discount rate, the diesel bus is most favorable for Marseille, and, as discount rates increase, the advantage of electric buses diminishes. However, the high purchase price of electric buses compared to diesel buses is currently a major obstacle in achieving SDG 11, particularly for developing countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mining production, being one of the most energy-intensive industries globally, consumes substantial amounts of fossil fuels and contributes to extensive carbon emissions worldwide. The trend toward electrification and advanced developments in battery technology have shifted attention from diesel power to battery alternatives. These alternatives are appealing, as they contribute to decarbonisation efforts when compared to conventional diesel trucks. This paper presents a comprehensive review of recent technological advancements in powertrains for Mining Haulage Truck (MHT). It also compares these configurations based on mining system-level considerations to assess their future potential. The evaluated configurations include Diesel-Electric Truck (DET), Trolley Assist Truck (TAT), Battery-only Truck (BOT), Battery Trolley with Dynamic charging truck (BT-D), and Battery Trolley with Stationary charging truck (BT-S). According to the analysis, the energy demand for on-board diesel or battery power (excluding trolley power) in these alternative options is as follows: DET—681 kWh, BOT—645 kWh, TAT—511 kWh, BT-S—471 kWh, and BT-D—466 kWh. The paper also illustrates the theory of battery size design based on the current battery technology, battery material selection, battery package design, and battery size selection methods. In the case of tailored battery size selection, BOT, BT-D, and BT-S configurations require LiFePO4 (LFP) battery masses of 25 tonnes, 18 tonnes, and 18 tonnes, respectively. Based on a techno-economic assessment of battery MHT alternatives with a future perspective, it has been determined that BT-D requires the lowest amount of on-board battery energy. Furthermore, over a span of 20 years, BT-S has demonstrated the lowest on-board battery cost. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cities play a pivotal role in achieving worldwide carbon neutrality due to their significant contribution to global energy consumption and carbon emissions. Therefore, planning effective strategies and guiding evidence-based policymaking at the city scale becomes even more crucial. Composite indices serve as a valuable tool for monitoring urban energy transition trends. This paper aims to present a novel approach, robust and flexible even under conditions of data scarcity, for tracking the energy transition trend of a city by means of a composite index (UETI). The Turin case study is introduced to test the applicability of the proposed approach. Additionally, to demonstrate the robustness of the composite index framework, the paper includes the findings of correlation and sensitivity analyses. This study reveals a significant improvement in Turin's environmental and energy domains, while the socio-economic domain shows more modest improvement. Furthermore, the study highlights the need to address the shortage of urban data to enhance the accuracy and reliability of metric-based frameworks and to extend the assessment to a larger sample of cities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Contact electrification has attracted interest as a mechanism for generating electrical charges on surfaces. To explore the factors contributing to electrification by droplets impacting the leaf surface, high-speed image capture and current measurements were used to quantitatively characterize the electrical response under different droplet parameters and leaf surface conditions. Upon impact and rebound from the leaf surface, neutral droplets acquire a positive charge. While this electrification phenomenon has been observed previously, there has been limited understanding of the parameters influencing the extent of droplet charging. In this study, we examine the effects of four parameters (droplet size, impact velocity, droplet ion concentration, and various leaf surfaces) on the electrical response signal. The results indicate that this electrification phenomenon is contingent upon the droplet–leaf contact area and droplet ion concentration. We propose a theoretical model based on the electric double layer to elucidate the electrification process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The electrification of transport is expected to progressively replace significant shares of light duty mobility, especially in large cities. The European Alternative Fuel Infrastructure Regulation (AFIR) aims to drive the adoption of electric mobility by establishing specific targets for charging point deployment. Innovative charging concepts may complement and accelerate the uptake of this fundamental part of the urban mobility transition. In this paper, one such innovative concept is described and its potential impact is assessed. The core idea involves integrating charging points into existing city tramway infrastructures. Turin's tramway network is taken as a representative case study. The proposed technical solution encompasses a charging hub powered by four isolated DC/DC converters of 50 kW, directly connected to the DC tramway distribution line. Three of these constitute the heart of a 150 kW charger, while the fourth acts as voltage regulator. This native DC installation greatly simplifies the architecture of the DC chargers. Using a conservative approach, it was estimated that a single recharging station could charge more than 60 vehicles daily. This highly scalable and replicable solution, with the potential for over 100 conversion substations across Italy, would enable the installation of numerous high-power chargers in urban settings. Furthermore, additional benefits could be realized through enhanced recovery of kinetic energy from trams, which is currently dissipated on-board. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The shift to electric transportation is crucial to fighting climate change. However, Germany's goal of 15 million electric vehicles (EVs) by 2030 remains distant. Therefore, enhancing their economic viability is essential to promoting EV adoption. One promising option to increase the economics for the user is PV self-consumption optimization using smart charging EVs. Yet, more research is needed to explore the use case's impacts on the German/European energy systems. Therefore, PV self-consumption optimization using EVs is integrated into an energy system model, assessing its impact on the energy system in 2030. For this purpose, the use case is modeled for different groups of people—personas—which are defined in a way that creates a diverse set of personas reflecting the distribution of different statistical values within Germany. The modified (dis)charging profiles are then aggregated and integrated into the energy system model. With a high implementation of PV self-consumption optimization in Germany in 2030, a positive system effect (with a system cost reduction of 53 million EUR/a) can be observed with a lower need for further storage and less curtailment of renewable energies (RES). Furthermore, the market values for RES increase by 0.7%, which fosters the integration of RES. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]