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This paper considers two pertinent research inquiries: 'Can an AI-based predictive framework be utilised for the optimisation of solar energy management?' and 'What are the ways in which the AI-based predictive framework can be integrated within the Smart Grid infrastructure to improve grid reliability and efficiency?' The study deploys a Deep Learning model based on Long Short-Term Memory techniques, leading to refined accuracy in solar electricity generation forecasts. Such an AI-supported methodology aids power grid operators in comprehensive planning, thereby ensuring a robust electricity supply. The effectiveness of this framework is tested using performance metrics such as MAE, RMSE, nMAE, nRMSE, and $ R^2 $ R 2 . A persistent model is utilised as a reference for comparison. Despite a slight decrease in predictive precision with the expansion of the forecast horizon, the proposed AI-based framework consistently surpasses the persistent model, particularly for horizons beyond two hours. Therefore, this research underscores the potential of AI-based prediction in fostering efficient solar energy management and enhancing Smart Grid reliability and efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A study was carried out to evaluate phytodiversity along with the metal accumulation potential of native plants growing in the vicinity of a thermal power plant (TPP). We documented 26 tree species, six shrubs, and 35 herbs. Importance value index (IVI), which measures the extent to which a species dominates in an area, was found highest for Senna siamea (95.7) followed by Tectona grandis (56.5), and Pithecellobium dulce (19.6). Soil was acidic (pH 5.4) in nature with higher concentrations of Al and Fe. The pH of ground water was found acidic while pH of nearby river was found slightly alkaline. Values of PM2.5 and PM10 were slightly higher than NAAQS standards for industrial areas. The concentration of metals was found higher in aquatic plants than in terrestrial plants. In general, herbs and shrubs showed more metal accumulation potential than trees. Our results suggest that Senna siamea could be used for revegetation purposes in FA landfills. Further, terrestrial and aquatic plants such as Ageratina adenophora and Stuckenia pectinata could be used for reclamation of Mn, Zn, Al, and Fe from contaminated soils. Hydrilla verticillata (Ni and Mn), Nelumbo nucifera, and Ipomoea aquatica (Cr) can be used for metal removal from contaminated water. Novelty statement: The study focuses on the assessment of phytodiversity, soil and water analysis, ambient air quality, and bioaccumulation of heavy metals in plants growing in and around a thermal power plant. The study assumes significance as more than 65% of India's electricity generation is still by coal-fired power plants, having major implications for air, soil, and water pollution. By selecting native plant species adapted to the region, we can enhance biodiversity, restore habitats, and contribute to the overall ecological health of the area surrounding the power plant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Load shifting for existing electric resistance water heaters (EWHs) presents a potential solution to utility challenges caused by the temporal mismatch between solar generation and electricity consumption. A case study in the Florida Power & Light (FPL) territory for both an individual and a fleet of EWHs evaluates this potential. Two optimization problems are solved using mixed-integer linear programming to maximize solar self-consumption and minimize electricity cost for an individual EWH. Compared to default operation, the solar maximization strategy results in nearly twice as much heating electricity from solar (80% vs. 42%) and 14% increased electricity cost based on FPL rates. An energy balance approach shows the aggregate impact of all FPL EWHs on days of peak and minimal load, June 25th and December 3rd. Publicized goals of increased solar capacity by 2030 will cause changes to the FPL net load, total load minus solar generation. The four million EWHs in the territory can stabilize the net load in 2030 as shifting their load causes a 24% decrease in the standard deviation of the predicted load on both dates. These results encourage widespread adoption of retrofit devices that control EWHs based on solar generation profiles and water consumption schedules. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Aotearoa New Zealand electricity sector is undergoing a transition to more distributed electricity generation, largely driven by the private sector. Local actors, however, are increasingly interested in playing a role in the energy transition, and addressing their resilience, with community renewable energy (CRE). These projects often have a wide range of impacts, dependent on the community’s motivations, as well as the design and operation of the project. However, there is a lack of tools that can accurately quantify the impacts derived from CRE projects, and guide communities to build a portfolio of projects. This study used system dynamics modelling to analyse the impacts of CRE projects over a 40-year time span. The Energise Ōtaki community group in Aotearoa New Zealand was used as a case study given their already established CRE project and goals to expand their project portfolio. The system dynamics model showed if the community reinvested 80% of the profits from the first project into a second project would provide the greatest long-term benefit for the community in terms of the impact areas important to them. System dynamics modelling proved a useful tool in evaluating the wide range of impacts, and how they interact. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photo-assisted microbial fuel cells (PMFCs) are novel bioelectrochemical systems that employ light to harvest bioelectricity and efficient contaminant reduction. In this study, the impact of different operational conditions on the electricity generation outputs in a photoelectrochemical double chamber configuration Microbial fuel cell using a highly useful photocathode are evaluated and their trends are compared with the photoreduction efficiency trends. As a photocathode, a binder-free photo electrode decorated with dispersed polyaniline nanofiber (PANI)−cadmium sulphide Quantum Dots (QDs) is prepared here to catalyse the chromium (VI) reduction reaction in a cathode chamber with an improvement in power generation performance. Bioelectricity generation is examined in various process conditions like photocathode materials, pH, initial concentration of catholyte, illumination intensity and time of illumination. Results show that, despite the harmful effect of the initial contaminant concentration on the reduction efficiency of the contaminant, this parameter exhibits a superior ability for improving the power generation efficiency in a Photo-MFC. Furthermore, the calculated power density under higher light irradiation intensity has experienced a significant increase, which is due to an increment in the number of photons produced and an increase in their chance of reaching the electrodes surface. On the other hand, additional results indicate that the power generation decreases with the rise of pH and has witnessed the same trend as the photoreduction efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rapid development of renewable energy technologies and sectoral transformation can open green windows of opportunity for latecomer countries to leapfrog. The present study focuses on analyzing the relationship between the knowledge dimensions of the sectoral innovation system – including localization, diversity, concentration, and originality – and the outcomes of the catching-up process in the renewable energy sector. In this way, we distinguish between successful latecomers and leader countries. The study analyzed data from a panel of 15,600 patents in these countries from 2000 to 2015 and examined the quantitative indexes of knowledge dimensions. To illustrate the outputs of the catching-up process, we use two dependent variables: renewable equipment export and renewable electricity generation. The findings show how the evolution of knowledge dimensions impacts technological catch-up in both leader and successful latecomer countries in different ways. While knowledge localization is crucial in leader countries, latecomer countries benefit from concentration and originality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Deployment of wind and solar electricity technologies is crucial for the energy transition, yet anticipated deployment rates differ widely often underestimating actual deployments. This issue is significant for countries like Aotearoa New Zealand, leading the way in major energy transitions. This study addresses two main issues: the historical underestimation of deployment rates and the need to synthesise various future scenarios to assess their potential impacts on the energy system. To address these problems, an empirical modelling approach based on logistic growth is adopted to create and analyse scenarios for the deployment of solar and wind technologies in New Zealand. We propose two scenarios: a reference growth scenario, which represents prevailing estimations for the deployment of solar and wind from previous forecasts; and a disruptive scenario, which anticipates a more rapid deployment pace. Both scenarios envision phasing out fossil fuels by 2030 but differ in the remaining electricity supply. In the disruptive scenario, the installed electricity generation broadens, in which solar and wind generation could represent 72% of the electricity generation capacity by 2050. Our findings emphasise the transformative potential of rapid wind and solar technologies deployment and highlight the importance of preparing for a disruptive future that challenges conventional expectations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Following the rise of innovation ecosystems (IEs) in various sectors around the world, we observe a corresponding increase in IE-related studies. And while the existing body of knowledge provides a rather solid conceptualisation of the phenomenon and its distinctive characteristics, we still lack an understanding of its structure, the behaviour of participants, governance, and regulation. At the same time, most of the IE-related studies are conducted within developed contexts, which limits the generalizability of available evidence. Our study aims to fill the abovementioned gaps in the literature and makes several contributions. First, our results shed more light on the structure of IE and the role of the focal firm. Second, the study provides important empirical evidence on peculiarities of behaviour among IE participants and the composition of various IEs thus enhancing our understanding of IE development processes. Third, this research provides insights into tactics and governance mechanisms within the studied IEs, therefore, expanding the current body of knowledge on IE governance and regulation. Finally, we complement the existing body of literature with additional empirical evidence from an emerging market context. Results of this study also include valuable empirical implications for managers and policymakers in the context of the expanding IE-related activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates the asymmetric demand for clean energy for a panel of OECD countries. We construct a price index for clean energy based on information on the energy composition of electricity generation, and focus on the possibility of non-symmetric clean and dirty clean consumption due to rising and falling energy prices, and to positive income growth and negative income growth. Using an Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) model that encapsulates both long-run equilibrium among energy demands, energy prices and income, and short-run dynamics. We find evidence that clean energy demand adjusts more aggressively to a price decline than a price rise. In addition, we find that clean energy consumption is more responsive to negative income changes than to positive income changes. A climate policy implication is that policy should account for reversal effect of clean energy consumption during periods of economic downturn. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wind turbines (WT) offer valuable environmentally friendly energy solutions, particularly for electricity generation, owing to their renewable nature. These renewable energy systems (RESs) present an indispensable solution for sites that are not associated with the electrical grid. However, their intermittent power generation, which can be more or less than that required by the load, due to variable wind patterns, poses a challenge. To overcome these weaknesses, the integration of robustly controlled storage systems is a good proposal as it enhances the stability of standalone applications in terms of voltages and powers. In this paper, an intelligent supervisory power control system is developed to manage the different components of the renewable energy generator (REG). A fuzzy logic proportional–integral PI controller is also introduced, in the permanent magnet synchronous generator (PMSG) and the batteries, to better regulate energy, compared to a conventional PI controller. The main objective of this study is to introduce a new control strategy to satisfy the energy requirement of the load. The configuration of the suggested control methodology consists of a fuzzy logic supervisor (FLS) elaborated to manage energy flows, ensuring equilibrium between production and consumption amidst weather and load changes. The presented control method was applied to an autonomous wind battery station, showcasing its ability to maintain energy supply, minimize fluctuations, and enhance stability. Simulation results, executed in MATLAB/Simulink, confirm the effectiveness of the proposed system under various scenarios of wind speed variability and storage system state of charge. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the Markham Valley of Papua New Guinea, a Biomass Energy company is currently transforming the landscape by planting thousands of hectares of eucalyptus trees to offer a 'carbon-neutral' way of electricity generation. The company operates in concert with local Wampar landholders, offering jobs, land rents, and business opportunities. This large-scale land transformation from grassland to eucalyptus forests impacts social relations, especially those regulating access to land, and creates more and novel social conflicts within and between kin groups. By presenting four ethnographic portraits, I show how access to and exclusion from land, jobs and monetary benefits are differentially experienced, and how people negotiate these novel effects of 'intimate exclusion' occurring in their midst. There are clear trends towards alienation and exclusion of some people from land to which they formerly had access. Customary claims to usage rights are abrogated except for the primary owners of the land, and sometimes even members of the landholding lineages are deprived of receiving monetary benefits from these enterprises. Access to land, jobs and business opportunities are now governed mainly by social relations with the main decision-makers and proponents of the eucalyptus project. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microbial fuel cell technology draws attention with its ability to directly recover electrical energy from various organic materials. In this study, the operating conditions affecting the oxidation–reduction and electricity generation efficiency of MFC were optimized using the Taguchi Experimental Design model. Optimization was carried out for maximum power density, coulombic efficiency, azo dye removal, and COD removal. With the determined optimum conditions (cathode pH of 3.0, cathode oxygen status of anaerobic, anode substrate of pre-treated, external resistance of 100 Ω, cathode electrode type of plain carbon, cathode electrode surface of 22 cm2, cathode conductivity of 20 µs/cm), 177.03 mW/m2 power density, 7.50% coulombic efficiency, 91.26% azo dye removal efficiency and 21.61% COD removal efficiency were obtained. By Pareto analysis, it was determined that the power density, coulombic efficiency and COD removal efficiency were most affected by the substrate type at the anode, and the azo dye removal was most affected by the catholyte pH. The maximum power density and internal resistance of the MFC operated under optimum conditions were determined as 145.11 mW/m2 and 243.30 Ω, respectively by the polarization curve. Cyclic voltammetry was also performed for the electrochemical characterization of MFC operated under optimum conditions. An anodic peak at −183.2 mV and a cathodic peak at −181.2 mV was visible in the CV curve. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fossil fuel prices are increasing day by day due to growing demand and resource limitations. This situation shifts conventional electricity generation to renewable power generation. Among renewables, solar photovoltaic (PV) energy is very promising as the third fastest growing one. However, PV system modeling requires the estimation of unknown parameters of PV cells and modules. This problem remains a compelling task due to its multi-dimensional, multi-model and non-linear characteristics. In order to contribute to the solution of this optimization problem, this work makes a detailed comparison of artificial hummingbird algorithm, artificial rabbits optimization, enhanced Jaya algorithm, flow direction algorithm and artificial gorilla troops optimizer for determining the unknown parameters of PV models. Experimental results demonstrate that artificial hummingbird algorithm in single diode modeling of PV cell, flow direction algorithm in double diode modeling of PV cell and artificial rabbits optimization in single diode modeling of PV module are found to be capable of estimating accurate and efficient design coefficients for PV systems. In addition, the mentioned metaheuristic algorithms show reasonable convergence characteristics for the corresponding PV models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The existing literature on the relationship between infrastructure and economic growth is inconclusive. We estimate the effect on GDP of three main categories of infrastructure – transport, electricity, and telecommunications – using data from 87 countries over the period 1992–2017. This study uses more recent data than previous research and includes new types of infrastructure such as mobile phones. Our main estimates use the PMG estimator that allows us to test for the weak exogeneity of the infrastructure variables. The key finding of the study is that an increase in infrastructure, especially electricity generation capacity and telecommunications, has large long-run positive effects on GDP, though the short-run effects are much smaller and are less than zero for roads and railways. Also, the effects of electricity and communication infrastructure are higher relative to the effects of transport infrastructure in developing economies than in industrialized economies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Global concern over socioeconomic activities' environmental impact is undeniable, given their implications for climate and human welfare. In our study, we analyze Pakistan's landscape, with emphasis on the effects of electricity generation and consumption (both symmetric and asymmetric), energy trade, and the role of information and communication technology (ICT). We harnessed data from 1993 to 2020, sourced from World Development Indicators, Climate Watch, and the USA EIA. Our analysis involved application of the Nonlinear Autoregressive Distributed Lag model and the Autoregressive Distributed Lag bounds testing methods. Our results reveal that electricity consumption, whether experiencing positive or negative shocks, exhibits a tendency to elevate emissions over the long term. Similarly, shocks in electricity generation from fossil fuels, whether positive or negative, have adverse environmental consequences both in the short and long run. A negative shock in electricity generation from renewable and alternative sources triggers environmental degradation. Remarkably, nuclear energy plays a pivotal role in bolstering environmental sustainability in Pakistan. Conversely, we identified factors contributing to ecological degradation, including imports of coal, crude oil, metallurgical coke, and ICT usage, in the long run. Equally, trade and natural resources rent emerge as mitigating factors over time. Ultimately, our study underscores the importance of diversifying the energy mix, with a particular emphasis on expanding the renewable sources for reducing emissions and fostering environmental sustainability in Pakistan. Additionally, our research suggests that leveraging natural resources rent and trade capabilities can pave the way for an eco-friendlier future in the country. This study assesses the environmental impact of electricity generation by source, electricity consumption, energy trade, and ICTs in Pakistan. The findings confirm that both positive and negative shocks in fossil fuel electricity generation and consumption detrimentally affect the environment. Coal, crude oil, metallurgical coke imports, and ICTs degrade the environment, while nuclear electricity generation, natural resources rent, and trade improve it. Integrating energy diversification with focus on promoting renewable energy sources has the potential to significantly reduce emissions and advance long-run environmental sustainability. Strategically utilizing natural resources rent and trade capabilities can aid in establishing an environmental sustainability in Pakistan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As electric hot water cylinders (HWCs) have a large capacity for thermal storage, they are well-suited for Demand Side Management (DSM). This paper compares different methods of HWC temperature control and presents a methodology to assess the amount of thermal storage available in HWCs for demand side management based on use behaviour in different household types. Simple stochastic methods for domestic hot water (DHW) demand prediction were employed to design a smart controller that produced lower rates of unmet DHW demand and higher available storage than setpoint and ripple controllers. The average storage available for DSM from the use of this smart controller is predicted to be between 3.63 and 7.20 kWh per household. These results indicate the use of HWCs for thermal storage is a low-cost viable option for peak-shaving of power system load and could decrease power system greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in countries such as Aotearoa New Zealand, where GHG-emitting electricity generation is primarily used to meet peak loads. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Floating photovoltaic (FPV) systems have generated much interest in the literature, due to the potential synergies with existing hydropower reservoirs. This is of particular relevance to Aotearoa New Zealand, where the national grid's heavy reliance on hydro resources has left the country prone to energy shortages during dry years. This paper investigates the potential implications of a 1-gigawatt peak fleet of distributed FPV systems on seven hydro schemes around the country. The results show that an FPV fleet in Aotearoa New Zealand could provide additional electricity generation when the controlled hydropower storage is low. A larger, wider rollout would allow for the reservoirs to replenish after the country's unique winter peak in electricity demand. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PV(photovoltaic) systems have been deployed more in the recent years to support green energy generation. In the recent era, grid tied PV has been sparked by the emergence of the electricity market and offers an alternative solution to traditional fossil fuel-based electricity generation. A few of the potential impacts of solar PV on grid are false tripping of feeders, unwanted tripping, unnecessary islanding, and blind protection. In this research paper, different artificial intelligence techniques are tested in order to overcome the protection challenges. The PSCAD/EMTDC software package is used to analyze a section of the power system, and an algorithm has been constructed using Python v3.8 and MATLAB 2018. On an IEEE-9 BUS power system connected to a PV source, the Artificial Neural Network, Naive Bayes, Support Vector Machine, Random Forest, and Convolution Neural Network (CNN) algorithms are implemented to classify the faults. The suggested methods are proven effective for both in-zone and out-of-zone problems on power lines interconnected with solar park. The proposed techniques have been validated using total 16,320 internal and external fault cases with a wide range of system parameters alteration. In the proposed system, the effectiveness of several machine learning and deep learning techniques is compared. The obtained results demonstrate that CNN provides greater accuracy in the presence of a PV source, but at the same time, it is appropriate for a large number of data sets. The fault classification accuracy acquired is adequate and demonstrates the adaptability of the proposed approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electrical power generation in Oman depends mainly on natural gas, while in rural areas it is based mainly on diesel fuel. Oman has committed to net-zero emissions by 2050, in line with the Paris Agreement's goal of limiting global warming to 1.5°C. The objective of this paper is to propose an optimal energy mix model for electricity generation from various energy sources, such as gas, diesel, wind, and photovoltaic, that considers more renewable sources in the energy mix. The optimization model minimizes various costs such as construction cost, operation cost, fuel cost, and carbon emissions, while satisfying the load demand. In this paper, Masirah Island is selected to perform our analysis. Several scenarios are contemplated, including grid extension to the island. The results found that gas-powered generators with 20% PV and storage are the best option in terms of the levelized cost of electricity. The grid extension is an economically feasible option if the existing load is more than doubled. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As an instrument supporting the realization of EU climate neutrality targets by 2050 and encouraging decarbonization outside its borders, the current proposed Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) is facing opposition from some countries. Focusing on Brazil, this paper evaluates the impacts of the CBAM on the Brazilian economy through a comprehensive analysis of various scenarios based on the potential EU implementation of the CBAM and Brazil's climate scenarios. Results obtained in this research alleviate concerns of detrimental and competitiveness losses from Brazilian industries. Rather, the implementation of the EU CBAM improves the trade balance of Brazil's Energy-Intensive Industries (EII). The relatively low CO2 contents of Brazilian EII are elemental to this result, while contributions of carbon-free technologies in electricity generation are also critical factors in maximizing this trade surplus. Other consequential factors affecting these results are the contributions of CO2 removal from Brazil's forestry of land used, and homogeneity of CBAM-imposed products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A bioelectrochemical reactor is an assembly, which facilitates energy generation and resource recovery using electrochemically active microorganisms. To maximise energy production from wastewater in this bioreactor system special design is required. Therefore, in the present study, continuous flow auto dripping bioelectrochemical reactors (AutoDriBERs) were developed as a single and multi-electrode assembly for urine treatment. Further, their performance was assessed by connecting reactors in series and parallel arrangements. AutoDriBER configured in series connection showed the highest 93.64 ± 1.57% chemical oxygen demand removal rate with the 1.38 ± 0.64 V voltage and 2.54 W m−3 polarisation power density. The optimum flow rate for maximum voltage production was tested with various models i.e. the linear, exponential, Sweibull-1, and Sweibull-2 models to confirm voltage prediction and its validity. The Linear and exponential models were found best fitted for voltage production with R2 value of 0.999. These findings infer a novel approach toward optimisation of the complex, inexpensive and self-sufficient design for electricity generation from energy-rich urine wastewater in rural areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this work was to assess effect of saturated constructed wetland-Microbial fuel cell system on dissolved oxygen gradient, electricity generation and ammonium removal. Two laboratory-scale systems, one planted with Schoenoplectus californicus (SCW1-MFC) and other without plant (SCW2-MFC), were fed discontinuously with synthetic wastewater over 90 days. Both systems were operated at different organic loading rate (12 and 28 g COD/m2d) and ammonium loading rate (1.6 and 3.0 g NH4+– N/m2 d) under open circuit and close circuit mode. The results indicate that between lower and upper zones of wetlands the average values were in the range of 1.22 ± 0.32 to 1.39 ± 0.27 mg O2/L in SCW1-MFC and 1.28 ± 0.24 to 1.56 ± 0.31 mg O2/L in SCW2-MFC. The effect of operating mode (closed and open circuit) and vegetation on DO was not significant (p > 0.05). Chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal efficiencies, fluctuated between 90 and 95% in the SCW1-MFC and 82 and 94% in the SCW2-MFC system. Regarding NH4+- N, removal efficiencies were above 85% in both systems reaching values maximus 98%. The maximum power density generated was 4 and 10 mW/m2 in SCW1-MFC, while SCW2-MFC recorded the highest values (12 and 22 mW/m2). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cr(VI) and p-chlorophenol (4-CP) are common pollutants in the aquatic environment but are difficult to degrade and have complex toxic effects. A downflow Leersia hexandra microbial fuel cell (DLCW-MFC) system was constructed to purify Cr(VI) and 4-CP polluted wastewater, as well as to investigate the effects of different pHs on Cr(VI) and 4-CP removal, electrochemical performance, physiological and biochemical responses, and Cr enrichment status of L. hexandra. The results showed that the DLCW-MFC had the highest Cr(VI) and 4-CP removal rates at pH 6.5, which were 99.0% and 78.6%, respectively. At the same time, 543 mV output voltage and 72.25 mW/m2 power density of the system were generated at pH 6.5, which were better than those at pH 7.4 and pH 5.8. The electrochemical performance result showed that pH 6.5 enhanced charge transfer ability and ion diffusion ability of the system. pH 6.5 also promoted growth and photosynthesis, and enhanced the Cr enrichment capacity (4.56 mg/10 plants) of L. hexandra. These results demonstrate that pH 6.5 was the optimum pH for the DLCW-MFC synchronous treatment of Cr(VI) and 4-CP as well as the generation of electricity. The DLCW-MFC designed in this study will provide a reference for purifying polluted wastewater and generating electricity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to increasing geopolitical tensions and disruption of gas supplies, European countries have been looking for alternatives for electricity generation (EG). As part of this process, one of the most important goals for long-term sustainability is to ensure carbon neutrality. Therefore, this study analyzes time, frequency, and quantile-based impacts of EG from different electricity generation sources (i.e., renewable, nuclear, and fossil fuels) on carbon neutrality, focusing on four leading European countries. The study applies the wavelet transform coherence (WC), quantile-on-quantile regression (QQ), and Granger causality in quantiles (GQ) to high-frequency daily data between January 2, 2019 and March 10, 2023. Results show that (i) there is a strong time and frequency dependence between EG and CO2 emissions across countries, while results vary by EG sources and countries; (ii) renewable EG dampens CO2 emissions. At higher quantiles, a higher share of renewable EG lowers CO2 emissions in Germany and Spain, while they increase in France; (iii) nuclear EG is beneficial only for the United Kingdom. (iv) Fossil EG increases CO2 emissions in all countries. Excessive fossil EG leads to more CO2 emissions at higher quantiles; (v) the impacts of EG on CO2 emissions have a time-, frequency-, quantile-, country-, and EG source-dependent structure. The outcomes of the study demonstrates that the ideal EG source for countries is mainly renewable EG, while in the case of the United Kingdom, nuclear EG could be an alternative for improving the environment while reducing fossil fuels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Micro-hydropower is one of the renewable energy sources that can be used to electrify the off-grid rural areas. Archimedes screw is a potential machine element that can be used as the micro-hydropower screw turbine for efficient generation of electricity at low head run-rivers, and surface irrigation sites. It is crucial to consider an optimization design approach to determine the optimum parameters of the Archimedes screw to increase the power output and efficiency. Different researches are ongoing to use Archimedes screw as a micro-hydropower turbine, however, the optimization of the Archimedes screw parameters are untouched yet. The aim of this research is to design and optimize the Archimedes screw to increase the power output and efficiency of screw turbine by using theoretical analysis, ANSYS CFD, and ANSYS Workbench response surface optimization methodology. In this research, the performance of Archimedes screw is investigated for a range of flow rates (0.01 m³/s, 0.015 m³/s, and 0.02 m³/s) and heads (0.5 m to 1 m) with various additional parameters such as pitch of screw, inner diameter of screw, and number of screw blades. The optimum design was obtained at a flow rate of 0.015 m³/s, water head of 0.7 m, and inclination angle of 35° that increased the efficiency of the screw turbine from 55.4% to 92.9% compared to the reference geometry. And also, at the optimum design parameters, the maximum power output is increased from 57.07 Watt to 95.69 Watt. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Access to reliable electricity remains a challenge for millions in remote African villages, including Lake Ziway's islands in Ethiopia. This study introduces an integrated electricity system for Tulu Gudo Island, combining floating photovoltaics (FPV), pumped-hydro storage (PHS) and diesel generators (DGEs) to overcome energy constraints, land scarcity and sustainability issues. The study assesses electricity demand and solar-PHS potential using LiDAR-based digital elevation model (DEM) data and Geographic Information Systems (GIS). PVsyst and HOMER Pro optimize the system based on net present cost (NPC), cost of energy (COE) and its ability to support a water-energy-food (W-E-F) nexus approach. An optimized configuration with 32.2 KWp FPV and two PHS units (PH: 245KWh (508KWh)) meets Tulu Gudo Island's energy needs through a cycle charging strategy (CCs). This configuration offers economic and environmental sustainability, with an NPC of $154,265 and a COE of $0.140/KWh, while conserving 8760 m³ of water. It integrates successfully with the W-E-F nexus approach, achieving a 7% increase in electricity generation and a 2.4% higher capacity factor compared to conventional setups. The study validates results through comparisons with other simulation tools, ensuring accuracy. This hybrid electricity system has potential applicability in regions with similar conditions worldwide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Politicians and the public alike doubt the ability of nuclear power in the United States to compete as a significant low-carbon emission contributor to electricity production in a fully decarbonized electricity sector. Establishing whether or not these doubts are justified is challenged by the complexity of the highly disaggregated US electricity markets, including the highly varied mix of subsidies, production credits, and power purchase mandates that exist at the individual state level. The authors focus on answering the question of nuclear power's competitiveness by examining the electricity market of Sweden, a nation which has already fully decarbonized its electricity sector, basing its electricity generation entirely on a mix of hydroelectric power, nuclear power, and the use of biofuels, with much smaller contributions from renewables such as solar PV and wind-generated power. In this market, nuclear power is an effective competitor against renewable power generation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An energy generated by mixing two solutions with different salinities is termed salinity gradient energy (SGE). This energy could be used for electricity production by some methods (e.g. Reverse Electro-Dialysis (RED); Pressure Retarded Osmosis (PRO) ... etc.). Estuaries or Delta, as zones for mixing of freshwater from rivers and saltwater from the sea, have a large power potential of this renewable energy. The Sebou estuary in Morocco is being used in a trial of osmotic power technology using Pressure Retarded Osmosis (PRO). Currently, there is no information available about the potential energy production from salinity gradient in the Sebou estuary. PRO potential in the Sebou estuary is the main objective of this study. The highest mixing energy is 0.712kWh/m3 in March and October, when ф = 0.5 and T = 298 K (temperature). Based on the river estuary flow, PRO can generate 80.33 MW-164 MW of power. Regarding the ecological flow criteria, PRO power generation's installed power potential ranges from 85 to 158 MW. When the design flow, power factor and installed capacity are 25.78 m3/s, 0.8 MW/(m3/s) and 21.37 MW, respectively, annual electricity energy generation is calculated as 123.42GWh/y. The results show that the pressure retarded osmosis power plant is technically reasonable for the site. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The idea of renewable resource integration influences the demand-supply balance significantly. The effort taken to diminish the deviation in demand-supply balance is greatly influenced by demand response (DR) strategy. In this analysis, the concept of DR is incorporated via the approach of load management. The optimal scheduling of the load considering the available energy helps to avoid unessential load shedding. The DR strategy of load shifting is suggested at different levels in accordance with the nature of load and real-time price. The profit of the utility is enhanced by providing the customer the flexibility to schedule their load. The curtailment of load can be avoided by increased customer participation in the suggested DR programs. The operating system is designed to be both efficient and effective by utilizing the real-time tariff profile of electricity to plan the generation of renewable energy, energy storage systems that include electric vehicles, and the utilization of grid power. The scalability and generalization of the proposed DR approach make it suitable for large-scale power systems that integrate renewable energy sources. The validation of the proposed method using reliability analysis ensures the effectiveness of the formulated DR. The proposed method is tested under two different scenarios and topologies on the IEEE-33 bus system and the results accomplished are promising. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research describes the construction and testing of a multi-stage thermo-acoustic generator that demonstrates the potential of conversion of waste heat into useful electricity. The total length of the traveling-wave loop was 3 560 mm. The thermo-acoustic engine stages were positioned 640 mm apart. An experimental investigation into the effects of the heat source on the potential of the device for electricity generation has been conducted. The magnitude of the sound pressure level generated by the engines, the onset time and the magnitude of electricity generated by the electroacoustic converter have been considered as performance indicators for the device developed. This paper provides details of the experimental investigation by measures of these indicators. A single-stage thermo-acoustic system, tested separately, generated an average output voltage of approximatively 834 mV. A second stage was added into the traveling-wave loop. The two-stage system generated an output voltage of approximately 1.55 V. A third stage was added into the loop. The three-stage system generated an output voltage of 2.362 V. The subsequently added four-stage thermo-acoustic system generated an average maximum output voltage of 4.218 V. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Local energy systems (LES) are designed to decarbonize, balance, and coordinate supply, storage and demand resources. Which local conditions enable LES to flourish? Using a unique dataset of 146 LES projects in the UK from 2010 to 2020, we apply econometric methods to identify energy, institutional and socio-economic conditions significantly associated with LES, but not other local energy forms. We show distributed power generation, low-carbon infrastructure firm activity, local government strategy and active energy efficiency markets are enablers of LES involving multiple actors, sectors and skill sets. These conditions describe a clear policy agenda for stimulating and supporting emerging local energy markets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Along with emission reduction targets, carbon abatement policies increasingly target the reduction of carbon intensity. In this context, uncovering factors that reduce carbon intensity is a timely research subject and carries significant policy implications. The goal of this study is to explore the dynamic relationships between carbon and energy intensity, renewable energy, economic development, structural transformation, and globalization in a global panel comprising 126 countries and two income-based subpanels. Robust System-GMM estimators indicate that increasing renewable sources in the energy mix can assist countries in mitigating the carbon intensity of electricity generation. Moreover, current results highlight that economic growth is the most effective mitigating factor of carbon intensity at the global level, revealing that on average, countries have managed to decouple economic and pollution (carbon intensity) growth. Results document these links both in the short-and, most importantly, the long-run setting. Other important results reveal that the mitigating effect of renewable energy is stronger with the increase of economic development, whereas structural transformation only decreases carbon intensity in low- and middle-income countries. Consequently, consistent long-term climate policies that promote these mitigating factors and decrease documented driving factors such as energy intensity could work synergistically across multiple SDGs of the 2030 Agenda. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A dependable and cost-effective energy distribution scheme is the need in the current scenario of distributed generation of electricity. In the recent past, different economic dispatch techniques are proposed to address this challenge of cost-effectiveness. The fossil fuels issue of pollutant emission and the limited stock has pushed the research community to focus on the direction of renewable energy generation. The aim of this paper is to present a multi-objective cost-emission-based dynamic economic dispatch (MOCEDED) algorithm, which includes thermal, solar, and wind-based power plants. Moreover, the uncertainty of solar and wind power in terms of curtailment is also included in the formulation of the algorithm. The formulated objective function is quadratic constrained programming, which is implemented in General Algebraic Modeling System software. Two paradigms, i.e. only cost-based DED and MOCEDED algorithm, have been analyzed. The outcome of the proposed MOCEDED algorithm shows more promising results than cost-based DED. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The share of renewable energy is expected to increase in South Africa's energy mix. Motivated by concerns about renewable energy sprawl, this study quantifies the current and future (2050) land requirements for electricity generation in South Africa and evaluates the likely impact on natural biomes. Currently, around 340 km2 has been transformed for electricity generation (mainly coal-powered) and an additional 1 400 km2 is used for spacing requirements. Direct land use is expected to increase to 755–1080 km2 by 2050, and spacing requirements will increase to 10 700–16 750 km2 (0.9–1.4% of South Africa's land area). South Africa has excellent potential for renewable energy generation, with 36% and 57% of the land area being suitable for solar and wind development, respectively. Assuming that future developments are built on the most suitable land in the Renewable Energy Development Zones, the Nama-Karoo Biome will be most affected. It is concluded that concerns about renewable energy sprawl should not limit South Africa's renewable energy capacity expansion plans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The performance of a concentrated solar power plant is strongly driven by its heat storage capacity and is evolving through the development of new salt mixtures. Molten nitrates, which have already proved their high potential, can be further improved in terms of economic and environmental aspects, with the mitigation of toxic compounds and a higher electricity generation capability. In this work, stability range and energy density characterisations were performed on the nitrate 'Solar' salt, along with its life cycle assessment, environmental impact, and cost analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

China benefits, at the expense of US interests, by claiming its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is a green project. However, BRI projects so far have contributed to emissions that will push global warming past the internationally agreed limit of 2 degrees Celsius. For electricity generation, Chinese policy banks primarily support environmentally damaging coal-fired and hydropower projects. Other Chinese infrastructure projects also carry environmental concerns, because of China's weak foreign investment standards. To combat China's false claims of environmental leadership, the United States should: 1) publicize BRI's environmental impacts in multilateral forums and offer technical assistance to countries along the Belt and Road, 2) partner with allies to provide greener infrastructure investment alternatives, and 3) encourage China to strengthen the environmental and social governance standards for its development assistance. These policies aim to demonstrate the harm BRI poses, highlight the benefits of diplomatic engagement with the United States, and hold China to a higher standard of environmental quality in its global infrastructure investments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article explores the evolution of resource nationalism at a local level through the construction of infrastructure. It argues that, in Mtwara, resource nationalism was combined with local perceptions and demands that were shaped through the construction of different forms of infrastructure. The discovery of gas was accompanied by infrastructure in the forms of increased electricity generation and access, improved roads, and construction of new buildings. There were also plans and promises for industrial development utilising gas both as a raw resource in production and as fuel for electricity generation. These provided the confirmation that natural gas was to act as a modernising force for the region and boost economic and social development. Perceptions changed with the confirmation that a pipeline would be constructed to transport gas from Mtwara to Dar es Salaam for electricity generation, causing protests and riots. The completion of the pipeline, combined with the government's response to the protests, resulted in a change in the perception of what gas can provide for the region. With gas now going to Dar es Salaam, it has also symbolically removed the bedrock of a local gas-based developmental imaginary. Instead, gas has added to the historical grievances that many in the region perceive. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fluoride salt-cooled, High-temperature Reactors (FHRs), featuring particle fuel, graphite moderator, and molten fluoride salt coolant, are used for electricity generation and process heat applications. The primary loop of an FHR is a closed loop that operates slightly above the atmospheric pressure with the fluoride salt temperature over 600°C. Reliable high-temperature molten salt pumps are critical to the successful deployment of FHRs. To stabilize rotating shafts and reduce the associated friction coefficients, well-designed bearings are required for molten salt pumps. Therefore, it is necessary to investigate the detailed hydrodynamic performance of bearings under high-temperature molten salt conditions. In this study, a computational fluid dynamics software package, i.e., STAR-CCM+, was used to predict the performance of fluoride salt–lubricated bearings. The numerical models were verified and validated respectively based on an analytical solution derived from the Reynolds equation and experimental data published in the literature. Good agreement was observed between the simulation results and the analytical solution and experimental data with a maximum relative discrepancy of less than 5%. The validated numerical model was then employed to predict the pressure distributions, applied static loads, and power losses of high-temperature fluoride salt–lubricated bearings with various Sommerfeld numbers. In addition, a parametric analysis was performed to investigate the influence of the axial and helical grooves of bearings on applied static load and power loss. It is found that under the same salt lubrication conditions, the bearings with helical grooves and axial grooves respectively yield 20% off and 14% off power loss compared with the bearing without grooves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The application of fuzzy multi-objective decision-making (F-MODM) to the optimization problems of renewable energy (RE) planning with uncertainties has become increasingly popular, although it is still rare in contrast to the use of traditional multi-attribute decision-making (MADM) methods. This study contributes to the domain of F-MODM modeling and the empirical applications of RE. Methodologically, as a recent trend to enhance the solution quality of fuzzy goal programming (FGP) in F-MODM is to introduce the "tolerance" (or admissible violation) concept to membership functions (MFs), this study proposes a novel 'FGP-MT' (multi-tolerance FGP) model to overcome the limitations of 'single tolerance' during FGP modeling (i.e. being unable to fit complicated 'multitolerance' decision contexts and running the risk of missing better optimality). The model is first verified using a numerical example from the F-MODM literature. Empirically, an application of the FGP-MT model is then considered for a SREPO (sustainable renewable energy portfolio optimization) decision, searching for the optimal electricity generation portfolio from multiple RE resources in Algeria for sustainable RE development, subject to the special preference structure of the decision-maker (DM) that involves manifesting two or more tolerances for a fuzzy goal. As the model performs well or even better in determining the most suitable SREPO decision under this condition, insights are gained for the studied case, and future applications of the model are therefore expected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We examined the indirect effects of renewable power generated in Tohoku on the electricity spot market in Tokyo, through the channel of cross-regional interconnection. By adopting a two-step regression analysis framework, we investigated how the renewable power generated in Tohoku affects Tokyo's spot price and market volatility. Our results indicate that the electricity spot market is affected not only by within-regional renewable power generation but also by cross-regional transmitted renewable power generation through interconnection. The relatively higher price reduction effect of transmitted power can be attributed to higher price elasticity under a tight supply-demand balance. Our results confirm the cross-regional price stabilization effect of renewable power generation in Tohoku. We attribute the negative effect on realized volatility of Tokyo to the relatively stabler renewable electricity supply from Tohoku. Furthermore, we find that renewable power producers – especially solar power producers – are not incentivized by the fixed-price feed-in tariff to meet electricity demand during peak hours. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Integrated gasification combined cycle (IGCC) power generation is touted as a cost-effective technology for combining electricity generation with carbon capture. For IGCC carbon capture, membrane technology is ideally suited owing to its low energy requirements and operational simplicity. This paper describes the development of polymeric membranes for CO2 removal in IGCC plants and reviews both H2-selective and CO2-selective membranes. First, the fundamentals of CO2/H2 separation using polymeric membranes are presented along with their implications for the performances of H2-selective and CO2-selective polymers. Popular H2-selective and CO2-selective polymers that have been proposed for IGCC carbon capture are evaluated and compared. Benefits and drawbacks of each membrane type are discussed. Strategies that have resulted in improved performance are highlighted. Integrated Gasification Combined Cycle (IGCC) power plants are rapidly gaining attention as an economic way to integrate carbon capture with power generation. For IGCC carbon capture, membrane technology is ideally suited, and a number of polymeric membranes have been explored for this purpose. This review provides a well-timed update regarding the status of polymeric membranes for carbon capture from IGCC syngas. H2-selective and CO2-selective polymeric materials are critically examined and compared, with an emphasis on promising candidates such as polybenzimidazoles, polyethers and facilitated transport membranes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, hybrid systems have been proved to be revolutionary concepts for meeting the deficit in electrical energy with better overall system reliability. The proposed system includes the combination of solar, wind, MHD (magneto-hydrodynamics) and fuel cell, to exploit the advantage of each, and reduce the dependency on any one source, and explores a new perspective for using renewable sources as a hybrid system. MHD generator is proposed as a substitute for the conventional thermal power plant. In the proposed hybrid system, both MHD and Modified PEMFC (Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell), also known as Proton Battery, are used. Both are static and totally sustainable energy sources. Moreover, the use of a proton battery offers an added advantage that it can work in a reversible mode. In the electrolyzer mode, the hydronium ions will be absorbed in the porous carbon electrode. In the fuel cell mode, the stored hydronium ions combine with free electrons and oxygen to give pure water as a by-product. The fuel cell is an environment-friendly alternative to the traditional energy storage system and also acts as an energy source for the MHD generator. In this manuscript, an attempt has been made to check the feasibility of the proposed system through a case study. The economic assessment and impact on the environment of the system is also investigated using HOMER Pro software. Simulink results are presented to justify the technical viability of the hybrid proposed model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Connecticut (CT) stands among the top five states for its high electric rates due to limitation in transmission facilities and storage of natural gas. Photovoltaic systems are a growing alternative energy source that reduces the electricity demand and hence higher education institutions should start implementing these technologies to reduce the burden of paying more for electricity bills. The primary objective of the study was to analyze the economic feasibility of solar photovoltaic systems (PV) in higher education institutions in CT. To perform the objective, several economic parameters were calculated and the annual electricity revenue for the University of New Haven was determined and applied to the entire state of Connecticut. The study was expanded to other states in the U.S. by normalizing the available roof area, electricity rate, and solar index by each state. The total electricity generation for various regions by normalization was estimated to be about $651.2 Million annually. With the normalization ratio obtained, one can identify the total power generation in other regions of the U.S. beforehand while considering installation of PV systems. Results from the study regarding the total revenue reveal that the Southwestern and Western regions of the U.S have more solar power generation capacity due to high solar radiation. A life cycle analysis for solar panel was performed at the end to determine how beneficial it is to adopt solar PV in the long run. Considering the recycling of solar PV at the end of its life, additional 4.33% of the total revenue will be expected as benefit, which is quite significant for sustainable option to invest. This reveals that the solar PV is one of significant energy sources and cost saving factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Focusing on the adoption of rooftop solar photovoltaics (PV) by high-income households and businesses in the Western Cape, South Africa, the article analyzes its effects on the hybridization of urban electricity systems and the ability of municipalities to drive a just transition in cities where inequality remains very high. By reducing municipal electricity sales, decentralized solar technologies threaten the surpluses generated from charges paid by grid customers, which are essential to subsidize electricity services for the poor and support other municipal services. Based on fieldwork in four Western Cape cities, the paper shows that municipalities are implementing a variety of local arrangements (regulatory, tariff, and technical) to control distributed electricity generation and are seeking, with mixed success, to avoid a post-carbon transition model that undermines grid benefits by creating a new energy divide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There has been a steep increase in the global micro-grid market. The micro-grid provides integration of different types of renewable and nonrenewable technologies. The integration of an efficient energy storage system is essential to handle the intermittency problems associated with renewable energy sources (RES). The majority of micro-grids make use of battery storage systems (BSS). There are several drawbacks associated with BSS viz. large size, low life cycle, and high cost. In this respect, the hydrogen-based storage system (HSS) has attracted the attention of system planners as an effective alternative. The HSS provides requisite support to curb the variability of RES and helps to maintain system reliability. The HSS produces hydrogen when excess power is available from RES. The stored hydrogen can further be put to several other applications besides generation of electric power. Thus, HSS is emerging as a promising technology that can be used alone/in conjunction with BSS to increase the viability of micro-grid through its diversified applications. The objective of this paper is to present a comprehensive review on different aspects of HSS based micro-grids. Various problems affiliated with traditional storage systems have been discussed to assert the importance of HSS in micro-grid applications. The review is initiated with an overview of HSS comprising of electrolyzer, hydrogen storage unit and fuel cell. The micro-grid planning and economic optimization approaches with particular reference to HSS based micro-grids are discussed in detail. Finally, a summary of literature survey identifying research scope in HSS based micro-grid has been discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thailand's Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) submitted to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) aims to reduce 20 to 25% of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions with respect to the projected reference level of NDC in 2030, respectively, in its unconditional and conditional scenarios. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) states that limiting global temperature rise to 1.5°C would require net zero carbon dioxide emissions globally by around 2050. Thailand's current energy system is highly fossil fuel dependent and requires enormous transformations to achieve more stringent GHG emission reduction targets beyond its NDC. This paper seeks to estimate the level and the intensities of Thailand's energy system and their economy-wide effects post-2030 under the business as usual and 16 GHG emission reduction scenarios ranging from 30 to 100% by 2050. A computable general equilibrium analysis using the AIM/Hub model is employed to estimate the macroeconomic impacts of meeting the unconditional and conditional emission reductions of Thailand's NDC in 2030 along with varying GHG emission reductions in 2050. Results show that renewables – constituting solar, wind, biomass and hydro and carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies account for more than 95% in the power generation mix by 2050, if 100% GHG emission reduction from the 2010 level is to be achieved. Electricity generation based on biomass both with and without CCS will occupy a major share in the investments by 2050 in all the conditional and unconditional NDC scenarios. A rapid increase in carbon sequestration occurs from 2040 onwards through the deployment of CCS and bioenergy with CCS (BECCS) technologies in all the conditional and unconditional NDC scenarios. Carbon prices lie in the range of 3.4–266.2 US$/tCO2eq during 2025–2050 to achieve 100% GHG emission reductions in 2050. Imposition of early stringent mitigation target lowers the carbon prices in the conditional scenarios towards 2050 when compared to the unconditional scenarios. The rapid uptake of CCS, energy efficiency improvements and electrification of the end-use technologies are identified to be the key measures to transform the energy system of Thailand. By 2050, the Thai economy would face a higher fall in both the GDP and household consumption in the unconditional scenarios than those in the conditional scenarios at all levels of GHG emission reduction. Results indicate that early mitigation efforts can be less costly than the delayed ones in the long-term. The cumulative investment needed to achieve decarbonization in Thailand is estimated to exceed 355 billion US$2005 over the period 2010–2050 in the 100% GHG reduction scenarios. The transmission and distribution investments in the power sector need to increase by 30–35% to attain 100% GHG emission reductions during 2010–2050. The trade deficit improves by up to 23–29% in the various GHG mitigation scenarios in 2050. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Renewable energy usage especially wind resource is extending for power generation due to environmental pollution and high prices of fossil fuels. Thus, wind potential is studying to power generation in greenhouses and help sustainable agriculture. Data was collected using the Weibull distribution function. Tehran province in Iran is selected as the pilot and, the wind energy potential of 8 regions is investigating. Results show that Firoozkouh with an energy density of 142.51W/m2 is the best region and good capacity to use wind energy. The energy consumption rate in a greenhouse is 11kW in a hectare. The wind resource can be used to provide a total or partial portion of the required energy for greenhouses. Wind turbines with 500 to 10 Kw power output were used to study the wind resource usage feasibility. Wind can produce clean energy. The wind is a part of renewable energy and is widely distributed in many areas. Experimental results confirm the validation of theoretical calculation. Finally, the cost of wind resource and the amount of carbon dioxide reduction is investigating that the decrease of carbon dioxide in Firoozkouh is more than 31ton per year using a 10kW wind turbine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A solid-SCR (selective catalytic reduction) system using ammonium carbamate (AC) was designed to improve NOx emission reduction efficiency and compensate for the shortcoming of the UWS (urea water solution)-SCR system applied to marine diesel engines. The solid-SCR system was installed on the exhaust line of a 1.1 MW engine for electric power generation in a ship, and its performance of emissions reduction was compared with the existing UWS-SCR system. The NOx emitted from the engine was 9.2 g/kWh, and it is reduced to 1.94 g/kWh when using the UWS-SCR system. Using the solid-SCR system significantly lowered NOx emissions to 0.3 g/kWh, which was 15% of the UWS-SCR system. In addition, the solid-SCR system showed fewer ammonia slip characteristics than the UWS-SCR system. In the solid-SCR system, gaseous ammonia was directly supplied in the exhaust line, and it mixed well with the exhaust gas and reacted well with NOx in the SCR catalyst. An endurance test of the solid-SCR system was conducted for 210 h during actual ship operation. The NOx reducing efficiency was maintained at higher than 90% for 210 h. The AC consumption rate was 1.7–4.3 kg/h for the endurance test. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, effects of bioelectrochemical technique on methane emission and energy recovery, and related mechanism underlying microbial competition were investigated. The results showed that running MFC was beneficial in reducing CH4 emissions and promoting COD removal rates, regardless of whether the plant roots were located at the anode or the cathode. CH4 emission was significantly higher in open-circuit reactors (6.2 mg m−2 h−1) than in closed-circuit reactors (3.1 mg m−2 h−1). Plant roots at the cathode had the highest electricity generation and the lowest CH4 emissions. The highest power generation (0.49 V, 0.33 w m−3) and the lowest CH4 emissions (2.3 mg m−2 h−1) were observed in the reactors where Typha orientalis was planted with plant roots at the cathode. The role of plants in strengthening electron acceptor was greater than that of plant rhizodeposits in strengthening electron donors. Real-time quantitative PCR (q-PCR) and correlation analysis indicated that the mcrA genes and CH4 emissions were positively correlated (r = 0.98, p < 0.01), while no significant relationship between CH4 emissions and pmoA genes was observed. Illumina sequencing revealed that more abundant exoelectrogens and denitrifying bacteria were observed when plant roots were located in cathodes. Strictly acetotrophic archae (Methanosaetaceae) were likely the main electron donor competitors with exoelectrogens. The results showed that the location of both plant species and plant roots at the electrode played an important role in CH4 control and electricity generation. Therefore, it is necessary to strengthen plant configuration to reduce CH4 emissions, to promote sustainable development of wastewater treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, experimental investigation of parabolic trough collector is carried out as per ASHRAE 93-1986 standard. In this study, two different case of receiver involving conventional absorber as standard model and optimized secondary optics absorber as proposed model. The heat transfer fluid used for the analysis is distilled water. The important performance parameters such as temperature variation, thermal efficiency, exergy efficiency, and pump work are explored and illustrated. Based on the results, the heating time and cooling time constants obtained for the proposed model are 110 and 115 s, respectively, which shows that the proposed model stabilizes quickly than the standard model. It is observed from the result that the proposed model attained a maximum thermal and exergy efficiency of 73.2 and 48.77%, respectively, which is 14.19 and 9.5% higher than that of the standard model. The electricity generation costs obtained for the proposed model and the standard model are Rs. 3.74/kWh and Rs. 5.71/kWh, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]