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Greater energy efficiency and a secure, low carbon energy mix for the long-term are at the heart of the UK government's Energy White Paper which was published in May 2007. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In early 2020 a wide range of social and economic restrictions were implemented in most countries in response to the global coronavirus pandemic (Covid-19). This paper uses national electricity generation data to examine the extent to which overall British electricity consumption deviated from 'normal' consumption patterns during the UK's spring lockdown period, and how the combination of consumption reduction and variation in carbon intensity affected greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) associated with electricity consumption. The paper shows that ongoing trends in the reduction of electricity demand and generation carbon intensity mean that lower year-on-year demand and lower emissions would have been expected even in the absence of Covid-19. Controlling for this, the paper estimates lockdowndriven below-trend electricity reductions of up to 20% in the morning peak period, 11% in the daytime and 9% in the evening peak period in April, declining to 6%, 4% and 4%, respectively, by June. These correspond to marked reductions in morning (06:00-08:00 hours) and daytime demand during all restriction periods studied, but relatively smaller reductions in evening demand, and some evidence of a relative increase on Friday and Saturday evenings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We need energy. But what are potential solutions to achieving net zero? This paper presents a Christian perspective and overview of nuclear energy in the UK, and other countries, within the context of government policies to achieve net-zero emissions while ensuring national security. The growth of renewables is well-known but nuclear energy’s positive contribution is often unrecognised in our energy mix for producing electricity. Nuclear provides clean, low-carbon baseload electricity and has its place alongside variable renewables in tackling climate change. Besides large reactors, small modular reactors (SMRs) are being considered within energy strategies. Beyond electricity generation, future nuclear plants offer cogeneration. Furthermore, nuclear plants do not create the air pollution associated with fossil-fuel emissions. This paper encourages people to become more informed about the place of nuclear energy by looking at an evidence-based approach and encourages discussion in an open, honest, and respectful way about its merits in protecting people and our planet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose This paper aims to explore the increasing role of financialisation on investment decisions in the power generation industry in Great Britain (GB). Such decisions affect society, and the relative role of financialisation in these macro-levels decisions has not been explored from a historical perspective.Design/methodology/approach The paper draws on historical material and interview data. Specifically, we use an approach inspired by institutional sociology drawing on elements of Scott’s (2014) pillars of institutions. Applying concepts stemming from regulative and normative pressures, we explore changes in investments over the analysis period to determine forces which institutionalised practices – such as accounting – into investment in power generation.Findings Investments in electricity generation have different levels of public and private participation. However, the common logics that underpin such investment practices provide an important understanding of political-economics and institutional change in the UK. Thus, the heightened use of accounting in investment has been, to some extent, a contributory factor to the power supply problems now faced by the British public.Originality/value This paper contributes to prior literature on the effects of financialisation on society, adding power generation/energy supply to the many societal level issues already explored. It also provides brief but unique insights into the changing nature of the role of accounting in an industry sector over an extended timeframe. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Following the wave of privatisation that started in Britain's energy sectors in the early 1980s, much progress has been made but the results still fall short of the potential benefits. In this paper both the theoretical arguments and the existing empirical evidence on privatisation in the energy sector are examined, with particular reference to European experience. The paper also presents some additional empirical analysis on the effect of privatisation on competition in the electricity market. Although not fully satisfactory, the analysis seems to be consistent with theoretical arguments. In particular, 'mostly privatised' industries tend to be associated with incumbents having lower market shares. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Regional Studies is the property of Routledge and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

In this paper we raise a number of issues that are important for the UK to consider in the light of its decision to leave the European Union (EU). The first of these is the nature of the EU Single Market in Electricity and Gas and the UK's role within this. The second is the nature of UK energy policy in the light of Brexit, and the opportunities for changing this. And third, we consider some of the key issues to be addressed in a negotiating position with the EU. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Hydrogeology Journal is the property of Springer Nature and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

This paper reports on the use of multi-agent system technology to automate the management and analysis of SCADA and digital fault recorder (DFR) data. The multi-agent system, entitled Protection Engineering Diagnostic Agents (PEDA), integrates legacy intelligent systems that analyze SCADA and DFR data to provide data management and online diagnostic information to protection engineers. Since November 2004, PEDA agents have been intelligently interpreting and managing data online at a transmission system operator in the U.K. As the results presented in this paper demonstrate, PEDA supports protection engineers by providing access to interpreted power systems data via the corporate intranet within minutes of the data being received. In this paper, the authors discuss their experience of developing a multi-agent system that is robust enough for continual online use within the power industry. The use of existing agent development toolsets and standards is also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT The privatization of the British electricity supply industry (ESI) in the late 1980s and early 1990s was associated with a transformation in electricity generation technology. In a sudden and unexpected 'dash for gas', previously unused combined cycle gas turbine plant was adopted for all new large power stations. Gas turbine technology, politically and institutionally excluded from the industry before privatization, gained ascendancy due to the coincidence and interaction of FSI liberalization with lower fuel prices and greater availability, improved turbine performance, pollution abatement legislation, and the manifestation of institutional tensions accumulated under nationalization. An earlier paper found that the demise of established generation technology, particularly the British nuclear power programme, exposed the inadequacies of autonomistic and deterministic notions of technological change. The present paper considers the value of a more subtle framework — Hughes' sociotechnical systems model — for analysing the rise of gas turbines in the British ESI. The systems perspective enables the dash for gas to be understood, rather than as a result of technical and economic imperatives, or structural and regulatory reform, as a contingent and largely unplanned outcome of the interplay of previously excluded international forces with latent local interests, mediated by policymaking expediency. Liberalization swiftly led to the replacement of centralized system building with fragmented 'postmodern' change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Balancing Mechanism, managed by the British electricity system operator, National Grid ESO, is designed to maintain a balance between electricity generation and demand. It achieves this by purchasing extra generation (or demand reduction) through accepted offers and extra demand (or generation reduction) through accepted bids from Balancing Mechanism Units (BMUs) in real-time. The current manual approach for instructing BMUs becomes increasingly challenging as access to the market widens and the number of BMUs grows. This paper introduces a proof-of-concept optimisation model to assist Control Room engineers in making optimal decisions for a large number of BMUs. We outline the requirements for instructing BMUs, provide their mathematical formulation, and illustrate this using simple examples. Computational performance results based on test cases with up to 500 units are presented. • There is a growing need for automation for balancing Britain's electricity system. • A subset of balancing requirements outlined for Great Britain. • Mathematical programming formulation proposed, incorporating requirements. • Tests and validation of the developed formulation. • Control room decision-support discussed, highlighting challenges and necessities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A long-term analysis of the United Kingdom steel sector's efficiency is undertaken. • The sector is evaluated using both conventional and exergy-based metrics. • The indicators quantify the trade-offs between energy and material flows. • The effect of by-products and electricity generation on efficiency is considered. • The sector's overall resource efficiency went from 19% to 32% over the period. Resource efficiency is a key component of sustainable policies and practices, particularly in industries with high energy demands. Using empirical data, this paper evaluates the long-term performance (1960–2009) of the United Kingdom steel sector through the exergy-based metrics of "resource efficiency" and "useful exergy efficiency". The analysis is broken down into two production pathways: the basic oxygen furnace and the electric arc furnace. The scope includes electricity generation and steel refining. It incorporates energy and material inputs, as well as by-products as useful outputs. The exergy-based indicators demonstrate the benefit of measuring both the quality and quantity of resources. The results are contextualised to gain insights into the long-term impact of political and socioeconomic transitions on resource consumption trends. Over the period, the sector's overall resource efficiency went from 19% to 32%. Between 2% and 4% of this improvement results from the reincorporation of by-products into production processes. The basic oxygen furnace route's resource efficiency increased by 9% whilst the electric arc furnace route rose by 20%. These improvements occurred via the promotion of successful energy saving policies rather than the diversion of large amounts of scrap inputs into the furnaces. This paper shows that both the resource efficiency and useful exergy efficiency indicators are a valuable complement to the benchmark metrics (energy intensity and material efficiency). This is because they can quantify the interactions and trade-offs between energy and material flows. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is a growing body of research into the potential security risks and trade-offs which may emerge over the long-term development of energy systems. As part of this body of research, this paper aims to develop and demonstrate a set of indicators for assessing the security of long-term national electricity scenarios. This paper extends the empirical work of existing frameworks by including reliability and cost parameters alongside a range of other important aspects of energy security such as diversity, trade and acceptability, and by using both qualitative and quantitative indicators without aggregation in order to identify trade-offs. This paper uses the indicators to assess the energy security implications of three plausible long-term scenarios for the UK electricity system. The results indicate that a major risk may be experienced by a lack of flexible, responsive supply capacity in low-carbon electricity pathways. Reducing overall energy demand is found to be the most beneficial policy for improving energy security in terms of generating benefits in multiple dimensions. The paper finds that energy security is often conceptualised as the avoidance of causes of insecurity (such as insecure fuel imports), but that an equally important aspect of security lies in maximising responses to insecurity, for example by increasing the flexibility and responsiveness of both supply and demand. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The west coast of Great Britain has the potential for barrages to create tidal range reservoirs that both facilitate electricity generation and prevent flooding from sea level rise. Seawater flows into and out of the reservoir, or impoundment, through turbines and sluices. The impounded water follows the natural tidal sequence but with a delay which creates a head between the two bodies of water. Traditional designs for barrages use earth embankments, with impermeable cores and rockfill protection. More recently, breakwaters and jetties have been constructed using precast concrete vertical caissons. A novel design using horizontal precast caissons is described and evaluated. Wave forces are estimated using Goda's method for a vertical breakwater to assess their impact on stability and ground-bearing pressures. The stability of the barrage is checked for hydrostatic and wave forces. The volumes of materials and relative costs are presented. Precast caissons are found to be viable financially and should be both quicker and easier to construct and install. The horizontal caissons show advantages over the vertical type, and although untried, they should be easier to construct than submerged tube tunnels. Further work is needed to validate the design, including dynamic modelling and detailed construction assessment to confirm the cost rates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The climate crisis is driving a rapid increase in size and number of offshore wind farms to reduce carbon emissions from electricity generation. However, there are concerns about the potential impact of offshore wind farms on the marine environment. Seabirds are considered to be at risk of being displaced from preferred foraging habitat, by construction and operation of offshore wind farms, resulting in reduced energy intake or elevated energetic costs and consequent decreases in survival and/or productivity. Typically, displacement or avoidance behaviour is assessed by comparing abundance and spatial distributions of seabirds before and after an offshore wind farm is constructed. However, seabird distributions are highly variable through time and space and so discerning a change in distribution caused by an offshore wind farm from other environmental variables can be challenging. We present a new method that controls for temporal variation by examining the location of individual seabirds relative to turbines. Mean seabird density at different distances from individual turbines (0-400m) was calculated from data collected on a total of 12 digital aerial surveys of the Beatrice Offshore Wind Farm (UK), in May-August in 2019 and 2021. Mean densities of common guillemot (Uria aalge), razorbill (Alca torda), Atlantic puffin (Fratercula arctica) and black-legged kittiwake (Rissa tridactyla), both flying and sat on the water, were calculated. If the presence of turbines had no effect on seabird distribution, there should be no relationship between distance from turbine and seabird density. This was tested by simulating a relocation of turbines, relative to seabird distribution, and recalculating seabird density over 0-400m from simulated turbine locations. This was repeated to generate a bootstrapped distribution of expected densities against which observed density was compared. If displacement was occurring, mean observed density close to turbines would be significantly lower than expected density, derived from the bootstrap distribution. Overall, observed mean density did not differ significantly from expected density, i.e. no displacement effect was detected. There was a slight tendency for guillemot and razorbill, when sat on the water, to be at higher densities than expected, near turbines, suggestive of possible attraction to turbines, and for flying birds to be at lower densities than expected, near turbines, suggestive of possible avoidance. No flying razorbills were recorded within 100m of turbines but sample sizes were small. Kittiwake tended to show no avoidance or attraction behaviour, although flying kittiwake density was slightly lower than expected at 200m from turbines. Puffins sat on the water were recorded in densities similar to the expected density. Overall, no effect of turbine rotor speed was found, i.e. birds were not more likely to be displaced/avoid turbines at higher or lower rotor speeds. The results of the turbine relocation analysis gave a more consistent and more easily interpreted assessment of displacement/avoidance behaviour than the typical approaches of comparing abundance and seabird distribution through time. We strongly encourage application of this new approach to post-construction spatial distribution data from other offshore wind farms, to build the evidence base on the effects of offshore wind farms on seabirds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Comments on the future of Great Britain's electricity supply. Information on the Energy White Paper published by the government in February 2003; Actions taken by the government to introduce renewable electricity generation technology; Observation on the demand for electricity.

• Future policy should consider both LCA and operating emissions models. • Decline in BEV emissions are dependent on electricity generation mix. • The UK will struggle to meet emission targets if BEVs are introduced in 2030. • Current UK policies miss operating emission targets by 48.9 MtCO 2. • In 2050 for cars, total LCA emissions were 44% higher than operating emissions. Battery electric vehicles (BEVs) are being integrated into the UK transport network to reduce operating emissions (OEs) as BEVs produce zero emission at point of use. True OEs depend upon fuel source emissions, and 'cradle-to-grave' life cycle emissions. This paper investigates method comparisons of a simple operation emissions model (OPEM) against a life cycle analysis (LCA) (Transport Energy and Air Pollution Model (TEAM-UK)) approach to inform on the UK's target to achieve net zero emissions. Emission comparisons from internal combustion engine vehicles (ICEVs) and BEVs between 2017 and 2050 using TEAM-UK (estimating both OEs and full LCA) and the OPEM (OEs only) across three vehicle scenarios were analysed: (S1) 100% ICEVs, (S2) new ICEVs banned from 2040, and (S3) new ICEVs banned from 2030. Both model outputs varied between scenarios. The OPEM predicted 19% more emissions in S1 (OEs only comparison). Differences between methods in S2 and S3 were minimal (<0.1% and <3% respectively). Comparing the LCA with its own OE estimate indicates OEs remain at approximately 40% of total emissions suggesting they are a strong candidate for monitoring and policy targeting. These comparisons would imply the simpler OE approach is robust for a precautionary approach to assessing changes in OEs for policy implementation impact assessments of ultra-low emission vehicle initiatives. Development of future emission policies should consider both LCA and OPEMs, as although LCAs give more complete results, OPEMs can provide rapid, low data requirement, useful policy guidance. A stringent shift towards earlier BEV adoption is recommended, however, to approach net zero emissions a mode shift away from private cars is required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The UK's and Germany's coal phase-out pathways diverge in timing and measures. • Different powers of actor groups contribute to diverging trends in UK and Germany. • Influential German coal corporations and unions slow down coal's decline. • Energy security concerns, domestic mining and economic dependence create resistance. • Reducing the influence incumbents have on policy making might enable coal phase-out. Political decisions and trends regarding coal use for electricity generation developed differently in the UK and Germany, despite being subject to relatively similar climate protection targets and general political and economic conditions. The UK agreed on a coal phase-out by 2024. In Germany, a law schedules a coal phase-out by 2038 at the latest. This paper investigates reasons for the different developments and aims to identify main hurdles and drivers of coal phase-outs by using the Triple Embeddedness Framework. The comparative case study approach reveals that policy outcomes regarding coal consumption are deeply influenced by several actor groups, namely, coal companies, unions, environmental NGOs, and the government. The most discussed aspects of a coal phase-out in both countries are energy security concerns, whether coal is mined domestically, (regional) economic dependence, as well as the relative power of actors with vested interests in coal consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In 2002, the European Union Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) was ratified. This paper uses the lens of one policy measure triggered by the EPBD – Display Energy Certificates (DECs) for non-domestic buildings – to describe the difficulties experienced in capitalizing on a policy intention to use transparency about actual energy performance to drive better energy management and focus energy efficiency investment on things that really work in practice. It reviews the history and precedents of UK Building Regulations and European building energy efficiency policies to identify what helped and hindered progress towards buildings that use less energy in operation; and compares and contrasts building energy certificates based on asset and operational ratings. It also looks at the development paths of operational rating schemes in the US and Australia. It identifies a tendency of regulators to focus on one part of the problem, the so-called ‘regulated loads'; an unhelpful split of government ownership of the topic between various ministries and agencies; a neglect of follow-through, enforcement and feedback; and a political rhetoric that favours an abdication of central government responsibilities to market forces. Based on this evidence, it identifies a number of lessons for improvements to future policy outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

This paper proposes a methodology to assess the impact of alternative electricity generation and energy storage scenarios for meeting electricity demand on a national level. The method combines real and synthetic electricity generation and demand data to investigate different decarbonization strategies using solar and wind generation and electrical energy storage. This method is applied to provide relevant case studies for two geographically similar electricity systems in New Zealand and Great Britain. Newly available solar and wind data sets at hourly resolution are used within this method for these systems to assess the potential contribution of these technologies and as such, to refresh understanding of the impact of these technologies on decarbonization strategies against historical and future demand patterns. Although wind, solar and storage technologies are found to reduce the carbon emissions in both electricity systems, a key result is quantifying the impact this has on traditional generation as a backup resource. In New Zealand an investment in wind and solar equivalent to less than 15% of the wind/solar capacity in Great Britain is found to (i) reduce fossil fuel use to less than 2% of annual electricity generation requirements in the data assessed and (ii) remove the need for continuous operation of fossil fuel plants. Further, it is shown that existing hydro storage potential could be used to create near complete decarbonization of New Zealand electricity [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The relationship between energy security, neoliberalism and climate change in the development of UK energy policy from 2003 to 2011 is discussed, with a particular focus on nuclear power. A ‘securitisation’ discourse has been associated with the promotion of nuclear interests, although the government policy storylines have been associated as much with changing party political priorities as with justifying instrumental policy objectives. However, the extent to which neoliberal electricity arrangements will be overridden in the wake of the securitising agenda is uncertain, due to the embedded nature of neoliberal practices. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Abstract: The variability of renewable energy is widely recognised as a challenge for integrating high levels of renewable generation into electricity systems. However, to explore its implications effectively, variability itself should first be clearly understood. This is particularly true for national electricity systems with high planned penetrations of renewables and limited interconnection such as the UK. Variability cannot be considered as a distinct resource property with a single measurable parameter, but is a multi-faceted concept best described by a range of distinct characteristics. This paper identifies relevant characteristics of variability, and considers their implications for energy research. This is done through analysis of wind, solar and tidal current resources, with a primary focus on the Bristol Channel region in the UK. The relationship with electricity demand is considered, alongside the potential benefits of resource diversity. Analysis is presented in terms of persistence, distribution, frequency and correlation between supply and demand. Marked differences are seen between the behaviours of the individual resources, and these give rise to a range of different implications for system integration. Wind shows strong persistence and a useful seasonal pattern, but also a high spread in energy levels at time scales beyond one or two days. The solar resource is most closely correlated with electricity demand, but is undermined by night-time zero values and an even greater spread of monthly energy delivered than wind. In contrast, the tidal resource exhibits very low persistence, but also much greater consistency in energy values assessed across monthly time scales. Whilst this paper focuses primarily on the behaviour of resources, it is noted that discrete variability characteristics can be related to different system impacts. Persistence and predictability are relevant for system balancing, whereas statistical distribution is more relevant when exploring issues of asset utilisation and energy curtailment. Areas of further research are also identified, including the need to assess the value of predictability in relation to other characteristics. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The year 2008 saw the emergence of the first generation of commercial ocean energy devices, with the first units being installed in the UK and Portugal. This means that there are currently four ways of obtaining energy from sea areas, namely from wind, tides, waves and thermal differences between deep and shallow sea water. This paper focuses on current developments in offshore wind and ocean energy, highlighting the efforts currently underway in a variety of countries, principally some of the projects typically less talked about such as those in the Asian-Pacific countries. Finally, the growth potential of these industries will be assessed, using as a basis the historical trends in the offshore wind industry and extrapolating it to compute future growth potentials. Using this as a basis, the percentage of the world’s electricity that could be produced from ocean based devices is estimated to be around 7% by 2050, and this would employ a significant amount of people by this time, possibly around 1 million, mostly in the maintenance of existing installations. The paper will also evaluate the likely cost of production per kW of ocean energy technologies using a variety of learning factors. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This paper investigates the integration of renewable electricity into the UK system in 2020. The purpose is to find the optimal wind generation that can be integrated based on total cost of supply. Using EnergyPLAN model and the Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC) energy projections as inputs, this paper simulates the total cost of electricity supply with various levels of wind generation considering two systems: a reference and an alternative system. The results show that 80 TWh of wind electricity is most preferable in both systems, saving up to 0.9% of total cost when compared to a conventional system without wind electricity production. The alternative system, with decentralized generation and active demand management, brings relatively more cost saving, and higher wind utilisation, compared to the reference case. The sensitivity analysis with alternative fuel and capital costs again confirms the superiority of the alternative over the reference system. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

This paper describes a methodology for assessing the transmission network adequacy in systems with significant contribution of wind generation. The historical network design standards were conceptualised for conventional generation and applying those standards to wind generation, given its lower reliability performance, is shown to lead to transmission overinvestment when wind generation is located in an exporting area or to underinvestment and a significant increase in the risk of loss of supply when it is located in an importing area. The objective of this work is therefore to update the methodology for determining the adequacy of transmission capacity to reflect the characteristics of wind generation, while maintaining the overall philosophy of the existing standards. This work is conducted to inform the review of the Great Britain (GB) network design standards to incorporate wind generation. Case studies are presented in the context of a simplified GB transmission system model to demonstrate that wind power tends to drive less transmission capacity than conventional generation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

UK Government encouragement of the Severn Barrage project has regard for the fact that this is by far the largest single source of renewable energy available to the United Kingdom. A major concern for all forms of electricity generation is their effects of carbon emissions and, as a result which is now generally recognised, on global warming. The present paper makes use of published sources of carbon emissions data to estimate the carbon content of each of the operations required to produce, transport, construct, operate and decommission this barrage if it is located and designed as set out in 1989. The approach adopted here is based on estimating the ratio of the life-cycle carbon emissions demand of the scheme (gCO2) relative to its energy output (kW) over an assumed lifetime, this to include expected plant replacements over that period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Coal is central to China’s continued economic growth and CCS is one of the most promising technological solutions to curb the CO2 emitted from the continued use of coal. This paper introduces some areas of recent R&D on CCS in China and focuses, in particular, on the Near Zero Emission Coal (NZEC) project, a China-UK CCS initiative. NZEC is being undertaken in three phases, with the current project comprising the first phase. The ultimate aim of NZEC, following Phase 3, is to have constructed and operated a coal-fired power plant with integral CCS in China. In this paper, some of the early progress made in NZEC Phase 1 is described. Launched in November 2007, the objectives of Phase 1 are to build confidence in CCS and to explore technology options for demonstrating coal-fired power generation with CCS in China. The Phase 1 partnership of nine leading UK organisations and 20 from China demonstrates the strong collaborative working relationship that exists between China and the UK, at all levels, to develop CCS as a key climate change mitigation technology. Apart from NZEC, China is involved in several national and international CCS initiatives and some of these will be touched upon in this paper. The success of the 18-month first phase will, to a large extent, be measured against its contribution to increasing CCS capacity in China and against strengthened links between Chinese and British experts. Activities designed to raise capacity are described. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

A detailed survey of local opinion of a proposed 21.5 MWe bioenergy power plant in Devon, England, has revealed a high level of public opposition and a distrust of the relevant authorities, particularly the Regional Development Agency. Local people view the project as unreasonably large in scale and expect a significant deterioration in their quality of life if it is constructed. They doubt that farmers in the region can be contracted to grow sufficient miscanthus grass as fuel and suspect that the real motivation for the plant is as a regional waste management facility. Local people object strongly to the late stage at which the project became public knowledge and the presentation of a fait accompli. The paper documents the main themes evident in focus groups and interviews with local people and stakeholders. The implications for bioenergy planning and policy are also discussed. It is recommended that large bioenergy power plant are sited away from residential areas and sensitive landscapes, and that the concerns of UK government advisors regarding policy support for advanced bioenergy plant for electricity generation be taken more seriously by the UK Department for Trade and Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The deregulation of electricity markets has continued apace around the globe. The best structure for deregulated markets is a subject of much debate, and the consequences of poor structural choices can be dramatic. Understanding the effect of structure on behavior is essential, but the traditional economics approaches of field studies and experimental studies are particularly hard to conduct in relation to electricity markets. This paper describes an agent based computational economics approach for studying the effect of alternative structures and mechanisms on behavior in electricity markets. Autonomous adaptive agents, using hierarchical learning classifier systems, learn through competition in a simulated model of the UK market in electricity generation. The complex agent structure was developed through a sequence of experimentation to test whether it was capable of meeting the following requirements: first, that the agents are able to learn optimal strategies when competing against nonadaptive agents; second, that the agents are able to learn strategies observable in the real world when competing against other adaptive agents; and third, that cooperation without explicit communication can evolve in certain market situations. The potential benefit of an evolutionary economics approach to market modeling is demonstrated by examining the effects of alternative payment mechanisms on the behavior of agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Landfill gas (LFG) is a flammable and potentially harmful mixture of methane, carbon dioxide and a large number of trace constituents produced when waste decays in landfill disposal sites. The need to prevent damage from landfill gas emissions has been recognised since the 1970s, and is now enshrined in landfill site regulations. Sophisticated gas control measures such as actively-pumped gas extraction wells and multilayered liners are now being implemented on a wide scale. The exploitation of LFG as a fuel or feed stock can complement the objectives of environmental protection and, at the same time, provide an additional revenue stream and reduce the use of fossil fuels. Exploitation of landfill gas in the UK began in the early 1980s, initially as a replacement fuel in kilns and boilers. There are now 13 such direct use projects saving the energy equivalent 50,000 tonnes of coal per year (January 1993). Use of LFG for power generation began in 1985. Government support for electricity from renewable sources has made power generation the dominant use for LFG in the UK. The UK currently has 42 power generation projects with a combined capacity of 72 MWe, saving the energy equivalent to 263,000 tonnes of coal per year (January 1993). This paper reviews current understanding of the processes of landfill gas formation and outlines the considerations required for its use as a fuel. The paper outlines the technology of gas collection and exploitation and assesses the economics of generating electricity from LFG in the UK, and the scope lot further development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• GB domestic heat pump electricity demand in 2050 is modelled. • Modelling is based on monitored data from heat pumps and gas boilers in homes. • Uptake of heat pumps in all homes more than doubles peak GB electricity demand. • Moderate improvements in HP performance and dwelling fabric reduce peak GB demand. • Flexibility in DHW and space heating provision also reduce peak GB demand. To meet net zero carbon targets by 2050s, countries with cold winters, such as Great Britain (GB), will turn to low carbon domestic heating systems such as electric heat pumps. In this paper, a statistical model is developed using measured performance data from over 550 heat pumps installed in GB homes in 2012. The model is used to predict the additional load on the GB electricity generation and distribution infrastructure for various current and future (2050) climates, dwelling energy efficiencies and heat pump deployment scenarios. For a cold year in the 2020s, a 100% uptake of heat pumps in the existing GB dwelling stock gave a peak electricity demand for the heat pumps of 78 GW and an annual electricity demand of 189 TWh. When added to the other, existing electricity demand, this represents an increase in the GB peak electricity demand in excess of 100% and an annual electricity demand increase of around 60%. Making reasonable assumptions about heat pumps' future efficiency and use, and the future climate and dwelling stock fabric efficiency, and assuming 80% heat pump uptake and no load shifting, the peak heat pump electricity demand for a cold year in the 2050s halved to 37 GW. By shifting demand for water and space heating the 2020s cold year peak demand reduced by 15%. The work provides a more robust estimate of future GB heat pump electricity demands than any previously available. The predicted future ramp rates, peak and annual total electricity demands, are lower than predicted by previous analysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The UK electricity grid is expected to supply a growing electricity demand and also to cope with electricity generation variability as the country pursues a low-carbon future. Molten Salt Reactors (MSRs) could offer a solution to meet this demand thanks to their estimated low capital costs, low operational risk, and promise of reliably dispatchable low-carbon electricity. In the published literature, there is little emphasis placed on estimating or modelling the future impact of MSRs on electricity grids. Previous modelling efforts were limited to quantifying the value of renewable energy sources, energy storage and carbon capture technologies. To date, no study has assessed or modelled MSRs as a competing power generation source for meeting decarbonization targets. Given this gap, the main objective of this paper is to explore the cost benefits for policy makers, consumers, and investors when MSRs are deployed between 2020 and 2050 for electricity generation in the UK. This paper presents results from electricity systems optimization (ESO) modelling of the costs associated with the deployment of 1350 MW e MSRs, from 2025 onwards to 2050, and compares this against a UK grid with no MSR deployment. Results illustrate a minimum economic benefit of £1.25 billion for every reactor installed over this time period. Additionally, an investment benefit occurs for a fleet of these reactors which have a combined net present value (NPV) of £22 billion in 2050 with a payback period of 23 years if electricity is sold competitively to consumers at a price of £60/MWh. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate change is an existential global reality that is placing considerable stress on agriculture sectors. With the recognition of the impacts of climate change on food security, there has been a greater uptake of controlled environment agriculture (CEA) to provide climate‐resilient and high‐quality production. Vertical farming (VF) can allow primary production in urban locations as well as reducing seasonality and variability in produce. It is emerging as an alternative to traditional farming methods. This research aimed to explore the major environmental impacts of VF produce in comparison with conventional farming methods, using lettuce as an example crop. Life cycle analysis indicate that electricity consumption by VF account for 91% of the carbon footprint. Under the 2019 Scottish electricity mix, VF did not offer a viable competitor for UK open‐farmed lettuce or Spanish imports in terms of low greenhouse gas emissions (at approximately 1.49 kgCO2 eq. kg−1). However, with increasing use of renewable electricity in the national mix, by 2020, this had dropped to 0.42 kgCO2 eq. kg−1 making it comparable with UK open‐field agriculture (at approximately 0.46 kgCO2 eq. kg−1). Under a 100% renewable electricity generation scenario, VF‐related emissions drop further (to 0.33 kgCO2 eq. kg−1). This would potentially offer a low‐carbon production method not subject to seasonality which is better than that reported by most other production methods and offers higher water and nutrient efficiency. This research highlights green VF as potential alternative for sustainable future produce especially under changing climate scenarios. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper discusses the technical modifications that were made to UK windfarms in order to comply with the provisions of the GB Grid Code. These modifications include better voltage control either by adding fast-switched capacitances and reactances to existing turbines or by using turbines that incorporate their own power electronic converters. Another technical modification is better response to over- and under-frequency via the use of site SCADA control systems. These technological advances coupled with the modernization of grid management techniques should securely provide a share of the UK's future power needs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The annual yield for solar photovoltaic (PV) electricity generation in the UK is calculated for the installed capacity at the end of 2014 and found to be close to 960 kWh/kWp. This value is derived by averaging expected PV yield in different regions of the UK, weighted according to the regionally installed generating capacity from UK government statistics and has an estimated uncertainty of ±5%. The mean generating yield can vary with time as newly deployed PV may change the regional distribution of installed power and the variation over the period 2010-2014 is charted. The installed generating capacity at September 2015 was 8.19 GWp and, based on the above yield, should generate around 7860 GWh of electricity in a typical year or 2.6% of UK consumption (2014). Based on current trends, Solar PV electricity should exceed 3% of UK consumption in 2016. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The prospects of UK shale gas development and its role in the energy mix has generated contradictory views. Its inclusion in electricity generation is anticipated to help mitigate the grid carbon emissions. However, there is fear that a shale gas "revolution" might distract policy commitments on the development of low carbon technologies. Others argue that a shale gas "boom" could potentially create a "lock-in-effect" on the gas generation infrastructure, thus, further exacerbating the burden on carbon emissions. The uncertainty over the future role of shale gas is worsened by lack of clarity and conflicting estimates on the potential gas resource and reserves. In the midst of these uncertainties, this paper seeks to examine transition pathways incorporating shale gas and their implications on electricity sector decarbonisation and energy security objectives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] The Kyoto agreement requires the UK to change power generation capacity from fossil fuels to renewables over the next 40 years. [•] This is an immensely complex system with multiple agents, levels of description, new technologies and new policies and actions. [•] Because generation capacity changes on a long time scale we show that this can be usefully studied using a simple spatial model. [•] This strategic model provides parameters necessary for more detailed models of retail/wholesale market dynamics. [•] Paper shows a simple interpretive framework of slow dynamics of changing power generation can usefully explore possible outcomes for 2050. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Trading energy from wind and other forms of stochastic generation in competitive electricity markets is challenging due to the limited predictability of these resources. This paper examines the specific case of single-price balancing markets and derives risk-constrained strategies in a probabilistic framework, going beyond the trivial zero/max solution, which would have participants offer either zero or their maximum energy production based on a prediction of whether the system will be in net up- or down-regulation. The zero/max approach is unacceptable in reality as it exposes the participant to potentially huge imbalance charges, and would violate price taker assumption for a portfolio of significant size. Here, we propose several trading strategies that control risk by hedging against penalising balancing prices in favour of rewarding ones by contracting forecast generation plus some adjustment. These strategies are formulated in a probabilistic framework to address the presence of forecast uncertainty and asymmetric costs in balancing markets. A case study using data from the Great Britain electricity market is presented and it is shown that the proposed strategies are able to simultaneously increase revenue and reduce risk using risk-constrained strategies. Furthermore, the required forecasts of electricity prices and system length are produced using standard tools and widely available explanatory information and are found to have sufficient skill to increase revenue compared to not hedging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Assessing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions produced from electric vehicles (EVs) and hydrogen vehicles (HVs) requires understanding of the carbon intensity of electricity generation. Without the decarbonisation of electricity generation, environmental benefits of low emission vehicles (LEVs) will be diminished. The UK aims to produce net zero emissions by phasing out and banning the sale of new conventionally fuelled vehicles (CFVs) by 2035 in favour of LEVs. A comparison of the UK's planned and future electricity production systems between 2020 and 2050 was conducted to analyse different vehicle-type mix scenarios: (1) 100% CFVs, (2 A/B) 100% EVs/HVs, (3 A/B) EVs/HVs integrated from 2035 and (4 A/B) EVs/HVs integrated from 2025 onward. This was conducted using four energy scenarios from the UK National Grid: two degrees, steady progression, consumer evolution and community renewables. This study does not consider the embedded carbon costs of the construction and decommissioning of vehicles. Results demonstrated that while the four electricity generation scenarios reduce the projected emissions they fail to achieve low emission targets. The two degree scenario produced the lowest level of emissions under each vehicle-type mix scenario. Technological improvements of CFVs are not enough to meet targets. Therefore, phasing out and banning the sale of new CFVs from 2025 (rather than 2035) would provide a stronger impetus to reduce transport emissions. Although these targets are possible, encouraging a change in transport modes from individual travel to public transport whilst simultaneously replacing buses and trains with electric or hydrogen alternatives would see a greater emission decrease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Decentralised energy sources, such as small-scale-wind energy, have a number of well-known advantages. However, within urban areas, the potential for energy generation from the wind is not currently fully utilised. One of the most significant reasons for this is that the complexity of air flows within the urban boundary layer makes accurate predictions of the wind resource difficult to achieve. Without sufficiently accurate methods of predicting this resource, there is a danger that wind turbines will either be installed at unsuitable locations or that many viable sites will be overlooked. In this paper, we compare the accuracy of three different analytical methodologies for predicting above-roof mean wind speeds across a number of UK cities. The first is based upon a methodology developed by the UK Meteorological Office. We then implement two more complex methods which utilise maps of surface aerodynamic parameters derived from detailed building data. The predictions are compared with measured mean wind speeds from a wide variety of UK urban locations. The results show that the methodologies are generally more accurate when more complexity is used in the approach, particularly for the sites which are well exposed to the wind. The best agreement with measured data is achieved when the influence of wind direction is thoroughly considered and aerodynamic parameters are derived from detailed building data. However, some uncertainties in the building data add to the errors inherent within the methodologies. Consequently, it is suggested that a detailed description of both the shapes and heights of the local building roofs is required to maximise the accuracy of wind speed predictions. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Tidal energy has the potential to play a key role in meeting renewable energy targets set out by the United Kingdom (UK) government and devolved administrations. Attention has been drawn to this resource as a number of locations with high tidal current velocity have recently been leased by the Crown Estate for commercial development. Although tides are periodic and predictable, there are times when the current velocity is too low for any power generation. However, it has been proposed that a portfolio of diverse sites located around the UK will deliver a firm aggregate output due to the relative phasing of the tidal signal around the coast. This paper analyses whether firm tidal power is feasible with ‘first generation’ tidal current generators suitable for relatively shallow water, high velocity sites. This is achieved through development of realistic scenarios of tidal current energy industry development. These scenarios incorporate constraints relating to assessment of the economically harvestable resource, tidal technology potential and the practical limits to energy extraction dictated by environmental response and spatial availability of resource. The final scenario is capable of generating 17 TWh/year with an effective installed capacity of 7.8 GW, at an average capacity factor of 29.9% from 7 major locations. However, it is concluded that there is insufficient diversity between sites suitable for first generation tidal current energy schemes for a portfolio approach to deliver firm power generation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Hydrogen technologies and infrastructures might play a significant role in meeting ambitious climate and energy policy goals of the UK Government. Nonetheless, studies on hydrogen are either limited in scope in that they do not take into account the relationships with the wider energy system drivers and constraints or do not consider how a hydrogen network might develop geographically. This paper presents a framework where a spatially explicit hydrogen module is embedded in the UK MARKAL Energy System model to explore energy system trade-offs for the production, delivery and use of hydrogen at the sub-national level. A set of illustrative scenarios highlight the competitiveness of hydrogen related infrastructures and technologies as well as imported liquid hydrogen against a stringent emissions reduction target; the effect of emissions reduction trajectory on the development of hydrogen network; the intense resource competition between low carbon hydrogen production and electricity generation, and the importance of economies of scale in hydrogen supply and distribution. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Chemical centres provide great potential to tackle the worldwide energy and environmental issues via integrated chemical synthesis and heat and power generation. However, planning of chemical centres still involves many formidable challenges, including locating production sites, arrangement of transportation, and selection of appropriate technologies. These problems become further complicated when considering the geographic situation of a region under study. In this paper, we propose a multi-period mixed-integer programming (MIP) approach to the optimal planning of chemical centres. The planning horizon is firstly divided into several time intervals, and the planning region is represented by a grid. Then a superstructure representation is developed to capture all available logistic and technical options. Based on the superstructure representation, an MIP problem is developed, and by solving it an optimal planning strategy can be obtained. A real-life case study for the UK follows, where the UK is divided into a grid of 34 cells. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This paper compares the results of a techno-economic performance analysis of three combustion plants for the recovery of energy from three types of biomass: solid recovered fuel (SRF), forestry waste wood chips (FWWC), and crude rape seed oil (RSO). Small and medium scale plants have been investigated, 50kilo tonnes per annum (ktpa) and 160ktpa combustion plants utilising FWWC, 50ktpa and 100ktpa plants treating SRF, and an internal combustion engine plant at 27ktpa and 40ktpa utilising RSO. The technical assessment includes calculations for electricity generation, heat produced and overall system efficiency. The economic viability of the different processes is investigated through a discounted cash flow analysis. The levelised cost is used to calculate the cost of production of one unit of electricity. The effect of changing model input parameters on the economic performance is evaluated. Seven different system variables have been chosen and the effect of a ±10% change on the levelised cost has been examined. The results showed that the levelised cost of the SRF plant is mainly affected by calorific value, turbine efficiency, capital and operating costs. The parameters which affect the FWWC biomass plant are the calorific value, steam turbine efficiency, capital and operating costs. Whereas, parameters affecting the RSO biomass plant are the calorific value, engine efficiency, capital and operating costs. A techno-economic analysis of the plants indicates the SRF plant is economical at both scales. The RSO plant and the FWWC plant are only economical at the medium scales investigated. The 40ktpa RSO plant is found to be the most efficient one at 52% compared with 28% efficiency for the SRF plant, it is also the most economically viable option with a 25% IRR compared to 17% IRR for the FWWC plant, and 10% IRR for the SRF plant. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Currently, a wide range of strategies is implemented in different countries to increase the share of electricity from renewable energy sources (RES-E). A still controversial discussion is whether quantity-driven (like Tradable Green Certificates (TGCs) based on quotas) or price-driven (like feed-in-tariffs (FIT)) instruments lead to preferable solutions for society. The core objective of this paper is to compare the perspectives of quota-based certificate trading systems for an efficient and effective increase of RES-E with FIT. The major results of this analysis are: (i) The success stories of growth in RES-E in EU member states in recent years has been triggered by FIT implemented in a technology-specific manner at modest costs for European citizens; (ii) At present, TGC systems in most countries applied show a low effectiveness with respect to RES-E deployment of less mature technologies such as solar PV (with improving tendencies in e.g. the UK or Italy with respect to certain technologies); (iii) Compared to short term trading in TGC markets the intrinsic stability of FIT systems appears to be a key element for success; (iv) Hence, currently a well-designed (dynamic) FIT system provides a certain deployment of RES-E in the shortest time and at lowest costs for society. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The Severn Estuary has a spring tidal range approaching 14m and is regarded as having one of the highest tidal ranges in the world. Various proposals have been made regarding the construction of a tidal barrage across the estuary to enable tidal energy to be extracted. The barrage scheme originally proposed by the Severn Tidal Power Group (STPG) would be the largest project for tidal power generation in the world if built as proposed. Therefore, it is important to study the impact of different operating modes for this barrage on the tidal power output and flood inundation extent in the estuary. In this paper, an existing two-dimensional hydrodynamic model based on an unstructured triangular mesh has been integrated with a new algorithm developed for the estimation of tidal power output, which can account for three barrage operating modes, including ebb generation, flood generation, and two-way generation. The refined model was then used to investigate the impact of different barrage operating modes on the tidal power output and the associated extent of flood inundation along the Severn Estuary. Predicted results indicate that the mode of flood generation would produce the least electrical energy and cause a larger reduction in the maximum water levels upstream of the barrage. Two-way generation would provide an improvement to these conditions, and produce an equivalent amount of electricity to that from ebb generation, with a low installed capacity and a small loss of intertidal zones. Therefore, the mode of ebb generation or two-way generation would appear to be a preferred option for power generation, because both would offer benefits of acceptable electrical energy and reduced flood risk. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Highlights the seminar about the future of the British electric power industry sponsored by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers in Great Britain. Factors that can slow down the annual growth rate of the industry including government legislation according to speaker Malcolm Kennedy, PB Power consultant; Prediction that onshore wind generation will be the only technology to contribute to the government's target of ten percent renewable generation. INSET: White Paper goals.

Abstract: The UK government’s economy-wide 60% carbon dioxide reduction target by 2050 requires a paradigm shift in the whole energy system. Numerous analytical studies have concluded that the power sector is a critical contributor to a low carbon energy system, and electricity generation has dominated the policy discussion on UK decarbonisation scenarios. However, range of technical, social and market challenges, combined with alternate market investment strategies mean that large scale deployment of key classes of low carbon electricity technologies is fraught with uncertainty. The UK MARKAL energy systems model has been used to investigate these long-term uncertainties in key electricity generation options. A range of power sector specific parametric sensitivities have been performed under a ‘what-if’ framework to provide a systematic exploration of least-cost energy system configurations under a broad, integrated set of input assumptions. In this paper results of six sensitivities, via restricted investments in key low carbon technologies to reflect their technical and political uncertainties, and an alternate investment strategies from perceived risk and other barriers, have been presented. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]