2023

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Open AccessFeature PaperReview

Addressing Multidimensional Energy Poverty Implications on Achieving Sustainable Development

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George E. Halkos

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Panagiotis-Stavros C. Aslanidis

Energies 2023, 16(9), 3805; https://doi.org/10.3390/en16093805 - 28 Apr 2023

Viewed by 647

Abstract

This study examines whether shifts in the stance of policymaking can account for the observed predictability in excess energy poverty (EP) or fuel poverty (FP) levels. Energy-related poverty is a subcategory of global poverty and can be categorized into accessibility problems related to [...] Read more.

This study examines whether shifts in the stance of policymaking can account for the observed predictability in excess energy poverty (EP) or fuel poverty (FP) levels. Energy-related poverty is a subcategory of global poverty and can be categorized into accessibility problems related to EP and affordability issues associated with FP, which have a similar but not identical meaning. Furthermore, developed and developing countries have different energy issues, as the former deal with FP and the latter with EP. However, there are discrepancies in EP not only between countries but within counties as well; for instance, there are differences in urban and rural areas too. Difficulties in energy access can be devastating for people living at risk of poverty. Social welfare, although at stake due to the energy crisis sparked at the same time as the warfare in eastern Europe. Renewables and green fossil fuels have price fluctuations, and inflation is also a stress factor in EP. Generally, solutions to EP and FP could be, inter alia, the adoption of renewables, governmental regulation, and supranational support through the green deals and sustainable development goals (SDGs). In short, the inflationary trend disequilibrium and raging war have put Agenda 2030 at stake due to the provocation of sustainability via energy-related vulnerability, insecurity, and poverty phenomena. Full article

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Open AccessArticle

Energy Behaviors of Prosumers in Example of Polish Households

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Energies 2023, 16(7), 3186; https://doi.org/10.3390/en16073186 - 31 Mar 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 600

Abstract

This paper explores ways to save energy in households with energy prosumers who generate energy using photovoltaic panels and heat pumps. On the basis of a literature analysis, we formulated a research gap in the case of the energy behaviors of prosumers. This [...] Read more.

This paper explores ways to save energy in households with energy prosumers who generate energy using photovoltaic panels and heat pumps. On the basis of a literature analysis, we formulated a research gap in the case of the energy behaviors of prosumers. This research is important due to the growing demand for energy and the transitions of countries toward renewable energy sources. The role of prosumers in the economy is growing as they ensure energy independence and cost savings. The main purpose of this research is to understand the energy behaviors of prosumers and to examine the differences in energy behaviors between users of photovoltaic systems and heat pumps. A sample of 326 Polish prosumer households was selected using the CAWI method in order to obtain empirical data. The results suggest that prosumers show advanced ecological behaviors, and more than half of the respondents implement pro-ecological behaviors in their homes. Being a prosumer is associated with energy independence, which leads to economic stability and less dependence on traditional energy sources. The results indicate that prosumers show a general inclination toward pro-ecological behavior. Thus, this study recommends promoting prosumers and encouraging the use of pro-ecological energy as a priority for the economy. This initiative will contribute to a reduction in energy consumption in various areas, thus raising ecological awareness and a sense of responsibility for the environment. Full article

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Open AccessArticle

The Role of Environmental Regulations, Renewable Energy, and Energy Efficiency in Finding the Path to Green Economic Growth

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Energies 2023, 16(7), 3090; https://doi.org/10.3390/en16073090 - 28 Mar 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 920

Abstract

European Union (EU) countries pay meticulous attention to environmental issues and achieve carbon-free development. In this direction, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and extending renewable energy are the primary goals. At the same time, the energy price and declining energy efficiency increase countries’ environmental [...] Read more.

European Union (EU) countries pay meticulous attention to environmental issues and achieve carbon-free development. In this direction, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and extending renewable energy are the primary goals. At the same time, the energy price and declining energy efficiency increase countries’ environmental expenditures and hinder their capabilities for economic growth. Against this backdrop, this research aims to examine the influence of environmental regulations, renewable energy, and energy efficiency on green economic growth. The originality of the study is twofold: first, it evaluates the green economic growth of a country, which simultaneously reveals the options for economic growth and the capability to eliminate its negative effect on the environment by applying the Global Malmquist–Luenberger productivity index; second, it develops an econometric model based on panel data for EU countries for 2000–2020 to investigate the nonlinear impact of environmental regulations, the effect of extending renewable energies, and the growth of energy efficiency on a country’s green economic growth. The study applies the following methodology: a system generalized method of moments (GMM) analysis. The empirical results confirm the U-shape, nonlinear impact of environmental regulations on a country’s green economic growth along with a gradual increase in energy efficiency. In addition, the findings indicate that renewable energy is crucial for furthering a country’s green economic growth. At the same time, environmental regulation has a significant role in extending renewable energy. The study results could be used as the basis for implementing green economic growth for EU countries and improving the policy of carbon-free development of these countries. Full article

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Open AccessReview

Pricing and Simulating Energy Transactions in Energy Communities

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Energies 2023, 16(4), 1949; https://doi.org/10.3390/en16041949 - 15 Feb 2023

Viewed by 828

Abstract

Extensive literature is available for modeling and simulating local electricity markets, often called P2P electricity markets, and for pricing local energy transactions in energy communities. Market models and pricing mechanisms provide simulation tools to better understand how these new markets behave, helping to [...] Read more.

Extensive literature is available for modeling and simulating local electricity markets, often called P2P electricity markets, and for pricing local energy transactions in energy communities. Market models and pricing mechanisms provide simulation tools to better understand how these new markets behave, helping to design their main rules for real applications, and assessing the financial compensations of the internal energy transactions. As such, pricing mechanisms are often needed in energy management systems when centralized management approaches are preferred to market-based ones. First, this paper highlights the links between local electricity markets, pricing mechanisms for local electricity transactions, and other approaches to sharing the collective benefits of participating in transactive energy communities. Then, a standard nomenclature is defined to review some of the main pricing mechanisms for local energy transactions, an innovative pricing mechanism based on the economic principles of a post-delivery pool market is proposed, and other relevant approaches for local electricity market simulation such as Nash equilibrium or agent-based simulation are also revisited. The revision was based on systematic searches in common research databases and on the authors’ experience in European and national projects, including local industrial applications for the past five years. A qualitative assessment of the reviewed methods is also provided, and the research challenges are highlighted. This review is intended to serve as a practical guide to pricing mechanisms and market simulation procedures for practical designs of internal financial compensation to share the collective benefits of energy communities. Full article

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Open AccessArticle

Strategies of Energy Suppliers and Consumer Awareness in Green Energy Optics

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Energies 2023, 16(4), 1613; https://doi.org/10.3390/en16041613 - 06 Feb 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 694

Abstract

This research aims to identify (1) whether consumers have an impact on the energy sector, (2) to what extent consumers have an impact on the energy sector, and (3) whether there is so-called energy communism. We understand this phenomenon as the process of [...] Read more.

This research aims to identify (1) whether consumers have an impact on the energy sector, (2) to what extent consumers have an impact on the energy sector, and (3) whether there is so-called energy communism. We understand this phenomenon as the process of energy suppliers imposing energy sources on which the end consumer has zero or very little influence. The research, therefore, focused on a B2C analysis, in five selected countries: the USA, Canada, Australia, the UK, and Poland (N = 500). The research subjects are a homogeneous group in terms of the sources of green energy, and the volume of production of this type of energy and its increments. The investigation was conducted using the procedure appropriate for the triangulation of research methods. Three hypotheses were verified. The first one was rejected, which aimed to determine whether individual consumers are guided by green energy in their choices. The second hypothesis—that energy suppliers do not take into account customer needs/expectations and pursue their strategies—was partially confirmed but was also directed for further exploration. The third hypothesis was whether the consumer is free to make the decision to switch energy suppliers—if so, what is the hierarchy of the most and least decisive factors in the choice of supplier? The verification of this hypothesis indicates that there is no specific pattern that consumers follow when choosing an energy supplier. Full article

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Open AccessArticle

A Three-Stage Model to Manage Energy Communities, Share Benefits and Provide Local Grid Services

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Energies 2023, 16(3), 1143; https://doi.org/10.3390/en16031143 - 20 Jan 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 849

Abstract

This paper proposes a three-stage model for managing energy communities for local energy sharing and providing grid flexibility services to tackle local distribution grid constraints. The first stage addresses the minimization of each prosumer’s individual energy bill by optimizing the schedules of their [...] Read more.

This paper proposes a three-stage model for managing energy communities for local energy sharing and providing grid flexibility services to tackle local distribution grid constraints. The first stage addresses the minimization of each prosumer’s individual energy bill by optimizing the schedules of their flexible resources. The second stage optimizes the energy bill of the whole energy community by sharing the prosumers’ energy surplus internally and re-dispatching their batteries, while guaranteeing that each prosumer’s new energy bill is always be equal to or less than the bill that results for this prosumer from stage one. This collective optimization is designed to ensure an additional collective benefit, without loss for any community member. The third stage, which can be performed by the distribution system operator (DSO), aims to solve the local grid constraints by re-dispatching the flexible resources and, if still necessary, by curtailing local generation or consumption. Stage three minimizes the impact on the schedule obtained at previous stages by minimizing the loss of profit or utility for all prosumers, which are furthermore financially compensated accordingly. This paper describes how the settlement should be performed, including the allocation coefficients to be sent to the DSO to determine the self-consumed and supplied energies of each peer. Finally, some case studies allow an assessment of the performance of the proposed methodology. Results show, among other things, the potential benefits of allowing the allocation coefficients to take negative values to increase the retail market competition; the importance of stage one or, alternatively, the need for a fair internal price to avoid unfair collective benefit sharing among the community members; or how stage three can effectively contribute to grid constraint solving, profiting first from the existing flexible resources. Full article

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2022

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Open AccessArticle

Photovoltaic Production Management in a Hall of Residence with High Energy Consumption

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Energies 2022, 15(22), 8412; https://doi.org/10.3390/en15228412 - 10 Nov 2022

Viewed by 935

Abstract

A hall of residence with low energy performance was subjected to an extensive retrofitting program due to its high energy consumption, to enhance the building’s energy efficiency and reduce its energy costs and greenhouse gas emissions. The retrofitting program included the integration of [...] Read more.

A hall of residence with low energy performance was subjected to an extensive retrofitting program due to its high energy consumption, to enhance the building’s energy efficiency and reduce its energy costs and greenhouse gas emissions. The retrofitting program included the integration of a solar photovoltaic (PV) system installed on the building’s flat roof, among other factors. Nevertheless, the electricity supply provided by the system during the daytime proved insufficient to cover the building’s energy demand. Based on this, a study was implemented to analyze the contribution of the electricity produced by the solar PV system throughout the year to reduce power consumption under distinct solar radiation conditions, and to define a strategy to optimize renewable energy use by drawing up a set of organizational measures to be implemented to manage the PV solar system energy strategically. The strategic measures are mainly related to selecting the residence tasks with higher energy consumption to fit into higher PV energy production periods. Additionally, it is fundamental to raise the residence’s occupants’ education and awareness of energy efficiency, optimize the excess PV energy produced in specific periods by converting it into other energy forms, and install complementary storage systems for surplus production. Full article

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Open AccessArticle

Waste Incineration and Heavy Metal Emission—Laboratory Tests

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Danuta Król

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Przemysław Motyl

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Sławomir Poskrobko

Energies 2022, 15(21), 8130; https://doi.org/10.3390/en15218130 - 31 Oct 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 846

Abstract

The main sources of environmental pollution with heavy (ecotoxic) metals include industry, including utility and municipal power engineering, but also waste incineration plants. Fuel shortages and their constantly growing prices raise concerns that energy will be commonly obtained from waste outside of installations [...] Read more.

The main sources of environmental pollution with heavy (ecotoxic) metals include industry, including utility and municipal power engineering, but also waste incineration plants. Fuel shortages and their constantly growing prices raise concerns that energy will be commonly obtained from waste outside of installations intended for this purpose (i.e., outside waste incineration plants). The greatest concern stems from the risk of burning waste in low-power boilers—domestic boilers. Waste incineration plants and utility power plants are equipped with flue gas cleaning installations (FGD), but low-power boilers are not. The exhaust gases are directly introduced into the atmosphere, which results in the introduction into the air of, inter alia, toxic heavy metals. Therefore, it is necessary to conduct activities aimed at retaining ecotoxic metals in the solid–slag residue. The paper presents the results of laboratory tests of the emission capacity of Cd, Cu, Zn bound in various chemical forms—nitrates (V), chlorides and sulphates (VI). The tests were carried out at 1073 K, 1173 K and 1273 K. It was found that the emissivity of metals increased with increasing temperature. This is innovative as there are no reports of experiments with pure forms of metal salts. The advantage of this type of research is the lack of influence from other factors, apart from temperature, on metal emissions. To check the possibility of reducing metal emissions, additives (bauxite, dolomite, V₂O₅) immobilized in a solid residue were tested. The mechanism of action of each of the additives to limit the mobility of metals was different. The use of V₂O₅ for this purpose is new. The additives kept the metals solid in the residue, but their effect was different for each of the metals. The effectiveness of the tested additives was checked in the same temperature conditions, burning waste such as: rubber, sewage sludge and SRF fuel from waste. The effect of the additives depended on the type of waste, type of metal and the furnace temperature. If the additive effectively retained metals, then their amounts in the ashes were higher by several to several dozen percent in relation to the amount in the ashes remaining after waste incineration without additives. The results of the experiment with waste are open to research on the influence of other factors (except temperature) on the emissivity of Cd, Cu, Zn and the possibility of its reduction. The next step will be to verify the effects of laboratory tests in real conditions. Full article

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Open AccessArticle

Model to Determine the Best Modifications of Products with Consideration Customers’ Expectations

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Grzegorz Ostasz

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Dominika Siwiec

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Andrzej Pacana

Energies 2022, 15(21), 8102; https://doi.org/10.3390/en15218102 - 31 Oct 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 609

Abstract

The current situation in the energy market contributes not only to the sales growth of photovoltaic panels (PV) but also to the intense search for possibilities for its improvement. The purpose of this research was to develop a model to determine, where possible, [...] Read more.

The current situation in the energy market contributes not only to the sales growth of photovoltaic panels (PV) but also to the intense search for possibilities for its improvement. The purpose of this research was to develop a model to determine, where possible, the most beneficial modifications to improve products. The model used combination techniques, i.e., the SMARTER method, brainstorming (BM), the 7 ± 2 rule, questionnaire, ant colony optimization (ACO), and importance-performance analysis (IPA). In addition, an algorithm supporting ACO was proposed in the MATLAB program. The test was carried out on PV and showed that it is possible to determine the way of product (PV) improvement by determining a sequence of modifications for product criteria states while simultaneously considering customers’ expectations. It was shown that each state of the short-circuit electricity and peak power was satisfactory for customers. It was necessary to modify the maximum current and idle voltage. In addition, the selected modification states of the weight and dimensions will be more satisfactory compared to the current states. The proposed model is based on searching for the best changes in product criteria to achieve the highest possible customer satisfaction (i.e., product quality level). Originality is the ability to define a product improvement method (PV) depending on customer expectations but also taking into account the requirements of the company. Full article

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Open AccessFeature PaperReview

Understanding Urban Heat Vulnerability Assessment Methods: A PRISMA Review

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Energies 2022, 15(19), 6998; https://doi.org/10.3390/en15196998 - 23 Sep 2022

Viewed by 1467

Abstract

Increasingly people, especially those residing in urban areas with the urban heat island effect, are getting exposed to extreme heat due to ongoing global warming. A number of methods have been developed, so far, to assess urban heat vulnerability in different locations across [...] Read more.

Increasingly people, especially those residing in urban areas with the urban heat island effect, are getting exposed to extreme heat due to ongoing global warming. A number of methods have been developed, so far, to assess urban heat vulnerability in different locations across the world concentrating on diverse aspects of these methods. While there is growing literature, thorough review studies that compare, contrast, and help understand the prospects and constraints of urban heat vulnerability assessment methods are scarce. This paper aims to bridge this gap in the literature. A systematic literature review with the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) approach is utilized as the methodological approach. PRISMA is an evidence-based minimum set of items for reporting in systematic reviews and meta-analyses. The results are analyzed in three aspects—i.e., indicators and data, modelling approaches, and validation approaches. The main findings disclose that: (a) Three types of indicators are commonly used—i.e., demographic properties and socioeconomic status, health conditions and medical resources, and natural and built environmental factors; (b) Heat vulnerability indexing models, equal weighting method, and principal component analysis are commonly used in modelling and weighting approaches; (c) Statistical regressions and correlation coefficients between heat vulnerability results and adverse health outcomes are commonly used in validation approaches, but the performance varies across studies. This study informs urban policy and generates directions for prospective research and more accurate vulnerability assessment method development. Full article

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Open AccessArticle

Investigation of Herbicide Decomposition Efficiency by Means of Detonative Combustion

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Jolanta Biegańska

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Krzysztof Barański

Energies 2022, 15(19), 6980; https://doi.org/10.3390/en15196980 - 23 Sep 2022

Viewed by 555

Abstract

The decomposition of seven herbicides (atrazine, linuron, lenacil, chloridazon, dinoseb acetate, prometryn, and diuron) was carried out by detonative combustion. The investigated blasting material was produced on the basis of porous ammonium nitrate, which served as an oxidizer, while the pesticides played the [...] Read more.

The decomposition of seven herbicides (atrazine, linuron, lenacil, chloridazon, dinoseb acetate, prometryn, and diuron) was carried out by detonative combustion. The investigated blasting material was produced on the basis of porous ammonium nitrate, which served as an oxidizer, while the pesticides played the role of the fuel. Detonative decomposition of the mixtures was carried out in blast-holes in soil. The efficiency of the decomposition process was assessed using the techniques of gas chromatography, high-efficiency liquid chromatography, and additionally by biological tests according to the grading of the European Weed Research Council. The results demonstrate an efficient decomposition of the tested herbicides. In the tested soil samples taken after the detonation decomposition of the herbicide, no symptoms of phytotoxic effects on the plants were found. This was confirmed by the lack (or at most negligible amounts) of residual herbicides in the soil samples. Only for the samples of chloradizine and diuron were large amounts of residual biologically active substance found. Full article

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Open AccessArticle

Environmental Assessment of the Life Cycle of Electricity Generation from Biogas in Polish Conditions

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Energies 2022, 15(15), 5601; https://doi.org/10.3390/en15155601 - 02 Aug 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 931

Abstract

Life cycle analysis allows for the assessment of the qualitative and quantitative relationship between selected areas of human activity and the consequences for the environment. One of the important areas is the production of electricity and heat, for which the main raw material [...] Read more.

Life cycle analysis allows for the assessment of the qualitative and quantitative relationship between selected areas of human activity and the consequences for the environment. One of the important areas is the production of electricity and heat, for which the main raw material in Poland is hard coal. An alternative may be to use biogas as a fuel for energy purposes. This article presents the assessment of environmental hazards caused by the production of energy from biogas. The analysis took into account the change of the substrate from maize silage, commonly used in Polish biogas plants, to waste from the domestic agri-food industry. The evaluation covered the acquisition of substrates, their transport to a biogas plant, generation of electricity from biogas, and management of the generated by-products. The analysis was done in terms of both the impact and sensitivity categories. It was found that the emission of pollutants related to the acquisition of the substrate plays a key role and the use of waste for the production of biogas used for energy production brings environmental benefits. The analysis has shown that replacing coal with biogas, regardless of the raw materials used in its production, results in a positive environmental effect, especially in the areas of human health and resources categories. The positive environmental effect of the production of electricity from biogas can be enhanced by switching raw materials from purpose-grown crops to waste from the agri-food industry and agriculture. An important factor influencing the environmental impact is the degree of heat utilization (the greater the percentage of heat utilization, the greater the environmental benefits) and management of all by-products. Full article

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Open AccessArticle

Life Cycle Assessment Model of a Catering Product: Comparing Environmental Impacts for Different End-of-Life Scenarios

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Judit Lovasné Avató

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Viktoria Mannheim

Energies 2022, 15(15), 5423; https://doi.org/10.3390/en15155423 - 27 Jul 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1718

Abstract

This paper assesses the primary energy and environmental impacts of a restaurant main course product’s lifecycle, especially focusing on end-of-life (EoL) stage. In the first step, a cradle-to-grave complex life cycle assessment (LCA) model of the product has been set up from the [...] Read more.

This paper assesses the primary energy and environmental impacts of a restaurant main course product’s lifecycle, especially focusing on end-of-life (EoL) stage. In the first step, a cradle-to-grave complex life cycle assessment (LCA) model of the product has been set up from the extraction of the required raw materials through the preparation, cooking and use phase to the end-of-life. In the second step, three scenarios (landfilling, incineration, and composting) were compared for the generated food waste in the end-of-life stage given that one of the biggest challenges in waste management is the optimal management of food waste. We calculated eleven environmental impact categories for the examined food product with the help of GaBi 9.0 software. During our research work, the primary energy was examined in each phase. In the third step, a comparison between the traditional and “sous vide” cooking technologies has been created to optimise of the cooking/frying life cycle phase. This paper basically answers three main questions: (1) How can the main environmental impacts and primary energy throughout the whole life cycle of the examined product be characterised? (2) What methods can optimise the different life cycle stages while reducing and recycling energy and material streams? and (3) what is the most optimal waste management scenario at the end-of-life stage? Based on the analysis, the highest environmental impact comes from the preparation phase and the end-of-life scenario for the traditional incineration caused almost twice the environmental load as the landfilling of the food waste. Composting has the lowest environmental impact, and the value of the primary energy for composting is very low. The sous vide cooking technique is advantageous, and the continuously controlled conditions result in a more reliable process. These research results can be used to design sustainable cooking and catering with lower environmental impacts and energy resources in catering units. Full article

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Open AccessArticle

Technological and Energetic Aspects of Multi-Component Co-Digestion of the Beverage Industry Wastes and Municipal Sewage Sludge

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Aleksandra Szaja

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Agnieszka Montusiewicz

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Sylwia Pasieczna-Patkowska

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Magdalena Lebiocka

Energies 2022, 15(15), 5395; https://doi.org/10.3390/en15155395 - 26 Jul 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 647

Abstract

In the present study, the co-digestion effectiveness of the selected beverage wastes and municipal sewage sludge in two- and three-component mixtures was evaluated. Orange peels and orange pulp, as well as brewery spent grain were applied as co-substrates to sewage sludge at the [...] Read more.

In the present study, the co-digestion effectiveness of the selected beverage wastes and municipal sewage sludge in two- and three-component mixtures was evaluated. Orange peels and orange pulp, as well as brewery spent grain were applied as co-substrates to sewage sludge at the following doses: 1.5 and 3.0 g of orange peels, 2.5 and 5 g of orange pulp, and 1.5 g brewery spent grain. Mono-digestion of sewage sludge was used as a control. The experiments were performed under mesophilic conditions in batch reactors. As compared to the control, only in the presence of the highest dose of pulp, brewery spent grain and sewage sludge was the increased methane production of 395 mL CH₄ g⁻¹ VS accompanying an additional energy profit of 82% observed. Moreover, in this case, the enhanced volatile solids removal and lower accumulation of p-cymene were found. These results were despite the increased limonene and phenol content in the feedstock, confirming a synergistic effect at the highest dose of pulp, brewery spent grain and sewage sludge. Full article

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Open AccessArticle

Unfolding FDI, Renewable Energy Consumption, and Income Inequality Nexus: Heterogeneous Panel Analysis

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Sakib Bin Amin

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Yaron Nezleen Amin

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Mahatab Kabir Khandaker

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Farhan Khan

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Faria Manal Rahman

Energies 2022, 15(14), 5160; https://doi.org/10.3390/en15145160 - 16 Jul 2022

Viewed by 1309

Abstract

We aim to examine the nexus between Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), Renewable Energy Consumption (REC), and income inequality across selected High-Income Countries (HIC), Upper Middle-Income Countries (UMIC), Lower Middle-Income Countries (LMIC), and Low-Income Countries (LIC). Given the cross-sectional dependency, slope homogeneity, and stationarity [...] Read more.

We aim to examine the nexus between Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), Renewable Energy Consumption (REC), and income inequality across selected High-Income Countries (HIC), Upper Middle-Income Countries (UMIC), Lower Middle-Income Countries (LMIC), and Low-Income Countries (LIC). Given the cross-sectional dependency, slope homogeneity, and stationarity properties, we find that the aforementioned variables across all the regions are cointegrated in the long run (LR). For LR estimation, we use the Cross-Sectional-Autoregressive Distributed Lag (CS-ARDL) approach. For the HIC and the UMIC, an increase in FDI increases REC, which in turn causes income inequality to decrease. In the case of LMIC, an increase in REC causes an increase in FDI and decreases income inequality. However, we could not establish a significant relationship with the LIC. We also provide some useful recommendations, such as increased institutional efficiency and promotion of renewable energy investments through higher access to finance. Full article

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Open AccessFeature PaperReview

Assessing Lifestyle Transformations and Their Systemic Effects in Energy-System and Integrated Assessment Models: A Review of Current Methods and Data

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Energies 2022, 15(14), 4948; https://doi.org/10.3390/en15144948 - 06 Jul 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1541

Abstract

Achieving the ambitious climate targets required to limit global warming to 1.5 °C requires a deep transformation of the supply-and-demand side of energy–environmental–economic systems. Recent articles have shown that environmentally sustainable consumer behaviors driven by lifestyle changes can significantly contribute to climate-change mitigation [...] Read more.

Achieving the ambitious climate targets required to limit global warming to 1.5 °C requires a deep transformation of the supply-and-demand side of energy–environmental–economic systems. Recent articles have shown that environmentally sustainable consumer behaviors driven by lifestyle changes can significantly contribute to climate-change mitigation and sustainable development goals. However, lifestyle changes are not adequately captured by scenarios developed with integrated assessment and energy-system models (IAMs/ESMs), which provide limited policy insights. This article conducts a systematic review of the IAM and ESM literature to identify the most important lifestyle changes in current mitigation pathways for the residential and transport sectors, review the employed state-of-the-art modeling approaches and scenario assumptions, and propose improvements to existing methodological frameworks. The review finds that mode shifts towards public transport and active transport modes, shared mobility, and eco-driving have the greatest impact in the transport sector, while actions that reduce space and water-heating requirements and the circular economy are the most effective practices in households. Common modeling approaches lack sophistication as they omit (1) the dynamics and costs of demand-side transitions, (2) the heterogenous responses of different consumer groups, and (3) the structural effects of lifestyles on the macro-economy. New approaches employing innovative methodologies combined with big data collected from users offer new avenues to overcome these challenges and improve the modeling of lifestyle changes in large-scale models. Full article

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Open AccessArticle

Computation and Analysis of an Offshore Wind Power Forecast: Towards a Better Assessment of Offshore Wind Power Plant Aerodynamics

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Energies 2022, 15(12), 4223; https://doi.org/10.3390/en15124223 - 08 Jun 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 910

Abstract

For the first time, the Weather Research and Forecast (WRF) model with the Wind Farm Parameterization (WFP) modeling method is utilized for a short-range wind power forecast simulation of 48 h of an offshore wind farm with 100 turbines located on the east [...] Read more.

For the first time, the Weather Research and Forecast (WRF) model with the Wind Farm Parameterization (WFP) modeling method is utilized for a short-range wind power forecast simulation of 48 h of an offshore wind farm with 100 turbines located on the east coast of the China Yellow Sea. The effects of the horizontal multi-grid downsize method were deployed and investigated on this simulation computation. The simulation was validated with the field data from the Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system, and the results showed that the horizontal mesh downsize method improved the accuracy of wind speed and then wind power forecast. Meanwhile, the wind power plant aerodynamics with turbine wake and sea–land shore effects were investigated, where the wake effects from the wind farm prolonged several miles downstream, evaluated at two wind speeds of 7 m/s and 10 m/s instances captured from the 48 h of simulation. At the same time, it was interesting to find some sea–land atmospheric effects with wind speed oscillation, especially at the higher wind speed condition. Finally, the research results show that the WRF + WFP model for the wind power forecast for production operation may not be ready at this stage; however, they show that the methodology helps to evaluate the wind power plant aerodynamics with wake effects and micrometeorology of the sea–land interconnection region. This plant aerodynamics study set the stage for a wake turbine interaction study in the future, such as one utilizing the NREL FAST.FARM tool. Full article

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Open AccessArticle

Impact and Potential of Sustainable Development Goals in Dimension of the Technological Revolution Industry 4.0 within the Analysis of Industrial Enterprises

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Patrik Richnák

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Helena Fidlerová

Energies 2022, 15(10), 3697; https://doi.org/10.3390/en15103697 - 18 May 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 1519

Abstract

Sustainable technologies, including clean energy in manufacturing and green and reverse logistics, generate conditions for industry development and future growth with the implementation of Industry 4.0 technologies and innovations in the context of sustainable development goals (SDGs). The objective of the article is [...] Read more.

Sustainable technologies, including clean energy in manufacturing and green and reverse logistics, generate conditions for industry development and future growth with the implementation of Industry 4.0 technologies and innovations in the context of sustainable development goals (SDGs). The objective of the article is to identify and analyse the potential of sustainable technologies in synergy with Industry 4.0 innovations and renewable energy initiatives in manufacturing and logistics in the context of SDGs. Qualitative analysis was performed on 105 enterprises of various business sizes, in several regions of Slovakia, within various industry sectors, and within geographical coverage. Based on the summarised results, we can state that more than 82% of surveyed enterprises implement the SDGs. Currently, more than 70% of enterprises prefer environmental aspects in business management. Based on the results, we find a significant relationship between the environmental management of the enterprise in the context of SDGs and sustainability in production and logistics. Statistical analysis confirmed the relationship between the use of renewable energy technology in the industrial sector. A significant relationship was also demonstrated between sustainability in logistics activities in the industrial sector in waste separation and recycling; environmental certification; environmental training of employees; the use of renewable energy sources and the continuous reduction of CO₂ in all logistics activities. The results of the study indicate a significant relationship between green manufacturing, green logistics, reverse logistics and selected Industry 4.0 technologies: autonomous robots, renewable energy, advanced materials, virtual technologies, and simulation. We conclude the significant influence of environmental management on business production and logistics. Full article

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Open AccessArticle

Hydrological and Environmental Conditions and Implications of the Operation of a Thermal Power Plant with an Open Cooling System—An Example from Poland

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Tomasz Walczykiewicz

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Mateusz Żelazny

Energies 2022, 15(10), 3600; https://doi.org/10.3390/en15103600 - 14 May 2022

Viewed by 895

Abstract

In Poland, coal-based thermal energy for cooling power plant installations uses a large amount of surface water. Historically, there have been cases of limitations in electricity supply due to low water levels and high temperature of water in rivers. Moreover, environmental requirements limit [...] Read more.

In Poland, coal-based thermal energy for cooling power plant installations uses a large amount of surface water. Historically, there have been cases of limitations in electricity supply due to low water levels and high temperature of water in rivers. Moreover, environmental requirements limit the possibility of using water resources for cooling purposes, pointing to the necessity to leave inviolable flows in rivers. This raises questions about the future of the operation of thermal power plants with open cooling systems and hence the research undertaken by the authors. The research consisted of a questionnaire survey, hydrological analyses, the impact assessment of climate change on the operation of power plants, and a discussion of technical solutions for water abstraction and power loss analysis in a particular power plant. The results indicate that there are power plants that are more sensitive to hydrological and environmental conditions and the temperature of the water required for cooling. In one case, keeping a power plant in operation requires the maintenance of periodic artificial damming of water. The conclusions from the research indicate that in Poland, regardless of the source of thermal energy, it is necessary to implement only closed cooling circuits. Full article

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The Role of Local Government in Implementing Renewable Energy Sources in Households (Podkarpacie Case Study)

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Energies 2022, 15(9), 3163; https://doi.org/10.3390/en15093163 - 26 Apr 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1343

Abstract

The implementation of renewable energy in households can contribute to achieving climate goals, improving air quality and improving energy security. At the local level, this goal may be supported by local authorities, but in Poland, as in many countries, the use of renewable [...] Read more.

The implementation of renewable energy in households can contribute to achieving climate goals, improving air quality and improving energy security. At the local level, this goal may be supported by local authorities, but in Poland, as in many countries, the use of renewable energy is not a mandatory task of local government units. The aim of this study is to analyze the role of local government, i.e., municipalities, in the adaptation of RES installations in residents’ households. The source of empirical materials was a survey of households using renewable energy installations, carried out in 2021 in the Podkarpacie region in Southeastern Poland. It has been shown that the inhabitants benefit from the support of municipalities in financing the installations, as well as information and consulting support. Municipalities support renewable energy in the “civic” segment mainly through the implementation of the so-called umbrella projects. They have a positive effect on the adaptation of RES not only in the households of the project participants, but through the imitation effect, also in other households in the immediate vicinity. The municipality effectiveness in this type of activities depends on the efficiency of project implementation and the quality of information on the conditions of participation in the project and the benefits of renewable energy. Full article

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Emission and Performance Evaluation of a Diesel Engine Using Addition of Ethanol to Diesel/Biodiesel Fuel Blend

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Emmanuelle Soares de Carvalho Freitas

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Lílian Lefol Nani Guarieiro

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Marcus Vinícius Ivo da Silva

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Keize Katiane dos Santos Amparo

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Bruna Aparecida Souza Machado

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Egidio Teixeira de Almeida Guerreiro

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José Fernando Carneiro de Jesus

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Ednildo Andrade Torres

Energies 2022, 15(9), 2988; https://doi.org/10.3390/en15092988 - 19 Apr 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 1313

Abstract

Many countries have adopted the addition of biodiesel to diesel as a way of inserting renewable content into mineral fuel and making a contribution to the environment. The addition of ethanol to the diesel/biodiesel blend to increase the renewable content of the added [...] Read more.

Many countries have adopted the addition of biodiesel to diesel as a way of inserting renewable content into mineral fuel and making a contribution to the environment. The addition of ethanol to the diesel/biodiesel blend to increase the renewable content of the added fuel blend and reduce the percentage of biodiesel could be a strategysince the demand for biodiesel production is high, and this fuel has a high production cost when compared to ethanol. Thus, this study evaluated the performance and the content of NO_x, CO and CO₂ exhaust gases from a diesel engine fueled with blends of diesel/biodiesel/ethanol: pure B7, B7E3 (B7 with 3% ethanol) and B7E10 (B7 with 10% ethanol). Emissions of fuel blends were evaluated using the engine speed variation and tested at a speed of 1500 rpm under constant load (185 Nm). Assays were performed at engine speeds of 1000, 1100, 1250, 1500 and 1750 rpm and with loads of 10, 25, 50, 75 and 100% of the maximum torque. Through the performance curves, the specific consumption and thermal efficiency were evaluated. The increase in speed and ethanol content in the diesel/biodiesel mixture increased approximately 5 to 7 and 1.4 times, respectively, in terms of the emission of exhaust gases. There was a 6% decrease in the maximum torque and power available at each speed with increasing ethanol content in the blend. However, in a vehicular application, this decrease would be perceived only at some points of the part-load regime, causing considerable reductions in thermal efficiency. Full article

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Open AccessArticle

Energy Optimization in a Paper Mill Enabled by a Three-Site Energy Cooperation

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Energies 2022, 15(8), 2715; https://doi.org/10.3390/en15082715 - 07 Apr 2022

Viewed by 1187

Abstract

Although there are opportunities to reduce electrical energy demand in unit processes of mechanical pulp-based paper and paperboard production, this may not be financially beneficial. This is generally because energy optimization opportunities connected to reduced refiner electricity demand in mechanical pulping systems also [...] Read more.

Although there are opportunities to reduce electrical energy demand in unit processes of mechanical pulp-based paper and paperboard production, this may not be financially beneficial. This is generally because energy optimization opportunities connected to reduced refiner electricity demand in mechanical pulping systems also results in less steam available for the drying of the paper. As modern high consistency refiner systems produce approximately one ton of steam for each MWh of electricity when producing one ton of pulp, a reduction in electric energy demand leads to increased fuel demand in steam boilers to compensate for the steam shortage. In this study, we investigated what the financial and environmental situation would look like if we were to expand the system border from a paper mill to a larger system consisting of a mechanical pulp-based paper or paperboard mill, a district heating system with an incineration boiler and a chemical pulp mill. Mechanical pulp production has a wood to product yield of >90%, a high electric energy demand to separate woodchips to pulp and is a net producer of heat and steam while chemical pulp-based production has a wood to product yield of 50%, a low electric energy demand and is a net heat and electricity producer due to the combustion of dissolved wood polymers. The aim of this research is to create useful and robust models of how to use excess heat from certain industry sites to cover the steam shortage in other industry sites by means of utilizing and optimizing the district heating systems connecting these sites. For this purpose, we used a simulation tool which dynamically allows us to evaluate different scenarios. Our results shows that there is great potential to reduce both carbon dioxide emissions and production costs for industry sites and society by means of these tools. Full article

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Voluntary Simplicity and Green Buying Behavior: An Extended Framework

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Elena Druică

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Călin Vâlsan

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Andreea-Ionela Puiu

Energies 2022, 15(5), 1889; https://doi.org/10.3390/en15051889 - 04 Mar 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1533

Abstract

Green consumption is usually understood in the context of green consumption values and receptivity to green communication. Voluntary simplicity, a related yet distinct construct that relies on ecological responsibility, has not been included in the same framework. This paper bridges this gap and [...] Read more.

Green consumption is usually understood in the context of green consumption values and receptivity to green communication. Voluntary simplicity, a related yet distinct construct that relies on ecological responsibility, has not been included in the same framework. This paper bridges this gap and extends the original model to consider green consumption and voluntary simplicity in a unified structure. Based on a study conducted in Romania, it was found that 70% of the variation in buying behavior is explained by a combination of direct and mediated influences. The main takeaway is that any serious attempt to encourage responsible buying has to rely on a reduction in the absolute level of consumer demand. This result has far-reaching implications because the current paradigm of economic growth and prosperity is tributary to consumerism. The question is not how to avoid curtailing consumption and substitute green products for those harming the environment, but rather how to make voluntary frugality palatable. Full article

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Profile of a Sustainable Manager from the Perspective of Pro-Ecological and Pro-Social Management of Energy Company

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Arnold Pabian

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Barbara Pabian

Energies 2022, 15(4), 1363; https://doi.org/10.3390/en15041363 - 14 Feb 2022

Viewed by 899

Abstract

The objective of the paper is to present an original (own) concept of a model profile of a sustainable manager from the sustainability perspective and then confront this model profile with the opinions of managers employed in energy companies. This problem domain has [...] Read more.

The objective of the paper is to present an original (own) concept of a model profile of a sustainable manager from the sustainability perspective and then confront this model profile with the opinions of managers employed in energy companies. This problem domain has not been reflected in the scientific literature. Sustainable managers are the ones who are fully prepared to implement the principles of sustainability in energy companies, respecting the principles of sustainable management. Their activity can, to a considerable extent, accelerate sustainable development. According to the model profile, a sustainable manager should be sensitive to ecological and social problems; be knowledgeable about sustainability and demand the same from subordinates; comply with ethical standards; implement pro-environmental and pro-social innovations; and also plan, organize, motivate, and control the contribution, in this way, to sustainable development. Research was conducted aimed at discovering the views/opinions of energy companies’ managers pertaining to the above-specified model profile of a sustainable manager. As the research demonstrates, managers assign various significance to the analyzed traits and actions. The largest number of managers recognized the following to be the most important for them: compliance with ethical standards (86.1%), planning and organizing in accordance with the principles of sustainable development (52.8%), and being knowledgeable about sustainable development (38.9%). The paper contributes to the trait theory of leadership and the theory of sustainable management. It is also of practical value—it can prove useful in the processes of educating, recruiting, and evaluating sustainable managers. Full article

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Open AccessArticle

Flashover Voltage Prediction Models under Agricultural and Biological Contaminant Conditions on Insulators

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Energies 2022, 15(4), 1297; https://doi.org/10.3390/en15041297 - 11 Feb 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1262

Abstract

The flashover performance of contaminated insulators highly depends on the type of pollutant and its present concentration. In this paper, important agricultural salts (NaCl, K₂SO₄, NaHCO₃, CaSO₄, KHCO₃, MgSO₄, NH₄ [...] Read more.

The flashover performance of contaminated insulators highly depends on the type of pollutant and its present concentration. In this paper, important agricultural salts (NaCl, K₂SO₄, NaHCO₃, CaSO₄, KHCO₃, MgSO₄, NH₄), 2Fe(SO₄)₂, and 6H₂O (ferrous ammonium sulphate, dust, and urea) at different concentrations, and biological contaminants, such as algae and fungi, were taken as pollutants, and the AC flashover behavior of a porcelain-cap-and-pin-type insulator polluted with these two different pollutants was investigated. The experiment was carried out by a semi-natural method, wherein the insulator was first polluted artificially; thereafter, natural fog was applied to measure the wet flashover voltage. Test results indicated that the flashover voltages were affected by both soluble salts and non-soluble components deposited on the insulator surface. In the case of the thickly contaminated layers, non-soluble deposits greatly reduced the flashover voltage. Moreover, by using regression analysis, four empirical models based on different variables were developed. The empirical models developed in the present work represented a good degree of relation in predicting the flashover voltage of naturally contaminated insulators. Full article

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Can Education Save Money, Energy, and the Climate?— Assessing the Potential Impacts of Climate Change Education on Energy Literacy and Energy Consumption in the Light of the EU Energy Efficiency Directive and the Austrian Energy Efficiency Act

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Energies 2022, 15(3), 1118; https://doi.org/10.3390/en15031118 - 02 Feb 2022

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 1823

Abstract

The Austrian Education Energy Initiative ETSIT has been established as a response to the EU Energy Efficiency Directive and the Austrian Energy Efficiency Act. This paper investigates the energy literacy of its young participants, i.e., 6000 primary and secondary school students altogether, on [...] Read more.

The Austrian Education Energy Initiative ETSIT has been established as a response to the EU Energy Efficiency Directive and the Austrian Energy Efficiency Act. This paper investigates the energy literacy of its young participants, i.e., 6000 primary and secondary school students altogether, on a cognitive, affective and behavioural level, and it compares the putative energy-saving effectiveness of the workshops to that of conventional energy audits.For the current analysis, data from, 640 students who validly answered an online survey shortly after participating in one of the energy education workshops, and 353 students who validly answered the online survey approximately one year after having participated (overall n = 993) were analysed. The results indicate that ETSIT raises students’ energy literacy on a cognitive, affective and behavioural level with about three-quarters of participants claiming they will positively change their energy consumption behaviour in the future as a result of workshop participation. This is true shortly after participation in the workshops, and also at the 1-year follow-up. In its second impact perspective, this paper delivers an innovative attempt to look at education from a cost-benefit analysis. A default formula for energy audits is adopted to quantify the kilowatt hours (and thus emissions and costs) saved through workshop participation. Despite limitations, the surprising results show that such workshops can compete with conventional energy audits, and that education can, in fact, help save money, resources, and, most important of all, the climate. Full article

2021

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Open AccessArticle

Polish Cittaslow Local Governments’ Support for Renewable Energy Deployment vs. Slow City Concept

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Energies 2022, 15(1), 201; https://doi.org/10.3390/en15010201 - 29 Dec 2021

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 995

Abstract

The slow city concept is associated with great care for the protection of the natural environment and the use of renewable energy sources. Thus, the study aimed to discuss the potential of the slow city model and the actual role of Cittaslow local [...] Read more.

The slow city concept is associated with great care for the protection of the natural environment and the use of renewable energy sources. Thus, the study aimed to discuss the potential of the slow city model and the actual role of Cittaslow local governments in deploying renewable energy, based on the case study of the Polish Cittaslow Network. To achieve this aim, we carried out qualitative and quantitative data analyses, based on literature review and data for all 35 Polish Cittaslow municipalities, retrieved from: (i) development strategies (ii) a survey (iii) the Local Data Bank of Statistics Poland, (iv) the Quality of Life Synthetic Index (QLI). To process the data, we applied descriptive statistics, the Shapiro-Wilk test, the non-parametric Kruskal-Wallis test, and the Spearman’s rank test. Findings showed that the support for renewable energy deployment was not at a high level and did not correlate with the goals set in the Cittaslow development strategies. This was the result of a cumulation of pressing social and economic problems, which the local authorities in Poland are legally obliged to solve, while the implementation of renewable energy is not obligatory. The QLI for these municipalities was low and renewable energy was not a significant element in improving the quality of life of citizens. Full article

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Analysis of the Impact of Climate Change on Surface Water Quality in North-Eastern Poland

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Monika Puchlik

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Janina Piekutin

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Katarzyna Dyczewska

Energies 2022, 15(1), 164; https://doi.org/10.3390/en15010164 - 27 Dec 2021

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 1742

Abstract

This article presents the influence of climatic conditions on surface water quality. The research methodology, including physicochemical analysis from the Gołdapa and Bludzia rivers, is presented. The research lasted for two years. The results of the physicochemical studies of the Gołdapa and Bludzia [...] Read more.

This article presents the influence of climatic conditions on surface water quality. The research methodology, including physicochemical analysis from the Gołdapa and Bludzia rivers, is presented. The research lasted for two years. The results of the physicochemical studies of the Gołdapa and Bludzia rivers in early spring, spring, and autumn show that each of these seasons impacts the quality of surface waters. Moreover, it was proven that all the parameters are strongly correlated with the air temperature, the sum of daily precipitation, and water levels. For detailed analysis, the obtained results of own research were compared with meteorological and hydrological data from the last 15 years (2005–2021) for the region of north-eastern Poland. It was proven that temperature changes contribute to increased surface water pollution in the north-eastern part of Poland. Waters from areas that humans have not developed are of better quality than those that drain the urban area, which is reflected in the case of the superior quality of the Bludzia river compared to the Gołdapa river. The upward trend in temperature in the Gołdap region indicates that global warming will continue. Full article

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Calculation of Building Heat Losses through Slab-on-Ground Structures Based on Soil Temperature Measured In Situ

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Energies 2022, 15(1), 114; https://doi.org/10.3390/en15010114 - 24 Dec 2021

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2098

Abstract

The article aims to assess the effects of soil temperature measured in situ on the heat loss analyses of a building. Numerical analyses and in situ measurements of soil temperature profiles for real conditions under a residential building (profile I) in Poland and [...] Read more.

The article aims to assess the effects of soil temperature measured in situ on the heat loss analyses of a building. Numerical analyses and in situ measurements of soil temperature profiles for real conditions under a residential building (profile I) in Poland and under the area outside the building (profile II) were performed. Based on the measurement results, a proprietary geometric model of the partition was proposed. The heat flux and heat flow results obtained for reliable models are 4.9% and 6.9% higher compared to a model based on a typical meteorological year for the wall–foundation system and 10.0% and 10.1% higher for the slab-on-ground structure for profile I. The adoption of temperatures from the area outside the building as the boundary condition (profile II) results in greater differences between the obtained results. The difference in heat flow obtained in the numerical analyses for profiles I and II is about 2 W/m², both for the wall–foundation system and for the slab-on-ground structure calculations. The adoption of temperatures for the ground outside the building led to overestimation in the heat flux calculations, this being due to lower temperatures in these particular layers of the ground. Full article

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Revisiting Environmental Kuznets Curve in Relation to Economic Development and Energy Carbon Emission Efficiency: Evidence from Suzhou, China

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Hira Salah ud din Khan

Energies 2022, 15(1), 62; https://doi.org/10.3390/en15010062 - 22 Dec 2021

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 1918

Abstract

This study empirically examines the effect of economic development on carbon emissions and revisits the environmental Kuznets curve in Suzhou, China. The study made use of the Gross Domestic Product Per Capita (GDPPC) of Suzhou, China as an indicator of economic development as [...] Read more.

This study empirically examines the effect of economic development on carbon emissions and revisits the environmental Kuznets curve in Suzhou, China. The study made use of the Gross Domestic Product Per Capita (GDPPC) of Suzhou, China as an indicator of economic development as it depicts the entire developmental ecosystem that indicates the level of production activities and total energy consumption. Bearing this in mind, the authors postulate that economic development directly increases carbon emissions through industrial and domestic consumptions. For this purpose, linear and non-linear approaches to cointegration are applied. The study finds the existence of an inverted U-shape relationship between economic development and carbon emission in the long run. Trade openness and industrial share are positively contributing to increasing carbon emissions. Energy use shows a positive sign but an insignificant association with carbon emissions. The study concludes that carbon emissions in Suzhou should be further decreased followed by policy recommendations. Full article

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Open AccessArticle

(Not So) Stranded: The Case of Coal in Poland

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Waldemar Karpa

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Antonio Grginović

Energies 2021, 14(24), 8476; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14248476 - 15 Dec 2021

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1917

Abstract

This paper provides an evaluation of the stranding risks of coal in Poland. Combining an industrial organization and financial analysis approach, we assess the current economic situation of companies operating within the coal industry and draft forecasts for the future. Based on the [...] Read more.

This paper provides an evaluation of the stranding risks of coal in Poland. Combining an industrial organization and financial analysis approach, we assess the current economic situation of companies operating within the coal industry and draft forecasts for the future. Based on the global economic outlook for coal, we claim that phasing-out coal will take at least two decades, due to the slow transformation of the energy sector and increasing energy demand. The financial evaluation of coal-dependent companies revealed sound financial conditions due to favorable trends in coal prices in international markets. Therefore, instead of prioritizing a rapid phasing-out of coal, we pledge to make more technological investments that would make burning coal less harmful for the planet and thus efficiently mitigate the negative effects of climate change. Full article

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Open AccessArticle

The Role of Energy Return on Energy Invested (EROEI) in Complex Adaptive Systems

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Ilaria Perissi

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Alessandro Lavacchi

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Ugo Bardi

Energies 2021, 14(24), 8411; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14248411 - 13 Dec 2021

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3139

Abstract

The energy return on energy invested, EROI or EROEI, is the ratio of the energy produced by a system to the energy expended to build, maintain, and finally dismantle the system. It is an important parameter for evaluating the efficiency of energy-producing technologies. [...] Read more.

The energy return on energy invested, EROI or EROEI, is the ratio of the energy produced by a system to the energy expended to build, maintain, and finally dismantle the system. It is an important parameter for evaluating the efficiency of energy-producing technologies. In this paper, we examine the concept of EROEI from the general viewpoint of dynamic dissipative systems, providing insights on a wider range of applications. In general, natural resources can be assimilated to energy stocks characterized by a potential that can be exploited by creating intermediate stocks. This transformation is typical of dissipative systems and for the first time, we report that the Lotka–Volterra model, usually confined to the study of the biology of populations, can represent a powerful tool to estimate the EROEI of dissipative systems and, in particular, those systems subjected to depletion. This assessment is important to evaluate the ongoing energy transition since it provides us with a model for the decline of the EROEI in the exploitation of fossil fuels. Full article

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Key Factors Which Contribute to the Participation of Consumers in Demand Response Programs and Enable the Proliferation of Renewable Energy Sources

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Energies 2021, 14(24), 8273; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14248273 - 08 Dec 2021

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1975

Abstract

Consumer behaviour in the energy field is playing a more important role in the new approach dominated by the proliferation of renewable energy sources. In this new context, the grid has to balance the intermittent and uncertain renewable energy generated, and find solutions, [...] Read more.

Consumer behaviour in the energy field is playing a more important role in the new approach dominated by the proliferation of renewable energy sources. In this new context, the grid has to balance the intermittent and uncertain renewable energy generated, and find solutions, also, on the consumer side for increasing the stability and reliability of the energy system. The main de-mand response solutions are price and incentive based, but there is a need to identify the main factors which can influence their efficiency due to the fact that there is a lack of knowledge about the preferences of consumers. The main goal of this article is to identify the main demand response solutions and the related key factors which influence the participation of consumers in demand response programs and may contribute to the spread of renewable energy sources. For this research, semi-structured interviews were organised with experts in energy from Romania, Hungary and Serbia, as well as workshops with experts in energy, and an online survey with customers for electricity. This article reduces the gap between the results of technical studies, related in demand response programs, and their practical implementations, where the consumer behaviour and its social dimensions are neglected even though, in reality, they are playing the main role. The results suggest that the consumer’s participation in demand response programs is highly influenced by different aspects related to the promotion of the renewable energy and the reduction of CO₂ emissions and the global warming impact. Full article

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Open AccessArticle

The Health Impact and External Cost of Electricity Production

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Energies 2021, 14(24), 8263; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14248263 - 08 Dec 2021

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1701

Abstract

The use of fossil fuels, which still dominate global primary energy consumption, results not only in emissions of greenhouse gas but also in emissions of pollutants such as SO₂, NO_x, and PM. Damage caused by air pollution can be [...] Read more.

The use of fossil fuels, which still dominate global primary energy consumption, results not only in emissions of greenhouse gas but also in emissions of pollutants such as SO₂, NO_x, and PM. Damage caused by air pollution can be expressed in monetary terms in the form of external costs to society. The goal of this paper is to answer the following questions: How much will the energy sector’s emissions change as a result of decarbonization? What is the estimated level of external costs related to human health in future energy scenarios? How large are the estimated external costs compared to the planned investments in this sector? The study conducted for the period 2018–2050 used the impact pathway approach and covered the centralized power and heat generation sector in Poland. The reported values of the concentration–response functions that relate human exposure to air pollution with health impact were reviewed. The results show that external costs decrease from an estimated annual level in the range of EUR 782–1911 million in 2018 to EUR 36–876 million in 2050. The cumulative value of avoided external costs between 2018 and 2050 is significantly lower than the planned capital expenditures in the energy sector in Poland. Full article

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Future-Generation Perception: Equal or Not Equal? Long-Term Individual Discount Rates for Poland

by

Monika Foltyn-Zarychta

Energies 2021, 14(24), 8218; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14248218 - 07 Dec 2021

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1570

Abstract

Energy-related investments gain increasing attention nowadays, particularly in Poland due to clean-energy investment needed to limit greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) and counteract climate change. However, economic appraisal is problematic: the longevity of impacts inextricably involves intergenerational ethical considerations. A crucial parameter is the [...] Read more.

Energy-related investments gain increasing attention nowadays, particularly in Poland due to clean-energy investment needed to limit greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) and counteract climate change. However, economic appraisal is problematic: the longevity of impacts inextricably involves intergenerational ethical considerations. A crucial parameter is the choice of a discount rate. The predominant approach to estimate the discount rate in EU countries is the Ramsey rule, based on macroeconomic data, but not referring directly to society’s preferences. Those are considered by studies using surveys to elicit individual discount rates (IDR), but rarely concentrating on intergenerational time frame. The paper aims at delivering an insight into the intergenerational intertemporal preferences for Poland (households, n = 471) focusing on whether respondents are willing to declare zero discount rate intergenerationally and whether their choices differ between the short- and long-term perspectives and between human lives and money. To elicit IDR, two hypothetical investment scenarios were designed: lifesaving programs and lottery gains with delays from 10 to 150 years accompanied by attitude and socioeconomic questions. The results indicate that IDR follows hyperbolic time-decline, and a considerable share of respondents (around 20%) are willing to treat future generations as equally important in the case of human lives, while this proportion for monetary gains is two times lower. The IDR drivers differ between lives and money in respect of socioeconomic profile and attitude characteristics as well as between intragenerational and intergenerational time frames. The findings support (a) the rationale for distinct treatment of intergenerational allocations, (b) the divergence of preferences between public and private impacts, and (c) the switch from single to declining discount rate regime in Poland. Full article

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Open AccessArticle

Physical Constraints on Global Social-Ecological Energy System

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Energies 2021, 14(23), 8177; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14238177 - 06 Dec 2021

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1423

Abstract

Energy is the main driver of human Social-Ecological System (SES) dynamics. Collective energy properties of human SES can be described applying the principles of statistical mechanics: (i) energy consumption repartition; (ii) efficiency; (iii) performance, as efficient power, in relation to the least-action principle. [...] Read more.

Energy is the main driver of human Social-Ecological System (SES) dynamics. Collective energy properties of human SES can be described applying the principles of statistical mechanics: (i) energy consumption repartition; (ii) efficiency; (iii) performance, as efficient power, in relation to the least-action principle. International Energy Agency data are analyzed through the lens of such principles. Declining physical efficiency and growth of power losses emerge from our analysis. Losses mainly depend on intermediate system outputs and non-energy final output. Energy performance at Country level also depends on efficient power consumption. Better and worse performing Countries are identified accordingly. Five policy-relevant areas are identified in relation to the physical principles introduced in this paper: Improve efficiency; Decouple economic growth from environmental degradation; Focus on high value added and labor-intensive sectors; Rationalize inefficient fossil fuel subsidies that encourage wasteful consumption; Upgrade the technological capabilities. Coherently with our findings, policies should support the following actions: (1) redefine sectoral energy distribution shares; (2) Improve Country-level performance, if needed; (3) Reduce intermediate outputs and non-energy final output; (4) Reduce resources supply to improve eco-efficiency together with system performance. Full article

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Open AccessArticle

The Challenges of Poland’s Energy Transition

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Sylwia Mrozowska

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Jan A. Wendt

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Krzysztof Tomaszewski

Energies 2021, 14(23), 8165; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14238165 - 06 Dec 2021

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 2407

Abstract

The ongoing climate changes necessitate an effective climate policy. The energy transition is now an important topic and problem, especially in Poland. (1) The undertaken analysis of the problem of energy transition is important for political, social and technological reasons. Political, because it [...] Read more.

The ongoing climate changes necessitate an effective climate policy. The energy transition is now an important topic and problem, especially in Poland. (1) The undertaken analysis of the problem of energy transition is important for political, social and technological reasons. Political, because it shows the weakness of the implementation of Polish energy policy in regards to climate change. Social, because energy transition will bring about significant social changes in the largest industrial region of Poland. Technological, as the departure from fossil fuels requires the introduction of other sources of energy on a massive scale, for which Poland is not prepared. The aim of the study was to critically analyse the activities to date in the field of energy transition in Poland. The second goal of the analysis was an attempt to answer the question of whether the process of energy transition and achieving the goals set in the EU’s European Green Deal are possible at all until 2050. (2) To achieve the goals, the system method and the decision-making method were primarily used. These methods allowed for an examination of the main determinants of the Polish energy transformation. (3) The main results include the confirmation, contrary to the announcements of the Polish government, that despite the adoption in Poland of the strategy “Poland’s energy policy until 2040”, the effective implementation of the energy transition before 2050 is not only very difficult, but may even be impossible to implement in the assumed time. This is due to political, economic, social and technological conditions. Coal energy is outdated, expensive and ineffective. Due to natural conditions, wind energy is not able to meet the energy demand of the industry. The development of nuclear energy is only in the planning phase. (4) To sum up, in the next thirty years, Poland will not be able to achieve the assumed effects of the energy transition, which is in contradiction with the official declaration of the government. Full article

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Open AccessArticle

Numerical Study on Coupled Operation of Stratified Air Distribution System and Natural Ventilation under Multi-Variable Factors in Large Space Buildings

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Energies 2021, 14(23), 8130; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14238130 - 03 Dec 2021

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1002

Abstract

Stratified air distribution systems are commonly used in large space buildings. The research on the airflow organization of stratified air conditioners is deficient in terms of the analysis of multivariable factors. Moreover, studies on the coupled operation of stratified air conditioners and natural [...] Read more.

Stratified air distribution systems are commonly used in large space buildings. The research on the airflow organization of stratified air conditioners is deficient in terms of the analysis of multivariable factors. Moreover, studies on the coupled operation of stratified air conditioners and natural ventilation are few. In this paper, taking a Shanghai Airport Terminal departure hall for the study, air distribution and thermal comfort of the cross-section at a height of 1.6 m are simulated and compared under different working conditions, and the effect of natural ventilation coupling operation is studied. The results show that the air distribution is the most uniform and the thermal comfort is the best (predicted mean vote is 0.428, predicted percentage of dissatisfaction is 15.2%) when the working conditions are 5.9% air supply speed, 11 °C cooling temperature difference and 0° air supply angle. With the coupled operation of natural ventilation, the thermal comfort can be improved from Grade II to Grade I. Full article

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Open AccessArticle

A Fast and Accurate Wind Speed and Direction Nowcasting Model for Renewable Energy Management Systems

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Energies 2021, 14(23), 7878; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14237878 - 24 Nov 2021

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 854

Abstract

To plan operations and avoid any grid disturbances, power utilities require accurate power generation estimates for renewable generation. The generation estimates for wind power stations require an accurate prediction of wind speed and direction. This paper proposes a new prediction model for nowcasting [...] Read more.

To plan operations and avoid any grid disturbances, power utilities require accurate power generation estimates for renewable generation. The generation estimates for wind power stations require an accurate prediction of wind speed and direction. This paper proposes a new prediction model for nowcasting the wind speed and direction, which can be used to predict the output of a wind power plant. The proposed model uses perturbed observations to train the ensemble networks. The trained model is then used to predict the wind speed and direction. The paper performs a comparative assessment of three artificial neural network models. It also studies the performance of introducing perturbed observations to the model using six different interpolation techniques. For each technique, the computational efficiency is measured and assessed. Furthermore, the paper presents an exhaustive investigation of the performance of neural network types and several techniques in training, data splitting, and interpolation. To check the efficacy of the proposed model, the power output from a real wind farm is predicted and compared with the actual recorded measurements. The results of the comprehensive analysis show that the proposed model outperforms contending models in terms of accuracy and execution time. Therefore, this model can be used by operators to reliably generate a dispatch plan. Full article

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Open AccessArticle

Influence of Photovoltaic Development on Decarbonization of Power Generation—Example of Poland

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Grzegorz Lew

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Beata Sadowska

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Katarzyna Chudy-Laskowska

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Grzegorz Zimon

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Magdalena Wójcik-Jurkiewicz

Energies 2021, 14(22), 7819; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14227819 - 22 Nov 2021

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 1983

Abstract

Climate change is becoming a global problem. In many countries, actions are taken with the main aim of reducing CO₂ emissions. The main action, especially in developed countries, is decarbonization. The European Union has become one of the organizations that plays a [...] Read more.

Climate change is becoming a global problem. In many countries, actions are taken with the main aim of reducing CO₂ emissions. The main action, especially in developed countries, is decarbonization. The European Union has become one of the organizations that plays a leading role in decarbonization of the economy. For this reason, renewable energy sources are being intensively developed in the EU countries. Solar energy with the use of PV installations is developing the fastest. Poland is one of the European leaders in photovoltaic development, and according to estimates for 2021–2025, it will continue to be. The aim of this study was to find out the opinions of people toward actions related to the decarbonization policy in Poland. These opinions were obtained through the prism of respondents’ attitudes toward energy produced by means of PV micro-installations. A questionnaire survey was used in this research. The survey was conducted using the CAWI (Computer-Assisted Web Interview) technique. To analyze the results of the study, a Kruskal–Wallis ANOVA test and U–Mann Whitney test were used. Responses were obtained from 633 people. The results obtained from the survey allowed us to draw conclusions, which include the following: (1) a lack of general conviction of respondents about the effectiveness of Poland’s decarbonization policy on reducing global CO₂ emissions, especially among those who show a higher willingness to use PV installations, (2) the willingness to use PV installations is motivated by economic rather than environmental benefits, (3) the need for more widespread public campaigns aimed at promoting the benefits of decarbonization and renewable energy sources, and (4) the finding that the respondents’ region of residence (with a different degree of insolation) mattered for the willingness to use PV installations. Full article

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Open AccessArticle

Role of Natural Gas Consumption in the Reduction of CO₂ Emissions: Case of Azerbaijan

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Sarvar Gurbanov

Energies 2021, 14(22), 7695; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14227695 - 17 Nov 2021

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2951

Abstract

Azerbaijan signed the Paris Agreement in 2016 and committed to cut greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 35% in 2030. Meanwhile, natural gas has been vital component in the total energy mix of Azerbaijan economy and accounted for almost 65% of the total energy [...] Read more.

Azerbaijan signed the Paris Agreement in 2016 and committed to cut greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 35% in 2030. Meanwhile, natural gas has been vital component in the total energy mix of Azerbaijan economy and accounted for almost 65% of the total energy consumption. In the overall electricity mix, natural gas-fired power plants generate 93% of the country’s electricity. Since global energy consumption is responsible for 73% of human-caused greenhouse-gas emissions, and CO₂ makes up more than 74% of the total, this study investigates possible mitigation effects of the natural gas consumption on CO₂ emissions for Azerbaijan. Author employed several cointegration methodologies, namely Bound testing Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) approach, Fully Modified Ordinary Least Squares (FMOLS), Dynamic Ordinary Least Squares (DOLS), and Structural Time Series model (STSM). Author of this paper found that when the share of natural gas increases 1 percent in the total energy mix, CO₂ emission per capita decreases approximately 0.14 percent as a result of the ARDL, FMOLS, and DOLS models. All three models provide cointegration between the share of natural gas in the total energy mix and reduction in CO₂ emissions. Full article

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Open AccessArticle

Monetising Air Pollution Benefits of Clean Energy Requires Locally Specific Information

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Energies 2021, 14(22), 7622; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14227622 - 15 Nov 2021

Viewed by 1549

Abstract

Meeting the Paris Agreement on climate change requires substantial investments in low-emissions energy and significant improvements in end-use energy efficiency. These measures can also deliver improved air quality and there is broad recognition of the health benefits of decarbonising energy. Monetising these health [...] Read more.

Meeting the Paris Agreement on climate change requires substantial investments in low-emissions energy and significant improvements in end-use energy efficiency. These measures can also deliver improved air quality and there is broad recognition of the health benefits of decarbonising energy. Monetising these health benefits is an important part of a robust assessment of the costs and benefits of renewable energy and energy efficiency programs (clean energy programs (CEP)) and a variety of methods have been used to estimate health benefits at national, regional, continental and global scales. Approaches, such as unit damage cost estimates and impact pathways, differ in complexity and spatial coverage and can deliver different estimates for air pollution costs/benefits. To date, the monetised health benefits of CEP in Australia have applied international and global estimates that can range from 2–229USD/tCO2 (USD 2016). Here, we calculate the current health damage costs of coal-fired power in New South Wales (NSW), Australia’s most populous state, and the health benefits of CEP. Focusing on PM2.5 pollution, we estimate the current health impacts of coal-fired power at 3.20USD/MWh, approximately 10% of the generation costs, and much lower than previous estimates. We demonstrate the need for locally specific assessment of the air pollution benefits of CEP and illustrate that without locally specific information, the relative costs/benefits of CEP may be significantly over- or understated. We estimate that, for NSW, the health benefits from CEP are 1.80USD/MWh and that the current air pollution health costs of coal-fired power in NSW represent a significant unpriced externality. Full article

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Open AccessArticle

Resiliency Analysis of Hybrid Energy Systems within Interconnected Infrastructures

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Hossam A. Gabbar

Energies 2021, 14(22), 7499; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14227499 - 10 Nov 2021

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 921

Abstract

There are world tendencies to implement interconnected infrastructures of energy-water-waste-transportation-food-health-social systems to enhance the overall performance in normal and emergency situations where there are multiple interactions among them with possible conversions and improved efficiencies. Hybrid energy systems are core elements within interconnected infrastructures [...] Read more.

There are world tendencies to implement interconnected infrastructures of energy-water-waste-transportation-food-health-social systems to enhance the overall performance in normal and emergency situations where there are multiple interactions among them with possible conversions and improved efficiencies. Hybrid energy systems are core elements within interconnected infrastructures with possible conversions among electricity, thermal, gas, hydrogen, waste, and transportation networks. This could be improved with storage systems and intelligent control systems. It is important to study resiliency of hybrid energy systems within interconnected infrastructures to ensure reduced risks and improved performance. This paper presents framework for the analysis of resiliency layers as related to protection layers. Case study of hybrid energy system as integrated with water, waste, and transportation infrastructures is presented where different resiliency and protection layers are assessed. Performance measures are modeled and evaluated for possible interconnection scenarios with internal and external factors that led to resiliency demands. Resiliency layers could trigger protection layers under certain conditions, which are evaluated to achieve high performance hybrid energy systems within interconnected infrastructures. The proposed approach will support urban, small, and remote communities to achieve high performance interconnected infrastructures for normal and emergency situations. Full article

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Open AccessArticle

Modelling the Interaction between Air Pollutant Emissions and Their Key Sources in Poland

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Alicja Kolasa-Więcek

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Dariusz Suszanowicz

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Agnieszka A. Pilarska

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Krzysztof Pilarski

Energies 2021, 14(21), 6891; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14216891 - 20 Oct 2021

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1162

Abstract

The main purpose of this study is to investigate the relationships between key sources of air pollutant emissions (sources of energy production, factories which are particularly harmful to the environment, the fleets of cars, environmental protection expenditure) and the main environmental air pollution [...] Read more.

The main purpose of this study is to investigate the relationships between key sources of air pollutant emissions (sources of energy production, factories which are particularly harmful to the environment, the fleets of cars, environmental protection expenditure) and the main environmental air pollution (SO₂, NO_x, CO and PM) in Poland. Models based on MLP neural networks were used as predictive models. Global sensitivity analysis was used to demonstrate the significant impact of individual network input variables on the output variable. To verify the effectiveness of the models created, the actual data were compared with the data obtained through modelling. Projected courses of changes in the variables under study correspond with the real data, which confirms that the proposed models generalize acquired knowledge well. The high MLP network quality parameters of 0.99–0.85 indicate that the network generalizes the acquired knowledge accurately. The sensitivity analysis for NO_x, CO and PM pollutants indicates the significance of all input variables. For SO₂, it showed significance for four of the six variables analysed. The predictions made by the neural models are not very different from the experimental values. Full article

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Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Green Growth in the OECD Countries: A Multivariate Analytical Approach

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Beata Gavurova

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Silvia Megyesiova

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Matej Hudak

Energies 2021, 14(20), 6719; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14206719 - 15 Oct 2021

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 1371

Abstract

Green growth is about merging environmental and social protection with economic growth. The OECD countries follow the progress toward greening though a set of indicators. The aim of the study is to analyze the condition and development of the OECD countries using a [...] Read more.

Green growth is about merging environmental and social protection with economic growth. The OECD countries follow the progress toward greening though a set of indicators. The aim of the study is to analyze the condition and development of the OECD countries using a set of green growth indicators. The univariate and multivariate statistical approach was used to identify the main features of green growth development in two time spans. The achieved success of the OECD countries toward the green growth was measured from period 1 (years 2000–2009) to period 2 (years 2010–2019). For stimulant indicators, an increase was achieved, while for the destimulant variables, a decrease was reached between the analyzed periods. CO₂ productivity increased by more than 31%, material productivity by 25%, and the energy productivity by nearly 21%. From the ecological point of view, a positive sign was achieved by an intensive increase of the percentage of municipal waste treatment by recycling or composting. The real GDP increased between periods in each of the OECD countries, except in Greece. The destimulant indicators decreased over time. The mortality declined by about 20% from exposure to ambient PM_2.5 and thus the welfare costs of premature death from exposure to PM_2.5 also declined. The decline of the mean population exposure to PM_2.5 by 12.5% on average for the OECD countries is a positive signal for environmental protection and public health of the OECD population. Some uncertainty exists as the municipal waste generated per capita decreased only slightly by 2%. Full article

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Open AccessArticle

Social Responsibility of Economic Units and the Well-Being of Society in the Tourism Sector: Example of Accommodation Facility

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Julia Wojciechowska-Solis

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Agata Kobyłka

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Adam Gawryluk

Energies 2021, 14(19), 6270; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14196270 - 01 Oct 2021

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1215

Abstract

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) assumes that companies should justify their existence with services for various stakeholders and not with profit alone. There is a strong emphasis on the implications of CSR for managing human resources in hotels and other accommodation services, supporting local [...] Read more.

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) assumes that companies should justify their existence with services for various stakeholders and not with profit alone. There is a strong emphasis on the implications of CSR for managing human resources in hotels and other accommodation services, supporting local communities, and promoting environmental sustainability. This article aims to present the adjustment of business entities providing accommodation services in Poland to the CSR principles. Two aspects were examined: the environmental aspect, i.e., waste segregation and the use of economic energy receivers, while the social aspect included engaging employees, as well as investing in improving their qualifications towards pro-ecological awareness. The study was conducted on a sample of 207 owners and managers of economic entities in the accommodation sector in Poland. The Statistica software was used to analyze the obtained results, including Chi² statistics and correspondence analysis. Based on the obtained results, it can be concluded that the employees of accommodation centers usually deal with the final segregation of waste because they believe that tourists do not follow the rules of proper segregation. Most hotels are equipped with bins for all fractions of waste. The affiliation of a center to a specific macroregion in Poland was not statistically significant in terms of waste segregation practices. Only in the southern macroregion of Poland, ordinary light bulbs are used in accommodation establishments, which account for 0.97% of the surveyed population. In other regions, ¾ establishments use energy-saving receivers in all rooms. Only 1/3 of the facilities invested in developing their staff by organizing training courses toward sustainable development. The most popular subjects were topics related to waste segregation, energy and water saving, and environmental protection. Full article

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Open AccessArticle

Living in the “Age of Humans”. Envisioning CAD Architecture for the Challenges of the Anthropocene—Energy, Environment, and Well-Being

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Krystyna Januszkiewicz

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Natalia Paszkowska-Kaczmarek

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Fekadu Aduna Duguma

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Karol G. Kowalski

Energies 2021, 14(19), 6093; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14196093 - 24 Sep 2021

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1439

Abstract

The Anthropocene thesis poses new challenges to human activity on the planet. These challenges also apply to the built environment. Climate change will increase existing threats, and create new ones, for both human and natural systems. Above all, the built environment is expected [...] Read more.

The Anthropocene thesis poses new challenges to human activity on the planet. These challenges also apply to the built environment. Climate change will increase existing threats, and create new ones, for both human and natural systems. Above all, the built environment is expected to provide structural stability, access to water necessary for life, and safe production of clean energy. This research-by-design was focused on designing an adaptive built environment for Anthropocene societies and the maintenance of their well-being, and on envisioning and conceptualizing new architectural solutions based on multidisciplinary knowledge and CAD parametric design methods and tools. The conceptual designs are the result of these studies. These visions show how wind loads can be reduced, water can be stored, diverse energy sources can be integrated into one work of architecture, and thermal comfort can be provided to support local communities and the life of the environment in the belief that the coexistence of species on the planet will happen. They also illustrate how humanity will be able to use the Earth and its atmosphere as an energy producer and conductor and create a global, wireless, non-commercial energy network, accessible to all. Full article

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Open AccessArticle

Increasing Energy Prices as a Stimulus for Entrepreneurship in Renewable Energies: Ownership Structure, Company Size and Energy Policy in Companies in Poland

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Piotr Żuk

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Paweł Żuk

Energies 2021, 14(18), 5885; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14185885 - 17 Sep 2021

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1438

Abstract

Can rising electricity prices be a driving force for energy transition in countries where the energy sector is d pendent on coal? The goals of the article are to determine the readiness of entrepreneurs to invest in renewable energy and indicate the variables [...] Read more.

Can rising electricity prices be a driving force for energy transition in countries where the energy sector is d pendent on coal? The goals of the article are to determine the readiness of entrepreneurs to invest in renewable energy and indicate the variables (company size, the length of time it has operated in the market, the form of ownership and the sector of the economy represented) that influence companies’ greater interest in making savings in energy costs. The research sample in the survey carried out using the computer-assisted telephone interviewing (CATI) method included representatives of entrepreneurs from all regions of Poland. The result for all respondents was checked with the z-test (proportion test). The results obtained on a sample of 400 Polish entrepreneurs responsible for development policies in their companies explain which variables have the greatest impact on the decisions of companies in the context of investments in renewable energy: in Poland, greater interest in renewable energy can be observed in the public sector and in larger companies. The conclusion that can be drawn from this research is that the ownership structure of a company plays an important role in looking for savings by investing in renewable energy. Full article

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Open AccessArticle

The Data-Driven Modeling of Pressure Loss in Multi-Batch Refined Oil Pipelines with Drag Reducer Using Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) Network

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Energies 2021, 14(18), 5871; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14185871 - 16 Sep 2021

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 998

Abstract

Due to the addition of the drag reducer in refined oil pipelines for increasing the pipeline throughput as well as reducing energy consumption, the classical method based on the Darcy-Weisbach Formula for precise pressure loss calculation presents a large error. Additionally, the way [...] Read more.

Due to the addition of the drag reducer in refined oil pipelines for increasing the pipeline throughput as well as reducing energy consumption, the classical method based on the Darcy-Weisbach Formula for precise pressure loss calculation presents a large error. Additionally, the way to accurately calculate the pressure loss of the refined oil pipeline with the drag reducer is in urgent need. The accurate pressure loss value can be used as the input parameter of pump scheduling or batch scheduling models of refined oil pipelines, which can ensure the safe operation of the pipeline system, achieving the goal of energy-saving and cost reduction. This paper proposes the data-driven modeling of pressure loss for multi-batch refined oil pipelines with the drag reducer in high accuracy. The multi-batch sequential transportation process and the differences in the physical properties between different kinds of refined oil in the pipelines are taken into account. By analyzing the changes of the drag reduction rate over time and the autocorrelation of the pressure loss sequence data, the sequential time effect of the drag reducer on calculating pressure loss is considered and therefore, the long short-term memory (LSTM) network is utilized. The neural network structure with two LSTM layers is designed. Moreover, the input features of the proposed model are naturally inherited from the Darcy-Weisbach Formula and on adaptation to the multi-batch sequential transportation process in refined oil pipelines, using the particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm for network hyperparameter tuning. Case studies show that the proposed data-driven model based on the LSTM network is valid and capable of considering the multi-batch sequential transportation process. Furthermore, the proposed model outperforms the models based on the Darcy-Weisbach Formula and multilayer perceptron (MLP) from previous studies in accuracy. The MAPEs of the proposed model of pipelines with the drag reducer are all less than 4.7% and the best performance on the testing data is 1.3627%, which can provide the calculation results of pressure loss in high accuracy. The results also indicate that the model’s capturing sequential effect of the drag reducer from the input data set contributed to improving the calculation accuracy and generalization ability. Full article

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Open AccessArticle

Environmental Assessment and Regulatory Aspects of Cold Ironing Planning for a Maritime Route in the Adriatic Sea

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Energies 2021, 14(18), 5836; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14185836 - 15 Sep 2021

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2165

Abstract

The technology of cold ironing (or shore-to-ship power) can meaningfully reduce greenhouse gases and air pollutant emissions from ships at the berth by powering the vessels from the electrical shore grid. While cold ironing constitutes an effective and affordable solution in northern Europe [...] Read more.

The technology of cold ironing (or shore-to-ship power) can meaningfully reduce greenhouse gases and air pollutant emissions from ships at the berth by powering the vessels from the electrical shore grid. While cold ironing constitutes an effective and affordable solution in northern Europe and America, economic, legal, and environmental factors still render this technology less attractive in southern Europe. This paper aims to unpack and analyze the economic, regulatory, and environmental factors that can foster cold ironing as a standard installation in the Mediterranean Sea. Based on a model design for the port of Trieste (Italy) as applied to a cluster of target ports in the Adriatic Sea (in Italy, Croatia, and Greece), this article evaluates the cold ironing payback period by comparing costs of shore side-plants with environmental externalities and O&M costs. Moreover, the paper addresses key regulatory bottlenecks arising in different European jurisdictions with regard to the setting-up and development of cold ironing, while appraising the legal and economic consequences of deploying cold ironing in light of the future inclusion of the maritime sector in the EU Emission Trading System. Full article

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Open AccessArticle

Public Acceptance and Support of Renewable Energy in the North-East Development Region of Romania

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Energies 2021, 14(18), 5834; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14185834 - 15 Sep 2021

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1055

Abstract

Concern about energy in the European Union (EU) has been a recurrent issue from the very beginning. Though initially addressed at the state level, energy is now a shared competency as stressed by article 194 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the [...] Read more.

Concern about energy in the European Union (EU) has been a recurrent issue from the very beginning. Though initially addressed at the state level, energy is now a shared competency as stressed by article 194 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union. New challenges, added from time to time, need public support in order to be properly addressed. Such is the case of substituting traditional energy production with renewable energy sources. Our paper seeks to determine whether the Romanian public opinion favors such an evolution, which is traditionally associated with significant investment efforts. The study is focused on the north-east development region, which has the highest population and registered the fastest economic growth in 2019. The topic was explored through a survey applied to a sample of 649 household respondents. The results suggest strong support for introducing renewable energy sources, serious concerns about climate change, and a preoccupation for energy saving. Concerns regarding climate change or various economic factors, behaviors oriented towards reducing energy waste, as well as perceived knowledge on the matter are the factors with the biggest impact on supporting electricity production based on renewable energy sources. However, TV and online exposure have a negative impact on support. Demographics, along with social and political values remain mostly not significant. Full article

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Open AccessArticle

Escaping Energy Poverty: A Comparative Analysis of 17 European Countries

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Lilia Karpinska

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Sławomir Śmiech

Energies 2021, 14(18), 5761; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14185761 - 13 Sep 2021

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1795

Abstract

A comparative analysis of energy poverty transitions and persistence can provide valuable suggestions for long-term policy actions. This study examines the dynamics of energy poverty in 17 European countries based on the longitudinal household data from the EU Survey on Income and Living [...] Read more.

A comparative analysis of energy poverty transitions and persistence can provide valuable suggestions for long-term policy actions. This study examines the dynamics of energy poverty in 17 European countries based on the longitudinal household data from the EU Survey on Income and Living Conditions, waves 2015–2018. The study pursues two goals. First, we explore households’ chances of transitioning in and out of energy poverty in each country following the discrete-time Markov process. On average, the probability to stay in energy poverty is 51.5%, and there is a lot of heterogeneity across countries. Households in Bulgaria, Greece, Romania, and Lithuania are quite close to the energy poverty trap. Second, we identify factors that help energy-poor households leave energy poverty. Demographic, technical, and socio-economic factors are the drivers in escaping energy poverty, which suggests common EU policy. Full article

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Open AccessArticle

Renewable Energy Plants and Business Models: A New Rural Development Perspective

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María-José Prados

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Marta Pallarès-Blanch

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Ramón García-Marín

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Carolina del Valle

Energies 2021, 14(17), 5438; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14175438 - 01 Sep 2021

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2078

Abstract

The paper evaluates the rural development (RD) contribution of local economic activities (LEAs), whether generated or affected by the proximity of renewable energy plants (REPs). The study also informs about LEAs’ role as co-players in the fight against climate change. Semi-structured research interviews [...] Read more.

The paper evaluates the rural development (RD) contribution of local economic activities (LEAs), whether generated or affected by the proximity of renewable energy plants (REPs). The study also informs about LEAs’ role as co-players in the fight against climate change. Semi-structured research interviews have been applied to identify LEAs’ BM (business model) in Andalusia, Murcia, and Catalonia, autonomous communities of Spain. Most LEAs present a BM based on the RE plant, and others do not, but they still contribute to RD, rural communities’ well-being and global sustainability. Results show, first, that certain LEAs, due to their inter-connection with large REPs, can innovate and create a significant number of stable jobs. Second, land leasing to REPs allows for temporary farms’ diversification, which is conditioned to its bargaining power. Third, advice on integration RE projects in RD strategies should be provided. Conclusions suggest the need for new governance to favor energy transition coherent with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Full article

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Open AccessArticle

Stochastic Generation of District Heat Load

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Energies 2021, 14(17), 5344; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14175344 - 27 Aug 2021

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1317

Abstract

Modelling heat load is a crucial challenge for the proper management of heat production and distribution. Several studies have tackled this issue at building and urban levels, however, the current scale of interest is shifting to the district level due to the new [...] Read more.

Modelling heat load is a crucial challenge for the proper management of heat production and distribution. Several studies have tackled this issue at building and urban levels, however, the current scale of interest is shifting to the district level due to the new paradigm of the smart system. This study presents a stochastic procedure to model district heat load with a different number of buildings aggregation. The proposed method is based on a superimposition approach by analysing the seasonal component using a linear regression model on the outdoor temperature and the intra-daily component through a bi-parametric distribution of different times of the day. Moreover, an empirical relationship, that estimates the demand variation given the average demand together with a user aggregation coefficient, is proposed. To assess the effectiveness of the proposed methodology, the study of a group of residential users connected to the district heating system of Bozen-Bolzano is carried out. In addition, an application on a three-day prevision shows the suitability of this approach. The final purpose is to provide a flexible tool for district heat load characterisation and prevision based on a sample of time series data and summary information about the buildings belonging to the analysed district. Full article

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Open AccessReview

A Review of Hydrothermal Liquefaction of Biomass for Biofuels Production with a Special Focus on the Effect of Process Parameters, Co-Solvents, and Extraction Solvents

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Energies 2021, 14(16), 4916; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14164916 - 11 Aug 2021

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 4065

Abstract

Hydrothermal liquefaction is one of the common thermochemical conversion methods adapted to convert high-water content biomass feedstocks to biofuels and many other valuable industrial chemicals. The hydrothermal process is broadly classified into carbonization, liquefaction, and gasification with hydrothermal liquefaction conducted in the intermediate [...] Read more.

Hydrothermal liquefaction is one of the common thermochemical conversion methods adapted to convert high-water content biomass feedstocks to biofuels and many other valuable industrial chemicals. The hydrothermal process is broadly classified into carbonization, liquefaction, and gasification with hydrothermal liquefaction conducted in the intermediate temperature range of 250–374 °C and pressure of 4–25 MPa. Due to the ease of adaptability, there has been considerable research into the process on using various types of biomass feedstocks. Over the years, various solvents and co-solvents have been used as mediums of conversion, to promote easy decomposition of the lignocellulosic components in biomass. The product separation process, to obtain the final products, typically involves multiple extraction and evaporation steps, which greatly depend on the type of extractive solvents and process parameters. In general, the main aim of the hydrothermal process is to produce a primary product, such as bio-oil, biochar, gases, or industrial chemicals, such as adhesives, benzene, toluene, and xylene. All of the secondary products become part of the side streams. The optimum process parameters are obtained to improve the yield and quality of the primary products. A great deal of the process depends on understanding the underlined reaction chemistry during the process. Therefore, this article reviews the major works conducted in the field of hydrothermal liquefaction in order to understand the mechanism of lignocellulosic conversion, describing the concept of a batch and a continuous process with the most recent state-of-art technologies in the field. Further, the article provides detailed insight into the effects of various process parameters, co-solvents, and extraction solvents, and their effects on the products’ yield and quality. It also provides information about possible applications of products obtained through liquefaction. Lastly, it addresses gaps in research and provides suggestions for future studies. Full article

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Open AccessArticle

Synergies between Direct Air Capture Technologies and Solar Thermochemical Cycles in the Production of Methanol

by

Enric Prats-Salvado

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Nathalie Monnerie

and

Christian Sattler

Energies 2021, 14(16), 4818; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14164818 - 07 Aug 2021

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2369

Abstract

Methanol is an example of a valuable chemical that can be produced from water and carbon dioxide through a chemical process that is fully powered by concentrated solar thermal energy and involves three steps: direct air capture (DAC), thermochemical splitting and methanol synthesis. [...] Read more.

Methanol is an example of a valuable chemical that can be produced from water and carbon dioxide through a chemical process that is fully powered by concentrated solar thermal energy and involves three steps: direct air capture (DAC), thermochemical splitting and methanol synthesis. In the present work, we consider the whole value chain from the harvesting of raw materials to the final product. We also identify synergies between the aforementioned steps and collect them in five possible scenarios aimed to reduce the specific energy consumption. To assess the scenarios, we combined data from low and high temperature DAC with an Aspen Plus^® model of a plant that includes water and carbon dioxide splitting units via thermochemical cycles (TCC), CO/CO₂ separation, storage and methanol synthesis. We paid special attention to the energy required for the generation of low oxygen partial pressures in the reduction step of the TCC, as well as the overall water consumption. Results show that suggested synergies, in particular, co-generation, are effective and can lead to solar-to-fuel efficiencies up to 10.2% (compared to the 8.8% baseline). In addition, we appoint vacuum as the most adequate strategy for obtaining low oxygen partial pressures. Full article

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Open AccessArticle

An Integrated Single-Valued Neutrosophic Combined Compromise Solution Methodology for Renewable Energy Resource Selection Problem

by

Pratibha Rani

,

Jabir Ali

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Raghunathan Krishankumar

,

Arunodaya Raj Mishra

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Fausto Cavallaro

and

Kattur S. Ravichandran

Energies 2021, 14(15), 4594; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14154594 - 29 Jul 2021

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 1420

Abstract

Optimal renewable energy source (RES) selection needs a strategic decision for reducing environmental pollutions, use of conventional resources, and improving economic development. In the process of RESs evaluation, several aspects like environmental, economic, social, and technical requirements play an important role. In addition, [...] Read more.

Optimal renewable energy source (RES) selection needs a strategic decision for reducing environmental pollutions, use of conventional resources, and improving economic development. In the process of RESs evaluation, several aspects like environmental, economic, social, and technical requirements play an important role. In addition, diverse factors affect the appropriate RES selection problem which adheres to uncertain and imprecise data. Thus, this selection process can be considered as a complex uncertain multi-criteria decision making (MCDM) problem. This study aims to introduce a novel integrated methodology based on Step-wise Weight Assessment Ratio Analysis (SWARA) and Combined Compromise Solution (CoCoSo) methods within single-valued neutrosophic sets (SVNSs) context, wherein the decision-makers and criteria weights are completely unknown. In the proposed approach, the criteria weights are determined by the SWARA method, and the most suitable RES alternative is determined by an improved CoCoSo method under the SVN context. Further, an illustrative case study of RES selection is considered to demonstrate the thorough execution process of the proposed method. Moreover, a comparison with existing methods is discussed to analyze the validity of the obtained result. This study performs sensitivity analysis with a various set of criteria weights to reveal the robustness of the developed approach. The strength of the proposed method is its practical applicability and ability to provide solutions under uncertain, imperfect, indeterminate, and inconsistent information. Full article

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Open AccessReview

A Review of Urban Green and Blue Infrastructure from the Perspective of Food-Energy-Water Nexus

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and

Energies 2021, 14(15), 4583; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14154583 - 29 Jul 2021

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2363

Abstract

Small scale urban green-blue infrastructure (indicated as GBI hereafter) comprises huge underexploited areas for urban development and planning. This review article aims to highlight the relevance and knowledge gaps regarding GBI from the perspective of the food–energy–water (FEW) nexus, these being key resources [...] Read more.

Small scale urban green-blue infrastructure (indicated as GBI hereafter) comprises huge underexploited areas for urban development and planning. This review article aims to highlight the relevance and knowledge gaps regarding GBI from the perspective of the food–energy–water (FEW) nexus, these being key resources for the survival of human communities. In particular, this review was focused on publications on urban ecosystem services (positive effects) and dis-services (negative effects) associated with different GBI typologies. The review proved that GBI can contribute environmentally, socially, and economically to FEW security and urban sustainability. Yet, such positive effects must be considered against ecosystem dis-services tradeoffs, including urban food production, commonly connected with heavy water and energy consumption, specifically under dry climate conditions, and sometimes related to an excessive use of manure, pesticides, or fertilizers. These conditions could pose either a risk to water quality and local insect survival or serve enhanced mosquito breeding because of irrigation. Up to now, the review evidenced that few nexus modeling techniques have been discussed in terms of their benefits, drawbacks, and applications. Guidance is provided on the choice of an adequate modeling approach. Water, energy, and food are intrinsically associated physically. However, depending on their management, their tradeoffs are often increased. There is a need to minimize these tradeoffs and to build up synergies between food, energy, and water using a holistic approach. This is why the FEW nexus approach offers good insights to address the relation between three important individual resource components of sustainability. Full article

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Open AccessArticle

Exploring Avoided Environmental Impacts as Well as Energy and Resource Recovery from Microbial Desalination Cell Treatment of Brine

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and

Energies 2021, 14(15), 4453; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14154453 - 23 Jul 2021

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 1285

Abstract

Seawater represents a potential resource to ensure sustainable availability of water for population and irrigation purposes, especially in some areas of the world. Desalination processes allow the production of fresh water, but they generate also brine as waste product. Sustainable brine management should [...] Read more.

Seawater represents a potential resource to ensure sustainable availability of water for population and irrigation purposes, especially in some areas of the world. Desalination processes allow the production of fresh water, but they generate also brine as waste product. Sustainable brine management should be identified to ensure proper disposal and potentially resource recovery. This experimental study showed that emerging technologies such as Microbial Desalination Cells (MDCs) may provide a valuable contribution to the sustainability of the seawater desalination sector. In this paper, we report results on lab-scale desalination brine treatments applying MDCs, which allow energy savings, resource recovery, environmental impact minimization, and reduction of the organic load in municipal wastewater. Our results showed that MDCs’ treatment allows the removal of approximately 33 g of salts (62% of the total)—including chlorides, bromides, and sulphates—from 20 mL of brine within 96 h. The MDCs, according to the source of energy and the presence of mature biofilm at the anode, spent 7.2 J, 7.9 J, and 9.6 J in the desalination process, with the higher amount of energy required by the abiotic system and the lesser by the MDCs fed with just wastewater. Our approach also showed environmental and energy reductions because of potential metal recovery instead of returning them into marine environment. We quantified the avoided life cycle of human and marine eco-toxicity impacts as well as the reduction of cumulative energy demand of recovered metals. The main benefit in terms of avoided toxicity would arise from the mercury and copper recovery, while potential economic advantages would derive from the recovered cobalt that represents a strategic resource for many products such as battery storage systems. Full article

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Open AccessArticle

The Effect of Marshallian and Jacobian Knowledge Spillovers on Jobs in the Solar, Wind and Energy Efficiency Sector

by

Luigi Aldieri

,

Jonas Grafström

and

Concetto Paolo Vinci

Energies 2021, 14(14), 4269; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14144269 - 14 Jul 2021

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1713

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to establish if Marshallian and Jacobian knowledge spillovers affect job creation in the green energy sector. Whether these two effects exist is important for the number of jobs created in related fields and jobs pushed away in [...] Read more.

The purpose of this paper is to establish if Marshallian and Jacobian knowledge spillovers affect job creation in the green energy sector. Whether these two effects exist is important for the number of jobs created in related fields and jobs pushed away in other sectors. In the analysis, the production efficiency, in terms of jobs and job spillovers, from inventions in solar, wind and energy efficiency, is explored through data envelopment analysis (DEA), based on the Malmquist productivity index, and tobit regression. A panel dataset of American and European firms over the period of 2002–2017 is used. The contribution to the literature is to show the role of the spillovers from the same technology sector (Marshallian externalities), and of the spillovers from more diversified activity (Jacobian externalities). Since previous empirical evidence concerning the innovation effects on the production efficiency is yet weak, the paper attempts to bridge this gap. The empirical findings suggest negative Marshallian externalities, while Jacobian externalities have no statistical impact on the job creation process. The findings are of strategic importance for governments who are developing industrial strategies for renewable energy. Full article

Open AccessArticle

Economic and Environmental Assessment on Implementing Solar Renewable Energy Systems in Spanish Residential Homes

by

Alberto Cerezo-Narváez

,

María-José Bastante-Ceca

and

José-María Piñero-Vilela

Energies 2021, 14(14), 4183; https://doi.org/10.3390/en14144183 - 11 Jul 2021

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1581

Abstract

In Europe, buildings are responsible for more than one third of the total final energy demands and greenhouse gas emissions. In the last twenty years, the European Union has published a succession of energy performance of building directives to define and ensure the [...] Read more.

In Europe, buildings are responsible for more than one third of the total final energy demands and greenhouse gas emissions. In the last twenty years, the European Union has published a succession of energy performance of building directives to define and ensure the fulfilment of a series of objectives regarding greenhouse gas emissions, energy consumption, energy efficiency and energy generation from renewable sources in buildings. For its part, Spain is adapting its legal framework, transposing these directives with the aim of achieving greater energy efficiency and sustainability for buildings. Under this context, an energy, economic and environmental assessment is performed to analyze the impact of these regulatory changes on a single-family home including a photovoltaic installation for self-consumption with surpluses and/or a solar thermal installation for domestic hot water supply, located in each one of the eight thousand one hundred thirty-one municipalities that make up Spain. The energy behavior of the original house is compared with that obtained after it is updated with these new facilities. The transient system simulation tool is used for the energy study. The results show that the European objectives are far exceeded. The energy savings achieved range from 67% to 126%, carbon dioxide emissions decrease by 42% to 100% and energy bills are reduced in cost by 32% to 81%. The findings of this work can be used by policymakers as guidelines for the development of national strategic plans and financial incentives for the promotion of small-scale residential photovoltaic and solar thermal applications, as well as by designers, supervisors, managers and developers to include them in their projects. Full article

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