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An editorial is presented on the winners of the Clean Energy Best Paper Prizes for 2021, which recognize research in clean and low-carbon energy. An overview of the awarded papers such as blockchain technology in energy trading, the design of a solar power station in Sudan, and the performance of a floating photovoltaic system in an Indian reservoir is presented. It further emphasizes the significance of clean energy and the journal's commitment to promote a sustainable future.

The article discusses that Clean Energy and China Energy Group has awarded inaugural Clean Energy Best Paper Prize to ‘Reversible solid-oxide cells for clean and sustainable energy'. The paper is based on the how reversible solid oxide fuel cells when powered by sustainable energy can be used on large scale for transportation sector.

The technique of producing hydrogen by utilizing green and renewable energy sources is called green hydrogen production. Therefore, by implementing this technique, hydrogen will become a sustainable and clean energy source by lowering greenhouse gas emissions and reducing our reliance on fossil fuels. The key benefit of producing green hydrogen by utilizing green energy is that no harmful pollutants or greenhouse gases are directly released throughout the process. Hence, to guarantee all of the environmental advantages, it is crucial to consider the entire hydrogen supply chain, involving storage, transportation and end users. Hydrogen is a promising clean energy source and targets plan pathways towards decarbonization and net-zero emissions by 2050. This paper has highlighted the techniques for generating green hydrogen that are needed for a clean environment and sustainable energy solutions. Moreover, it summarizes an overview, outlook and energy transient of green hydrogen production. Consequently, its perspective provides new insights and research directions in order to accelerate the development and identify the potential of green hydrogen production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Green hydrogen is considered one of the key technologies of the energy transition, as it can be used to store surpluses from renewable energies in times of high solar radiation or wind speed for use in dark lulls. This paper examines the decarbonization potential of hydrogen for the heating industry. Worldwide, 99% of hydrogen is produced from fossil fuels, because hydrogen derived from renewable energy sources remains prohibitively expensive compared with its conventional counterpart. However, due to the expansion of renewable energy sources and the current energy crisis of conventional energy sources, hydrogen from renewable energy sources is becoming more and more economical. To optimize the efficiency of green hydrogen production and make it more price-competitive, the author simulates a hydrogen production plant consisting of a photovoltaic plant, a power grid, hydrogen storage, an electrolyser, a natural gas purchase option, a district heating plant and households. Using the deep deterministic policy gradient algorithm from deep reinforcement learning, the plant is designed to optimize itself by simulating different production scenarios and deriving strategies. The connected district heating plant is used to map how hydrogen can be optimally used for heat supply. A demonstrable outcome of this paper is that the utilization of deep deterministic policy gradient, over the course of a full year, can result in a competitive production of hydrogen derived from renewable or stored energy sources for the heating industry as a natural gas substitute. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increasing the application of renewable energy in the power system is an effective way to achieve the goal of 'Dual Carbon'. At the same time, the high proportion of renewable energy connected to the grid endangers the safe operation of the power system. To solve this problem, this paper proposes the application of a copula function to describe the correlation between wind power and photovoltaic power, and reduce the uncertainty of power-system operation with a high proportion of renewable energy. In order to increase the robustness of the model, this paper proposes the application of the conditional value-at-risk theory to construct the objective function of the model and effectively control the tail risk of power-system operation costs. Through case analysis, it is found that the model proposed in this paper has strong practicality and economy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of microgrids is progressing due to intelligent load demands, clean energy, batteries and electric vehicles. The presence of such systems in microgrids causes power balance inconsistency, leading to increased power losses and deviation in voltage. In this paper, a mixed-integer non-linear programming model is proposed for modelling island microgrid energy management considering smart loads, clean energy resources, electric vehicles and batteries. Similarly, a flexible distributed AC transmission system device is proposed to prevent voltage deviation and reduce power losses. A scenario-based multi-objective function has been proposed to decrease energy losses and voltage deviations and energy outages of clean energy resources, reduce emissions from fossil-fired distributed generation and finally decrease load outages to reduce the vulnerability of the islanded microgrid. Regarding the proposed mixed-integer non-linear model and the high number of variables and constraints, a modified evolutionary algorithm based on particle swarm optimization has been proposed to solve the proposed model, which can be more efficient than other algorithms to achieve global optimal solutions. The model presented is implemented on a 33-node island microgrid and the results illustrate that the proposed algorithm and model are effective in reducing energy losses and voltage deviation, as well as reducing the vulnerability of the microgrid. The simulation results demonstrate that the proposed approach can lead to significant improvements in the performance of the microgrid. Specifically, the approach can result in a 27% reduction in losses, a 6% reduction in pollution and a 31% improvement in voltage. Additionally, the approach allows maximum utilization of renewable energy sources, making it a promising solution for sustainable energy management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

China will strive to achieve a 'dual carbon' target: 'carbon peak' by 2030 and 'carbon-neutral' by 2060. In this context, improving the efficiency of renewable energy and reducing the use of thermal power are important ways to achieve the target. Clean, efficient and large-capacity energy-storage technology is the key to improving the utilization rate of renewable energy. First, this paper proposes to use compressed-air energy-storage technology instead of the old energy-storage technology to build an economical and environmentally friendly comprehensive energy park capacity optimization configuration model. Second, this paper uses the newly proposed improved chicken swarm optimization algorithm to solve the model, which is more accurate and faster. Finally, this paper analyzes a comprehensive energy park in north-west China. Through case analysis, it can be seen that the average utilization rate of renewable energy can reach 73.87% through the model proposed in this paper, while the average power-abandonment rate is only 9.32%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To provide clean energy at a lower cost to their citizens, all nations of the world are striving to increase their energy production in an environmentally friendly way. Benin has also joined this dynamic by considerably increasing its green energy production efforts in recent years. The country has a huge undeveloped renewable-energy (RE) potential that can contribute considerably to its national energy production capacity. This paper summarizes the current RE situation in Benin and examines its future prospects. The current energy situation of the country is discussed, followed by an examination of its electricity demand-and-supply situation. The country has been found to depend heavily on natural gas and petroleum products from neighbouring countries and has ~41% of national electricity access. However, the government is taking considerable steps to implement RE projects in the country. The study analyzes government targets in the energy sector with existing policies and institutional frameworks. Recommendations are made for the benefit of the government, the private sector and other actors in order to developing the RE potential of Benin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the fuel security and environmental concerns of traditional energy resources like fossil fuels, grid operators are tending to use renewable energies as the primary energy supply. This paper presents the study of designing, simulation and analysis of a 100-kWp on-grid photovoltaic power plant (PV-PP) in north-western Iran. Accurate meteorological data, satellite images and local knowledge from this region have narrowed down the options to three highly irradiated cities of Maragheh, Mahabad and Khalkhal in this region. PVsyst and MATLAB software are used in this paper to obtain the performance results. Environmental effects and carbon-emission savings from the execution of the proposed PV-PP are also available in this paper. The result of this study shows that PV-PP installation in Maragheh will have higher energy output than the two other cities. This study is insightful for the academics and the grid stakeholders in finding optimal spots in north-western Iran to construct a PV-PP. Also, recommendations are available for future studies. A 100-kWp on-grid photovoltaic power plant is designed in north-western Iran. Accurate meteorological data, satellite images, and local knowledge are used in a simulation to select the best location from among three cities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During the past few years, Egypt has increased the share of electricity generation from renewable energy sources to achieve the renewable-energy strategy. The Egyptian Ministry of Electricity and Renewable Energy has set an ambitious target to increase the share of renewable energy among the total energy mix to be 20% by 2022 and 42% by 2035. This target will be achieved using several approved policies such as feed-in tariffs, build–own–operate and independent power producers under a merchant scheme. This paper presents a full analysis of wind-potential characteristics at Elkharga Oasis in Egypt based on an actual wind-measurement campaign taken by a met mast at two height levels of 10 and 25 m, respectively. The measurements show an average annual wind speed of 5.72 m/s at 10-m height and 6.53 m/s at >25-m height. The estimated wind speed, however, is 8.38 m/s at 120 m, which is technically convenient to generate electricity from wind energy. In this paper, the wind potential in the area is assessed using the statistical method of the Weibull probability density function. The different methods to estimate the Weibull distribution parameters are presented and the relevant accuracy is verified based on the root mean square error. A techno-economic assessment and selection of the optimal wind-turbine size with ideal micro-sitings are performed using the software package windPRO. Different cases of study for three typical wind-turbine models with various rotor diameters, power capacity, layout configuration and annual yield are assessed at the site. The selection of the most convenient wind turbine is determined based on the IEC 61400 standard criteria and the turbine that produces the lowest levelized cost of electricity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the slow dynamic power-regulation characteristics of the electrolyser (EL), a novel integrated three-port DC/DC converter topology based on a phase-shifted full-bridge converter and dual active-bridge converter is proposed in this paper. Especially, the proposed converter can achieve a fast auxiliary response to the EL. This topology has the features of single-stage conversion, high system integration and compatibility with multiple operation modes. The operational principles and a hybrid modulation scheme of the proposed converter are analysed in detail. In addition, the power-transmission characteristics of each port and the soft-switching range are researched. On these bases, six operation modes suitable for a hydrogen energy-storage system are designed. The simulation and a 2-kW scaled-down experimental prototype are established to verify the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed topology in different operation modes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The outcome of this paper is to suggest an efficient energy-management strategy (EMS) for a direct-current (DC) microgrid (MG). The typical MG is composed of two renewable energy sources [photovoltaic (PV) systems and fuel cells (FCs)] and two energy-storage elements (lithium-ion battery and supercapacitor). An EMS was proposed to ensure optimal bus voltage with a power-sharing arrangement between the load and the sources. As a result, in the suggested DC MG, non-linear flatness control theory was used instead of the traditional proportional-integral control approach. The suggested EMS is intended to supply high power quality to the load under varying load conditions with fluctuating solar irradiation while considering the FC status. To validate and prove the effectiveness of the proposed EMS, a MATLAB® environment was used. In addition, the output power of the PV system was maximized using the particle swarm optimization algorithm as a maximum power point tracking (MPPT) technique to track the MPP of the 3000-W PV system under different irradiance conditions. The results show that the suggested EMS delivers a stable and smooth DC bus voltage with minimum overshoot value (0.1%) and improved ripple content (0.1%). As a result, the performance of the DC MG was enhanced by employing the flatness control theory, which provides higher power quality by stabilizing the bus voltage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The construction of a new type of power system is a key way to achieve the goal of 'carbon peaking and carbon neutrality'. In the process of developing renewable energy, large-scale wind and photovoltaic power systems replace conventional units, which will have an impact on the stability of the power grid. To eliminate these concerns, this paper proposes a bi-level optimal scheduling model for new-type power systems. The upper level aims to minimize fluctuation of net load, with the consideration of demand response, to smooth the load curve. The lower level takes the minimum operating cost of the new-type power system as the objective function and the most economical scheduling strategy is established. To deal with the uncertainty of renewable energy integrated within the system, the lower model is transformed into a two-stage robust optimization model and solved by applying a column-and-constraint generation method. Finally, a regional power system is selected to conduct a case study comprising 760 MW thermal power, 50 MW·h energy storage, 200 MW wind turbine and 150 MW photovoltaic power. The results show that the constructed two-stage robust optimization model is conducive to establishing the most economical scheduling scheme of the system with an uncertain budget and the minimum operation cost is $45,9031. In addition, demand response and energy storage can reduce peak-to-valley differences in the power system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hybrid systems based on renewable energies for the electrification of remote sites controlled by power management systems (PMSs) aim to reduce fossil fuels and increase the efficiency of renewable energy sources to minimize greenhouse gas emissions. The influential role of the PMS contributes to improving the efficiency and effectiveness of these systems by ensuring a balance between the different sources and loads in all operating modes. However, the abrupt transitions between the various operational modes selected by the PMS generate power loss and imbalance. To handle this issue, a fuzzy logic controller (FLC)-based PMS controlling a photovoltaic (PV) and diesel hybrid system with a battery storage element connected to a DC bus is proposed in this paper. The proposed PMS is wholly based on FLC to ensure a smooth transition between the different modes of the system. The success of using the suggested PMS lies in how well the FLC parameters are chosen before the system is processed. For this purpose, the particle swarm optimization algorithm is adapted to tune the FLC parameters. The resulting optimal intelligent PMS is tested and compared with a classical one using comprehensive simulations performed in a Simscape ElectricalTM MATLAB® environment. The obtained results show an overshoot attenuation at the DC-bus voltage of 2% when changing the mode and an improvement in the PV generator efficiency by 99.5%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solar photovoltaic (SPV) modules have a low output voltage and are load-dependent. Therefore, it is critical that the SPV system has an adequate DC–DC converter to regulate and improve the output voltage to get maximum output voltage. To meet load requirements, the voltage must be increased, necessitating the use of energy-efficient power electronic converters. The performance of an SPV system coupled to a high-gain quadratic boost converter (HG-QBC) with a load is investigated in this paper. The suggested HG-QBC for the SPV system at a lower value of duty ratio provides high voltage gain with a boost factor of four times. An analytical comparison is carried out with the various existing boost converters in terms of the components and the boost factor. The issue of locating the maximum power generation point from the SPV system is crucial. As a result, choosing an appropriate maximum power point tracker (MPPT)-based technique to obtain the peak power output of the SPV system under the rapidly varying atmospheric conditions is vital. To determine the highest output power of an SPV system, a hybrid-based MPPT with a neural network assisted by a perturb and observe (P&O) technique is proposed. For the HG-QBC, a comparison of the proposed MPPT with a traditional P&O-based MPPT is illustrated. The comparative analysis takes into account rise time, settling time and voltage ripples. The output voltage and power characteristics of the proposed model are analysed under constant and varying irradiation conditions using MATLAB®/Simulink®. The results of a hybrid-based MPPT show that the oscillations are minimum at the maximum power point with fewer ripples of 0.20% and a settling time of 1.2 s in comparison with the other two techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solar water heating systems have been widely used around the world. However, exposure to sunlight can overheat the device, affecting the efficiency and durability of the system. This article proposes an adaptive deck controller that protects the system from overheating without compromising the availability of domestic hot water. Solar water heaters are considered one of the most effective ways to reduce a home's carbon footprint. They are a renewable energy source that reduces reliance on fossil fuels and saves money. Thus, this paper aims to develop a dynamic cover for solar water heaters that prevent overheating using an artificial neural network to optimize the design of control systems. Based on a self-organizing map network, the controller automatically adjusts the temperature of the solar collector through a fabric screen covering the main subsystems, depending on many parameters such as weather conditions, collector temperature and domestic hot water depending on demand. A suggested technique of four different shade percentages (0%, 20%, 25% or 32%) can avoid overheating and maintain the amount of hot water the home needs. Although renewable energy is free, proper controls are required to ensure maximum efficiency or proper use. In addition, the control of renewable energy leads to longer service life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solar energy is environmentally friendly technology, a great energy supply and one of the most significant renewable and green energy sources. It plays a substantial role in achieving sustainable development energy solutions. Therefore, the massive amount of solar energy attainable daily makes it a very attractive resource for generating electricity. Both technologies, applications of concentrated solar power or solar photovoltaics, are always under continuous development to fulfil our energy needs. Hence, a large installed capacity of solar energy applications worldwide, in the same context, supports the energy sector and meets the employment market to gain sufficient development. This paper highlights solar energy applications and their role in sustainable development and considers renewable energy's overall employment potential. Thus, it provides insights and analysis on solar energy sustainability, including environmental and economic development. Furthermore, it has identified the contributions of solar energy applications in sustainable development by providing energy needs, creating jobs opportunities and enhancing environmental protection. Finally, the perspective of solar energy technology is drawn up in the application of the energy sector and affords a vision of future development in this domain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In view of the continuous increase in the proportion of renewable energy connected to the grid in China and the increasing peak-to-valley difference in electricity demand on the power grid, this paper proposes a high-temperature thermal-storage combined-cycle power-generation system. Using Thermoflex thermal simulation analysis software, a high-temperature thermal-storage combined-cycle simulation analysis system model was established, and the influence of different initial temperatures and pressure ratios on the combined-cycle system was analysed. Sensitivity analysis of factors such as electricity cost, annual operating hours, initial equipment investment, unit efficiency and other factors that affect the net income of the system was carried out. According to the current power-peak-shaving auxiliary service market in China, it is pointed out that high-temperature thermal-storage combined-cycle projects must be profitable and obtain good economic benefits. The results obtained, on the one hand, provide suggestions for the flexibility and transformation of current gas-fired steam generators for peak shaving and, on the other hand, provide references for the subsequent development of high-temperature thermal-storage combined-cycle demonstration projects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the purpose, advantages, system constitution, operation method and estimation results of using hydrogen storage in a small-scale electric power (off-grid) system when renewable energy sources are introduced. It is assumed that all electricity is supplied from renewable energy sources without using a diesel generator that requires fossil fuels. In other words, for a small-scale electric power system on a remote island, a power-supply system comprising a photovoltaic power-generation system, storage battery, hydrogen-production system, storage tank and a fuel cell is considered. The condition under which the total construction cost is minimized by considering the equipment capacity, operation method of the battery and fuel cell as parameters is investigated. The results demonstrate that the construction cost can be reduced by applying the method of surplus magnification and hydrogen storage. The initial cost is ~70% when hydrogen storage is added as compared with the case in which a storage battery alone is used. Such a cost-effective system can contribute to Japan's self-reliance with regard to the energy sector in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Conventional approaches towards energy-system modelling and operation are based upon the system design and performance optimization. In system-design optimization, the thermal or mechanical characteristics of the systems providing for the heat or electricity demands were derived separately without integration with the energy source and without interaction with demand, which results in low-efficiency energy performance. This paper presents a key review on the integration of biomass-powered combined heat and power (BCHP) systems in district-heating systems as well as coupling with thermal-energy storage. In BCHP design, the appropriate sizing of the associated components as part of the district-heating system is very important to provide the optimal dispatch strategy as well as minimized cost and environmental impact while it co-operates with thermal-energy storage. Future strategies for the feasibility, evaluation and integration of biomass-powered energy systems in the context of district systems are also studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrogen has gained enormous relevance due to its lower carbon footprint and its potential role in balancing energy supply and demand. It is being considered as a sustainable substitute for conventional fuels. The generation of hydrogen using renewable energy sources is still in development, with a significant challenge lying in the efficient and safe storage of hydrogen due to its low energy density. This challenge hinders the widespread adoption of hydrogen. Compression and liquefaction methods of storage face issues of losses that reduce their effectiveness. The technology for hydrogen storage has advanced significantly in the past few years, driven by recent enhancements in synthesizing carbonaceous materials with hydrogen storage capabilities. This article critically reviews novel carbonaceous materials for hydrogen storage, including biochar, activated carbon, carbon nanotubes, carbon nanocomposites, carbon aerogel, fullerenes, MXenes, graphite, graphene and its derivatives. Effective hydrogen adsorption using microporous materials, such as activated carbons, is crucial, sparking interest in economically viable options for hydrogen storage. Despite this, a significant amount of work still needs to be accomplished before the potential and advantages of the hydrogen economy can be fully realized and utilized by manufacturers and academics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Renewable energy has penetrated power grid enterprises on a large scale. Due to the intermittency and volatility of renewable energy generation, it is necessary to build new flexible grid-side resources to ensure the safe and stable operation of the power grid, which will cause great pressure on cost allocation for power grid enterprises. This article considers four types of flexible grid-side resources and constructs a dual-level configuration optimization model for flexible grid-side resources under the penetration of renewable energy. Based on the configuration results, the cost scale of flexible grid-side resources is estimated and an improved ancillary service cost allocation model based on the Shapley value method is proposed to smooth the allocation of ancillary service costs in the cost of flexible grid-side resources between the two main bodies of renewable energy and load. The calculation results show that, when the penetration rate of renewable-energy power is 30% and 35%, respectively, the cost of flexible grid-side resources is 9.606 billion yuan and 21.518 billion yuan, respectively. The proportion of ancillary service costs allocated to load is relatively high—about five times that of the ancillary service costs allocated to renewable energy—and the higher the penetration rate of renewable energy, the higher the proportion of ancillary service costs allocated to renewable energy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pyrolysis is a thermal conversion process in the absence of air to derive energy components from the residues. Renewable-energy technologies will play a major role in addressing future challenges related to environmental safety and energy security. One of the many easily available renewable energy sources is biomass—an organic material that is thought to be carbon-neutral. Pyrolysis technology is a thermochemical process that can be used to produce useful products from biomass, such as biochar, bio-oil and combustible pyrolysis gases. The structure and relative product yield are impacted by the pyrolysis method employed. This article evaluates different approaches for biomass pyrolysis. Fast, slow and advanced pyrolysis methods using various pyrolyser reactors have been studied in the literature and are provided to increase the variety and use of these methods in upcoming studies and research. Slow pyrolysis can lead to increased ecological well-being, as it increases the amount of biochar produced using auger and rotary-kiln reactors. Rapid pyrolysis, mainly in fluidized-bed reactors with bubbling and rotating circulation, can be used to obtain bio-oil. Advanced pyrolysis methods offer a good probability of yielding great prosperity for specific applications. The selection of a pyrolysis process is based on the required output in terms of solid, liquid and gaseous fuels, and the parameter plays a crucial role in the pyrolysis performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The depletion in non-renewable energy sources and a fast-growing population in Bangladesh are exacerbating the already existing energy scarcity, highlighting the need for an efficient and robust renewable-energy supply chain. The primary goal of this study is to evaluate the most optimized renewable-energy supply chain based on natural resource availability and government policies of Bangladesh. In the present study, four renewable energy resources, including solar, biomass, wind and hydropower, are studied and nine subcriteria are defined under four primary criteria for each supply chain. Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) and VIseKriterijumska Optimizacija I Kompromisno Resenje (VIKOR) are multicriteria decision-making approaches used in this study to compare and choose the best renewable-energy supply chain. The relative significance of four supply-chain criteria for primary renewable energy in this study, namely energy procurement, production, operations and maintenance costs, and social and environmental impact, is gathered via a survey. The results of this research, supported by a comprehensive sensitivity analysis, indicate that hydropower is the best renewable-energy supply chain, followed by wind as a compromise solution, biomass and solar. The study also demonstrates that no energy source can satisfy all supply-chain criteria alone; each resource is better for a specific criterion—solar is better for procurement, hydropower is significant for production and wind is remarkable for operations and social impact. Therefore, to maximize output, renewable energy sources must be integrated. From Bangladesh's perspective, for the first time, by using TOPSIS and VIKOR together, this study offers significant insights to establish an efficient and sustainable renewable-energy supply chain for practitioners, academics and policymakers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

At present, industrial development is heavily dependent on traditional fossil energy, which has had an increasingly serious impact on the environment. Clean and renewable energy has received extensive attention and its proportion in daily life has gradually increased. As a clean and renewable energy source that is not affected by changes in weather and seasons, geothermal energy has developed rapidly in recent years and has received increasing attention. According to reports, the total installed capacity of geothermal power generation in the world in 2020 was 15 950 MW—an increase of ~27% over 2015. At the end of 2019, the total installed capacity for global geothermal direct use was 107 727 MW—an increase of 52.0% compared with 2015; the total annual energy use was 1 020 887 TJ (283 580 GWh)—an increase of 72.3% over 2015. Through the investigation of geothermal power generation technology in recent years, the characteristics and shortcomings of various power generation methods are analysed. At the same time, this review analyzes the characteristics of geothermal energy and other renewable-energy (solar energy, water energy) coupling power generation, and analyzes the principles and characteristics of geothermal energy and various new-energy coupling power generation methods. Through investigation and analysis, this review provides a complete understanding of various geothermal power generation technologies and provides insights into the future development direction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study focuses on the transition from conventional energy sources to sustainable renewable energy (RE) in Palestine, particularly in the West Bank and Gaza Strip. The research aims to understand the relationship between key factors and residents' willingness to invest in the RE sector, with a specific focus on the impact of education. Using the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology, the study analyzes data from 400 residents through a questionnaire and employs ordinary least-squares regression analysis with Eviews 12. The key findings indicate that residents' inclination to invest in RE is significantly influenced by factors such as resource availability, knowledge level and power outages. Moreover, the study suggests that educated residents are more likely to invest in RE when factors such as knowledge, effort expectation, enabling conditions and resource availability are relatively high. The conclusion emphasizes the importance of policymakers' allocating sufficient funds to research and development to promote technological innovation in RE sources, thereby enhancing the population's energy efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent times, solar energy has become one of the largest available sources of renewable energy at our disposal. However, the design of highly efficient solar cells is increasingly becoming crucial as there has been a surge for economically viable alternative energy sources with the lowest cost. Significant advances have been made through different routes to make photovoltaic (PV)/solar technologies economically viable, eco-friendly and consequently scalable. As a result, cellulose nanomaterials have become one of the emerging technologies in this regard because of the advantages of high-value bio-based nanostructured materials, such as their abundance and sustainability. Nanocellulose-based photoactive nanocomposite materials can be made by integrating conducting photoactive and electroconductive materials with hydrophilic biocompatible cellulose. Inorganic nanoparticles, such as graphene/reduced graphene oxide cadmium sulphide quantum dots, amongst others, can be introduced into the nanocellulose matrix and can be applied either as charge transporters or photoactive materials in different types of solar cells. Thus, in this review, we highlight the optoelectronic properties of different photoactive materials, particularly nanocellulose-based graphene nanocomposites; their efficiencies and drawbacks were X-rayed. The effect of doping each PV material on the PV performance is also discussed. It is anticipated that the novel material would result in a reduction in the cost of solar cells, jointly enhancing their efficacy in generating environmentally friendly electricity. Since the fabrication techniques and equipment play a crucial role in the development of solar cells, the fabrication techniques of bulk-heterojunction (BHJ) cells containing a nanocellulose-based graphene composite and case studies of already fabricated BHJ PV cells with nanocellulose-based graphene composite are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development, production and utilization of renewable energy, energy storage and green hydrogen and the associated technologies in Sri Lanka have great potential to contribute to the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The island aims to achieve 70% electricity generation from renewable energy sources by 2030 (within the target of 40% utilization of renewable energy sources for the entire energy generation of the country by 2030). The power sector has to invest US$11 billion from 2023 to 2030 to contribute to reaching this target. This commentary aims to provide a critical perspective on the recommendations of the report from the National Science and Technology Commission's 9th biennial conference in 2023 on science and technology, the sub-thematic technical report on clean energy, energy storage and green hydrogen in line with the SDGs in the Sri Lankan context. The technical report provides insightful recommendations for Sri Lanka's energy sector under three main sections: renewable energy, energy storage and green hydrogen. Also, it explores the potential of various renewable energy sources, energy storage systems and green hydrogen as sustainable solutions to address the country's energy challenges while emphasizing the spillover effects of them, which could contribute to the enterprise's job creation and uplift the economy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The introduction of large-scale renewable energy requires a control system that can operate multiple distributed inverters in a stable way. This study proposes an inverter control method that uses information corresponding to the inertia of the synchronous generator to coordinate the operation of battery energy storage systems. Simulation results for a system with multiple inverters applying the control method are presented. Various faults such as line-to-line short circuits and three-phase line-to-ground faults were simulated. Two fault points with different characteristics were compared. The voltage, frequency and active power quickly returned to their steady-state values after the fault was eliminated. From the obtained simulation results, it was verified that our control method can be operated stably against various faults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wind energy has emerged as a promising renewable energy source and wind turbine technology has developed rapidly in recent years. Improved wind turbine performance depends heavily on the design and optimization of wind blades. This work offers a critical evaluation of the state of the art in the field of numerical modelling and simulation analysis, which have become crucial for the design and optimization of wind blades. The evaluation of the literature includes considerable research on the application of numerical methods for the structural and aerodynamic performance of wind blades under various operating situations, as well as for analysis and optimization of wind blades. The article illustrates how numerical techniques can be used to analyse wind blade performance and maximize design efficiency. The study of blade performance under various wind conditions has also been made possible through the use of simulation analysis, thus enhancing the efficiency and dependability of wind turbines. Improvements in wind turbine efficiency and dependability, and ultimately the move towards a more sustainable energy future, will be greatly helpful for the development of numerical modelling and simulation techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article provides information on the International Conference on Sustainable Energy Sources, Technologies and Systems 2023 (ICSESTS-2023) held at Lovely Professional University, Punjab, India, on August 3 to 5, 2023. It mentions that the conference was focused on addressing climate change and sustainable development through discussions on advancements in renewable energy, and sustainability in agriculture.

The energy market in Libya is expected to face substantial changes in the next few years: electrical energy consumption will increase by 50% within the next 4 years. Therefore, there is a plan to gradually increase renewable energy sources in the power network by 2030 to 30%. Solar photovoltaic (PV) plants will play a significant role in the energy transition and the mix of energy sources in Libya. This article is a study conducted to investigate the challenges of power-flow management and power protection from integrating PV power plants into the Libyan power grid. In particular, a simulation model is built for the Kufra PV power plant (10 MW) with eight buses to assess the power network performance in terms of power quality such as voltage profile, power losses and harmonics. Furthermore, the impact of the PV plant on the short-circuit level and the power-protection system is presented under different operating conditions. The fault ride-through (FRT) is operated using standard ambient temperature and a wide range of irradiation intensity, and is verified by using the Libyan grid code. The results show that the integration of the PV plant into the grid has a significant impact on the short-circuit level and the FRT over the different fault levels and locations on the network. The initial period of the three-phase fault shows that the PV plant will be disconnected from the grid due to a decrease in the root mean square value voltages where the reactive and active power of the grid reach 938 MVAR and 261 MW, respectively. These results show that increasing the fault level will lead to an increase in injecting the active power. This work is considered the first extensive investigation into the challenges of modern power-flow management and power protection for the power network system in Libya. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The outcome of this study is to improve and enhance the power quality of the hybrid DC/AC microgrid (MG). The photovoltaic (PV) system and the proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) are used as renewable energy sources to deliver the optimum active power to the utility grid. The MG system based on the PV system, PEMFC and voltage source inverter is modelled mathematically. Also, the maximum power point tracking (MPPT)-based grey wolf optimization (GWO) is used to increase the PV module efficiency and enhance performance. Also, to improve the PEMFC performance, a digital proportional-integral controller is used to control the PEMFC circuit. The proposed inverter is controlled using synchronous reference frame theory, called the direct-quadrature (dq) control method. Hence, the performance of the proposed MG system is tested using MATLAB® for various weather and loading conditions. From the simulation results, the proposed MG system can deliver and absorb an active power based on the PV and fuel cell characteristics. As a result, the hybrid DC/AC MG is enhanced in terms of stabilization of the DC-bus voltage. Also, the power quality of the MG is improved using GWO optimization based on MPPT. Finally, good results are achieved using GWO in terms of the total harmonic distortion of the output current of 2.3% and higher efficiency of 98.9%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Global demand for electricity is growing significantly in developing nations. Renewable energy accounts for barely 3% of total energy consumption in Bangladesh. Sources of renewable energy, e.g. solar, are increasingly being acknowledged as viable supply-side choices for microgrids. This article presents a grid-connected microgrid design based on meteorological data for a local community situated in Mohammadpur, Dhaka. This study presents a feasible design of a system that gives the lowest cost of energy production and emissions that is evaluated using software named Hybrid Optimization Multiple Energy Resources (HOMER Pro). Comparison and assessment of the net present cost, cost of energy, operating cost and environmental emission for five different feasible microgrids are analysed concerning real-time data. Also, a suitable case is sorted out and proposed for the local community for electrification. The proposed case offers a $0.0442/kWh cost of energy, which is ~32% cheaper than the current rate with a 57.5% renewable fraction and a payback period of 16.86 years. People of this local community will have access to considerably more clean energy at a lower price by this study; also this design could sell the excess energy to the grid to avoid frequent electricity outages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, the Malaysian government has targeted to achieve the 20% renewable-energy goal by 2025. Despite the Malaysian government's having taken initiatives in promoting the use of renewable energy for more than a decade, to date, more than three-quarters of the electricity supply in Peninsular Malaysia is generated from the burning of fossil fuels. Apparently, the development of renewable energy is still slow and in its infancy. The current study intends to identify the predictors (environmentalism, cost, knowledge and personal innovativeness) that influence the residential intention to adopt solar photovoltaic (PV) in Klang Valley. This study adopts the technology acceptance model as the theoretical framework to analyse the mediation effect on perceived ease of use and perceived usefulness between the determinants and the intention to adopt solar PV. Self-administered questionnaires are used to collect data from non-solar PV users who stay in Klang Valley. Structural equation modelling analysis was carried out on the 200 samples from data collection. The findings demonstrated that environmentalism is having a significant impact on the intention to adopt solar PV, followed by knowledge. The perceived usefulness mediates the relationship between the predictors and the intention to use solar PV, although no mediation effect was found for the perceived ease of use. Lastly, several implications are highlighted to the policymakers and solar-market practitioners to improve the existing policies and promote solar PV adoptions among residents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several major market failures are hindering renewable energy production. Probably the most significant one of these are negative externalities. Another issue hindering renewable energy production is low technological and commercial maturity. These technologies might not become commercially viable in the near future without state intervention. This study aims to analyse Finnish energy policy based on current legislation related to renewable energy production and budget policy related to renewable-energy subsidies. This study shows that the polluter-pays principle is implemented quite well in Finland due to the emissions trading scheme and taxation. Still, this principle is not entirely implemented in electricity production as electricity tax is not based on the carbon intensity of the fuel used, but rather on who uses the electricity. National subsidy policies focus on a short-term increase in renewable energy production as most subsidies are production subsidies granted through a bidding process, making these subsidy policies partly technology-neutral. These policies do not take into account long-term needs for energy policy as much as they could. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Arabian Gulf Countries (AGC) are strongly reliant on the economic export of fossil fuels, while being vulnerable to climate change that is resulting in temperature increase, air pollution and sea-level rise, and threatening the health of the population and ecosystem. In agreement with the Paris Accords, most of the AGC have published short-term goals to reduce their carbon emissions in the coming decades. In relation to these goals, this study explores the potential CO2 reduction, avoidance and removal in the region, by comparing a business-as-usual (BAU) scenario to three decarbonization scenarios for the power sector. In 2018, the total greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in the AGC were ~1333 MtCO2/yr and are expected to rise to 1568 MtCO2/yr in 2030 following a BAU scenario, which is likely to be reduced to 1522 MtCO2/yr in 2030 by following the countries' planning. Countries issued plans for the coming decades that focus on increasing the share of renewable energy in their grid mix. The three decarbonization scenarios presented in this study focus on supply-side technological solutions. The retirement of the oldest natural-gas and oil power plants could lead to a total emissions reduction of ~75 MtCO2/yr, without accounting for the embodied carbon emissions associated with renewable energy. In addition, the implementation of point-source capture at power plants expected to retire in >10 years' time could avoid emissions of ~240 MtCO2/yr, provided the CO2 is permanently sequestered in appropriate geological formations. The region also shows high-quality solar resources and large CO2-storage potential that could couple to direct air-capture plants to offset difficult-to-avoid emissions. This last scenario has the potential to ultimately result in net negative emissions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The hourly operation of Thermal Hydrogen electricity markets is modelled. The economic values for all applicable chemical commodities are quantified (syngas, ammonia, methanol and oxygen) and an hourly electricity model is constructed to mimic the dispatch of key technologies: bi-directional power plants, dual-fuel heating systems and plug-in fuel-cell hybrid electric vehicles. The operation of key technologies determines hourly electricity prices and an optimization model adjusts the capacity to minimize electricity prices yet allow all generators to recover costs. We examine 12 cost scenarios for renewables, nuclear and natural gas; the results demonstrate emissions-free, 'energy-only' electricity markets whose supply is largely dominated by renewables. The economic outcome is made possible in part by seizing the full supply-chain value from electrolysis (both hydrogen and oxygen), which allows an increased willingness to pay for (renewable) electricity. The wholesale electricity prices average $25–$45/MWh, or just slightly higher than the assumed levelized cost of renewable energy. This implies very competitive electricity prices, particularly given the lack of need for 'scarcity' pricing, capacity markets, dedicated electricity storage or underutilized electric transmission and distribution capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review gives first a brief view of the potential availability of sustainable energy. It is clear that over 100 times more solar photovoltaic energy than necessary is readily accessible and that practically available wind alone may deliver sufficient energy supply to the world. Due to the intermittency of these sources, effective and inexpensive energy-conversion and storage technology is needed. Motivation for the possible electrolysis application of reversible solid-oxide cells (RSOCs), including a comparison of power-to-fuel/fuel-to-power to other energy-conversion and storage technologies is presented. RSOC electrochemistry and chemistry of H2O, CO2, H2, CO, CnHm (hydrocarbons) and NH3, including thermodynamics and cell performance, are described. The mechanical strength of popular cell supports is outlined, and newly found stronger materials are mentioned. Common cell-degradation mechanisms, including the effect of common impurities in gases and materials (such as S and Si), plus the deleterious effects of carbon deposition in the fuel electrode are described followed by explanations of how to avoid or ease the consequences. Visions of how RSOCs powered by sustainable energy may be applied on a large scale for the transportation sector via power-to-fuel technology and for integration with the electrical grid together with seasonal storage are presented. Finally, a brief comparison of RSOCs to other electrolysis cells and an outlook with examples of actions necessary to commercialize RSOC applications are sketched. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article analyses the integration of distributed biocrude production facilities using fast pyrolysis with solar photovoltaic (PV) for dispatchable electricity production. The strong growth of intermittent electricity generation from solar PV and wind is leading to a greater need for energy storage at grid scale and dynamic demand management. Various forms of energy storage, including electrochemical (e.g. batteries), mechanical (e.g. flywheels) and gravitational (e.g. pumped-hydro), are being developed. This work studies the issues of integrating fast pyrolysis of biomass to produce biocrude that can be readily stored in tanks and combusted to produce electricity when required to supplement the electricity generation from a solar PV unit to meet an arbitrary energy demand curve. The use of biomass pyrolysis in this application has a range of benefits, including the flexibility to augment intermittent renewables, the integration of more bioenergy into the electricity sector and the creation of commercial quantities of biocrudes that can be refined into renewable transport fuels such as jet fuel for which few other alternatives exist. Biocrudes, especially partially upgraded, can be stored and used when required in engines and gas turbines, making them a suitable fuel for augmenting the intermittent nature of solar and wind projects. The development of the distributed 100% renewable power stations using a mix of biomass/biocrude and solar PV and/or wind would also increase the certainty of supply, knowledge of quality and price of raw biocrudes that can also be used to supply a centralized biorefinery, thereby substantially reducing the risk of investing in new biorefinery capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]