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The power sector is one of the major CO2-emitting industries in China. It is also the first key emissions control industry included in China's national carbon trading market established in 2021. Therefore, based on the data of 30 provinces and cities in China from 2015 to 2022, this study analyzes the impact of the national carbon market policy on the carbon emissions of the power industry based on the generalized Difference-in-Difference (DID) model. Based on the method of text analysis, this paper constructs the carbon market policy intensity index of each region and incorporates it into the DID model. Empirical analysis finds that the national carbon market policy can significantly inhibit the carbon emissions of the power industry. However, the heterogeneity analysis of 30 provinces and cities shows that the national carbon market policy has a significant impact on the regions that already have a carbon pilot, but not on the non-pilot regions. Therefore, this paper demonstrates the effectiveness of the national carbon market policy in the power industry emissions control, and also exposes the heterogeneity between regions, providing an important empirical basis for the inclusion of other energy-intensive industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In city-integrated energy systems containing electric–thermal multi-energy sources, the uncertainty of renewable energy sources and the fluctuation of loads challenge the safe, efficient, economic and stable operation of the integrated energy systems. This paper introduces a novel approach for the operation of a carbon capture plant/CHP with PV accommodation within a city-integrated energy system. The proposed strategy aims to maximize the utilization of photovoltaic (PV) power generation and carbon capture equipment, addressing issues related to small-scale CHP climbing constraints and short-term output regulation. Additionally, this paper presents a multi-timescale optimal scheduling strategy, which effectively addresses deviations caused by PV fluctuations and load changes. This was achieved through a detailed analysis of the CHP climbing constraints, carbon capture equipment operation and real-time characteristics of PV power generation. This paper introduces a fully distributed neural dynamics-based optimization algorithm designed to address multi-timescale optimization challenges. Utilizing rolling cycles, this algorithm computes both day-ahead and real-time scheduling outcomes for urban integrated energy systems. Theoretical analyses and numerical simulations were conducted to validate the precision and efficacy of the proposed model and algorithm. These analyses quantitatively evaluate the scheduling performance of PV power generation and carbon capture CHP systems across various timescales. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The EU Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), which is regarded as the EU's key policy tool to address carbon leakage, might have a non-negligible impact on China's exports, as China is an important trading partner for the EU's carbon-intensive products. This paper uses the GTAP-E model to simulate the impact of the EU CBAM on China's exports to the EU from four aspects, export price, trade structure, trade value and terms of trade, by setting up multiple scenarios. The results show that the EU CBAM reduces the export prices of China's taxed sectors to the EU, and that the export prices of other sectors show the same change characteristics. The export volume of China's taxed sectors decreases differently with the export transfer effect and export inhibition effect. In terms of trade value, the EU carbon tariffs not only reduce China's export value but also lead to a reduction in EU exports. The implementation of the EU CBAM improves the terms of trade of the EU and worsens the terms of trade of China. An expansion of the scope of taxation and a change in the calculation method of carbon emissions would aggravate the change in the terms of trade. The results suggest that feasible measures should be taken to strengthen international cooperation, promote the construction of a unified national carbon market and export diversification, and establish a firm carbon emission accounting system in order to mitigate the negative impact of the EU CBAM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon storage services play an important role in maintaining ecosystem stability. Land use/cover change (LUCC) is the main factor leading to changes in ecosystem carbon storage. Understanding the impact of LUCC on regional carbon storage changes is crucial for protecting regional ecosystems and promoting sustainable socio-economic development. This paper selects Shanxi province as the study area and explores the spatial and temporal evolution characteristics of carbon storage in Shanxi province based on the InVEST model and univariate spatial autocorrelation. The results show that the total carbon storage in Shanxi Province in 2000, 2010, and 2020 is 513.51 × 104 t C, 513.46 × 104 t C, and 509.29 × 104 t C, respectively. High carbon storage areas are distributed in forest and grassland land types, while low carbon storage areas are widely distributed in building land in urban metropolitan areas. Shanxi Province is mainly dominated by farmland, which has decreased by 3448.60 km2 in the past 20 years. Grassland has decreased by 1588.31 km2 and the area of building land has increased by 4205.73 km2. Due to the influence of carbon conversion among different land use types, the total carbon storage loss of Shanxi Province in the past 20 years was 4.21 × 104 t C. The transfer of farmland resulted in an increase in carbon stock of 14.46 × 104 t C. The transfer of grassland resulted in an increase of 17.15 × 104 t C, while the transfer of forest resulted in a decrease of 41.44 × 104 t C. The increase in land use types with low carbon density and the decrease in land use types with high carbon density led to the decrease in carbon storage in Shanxi Province. Furthermore, social factors were more likely to influence the carbon storage than natural factors, and the influence of social factors was often negative. On this basis, regional development countermeasures were proposed for the current situation of carbon storage in Shanxi Province and provide a scientific basis for Shanxi Province to achieve the carbon neutrality target. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this paper is to evaluate the effect of a nanostructured C-Pd film deposited in the gate area of a field-effect transistor (FET) with a carbon–palladium composite gate (C-Pd/FET) on the hydrogen-sensing properties of the transistor. The method of preparing a field-effect transistor (FET) with a C-Pd film deposited as a gate and the properties of such a transistor and the film itself are presented. The C-Pd film deposited by PVD method on the gate area serves as an active layer. The PVD process was carried out in a dynamic vacuum of 10−5 mbar from two separated sources—one containing fullerenes (C60) and the other containing palladium acetate. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS, EDX) and electrical property studies were used to the characterize C-Pd films and FET/C-Pd structures. SEM observations revealed the topography of C-Pd films and FET/C-Pd transistors. EDS/EDX microanalysis was applied to visualize the arrangement of elements on the studied surfaces. The changes in electrical properties (resistance and relative resistance) due to the presence of hydrogen were studied in a designed and computerized experimental set-up. The enhanced properties of the FET/C-Pd transistor are demonstrated in terms of hydrogen detection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pt-Pd-based noble metal catalysts are widely used in engine exhaust aftertreatment because of their better carbon soot oxidation performance. At present, the synergistic effect of Pt and Pd in CDPFs, which is the most widely used and common doping method, in catalyzing the combustion of carbon smoke has not been reported, and it is not possible to give an optimal doping ratio of Pt and Pd. This paper investigates the carbon soot oxidation performance of different Pt/Pd ratios (Pt/Pd = 1:0, 10:1, 5:1, 1:1) based on physicochemical characterization and particle combustion kinetics calculations, aiming to reveal the Pt-Pd synergistic effect and its carbon soot oxidation law. The results show that Pt-based catalysts doped with Pd can improve the catalyst dispersion, significantly increase the specific surface area, and reduce the activation energy and reaction temperature of carbon soot reactions, but excessive doping of Pd leads to the enhancement of the catalyst agglomeration effect, a decrease in the specific surface area, and an increase in the activation energy and reaction temperature of the carbon soot reaction. The specific surface area and pore capacity of the catalyst are the largest, and the activation energy of particle oxidation and the pre-exponential factor are the smallest (203.44 kJ∙mol−1 and 6.31 × 107, respectively), which are 19.29 kJ∙mol−1 and 4.95 × 108 lower than those of pure carbon soot; meanwhile, the starting and final combustion temperatures of carbon soot (T10 and T90) are the lowest at 585.8 °C and 679.4 °C, respectively, which are 22.1 °C and 20.9 °C lower than those of pure carbon soot. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Regional trade leads to carbon transfer, which in turn raises the issue of carbon inequality. However, less existing research has focused on carbon inequality within megaregions. Combining multi-regional input-output analysis, carbon Gini coefficients and carbon deviation coefficients, this paper presents a comprehensive analysis of carbon equity in inter-provincial trade in the Yangtze River Economic Belt (YEB) from the perspective of economic benefits and environmental pressure. The results show that: (1) Carbon emissions from the production and consumption sides of the 11 provinces in the YEB vary considerably. (2) Significant carbon inequality exists in the YEB region. This is manifested in the unequal relationship between the transfer of embodied carbon emissions and economic benefits, as well as the difference in carbon deviation coefficients. Based on the results of our research, this paper can help provide theoretical support and decision-making reference for implementing a differentiated carbon emission reduction responsibility mechanism and establishing a coordinated carbon emission reduction responsibility system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The imperative to achieve a climate-neutral industry necessitates CO2-free alternatives for H2 production. Recent developments suggest that plasma technology holds promise in this regard. This study investigates H2 production by methane pyrolysis using a lab-scale plasma furnace, with the primary objective of achieving a high H2 yield through continuous production. The plasma furnace features a DC-transferred thermal plasma arc system. The plasma gas comprises Ar and CH4, introduced into the reaction zone through the graphite hollow cathode. The off-gas is channeled for further analysis, while the plasma arc is recorded by a camera installed on the top lid. Results showcase a high H2 yield in the range of up to 100%. A stable process is facilitated by a higher power and lower CH4 input, contributing to a higher H2 yield in the end. Conversely, an increased gas flow results in a shorter gas residence time, reducing H2 yield. The images of the plasma arc zone vividly depict the formation and growth of carbon, leading to disruptive interruptions in the arc, hence declining efficiency. The produced solid carbon exhibits high purity with a fluffy and fine structure. This paper concludes that further optimization and development of the process are essential to achieve stable continuous operation with a high utilization degree. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Energy efficiency is one of the most powerful strategies to mitigate the impacts of climate change by reducing energy demand, which in turn reduces the emissions of Green House Gases (GHG), as well as reducing the burden on the supply side renewable generation expansion. Because electric motors systems represent such a large share of the overall electricity consumption (over 50%), large savings potential could be made available by the use of energy-efficient motor systems both in new installations and by accelerating the replacement of old inefficient motors. Since electric motors are very reliable, their lifetime is long (according to recent studies it may exceed 20 years) which translates into a very inefficient existing stock despite worldwide policy efforts. This paper analyzes the current efficiency of the installed stock and the causes for its low efficiency, possible policy options to increase its the efficiency, the role of new technologies and improvements possible by targeting the entire motor system at the time of motor replacement. The paper presents an innovative analysis of the estimated impact of increasing the uptake of high-efficiency motors and motor systems; effective policies could translate into 100 TWh/year in the European Union if additional measures, such as addressing oversizing, proper controls (VSDs) and digitisation, are also implemented. If similar measures were adopted globally, the savings triggered could be at least tenfold reaching over 1000 TWh/year. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As the world's largest carbon emitter, China is facing great pressure to reduce emissions. With the country's proposed timeline for carbon peaking and carbon neutralization, a new goal has been established for China's low-carbon development. Based on the improved equal proportion allocation method, this paper allocates the overall carbon emission control goal for 2025 among 30 provinces and cities, based on 2015 figures, and measures and studies the country's carbon emission allocation efficiency on this basis. The results show that Beijing, Tianjin, Hebei, Shandong, Zhejiang, Shanghai, Jiangsu, Guangdong and Inner Mongolia need to increase their emission reduction capacity, while Jiangxi, Guizhou, Gansu, Qinghai, Hainan and Guangxi have relatively low emission reduction targets. Based on this allocation scheme, more provinces can reduce carbon emissions by increasing their efficiency with up-to-date technology, and a new vision for national allocation that is more easily accepted by all provinces and regions can be developed. Based on the research results of this paper, each province and region can choose its own low-carbon economic development path within the constraints of China's carbon intensity emission reduction targets, without compromising its own economic development characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There has been ongoing interest in research to mitigate climate change through carbon capture (CC) by adsorption. This guideline is meant to introduce computational chemistry techniques in CC by applying them to mesoporous structures and disordered morphologies. The molecular simulation techniques presented here use examples of literature studies on silica and carbon-based adsorbents. An initial summary of molecular simulation techniques and concepts is first presented. This is followed by a section on molecular simulation applications in mesoporous amorphous silica, both functionalized and not. Novel strategies to validate and output useful results are discussed, specifically when modelling chemisorption. The use of computational chemistry to build upon experimental results is reviewed, and a similar summation is presented for carbon-based adsorbents. The final section provides a short review of computational chemistry methods in novel applications and highlights potential complications. Computational chemistry techniques provide a streamlined method of gathering data across a range of conditions. Alongside experimental studies, these techniques can provide valuable information on underlying molecular mechanisms. This paper aims to be a starting point for navigating these numerical methods by providing an initial understanding of how these techniques can be applied to carbon capture while clarifying the current and inherent limitations present. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electrical energy substitution is an important way to achieve the optimization of the energy consumption structure as well as to alleviate environmental problems, and it is also an important source of benefits of the integrated energy system. However, there are few works that study the effects of electrical energy substitution on the construction of the integrated energy system (IES) and electrical energy substitution work without incentives carried out in the IES. To this end, this paper proposed a G1 method with constructing consistency matrix to determine the evaluation index weights for the IES with electrical energy substitution. Specifically, we firstly construct the evaluation index system for the IES including electrical energy substitution indicators, low-carbon indicators, technical indicators and economic indicators as well as their secondary indicators. Then, a tri-level evaluation index system of target-criteria-indicator benefits is established based on pertinent standards and norms, taking the practical operability into account. Finally, a G1-method-constructed consistency judgment matrix is proposed. Compared with the G1 method, it is simple and practical, and the weight calculation results are more in line with the reality, which effectively solves the consistency problem of the judgment matrix. The rationality and feasibility of the proposed weight calculation method are verified by the calculation and analysis of an example. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cryogenic carbon capture (CCC) process is a promising post-combustion CO2 removal method. This method is very novel compared with conventional and well-developed methods. However, cryogenic carbon capture is not yet commercially available despite its techno-economic benefits. Thus, a model-based design approach for this process can provide valuable information. This paper will first introduce the cryogenic carbon capture process. Then, a comprehensive literature overview that focuses on different methods for modeling the process at the component level will be given. The modelling methods which are deemed most effective are presented more in depth for each of the key system components. These methods are compared with each other in terms of complexity and accuracy and the simplest methods with an acceptable level of precision for modelling a specific component in the CCC process are recommended. Furthermore, potential research areas in modeling and simulation of the CCC process are also highlighted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Operation strategies for a park-level integrated energy system (PIES) in terms of carbon prices and feed-in tariffs, have not been adequately studied. This paper addresses this knowledge gap by proposing operation strategies based on the PIES driven by biogas, solar energy, natural gas, and the power grid. Meanwhile, the electricity-driven dispatching strategy (EDS), thermal-driven dispatching strategy (TDS), cost-driven dispatching strategy (CDS) are compared to assess their impacts on operation cost, carbon dioxide emissions, etc. The flexibility and complementarity of the three operation strategies in energy supply are analyzed in detail. The results indicated that biogas was the main energy supply fuel, accounting for 46% to 72% of the total energy supply. About 33% to 54% of electricity was transmitted to the grid each month using the TDS. The annual initial capital cost of the CDS was only 1.39% higher than that of the EDS. However, the annual operation cost of the EDS was 16.86% higher than that of the CDS. The emissions of the EDS were the lowest, and the CDS had 38.51% higher emissions than the EDS. In the CDS, the ratio of carbon emission costs to operation costs was as high as 0.80 when the carbon tax reached USD 100/ton. The carbon tax had a greater impact on the CDS than the other strategies. Feed-in tariffs had a greater impact than the carbon tax on the TDS. This study provides an effective method for the selection of optimal operation strategies in regards to carbon prices and feed-in tariffs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposes a novel regional carbon emission inequality (RCI) index based on a special kind of general distribution. Using the proposed RCI index and based on China's county-level panel data over the time span of 1997–2017, the regional carbon emission inequality of China is evaluated at intra-provincial, sub-national, and national levels. Based on that, the dependence between regional carbon inequality and carbon efficiency is studied by using copula functions and nonlinear dependence measures. The empirical results show that: (1) Shanghai, Tianjin, and Inner Mongolia have the worst carbon inequalities; while Hainan, Qinghai, and Jiangxi are the three most carbon-equal provinces; (2) there is a divergence phenomenon in RCI values of municipalities over the past decade; (3) from the national-level perspective, the inter-provincial carbon emission inequality is much greater than that at the intra-provincial level; (4) from the sub-national-level perspective, the east region has the highest RCI value, followed by the northeast, west, and the central regions; (5) there is a so-called "efficiency-equality (E-E) trade-off" in each provincial administrative unit, meaning that the higher carbon efficiency generally comes with higher carbon inequality, i.e., carbon efficiency comes at a price of carbon inequality; and (6) by re-grouping provincial units via the efficiency-equality cost and industrial structure, respectively, both carbon equality and carbon efficiency can be achieved in some regions simultaneously, thereby getting out of the "E-E trade-off" dilemma. The empirical evidence may provide valuable insight regarding the topic of "equality and efficiency" in environmental economics, and offer policy implications for regional economic planning and coordination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rising fuel prices, changes in energy markets, and concern for the environment make it necessary to develop new solutions and technologies. The development of new technologies brings with it the need to take risks associated with unpredictable consequences, technological immaturity, and other issues. However, without these elements, technological development is not possible. In this study, installations related to two different technologies—Enhanced Geothermal System (EGS) and Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS)—are reviewed. An Enhanced Geothermal System is a technology for exploiting the energy stored in hot dry rocks. Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage is an important technology for reducing CO2 emissions. The combination of these two technologies in CO2–EGS systems can bring significant environmental benefits. This paper reviews the most important CCUS and EGS systems in the world to form a baseline for similar, future technology investment in Poland. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the context of energy conservation and the reduction of CO2 emissions, inconsistencies between the inevitable emission of CO2 in traditional hydrogen production methods and eco-friendly targets have become more apparent over time. The catalytic decomposition of methane (CDM) is a novel technology capable of producing hydrogen without releasing CO2. Since hydrogen produced via CDM is neither blue nor green, the term "turquoise" is selected to describe this technology. Notably, the by-products of methane cracking are simply carbon deposits with different structures, which can offset the cost of hydrogen production cost should they be harvested. However, the encapsulation of catalysts by such carbon deposits reduces the contact area between said catalysts and methane throughout the CDM process, thereby rendering the continuous production of hydrogen impossible. This paper mainly covers the CDM reaction mechanisms of the three common metal-based catalysts (Ni, Co, Fe) from experimental and modelling approaches. The by-products of carbon modality and the key parameters that affect the carbon formation mechanisms are also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Integrity of wellbores and near wellbore processes are crucial issues in geological carbon storage (GCS) projects as they both define the confinement and injectivity of CO2. For the proper confinement of CO2, any flow of CO2 along the wellbore trajectory must be prevented using engineered barriers. The effect of cyclic stimuli on wellbore integrity, especially in the context of GCS projects, has been given less attention. In this study, the effect of pressure- and temperature-cycling on two types of wellbore composites (i.e., casing-cement and cement-caprock) have been investigated experimentally in small- and large-scale laboratory setups. The experiments have been carried out by measuring the effective permeability of the composites under pressure and thermal cyclic conditions. Furthermore, the permeability of individual samples (API class G and HMR+ cement and caprock) was measured and compared to the permeability of the composites. The results indicate that the permeability of API class G cement when exposed to CO2 is in the order of 10−20 m2 (10−5 mD) as a result of the chemical reaction between the cement and CO2. In addition, the tightness of the composite cement–rock has been confirmed, while the permeability of the composite casing–cement falls within the acceptable range for tight cement and the CO2 flow was identified to occur through or close to the interface casing–cement. Results from thermal cycling within the range −9 to 14 °C revealed no significant effect on the integrity of the bond casing–cement. In contrast, pressure cycling experiments showed that the effective pressure has a larger influence on the permeability. The potential creation of micro-cracks under pressure variations may require some time for complete closing. In conclusion, the pressure and temperature cycling from this study did not violate the integrity of the casing–cement composite sample as the permeability remained low and within the acceptable range for wellbore cement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to fully achieve energy saving goals, it is necessary to establish a comprehensive evaluation system for carbon reduction in transmission and transformation projects. Subsequently, weights were assigned to these indicators using a combination of the fuzzy analytical hierarchy process (FAHP) and the entropy weight method (EWM) through both subjective and objective methods. Finally, the ultimate weights were obtained by applying the principle of minimum information. During the construction of the evaluation model, the rank–sum ratio (RSR) method was introduced into the Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) for approximating ideal solution ranking. And the Euclidean distance in TOPSIS was replaced with standardized Euclidean distance, effectively avoiding evaluation discrepancies caused by different dimensions. The modified TOPSIS-RSR method was utilized to evaluate and rank power transmission and transformation projects in four regions. By comparing the test values of the two models, the superiority of the enhanced model was confirmed. Furthermore, the GM (1,1) model is used to predict the electricity sales volume of the optimal ranking area. This evaluation model can also be applied to the benefit evaluation of carbon reduction benefits in power transmission and transformation projects in other regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Embodied carbon flows among regions have led to unfair carbon emission responsibility accounting based on production. However, the heterogeneity of carbon peaking stress between regions is significantly neglected for those embodied carbon flows. Incorporating the carbon peaking stress into the embodied carbon flows can more clearly show what causes the carbon peaking stress and which carbon flow paths are more critical. In this study, the decoupling index of carbon emissions and economy development was applied to characterize the carbon peaking stress in each region, and the environmental extended multi-regional input–output model was applied to re-evaluate the criticality of regional embodied carbon flows. The results showed that the carbon peaking stress in China improved from 2007 to 2012, but the rebound of carbon peaking stress in 2017 made most regions reverse the previous downward trend. The stress to reach carbon peaks varies considerably from region to region, and the stress in the northwest is much higher than that in developed eastern China. Considering the heterogeneity of carbon peaking stress, additional concerns should be given to the net embodied carbon output in the northwestern, northern, and central regions, which can help avoid the dilemma between outsourcing embodied carbon and reducing carbon emissions from production. The policy to reduce emissions should be implemented in all regions that benefit from the net embodied carbon output of the northern and northwestern regions, where the carbon peaking stress is higher. The focus should be on the actual improvement of the carbon peaking stress, not just on the transfer of stress. The increasing urgency of achieving carbon peaking targets and unequal stress for regional peaking emissions calls for differentiated regional mitigation measures to help the Chinese government scientifically and in an orderly manner promote the overall and local carbon peaking work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lithium–sulfur batteries suffer from a reduced cycle life and diminished coulombic efficiency, which is attributed to the polysulfide shuttle effect. We herein present a process for the fabrication of lithium–sulfur battery cathode material via the recrystallization of dissolved sulfur inside self-assembled carbon nanospheres synthesized through the carbonization of d-glucose. Trapping sulfur in the carbonaceous matrix lessens the rapid dissolution of polysulfides and minimizes the loss of active sulfur, thus extending the cycling stability of these batteries. The carbon–sulfur composite material was characterized via X-ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). Electrochemical analysis of the material and its functionality as an electrode for lithium–sulfur battery systems was evaluated in a coin cell format using impedance spectroscopy and a life cycle study. The as-prepared cathode has shown remarkable electrochemical performance with a specific capacity of 781 mA/g at 0.1 C after 500 charge/discharge cycles and 83.4% capacity retention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the wake of the dual-carbon objective, the call for low-carbon attributes in integrated energy systems is ascending, with an amplified imperative to integrate wind and solar power efficiently. This study introduces an advanced low-carbon optimization framework for integrated energy systems, incorporating a sophisticated time-differentiated carbon accounting mechanism attentive to consumer emissions. A nuanced carbon accounting model is crafted to assess consumer emissions with greater accuracy. Predicated on these emissions, a refined low-carbon demand response model is articulated, factoring in the influence of carbon emission factors pertinent to electricity and heat procurement on user conduct. This model integrates the consideration of heat reclaimed from methanation processes, which in turn informs the carbon emission factors associated with purchased heat, and evaluates the subsequent optimization impact on the system. The proposed model is designed to curtail the system's operational expenditures and is operationalized via the CPLEX solver. Through the establishment of various scenarios for evaluative comparison, the model is corroborated to substantially augment the system's proficiency in assimilating wind and solar energy, markedly curtail carbon emissions, and facilitate a sustainable and cost-efficient operation of the integrated energy system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

China's industrial sector generally relies on electricity as its main source of energy, and industrial production can be affected if there are problems with the electricity supply. In order to deal with the uncertain electricity supply and achieve the "dual carbon" target, the industrial sector needs to take effective measures to enhance carbon total factor productivity (CTFP). We use the biennial Luenberger productivity index (BLPI) to try to provide strategies for low-carbon industrial development in China. The results indicate that the overall CTFP of China's industrial sector showed an increasing trend from 2006 to 2019. Technology change was the main contributor to the change in CTFP, but fluctuations in efficiency change remained a challenge. Differences were observed between the light industry sector (LIS) and the heavy industry sector (HIS) in terms of changes in CTFP, with LIS showing more stable changes and HIS experiencing larger fluctuations. Most sub-sectors showed increased CTFP during the sample period. R&D investment and R&D personnel have a positive impact on CTFP, while energy structure is found to hinder CTFP. According to the research results of this study, we offer the corresponding policy implications. This study is the first to explore the balance between low-carbon goals and industrial production from the perspective of improving CTFP, providing a new viewpoint on the contributions of technological innovation to solving socio-economic issues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To investigate the economic impact of carbon reduction technology on power transmission and transformation projects, carbon reduction technologies adapted to power transmission and transformation projects were investigated, and the evaluation indicator system for cost-benefit in power transmission and transformation projects was established based on AHP (Analytic Hierarchy Process) and EWM (Entropy Weight Method). Taking 110 kV and 220 kV transmission and transformation projects in a province located in northwest China as an example, a sensitivity analysis was carried out for the weight of each carbon reduction technology. Additionally, based on the evaluation indicator system, eight alternative carbon reduction schemes were proposed, and the net present value and scheme scores were analyzed with TOPSIS (Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution). The results showed that in the criterion layer of the 110 kV case, the highest proportion of weight is "high-efficiency transformer", accounting for 34.12%, and in the indicator layer, the highest proportion of weight is " parasitic losses", accounting for 12.35%. After conducting error analysis on the 110 kV and 220 kV cases, it was found that the errors were within an acceptable range both in the criterion layer and index layer. Moreover, it is expected to achieve greater economic benefits through lower costs according to Scheme VI, and due to the limitations of carbon reduction technologies and the lack of a relevant policy system, it is difficult to achieve the goal of covering costs with benefits for the eight schemes studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon accounting is primarily a process for measuring, reporting, and allocating greenhouse gas emissions from human activities, thus enabling informed decision-making to mitigate climate change and foster responsible resource management. There is a noticeable upsurge in the academia regarding carbon accounting, which engenders complexity due to the heterogeneity of practices that fall under the purview of carbon accounting. Such plurality has given rise to a situation where diverse interpretations of carbon accounting coexist, often bereft of uniformity in definition and application. Consequently, organisations need a standardised, comprehensive, and sequentially delineated carbon accounting framework amenable to seamless integration into end-to-end manufacturing systems. This research commences with the progressive evolution of the conceptual definition of carbon accounting. Then, it delves into the current state of carbon accounting in manufacturing systems and supply chains, revealing gaps and implementation issues warranting future scholarly exploration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gas diffusion layers (GDLs) in high-temperature, high-humidity, and high-electric-potential environments can be affected by the carbon corrosion and degradation of Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) network structures, resulting in reduced reliability and hydrophobicity. By using cyclic voltammetry and offline characterization, a high-potential scanning of 1–1.5 V is applied to the GDL in the three-electrode system, considering the role of gradient graphitization degree and pore size structure in corrosion. Accelerating the electrochemical corrosion process of carbon and PTFE allows the identification of corrosion location, extent, and determinants. The results indicate that after 800 cycles of high-potential triangulation scanning, the graphitization of gas diffusion base has the most significant impact on the GDL's durability. On the other hand, the durability of the GDL's microporous layer is influenced by its small pore size structure rather than its graphitization degree. Furthermore, the corrosion process of GDLs with a small pore size structure tends to be relatively slow, providing a basis for GDL selection and durability prediction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of human society has led to the growing consumption of industrial products, which generates significant amounts of carbon emissions. However, relatively few in-depth studies have been conducted on the influence of different demand factors (e.g., household consumption, government consumption, export, and capital formation) on carbon emissions, which hinders the development of targeted industrial policies. To address this issue, an analytical framework based on input–output theory, the hypothesis extraction method, and complex network analysis was established to estimate the intrinsic influence of different demand factors on the embodied carbon transfer between provinces in China. The key findings can be summed up as follows: (1) The macro direction of China's embodied carbon transfer runs from resource-rich northern provinces to industrially developed southern provinces. (2) From the perspective of different demand factors, capital formation is the most significant contributor to China's embodied carbon transfer, with the construction industry being the most important driver. In contrast, government consumption causes the least embodied carbon transfer, but it has the highest average carbon emission intensity. (3) According to complex network theory, the carbon transfer networks via provinces and industries caused by exports are the most concentrated, with the manufacture of electrical machinery and electronic equipment serving as the main source of demand. In contrast, the carbon transfer network resulting from household consumption exhibits a high level of decentralization, with dominant sectors including electric power, gas and water production, and supply and other services. Based on these findings, this study is expected to contribute targeted suggestions with which provinces and industries can formulate demand-side carbon reduction policies for different demand factors, which will contribute to the achievement of "carbon peaking and carbon neutrality". [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the light of climate change, the drive for zero carbon buildings is known as one response to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Within New Zealand, research on climate change mitigation and environmental impacts of buildings has received renewed attention. However, there has been no detailed investigation of zero carbon building practices. This paper undertakes an exploratory study through the use of semi-structured interviews with government representatives and construction industry experts to examine how the New Zealand construction industry plans and implements zero carbon buildings. The results show that New Zealand's construction industry is in the early stage of transiting to a net-zero carbon built environment. Key actions to date are focused on devising a way for the industry to develop and deliver zero carbon building projects. Central and local governments play a leading role in driving zero carbon initiatives. Leading construction firms intend to maximise the carbon reduction in building projects by developing a roadmap to achieve the carbon target by 2050 and rethinking the way of designing and constructing buildings. The research results provide an insight into the initial practices and policy implications for the uptake of zero carbon buildings in Aotearoa New Zealand. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon capture and storage (CCS) is an effective means to achieve the goals of carbon peaking and carbon neutrality. To improve the operating economics and low-carbon emission of an integrated energy system, the strong exothermic property of power-to-gas is utilized for heat recovery and injection into the heat network. This expands the adjustable range of electric output of combined heat and power (CHP) units which will improve wind power accommodation. The CO2 produced by the coal-fired unit is captured using post-combustion carbon capture technology, and then stored and used to manufacture methane, in order to realize the electric–gas–heat integrated energy system coupled with power-to-gas. Based on the ladder-type carbon trading mechanism, a low-carbon economic dispatch model of integrated energy system is proposed, which considers the incorporation of power-to-gas heat recovery and carbon capture and storage. The objective function is to minimize the total operation cost of the system. The model is simulated in the revised IEEE 39-bus power network, Belgium 20-node gas network and 6-node heat network by CPLEX solver and simulation results verify the effectiveness of the proposed model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biochar (BC) is a material that has many applications in agricultural and environmental activities. The aim of the study was to define the influence of BC produced in low-temperature pyrolysis from various organic waste materials, including one-month-old compost (OMOC), pine bark (PB), pine needle mulch (NM), pine cones (PC) and maple leaves (ML), on soil enzyme activity as well as its relation with organic matter properties. A 60-day incubation pot experiment was set up to investigate the influence of BC amendment on soil (S) characteristics. After incubation, we investigated the activity of soil enzymes, the content of available phosphorus (AP), potassium (AK) and magnesium (AMg), total organic carbon (TOC), total nitrogen (TN), dissolved organic matter (DOM) and its fractional composition (content and share of carbon and nitrogen of humic (CHAs, NHAs) and fulvic (CFAs, NFAs) acids and humin fractions). The effect of the amended biochars differed depending on the feedstock material. In general, the use of biochar enriched the soil with AP, AK and AMg increased the soil carbon stock, increased the intensity of nitrogen transformation and influenced the soil enzyme activity. OMOC and ML biochars significantly increased soil fertility, which was expressed by the high value of the CHA/CFA ratio. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on the DY spillover index model, we explore the static and dynamic risk spillover relationships between the Chinese carbon and stock markets from the perspective of the entire market and different industry levels. Furthermore, we examine the impact of diverse types of exogenous events on the risk spillover effects. The empirical results of the sectoral stock market show that the carbon market is the primary risk taker, and the risk spillover to the carbon market is mainly from high-carbon-emitting industries, such as the oil and electricity industries. However, the risk spillover relationship will be reversed under the shocks from exogenous events. The shocks from different types of exogenous events enhance the risk spillover from the carbon market to the stock market, specifically to the oil sector. The Sino–U.S. trade war and the COVID-19 outbreak are more impactful than government policies. These findings help investors to understand the risk conduct patterns among different financial sub-markets, and have implications for regulators to strengthen market risk management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A systematic study of the influence of synthesis conditions on the structural, morphological, and electrical properties, as well as the electrochemical performance of hemp fiber-derived carbon materials was performed. An analysis of the capacitive response of carbons obtained under various activation conditions with additional treatment with HNO3 and annealing was completed. The contribution of the formation of an electrical double layer at the outer electrode–electrolyte interface, as well as on surfaces inside micropores, has been studied and analyzed in terms of the effect of the turbostratic carbon properties (average lateral size of graphite crystallites, pore size distribution, BET surface area). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Li4Ti5O12 (LTO) is a promising anode material for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) due to its stable reversibility, high-rate cyclability, and high operational potential. On the other hand, it suffers from poor electronic conductivity and low capacitance. To overcome these disadvantages, modification of the LTO surface is frequently undertaken. Considering this idea, the production of a biomass-derived carbon-coated LTO material (LTO/C) and its application as an anode in LIBs is described in this work. The carbon precursor was obtained from commercial carrot juice, which was degraded using microwaves. According to the UV studies, the carbon precursor revealed similar properties to carbon quantum dots. Then, it was deposited on LTO synthetized through a sol-gel method. The LTO/C electrode exhibited a high specific capacity of 211 mAhg−1 at 0.1 C. Capacity retention equal to 53% of the initial value was found for the charge–discharge rate increase from 0.1 C to 20 C. The excellent electrochemical performance of LTO/C was caused by the carbon coating, which provided (i) short diffusion pathways for the Li+ ions into the LTO structure and (ii) enhanced electronic conductivity. The obtained results indicated that biomass-derived carbon quantum dot-coated LTO can be considered as a promising anode for LIBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents the global characteristics of the Polish manufacturing industry and the structure of its energy consumption and carbon dioxide emissions related to direct emission as a result of fuel combustion and indirect emission as a result of electricity consumption. The share of individual sectors in energy consumption and emission levels was determined, and the changes in this share over the last 20 years were determined. A method for determining the carbon productivity index for the emissions of individual industries with the use of global macroeconomic indicators was proposed. The index allows for the comparison of the productivity of individual industries, regardless of the nature of production. The change in carbon productivity in Polish industry over time was presented. On this basis, it was assessed which industries are particularly promising in terms of decarbonising the Polish industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: What are the main findings? The high specific surface area of the biofilter media has a positive effect on nitrification. The smooth surface of the biofilter medium reduces the efficiency of nitrification. What is the implication of the main finding? Passive biofilter activation can be used in salmonid RAS. P and C concentrations do not limit nitrogen transformation processes. High-performance biofilters for water purification in recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) ensure the safety of cultures of highly nutritious fish. As the most critical step in the functioning of biofilters is their activation, the objective of this study was to evaluate the suitability of commercial artificial media, namely RK Plast (BR-1), Mutag-BioChip30 (BR-2), and LevaPor (BR-3), for the passive activation of biofilters used in rainbow trout farming. Changes in NH4+-N, NO2−-N, NO3− -N, phosphorus, and carbon concentrations were analyzed. In the first period, an increase in NH4+-N concentration was recorded, before an increase in NO2−-N concentration (maximum concentrations ranged 0.728–1.290 and 0.982–5.198 mg N dm−3, respectively), followed by a reduction and stabilization to a level safe for the fish (both below 0.100 mg N dm−3). Concurrently, a steady increase in NO3−-N concentration was noted, with a maximum concentration between 6.521 and 7.326 mg N dm−3. Total phosphorus and total carbon ranged from 0.423 to 0.548 mg P dm−3, and from 43.8 to 45.2 mg C dm−3. The study confirmed the feasibility of using the tested artificial biofilter media for rainbow trout farming in RAS with passive biofilter activation. Biofilter activation efficiency was highest for the media with the highest specific surface area (BR-2 and BR-3). The removal of ammonium nitrogen and nitrite nitrogen was above 90%. Nitrogen biotransformation was not limited by phosphorus or carbon concentrations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is widely accepted that carbon capture and utilization technologies are an effective way of lowering the amount of greenhouse gases released into the atmosphere. A bibliometric analysis is presented in this article to investigate the development of carbon capture and utilization. The study was conducted to identify the trends in publishing, dominant contributing authors, institutions, countries, potential publishing sources, and the most cited publications in this research area. A total of 4204 articles published between 2007 and 2021 were analyzed, covering 13,272 authors, 727 journals, and 88 countries. The findings indicate that the most productive and influential authors have British and American affiliations. The United States, the United Kingdom, and China have conducted most studies on the aforementioned topic. Imperial College London, United Kingdom, has the highest number of publications in this field of research. Furthermore, the collaborative analysis was developed by creating links between the keywords, published information, authors, institutions, and countries. In addition, the discussion highlights the tremendous development in the research area of carbon capture and utilization, especially with a focus on the exponential rise in the number of yearly publications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The carbon emissions in China contribute to around one-third of the world total. Therefore, China plays a critical role in global carbon emissions reduction. Over the last few years, the Chinese government has implemented a range of counter-measures to accelerate the green transition. In this research, we empirically investigate the relationship between carbon intensity and the green transition. Based on provincial panel data of Chinese manufacturing industries from 2008 to 2019, we measure the relationship between carbon intensity and green transition capacity in 30 provinces, employing the Generalized Method of Moments (GMM) to examine their influencing mechanism and regional heterogeneity. Furthermore, we use an intermediary model to investigate the influence of financial development on the relationship between carbon intensity and manufacturing green transition. We find that a U-shaped relationship exists, where increasing carbon emissions restrain the green transition initially but improve it later, such that the transition upgrades gradually. Regarding the regional heterogeneity, the GMM results show that carbon intensity has the most significant impact on the green transition in the central provinces, followed by western provinces. Meanwhile, financial performance is an essential contributor to the relationship, as more funds flow into contamination-dominated but profitable projects, thus inhibiting the transition. Urbanization and marketization are also included into threshold models, which suggest the existence of relevant threshold effects in the relationship. These findings have a referenced value suggesting that the local governments follow the U-shaped theory to reform the local carbon reduction policies and green development target according to the regional economic performance and geographical advantages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: Uncertainty in the one-time measurement for chars by Raman spectroscopy technology is evident. Influence of char particle size and objective lens magnification on Raman characteristic parameters was investigated. The number of measurements required to obtain stable characteristic parameters is related to the micro-zone properties of the char surface. To address the problem of variability in in situ Raman spectroscopy for determining the chemical structure of chars, the rationality of Raman's original peak spectrum fitting method, the influence of objective lens magnification, particle size, and number of measurements on peak shape and characteristic parameters were investigated. The results show that the Raman original peak spectrum of char is fitted by five peaks and the goodness of fit is best when the D3 peak is fitted by a Gaussian curve. The intensity of the peak spectrum and stability of the characteristic parameters of the Raman spectroscopy are related to the objective lens magnification. For a relatively large objective lens magnification, the Raman peak spectrum intensity is increased and the coefficient of variation in the characteristic parameters is accordingly reduced. As particle size increases, the characteristic parameters AG/AAll that characterize the perfect graphite structure decrease and the characteristic parameters AD1/AAll, AD3/AAll, and AD1/AG that characterize the defective graphite structure increase. The coefficient of variation for the characteristic parameters is found to be the smallest for the particle size range of 81–96 μm. Micro-Raman imaging reveals that the microscopic characteristic parameters of different micro zones are significantly different and the number of measurements required to achieve reliable Raman characteristic parameters is related to this anisotropy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The scientific judgement of the structural abrupt transition characteristics of the carbon market price is an important means to comprehensively analyze its fluctuation law and effectively prevent carbon market risks. However, the existing methods for identifying structural changes of the carbon market based on carbon price data mostly regard the carbon price series as a deterministic time series and pay less attention to the uncertainty implied by the carbon price series. We propose a framework for identifying abrupt transitions in the carbon market from the perspective of a complex network by considering the influence of random factors on the carbon price series, expressing the carbon price series as a sequence of probability density functions, using the distribution of probability density to reveal the uncertainty information implied by carbon price series and constructing a recurrence network of carbon price probability density. Based on the community structure, the break index and statistical test method are defined. The simulation verifies the effectiveness and superiority of the method compared with traditional methods. An empirical analysis uses the carbon price data of the European Union carbon market and seven pilot carbon markets in China. The results show many abrupt transitions in the carbon price series of the two markets, whose occurrence period is closely related to major events. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this research, the shuttle effect and the low sulfur activation of lithium–sulfur batteries were mitigated by coating the cathode side of Celgard 2400 separators with mixtures of carbon black/chitosan or carbon black/polyvinylidene fluoride using the simple slurry technique. Carbon nanoparticles and the polar groups of the polymers were responsible for boosting the reaction kinetics of sulfur and the chemical and physical trapping of lithium polysulfides. The adsorption of sulfur species in the coated separators was confirmed by the morphologic changes observed in the AFM and SEM images and by the new elements presented in the EDX spectra after 100 charge/discharge cycles. The high intensity of the peaks in the cyclic voltammograms and the long plateaus in the discharge profiles support the improvement in the reaction kinetics. The batteries with the carbon black/chitosan- and carbon black/polyvinylidene fluoride-coated separators reached high specific discharge capacities of 833 and 698 mAhg−1, respectively, after 100 cycles at 0.5 C. This is promising for this kind of technology, and detailed results are presented in the article. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the literature, the linkage between income, energy, and carbon emissions has been widely examined and most of the empirical studies have not investigated the impact of the real estate market on their empirical models. Our study endeavors to present a novel topic by investigating the influence of the real estate market on Turkey's environmental quality, using an advanced method of the Bootstrap Autoregressive Distributed Lag (BARDL). We estimate that consumption of renewable energy contributes significantly to CO2 emissions, while real income increases the environmental degradation in both the short and long run. Furthermore, our study demonstrates that the real estate market contributes negatively to the deduction of carbon emissions in Turkey. A one percent increase in the real estate market will cause a rise in Turkey's carbon level by 0.010% and 0.009% in the short and long term, respectively. Our research suggests that Turkey should design new strategies for sustainable real estate markets to improve the environmental quality by supporting green investment projects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The European Union (EU) views the carbon border adjustment mechanism (CBAM) as a measure to tackle carbon leakage, which will have a profound impact on non-EU countries' exports. Policymakers are faced with the question of how to deal with the CBAM. In contrast to previous studies, we explore the effects of the CBAM on non-EU countries from a dynamic game perspective. This study analyzed the potential effects of the CBAM on China and found that the government and export companies are the two main stakeholders. We found that they can both choose whether to respond actively or passively. Based on their interactive relationship, we adopted an evolutionary game to model the nexus between the government and export companies. We analyzed the evolutionary stable state of each stakeholder and the whole game with the replicator dynamic equation system. To make the system evolve to the optimal state where the government reacts actively and export companies implement low-carbon production, we provide a policy mechanism for how to set key parameters' values. We used numerical simulation to verify the policy design and to conduct sensitivity analyses of the key parameters. Our results show that, when two stakeholders positively react to the CBAM, it is necessary to increase their profits and to reduce their costs. Therefore, some suggestions are proposed, including optimizing the trade structure, strengthening cooperation with the EU, improving the current carbon market, and adopting carbon tax. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrogen is a notoriously difficult substance to store yet has endless energy applications. Thus, the study of long-term hydrogen storage, and high-pressure bulk hydrogen storage have been the subject of much research in the last several years. To create a research path forward, it is important to know what research has already been done, and what is already known about hydrogen storage. In this review, several approaches to hydrogen storage are addressed, including high-pressure storage, cryogenic liquid hydrogen storage, and metal hydride absorption. Challenges and advantages are offered based on reported research findings. Since the project looks closely at advanced manufacturing, techniques for the same are outlined as well. There are seven main categories into which most rapid prototyping styles fall. Each is briefly explained and illustrated as well as some generally accepted advantages and drawbacks to each style. An overview of hydrogen adsorption on metal hydrides, carbon fibers, and carbon nanotubes are presented. The hydrogen storage capacities of these materials are discussed as well as the differing conditions in which the adsorption was performed under. Concepts regarding storage shape and materials accompanied by smaller-scale advanced manufacturing options for hydrogen storage are also presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Non-domestic buildings are frequently characterised as resistant to top-down low-carbon and energy-efficiency policy. Complex relationships amongst building stakeholders are often blamed. "Middle actors"—professionals situated between policymakers and building users—can use their agency and capacity to facilitate energy and carbon decision-making from the "middle-out". We use semi-structured interviews with expert middle actors working with schools and commercial offices, firstly, to explore their experience of energy and low-carbon decision-making in buildings and, secondly, to reflect on the evolution of middle actors' role within it. Our exploratory findings suggest that a situated sensitivity to organisational "pressure points" can enhance middle actors' agency and capacity to catalyse change. We find shifts in the ecology of the "middle", as the UK's Net Zero and Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) agendas pull in new middle actors (such as the financial community) and issues (such as wellbeing and social value) to non-domestic buildings. These issues may work in reinforcing ways with organisational pressure points. Policy should capitalise on this impetus by looking beyond the physicality of individual buildings and engage with middle actors at a systemic level. This could create greater synergies with organisational concerns and strategies of building stakeholders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Connections to world markets facilitate local markets developments to support more efficient capital allocation and greater investment and growth opportunities. Under the framework of cross-market rebalancing theory, in this study, we aim to systematically examine the market connections among world financial, energy, renewable energy and European carbon markets by measuring the return spillovers from 2008 to 2021. We find that the renewable energy market is more closely connected to the world financial and energy markets in the sense of the return transmission, while the carbon market is less connected to them. However, due to improved market regulations and determinations related to fighting climate change, the connections between the carbon market and other markets have gradually intensified. Plotting the return spillover indexes, we observe that strong return spillovers from the renewable energy market to other markets occurred when large investment plans were announced. Regarding the carbon market, regulation changes introduced by the EU Commission to improve and stabilize market environment induced intensified return transmission from carbon market to other markets. Another interesting finding is that the highly intensified return transmission among markets due to the COVID-19 crisis started to loosen when COVAX published the first interim distribution forecast on 3 February 2021. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The principles of Findability, Accessibility, Interoperability, and Reusability (FAIR) have been put forward to guide optimal sharing of data. The potential for industrial and social innovation is vast. Domain-specific metadata standards are crucial in this context, but are widely missing in the energy sector. This report provides a collaborative response from the low carbon energy research community for addressing the necessity of advancing FAIR metadata standards. We review and test existing metadata practices in the domain based on a series of community workshops. We reflect the perspectives of energy data stakeholders. The outcome is reported in terms of challenges and elicits recommendations for advancing FAIR metadata standards in the energy domain across a broad spectrum of stakeholders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biomass is one of the most important sources of renewable energy. It is expected that in the coming decades, biomass will play a major role in replacing fossil fuels. The most commonly used biofuels include wood pellet, which is a cost-effective, uniform and easy-to-use material. In view of the growing interest in this type of resource, novel methods are being investigated to improve the quality of pellet. This article presents the results of a laboratory study focusing on wood pellets refined with waste sunflower cooking oil applied by spraying. In this work, authors attempted to modify the energy parameters of wood pellets with the use of waste cooking oil. Addition of waste cooking oil, applied at the rates of 2%, 4%, 6%, 8%, 10% and 12% relative to the weight of pellets, increased the calorific value of the pellets without decreasing their durability. The highest dose of the modifier (12%) on average led to a 12–16% increase in calorific value. In each case, the addition of sunflower oil resulted in decreased contents of ash in the pellets; on average a decrease of 16–38% was observed in the samples treated with the highest dose of the modifier. The treatment led to a higher content of elements affecting the heating value, i.e., carbon and hydrogen, which on average increased by 7.5–12%, and 7.0–10.0%, respectively. The presented method seems to be a promising way of increasing the calorific value of pellets. Further research on refining the method and the possibility of using it in industry is necessary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present work provides an analysis of the potential impact of fossil-based Low Carbon Aviation Fuels (LCAF) for the European aviation sector, with a time horizon to 2050. LCAF are a crude-derived alternative to kerosene, offering some Green House Gas (GHG) savings, and have been defined by ICAO as eligible fuels for mitigating the environmental impact of aviation. A methodological framework to evaluate the EU technical potential for LCAF production is developed, based on data on crude utilization for jet fuel production in EU refineries, relevant carbon intensity reduction technologies, market prices, and aviation fuel volumes. Two different baselines for fossil-derived kerosene carbon intensity (CI) are considered: a global figure of 89 gCO2e/MJ and an EU-27-specific one of 93.1 gCO2eq/MJ. Three scenarios considering increasing levels of CI reduction are then defined, taking into account the current and potential commercial availability of some of the most relevant carbon intensity reduction technologies. The analysis demonstrates that, even if LCAF could offer GHG saving opportunities, their possible impact, especially when compared to the ambition level set in the most recent European legislative proposals, is very limited in most of the analysed scenarios, with the exception of the most ambitious ones. At 2030, a non-zero technical potential is projected only in the higher CI reduction scenario, ranging between 1.8% and 14.2% of LCAF market share in the EU-27 (equal to 0.6 to 4.75 Mtoe), depending on the considered Baseline for CI. At 2050, almost all considered scenarios project a larger technical potential, ranging between 6.9% and 22.2% for the global Baseline (2.21 to 7.13 Mtoe), and between 1.8% and 16.2% for the EU-27 Baseline (0.58 to 5.2 Mtoe). LCAF additional costs to current production costs are also discussed, given their relevance in large-scale deployment of these technologies, and are projected to range between 39 and 46.8 USD/toe. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The regulatory environment for both sustainability and financial reporting is changing as standardisation and digital reporting (e.g., XBRL) are gaining traction within regulators. The measurement methodology and mandatory information content of disclosures are yet to be decided for corporate CO2 reporting by EU regulators and standard-setting organisations. In our study, we reviewed the sustainability reports of three leading German automotive groups by revenue for the period 2016–2020 as a case study. The research methodology was carried out with text-mining-aided content analysis to provide a collection of sustainability standards (GRI and SASB) in the evaluation of emissions reporting. As an addition to prior literature, conditions of relevance and clarity regarding published information were introduced in the evaluation process of compliance to CO2 disclosures. Companies by reporting practice were assigned to different stages of carbon management and actual emissions were evaluated. In the conclusions, discussion of the reliability of reported sustainability information, the applicability of digital reporting is provided through regional perspectives. We found that although analytical methods are available to assess the level of corporate carbon management, their usefulness is limited if the data are not reliable. Significant progress can be expected from analyses using standardised, comparable corporate carbon data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The electricity sector aims to achieve a balanced progress in all three dimensions of the energy trilemma: affordability, decarbonisation and security of supply. Separate strategies for decarbonisation and security of supply have been pursued; each with close attention to minimising costs, thus consistent with the affordability aspect of the trilemma. However, while it is evident that the pathway for decarbonisation increases pressure on security of supply, the pressures that cost-minimising security of supply measures are putting on decarbonisation goes unaddressed. The United Kingdom (UK) is a global leader in the transition towards a decarbonised economy and aims to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. As a major part of the UK, Great Britain (GB) has achieved greater than 50% of low-carbon electricity generation and the grid's carbon intensity has dropped by 36% over the period 2015–2019. However, balancing services that provide security of supply uses only 8% of low-carbon generation. Their carbon intensity is double the grid's average and this gap is widening. This is an effect of a systemic reliance on carbon-intensive fuels. Financial support for capital investment for flexible low-carbon technologies is much needed. The GB context suggests that an integrated strategy covering all three dimensions of the trilemma might achieve an improved balance between them and unlock an affordable, net-zero emissions and secure power system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]