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Low carbon operation of power systems is a key way to achieve the goal of energy power carbon peaking and carbon neutrality. In order to promote the low carbon transition of energy and power and the coordinated and optimized operation of distributed energy sources in virtual power plants (VPP), this paper proposes a framework for collaborative utilization of pumped storage–carbon capture–power-to-gas (P2G) technologies. It also constructs a multi-time scale low carbon economic dispatch model for VPP to minimize the internal resource operation cost of VPP in each time period. During the intraday scheduling stage, the day-ahead scheduling results as the planned output and the energy flow is then dynamically corrected at a short-term resolution in the framework. This allows for the exploration of the low-carbon potential of each aggregation unit within the virtual power plant. The results of the simulation indicate that the strategy and model proposed in this paper can effectively encourage the consumption of renewable energy sources, promote the low-carbon operation of power system power, and serve as a valuable reference for the low-carbon economic operation of the power system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The EU has set the ambitious target of raising the share of EU energy consumption produced from renewable resources to 32% by 2030, with a target of climate neutrality by 2050. The aim of this paper is to assess the role of biomass usage in the context of these targets. The paper identifies the progress made between 2013 and 2022 by focusing on a selection of EU countries. The largest bioenergy increments of 130, 77, and 60 PJ were reported for Poland, Sweden, and the Netherlands. This study evaluates the crucial role of co-generation and heat in EU regions, with biomass usage between 55 and 80% of the combined heat and power (CHP) energy in Nordic countries. The future perspectives for bioenergy based on EU policies, biomass resources, and technical issues were addressed. The EU possesses around 9% of the global biomass supply, ensuring a certain level of biomass resource dependence. Thus, the biomass usage demand in energy production, non-energy sectors, and transport is expected to rise, leading to increments of 13–76% on biomass imports. It appears that bioenergy development is mostly limited by economic issues and uneven support for bioenergy in different EU countries as well as environmental issues. The study shows a promising and sustainable potential of bioenergy in the EU as a renewable energy source while minimizing negative impacts on the environment and the economy. By 2050, liquid biofuels are likely to be increasingly used in the transport sector. Non-energy sector usage of biomass is still in an early stage of development, except for the pulp and paper industry, and significant use of biomass in non-energy sectors seems unlikely in the near future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To advance carbon neutrality policies, many countries are increasingly integrating Renewable Energy Sources (RESs) into their energy mix. However, for harnessing natural energy in power generation, RESs present challenges in output control, potentially leading to power imbalances. Such imbalances, when coupled with an excessive reliance on unpredictable RES, may necessitate the curtailment of grid-integrated renewable generation, halting production despite available capacity. This paper proposes strategies to mitigate the economic and operational efficiency impacts of increased RESs on the power grid. It focuses on the optimal operation of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESSs) and Power to Gas (P2G) technology, which flexibly converts surplus electricity into hydrogen. By employing Mixed Integer Linear Programming (MILP) for optimization and Stochastic Programming (SP) for the management of the uncertainty of renewable energy output, this paper evaluates the anticipated benefits of BESS and P2G applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With a significant share of renewable power generation integrated into the power supply, it is crucial to timely adjust the regulating peak load for coal-fired power plants equipped with CO2 capture to ensure the stable operation of the multi-energy supply system. In this paper, the effects of varying boiler loads on the techno-economic performance of the retrofitted power plant were studied. Furthermore, the potential for reducing the cost of CO2 capture was investigated, and early opportunities for demonstration were discussed. Results showed that when the boiler load decreased from 100% turbine heat acceptance condition to 50% turbine heat acceptance condition, the cost of CO2 capture increased from 37.0 $/t CO2 to 57.0 $/t CO2, cost contribution of energy penalty and extra capital investment also increased from 20.6 $/t-CO2 to 25.7 $/t-CO2, and from 16.4 $/t-CO2 to 31.3 $/t-CO2, respectively. Furthermore, by improving separation efficiency from 0.15 to 0.5, a 25% to 30% reduction in CO2 capture cost can be achieved. The cost of CO2 capture could decrease by 42.2–50.5% when the cumulative capacity reaches 250 GW under the high investment learning rate scenario. According to the distribution of coal prices and renewable energy sources in China, the early demonstration projects of multi-energy supply systems should prioritize the northern region. The results of this work can provide informative references for making roadmaps and policies for CO2 emission reduction toward carbon neutrality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of renewable energy sources to achieve carbon neutrality is increasing. However, the uncertainty and volatility of renewable resources are causing problems in power systems. Flexible and low-carbon resources such as Energy Storage Systems (ESSs) are essential for solving the problems of power systems and achieving greenhouse gas reduction goals. However, ESSs are not being installed because of Korea's fuel-based electricity market. To address this issue, this paper presents a method for determining the optimal investment timing of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESSs) using the Least Squares Monte Carlo (LSMC) method. A case study is conducted considering the System Marginal Price (SMP) and Capacity Payment (CP), which are electricity rates in Korea. Revenue is calculated through the arbitrage of a 10 MW/40 MWh lithium-ion BESS, and linear programming optimization is performed for ESS scheduling to maximize revenue. The ESS revenue with uncertainty is modeled as a stochastic process using Geometric Brownian Motion (GBM), and the optimal time to invest in an ESS is determined using an LSMC simulation considering investment costs. The proposed method can be used as a decision-making tool for ESS investors to provide information on facility investments in arbitrage situations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a quantitative assessment of the value of hydroelectric power plants (HPPs) in power systems with a significant penetration of variable renewable energy sources (VRESs). Through a capacity expansion planning (CEP) model that incorporates a detailed representation of HPP operating principles, the study investigates the construction and application of HPP rule curves essential for seasonal operation. A comparative analysis is also conducted between the proposed rule curve formulation and alternative modeling techniques from the literature. The CEP model optimizes installed capacities per technology to achieve predefined VRES penetration targets, considering hourly granularity and separate rule curves for each HPP. A case study involving twelve reservoir hydropower stations and two open-loop pumped hydro stations is examined, accounting for standalone plants and cascaded hydro systems across six river basins. The study evaluates the additional generation and storage required to replace the hydropower fleet under high VRES penetration levels, assessing the resulting increases in total system cost emanating from introducing such new investments. Furthermore, the study approximates the storage capabilities of HPPs and investigates the impact of simplified HPP modeling on system operation and investment decisions. Overall, the findings underscore the importance of reevaluating hydro rule curves for future high VRES penetration conditions and highlight the significance of HPPs in the energy transition towards carbon neutrality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wave energy, as a significant renewable and clean energy source with vast global reserves, exhibits no greenhouse gas or other pollution during real-sea operational conditions. However, throughout the entire lifecycle, wave energy convertors can produce additional CO2 emissions due to the use of raw materials and emissions during transportation. Based on laboratory test data from a wave energy convertor model, this study ensures consistency between the model and the actual sea-deployed wave energy convertors in terms of performance, materials, and geometric shapes using similarity criteria. Carbon emission factors from China, the European Union, Brazil, and Japan are selected to predict the carbon emissions of wave energy convertors in real-sea conditions. The research indicates: (1) The predicted carbon emission coefficient for unit electricity generation ( E F co 2 ) of wave energy is 0.008–0.057 kg CO2/kWh; when the traditional steel production mode is adopted, the E F co 2 in this paper is 0.014–0.059 kg CO2/kWh, similar to existing research conclusions for the emission factor of CO2 for wave energy convertor (0.012–0.050 kg CO2/kWh). The predicted data on carbon emissions in the lifecycle of wave energy convertors aligns closely with actual operational data. (2) The main source of carbon emissions in the life cycle of a wave energy converter, excluding the recycling of manufacturing metal materials, is the manufacturing stage, which accounts for 90% of the total carbon emissions. When the recycling of manufacturing metal materials is considered, the carbon emissions in the manufacturing stage are reduced, and the carbon emissions in the transport stage are increased, from about 7% to about 20%. (3) Under the most ideal conditions, the carbon payback period for a wave energy convertor ranges from 0.28 to 2.06 years, and the carbon reduction during the design lifespan (20 years) varies from 238.33 t CO2 (minimum) to 261.80 t CO2 (maximum). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Global energy consumption has led to concerns about potential supply problems, energy consumption and growing environmental impacts. This paper comprehensively provides a detailed assessment of current studies on the subject of building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) technology in net-zero energy buildings (NZEBs). The review is validated through various case studies, which highlight the significance of factors such as building surface area to volume ratio (A/V), window-wall ratio (WWR), glass solar heating gain coefficient (SHGC), and others in achieving the NZEBs standards. In addition, this review article draws the following conclusions: (1) NZEBs use renewable energy to achieve energy efficiency and carbon neutrality. (2) NZEBs implementation, however, has some limitations, including the negligence of indoor conditions in the analysis, household thermal comfort, and the absence of an energy supply and demand monitoring system. (3) Most researchers advise supplementing facade and window BIPV as solely roofing BIPV will not be able to meet the building's electricity usage. (4) Combining BIPV with building integrated solar thermal (BIST), considering esthetics and geometry, enhances outcomes and helps meet NZEB criteria. (5) BIPV designs should follow standards and learn from successful cases. However, to ascertain the long-term reliability and structural integrity of BIPV systems, a comprehensive study of their potential degradation mechanisms over extended periods is imperative. The review paper aims to examine BIPV applications in-depth, underscoring its pivotal role in attaining a net-zero energy benchmark. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Responding to the Paris Agreement and climate change mitigation, Indonesia aims to reach net zero by 2060 or sooner. Due to Indonesia's dependence on coal and growing consumption, alternative sources of clean energy are imperative for meeting its rising energy needs and reducing energy-related greenhouse gas emissions to achieve the energy transition. This project aims to examine Indonesia's opportunities and potential to achieve low carbon ambition in the energy sector and identify alternative pathways for the energy transition in Indonesia. In this study, the open-source energy modelling system (OSeMOSYS), which is a long-term energy system modelling tool, is employed to compare electricity generation, investment, and carbon dioxide emissions between business-as-usual and five alternative scenarios. Six scenarios, including business as usual, least-cost, two coal-phrase out and two net zero aligned with national climate targets and optimal scenarios, were simulated across different target years. The results show that the net zero (NZ) scenario is more cost-effective and emits fewer greenhouse gases than the other scenarios in meeting Indonesia's future energy demand. However, achieving net zero by 2050 (NZ50) results in significantly lower CO2 emissions (10,134 MtCO2), which is less than half of the emissions in the net zero by 2060 (NZ60) scenario (16,849 MtCO2) at a similar cost (6229 and 6177 billion USD, respectively). This paper's insights emphasise that large-scale renewable energy deployment and coal retirement are critical pathways to reaching carbon neutrality and achieving the energy mix transition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The transformation of the energy sector, based on the development of low-carbon technologies, is essential to achieve climate neutrality. The Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) is a powerful methodology for assessing the environmental impact of energy technologies, which proves to be a useful tool for policy makers. The paper is a review of the main LCA studies of power generation systems performed over the past ten years aiming at comparing the energy technologies to identify those with the lowest impact on the environment, evaluated in terms of gCO2eq/kWh emissions. Screening criteria were established to include only studies of the highest qualitative significance. The authors decided to assign greater weight to emission values reported in more recent studies. For nuclear and renewable energy technologies, most of the emissions are related to the pre-operational phases. Notably, both nuclear and wind technologies, along with other renewable sources throughout their entire life cycle, exhibit significantly lower and less variable emissions compared with conventional gas- and coal-fired technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the promotion of carbon peaking and carbon neutrality goals and the construction of renewable-dominated electric power systems, renewable energy will become the main power source of power systems in China. Therefore, ensuring frequency stability and system security will emerge as pivotal challenges in the future development process. Created by combining a Li-ion battery and a supercapacitor, a hybrid energy storage system (HESS), which possesses robust power regulation capabilities and rapid response capabilities, holds promise for supporting the frequency stability of power systems. In this context, the assessment of the economic viability of HESSs providing multitype frequency response services becomes a critical factor in their deployment and promotion. In this paper, an economic analysis approach for a Li-ion battery–supercapacitor HESS towards a multitype frequency response is presented. First, a multitype frequency response-oriented operational mode for the HESS is designed, outlining the roles and functions of the Li-ion battery and the supercapacitor in delivering distinct services. Moreover, building upon the analysis of the power trajectory of Li-ion batteries, a lifetime model for the HESS is proposed based on the rain-flow counting method. Furthermore, considering the competitive landscape for the HESS in the frequency regulation ancillary service market, a full lifecycle economic assessment model is proposed. Finally, case studies on actual power system frequency data and PJM market data are performed to verify the effectiveness of the proposed method, and the simulation results confirm that the HESS exhibits robust performance and a competitive advantage in providing multitype frequency response services. Additionally, it demonstrates commendable economic benefits, establishing its potential as a valuable contributor to frequency response services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photovoltaics and wind power are expected to account for a large share of power generation in the carbon-neutral era. A gas turbine combined cycle (GTCC) with an industrial gas turbine as the main engine has the ability to rapidly start up and can follow up to load fluctuations to smooth out fluctuations in power generation from renewable energy sources. Simultaneously, the system must be more efficient than today's state-of-the-art GTCCs because it will use either Carbon dioxide Capture and Storage (CCS) when burning natural gas or hydrogen/ammonia as fuel, which is more expensive than natural gas. This paper describes the trend of cooled turbine rotor blades used in large industrial gas turbines that are carbon neutral. First, the evolution of cooled turbine stationary vanes and rotor blades is traced. Then, the current status of heat transfer technology, blade material technology, and thermal barrier coating technology that will lead to the realization of future ultra-high-temperature industrial gas turbines is surveyed. Based on these technologies, this paper introduces turbine vane and blade cooling technologies applicable to ultra-high-temperature industrial gas turbines for GTCC in the carbon-neutral era. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to achieve the goal of carbon peaking and carbon neutralization, we must vigorously develop renewable energy. As one of the important renewable energy sources, the development and utilization of biomass energy has a high cost, and it is difficult to compete with traditional fossil energy in the early stage of development. Therefore, it is necessary for the government to escort the development of the biomass energy industry through legal means. First of all, on the basis of fully analyzing the development prospects of China's biomass energy, the article sorts out the laws and regulations related to biomass energy in China, and finds the shortcomings. Secondly, this paper draws on the institutional experience of the United States, Brazil, Sweden and other countries with relatively developed biomass energy industry, and provides suggestions for improvement from three aspects: law, policy and administrative system, with a view to supporting China's development of biomass energy industry and realizing the "dual carbon target" theoretically. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Renewable energy sources generated locally are becoming increasingly popular in order to achieve carbon neutrality in the near future. Some of these sources are being used in neighbourhood (local, or energy communities) grids to achieve high levels of self-sufficiency. However, the objectives of the local grid and the distribution grid to which it is connected are different and can sometimes conflict with each other. Although the distribution grid allows access to all variable resources, in certain circumstances, such as when its infrastructure is overloaded, redispatch measures need to be implemented. The complexity and uncertainties associated with current and future energy systems make this a challenging bi-level multi-criteria optimisation problem, with the distribution grid representing the upper level and the neighbourhood grid representing the lower level. Solving these problems numerically is not an easy task. However, there are new opportunities to solve these problems with less computational costs if we decompose the flexibility in the lower lever. Therefore, this paper presents a mathematical approach to optimise grid management systems by aggregating flexibility from neighbourhood grids. This mathematical approach can be implemented with centralised or decentralised algorithms to solve congestion problems in distribution grids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Republic of Korea has unique geographical characteristics similar to those of an island, resulting in an isolated power system. For this reason, securing sufficient operating reserves for the system's stability and reliability in the face of the intermittency of increasing variable renewable energy (VRE) is paramount, and this will pave the way to achieving the nation's decarbonization target and carbon neutrality. However, the current reserve-operation method in Republic of Korea does not take into account energy-system conditions, such as the intermittency of the VRE. Therefore, this paper presents an analysis of the impact of changes in reserve-operation methods on the electricity market in the future Republic of Korean power system, with the increased levels of VRE that are currently envisioned. Specifically, three reserve-operation methods, including Korea's current reserve-power-operation standards, were applied to the two power-system plans announced by the Korean government to analyze the annual generator operation and costs. The analysis results show that securing reserves proportional to the VRE would exert negative effects, such as increased power-generation costs and the curtailment of nuclear and VRE generation. These results can contribute to the estimation of operational reserves needed for high levels of VRE and to the design of new the Korean reserve market, to be introduced in 2025. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Smart integration of different energy sectors on islands could serve as a key to achieve their energy independence and carbon neutrality goals and facilitate the large-scale penetration of renewables. Demonstration projects play a vital role in testing innovative sector-coupling solutions and exploring their synergies in the real-life environment. They also help to build the required market confidence and awareness, verify and enhance the societal acceptance, and identify and prevent unnecessary risks and complications. The aim of this paper is to provide the reader with a comprehensive review of 19 research projects, which concern the demonstration of sector-coupling technologies on European islands. The projects are funded by the European Commission and started between 2010 and 2020. The review focuses on the exploration of various technical aspects of 28 demo pilots. In addition, it addresses objectives, contributions, and novelty of the demonstrations and analyses barriers, challenges, risks, and success factors reported by project stakeholders. The paper intends to support the decision-makers on the identification, adoption, and replication of successful technologies. Moreover, it provides researchers and other interested parties with lessons learnt to ensure the successful project execution and technology demonstration in future projects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Islands face unique challenges on their journey towards achieving carbon neutrality by the mid-century, due to the lack of energy interconnections, limited domestic energy resources, extensive fossil fuel dependence, and high load variance requiring new technologies to balance demand and supply. At the same time, these challenges can be turned into a great opportunity for economic growth and the creation of jobs with non-interconnected islands having the potential to become transition frontrunners by adopting sustainable technologies and implementing innovative solutions. This paper uses an advanced energy–economy system modeling tool (IntE3-ISL) accompanied by plausible decarbonization scenarios to assess the medium- and long-term impacts of energy transition on the energy system, emissions, economy, and society of the island of Mayotte. The model-based analysis adequately captures the specificities of Mayotte and examines the complexity, challenges, and opportunities to decarbonize the island's non-interconnected energy system. The energy transition necessitates the adoption of ambitious climate policy measures and the extensive deployment of low- and zero-carbon technologies both in the demand and supply sides of the energy system, accounting for the unique characteristics of each individual sector, while sectoral integration is also important. To reduce emissions from hard-to-abate sectors, such as transportation and industry, the measures and technologies can include the installation and use of highly efficient equipment, the electrification of end uses (such as the widespread adoption of electric vehicles), the large roll-out of renewable energy sources, as well as the production and use of green hydrogen and synthetic fuels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The decarbonisation of the building sector is crucial for Portugal's goal of achieving economy-wide carbon neutrality by 2050. To mobilize communities towards energy efficiency measures, it is important to understand the primary drivers and barriers that must be overcome through policymaking. This paper aims to review existing Energy Policies and Actions (EPA) in Portugal and assess their effectiveness in improving Energy Efficiency (EE) and reducing CO2 emissions in the building sector. The Local Energy Planning Assistant (LEPA) tool was used to model, test, validate and compare the implementation of current and alternative EPAs in the North of Portugal, including the national EE plan. The results indicate that electrification of heating and cooling, EE measures, and the proliferation of Renewable Energy Sources (RES) are crucial for achieving climate neutrality. The study found that the modelling of alternative EPAs can be improved to reduce investment costs and increase Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions reduction. Among the alternatives assessed, the proposed one (Alternative 4) presents the best returns on investment in terms of cost savings and emissions reduction. It allows for 52% investment cost savings in the residential sector and 13% in the service sector when compared to the current national roadmap to carbon neutrality (Alternative 2). The estimated emission reduction in 2050 for Alternative 4 is 0.64% for the residential sector and 3.2% for the service sector when compared to Alternative 2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is increasing interest in migrating to a carbon-neutral power system that relies on renewable energy due to concerns about greenhouse gas emissions, energy shortages, and global warming. However, the increasing share of renewable energy has added volatility and uncertainty to power system operations. Introducing new devices and using flexible resources may help solve the problem, but expanding the domain of the problem can be another solution. Sector coupling, which integrates production, consumption, conversion, and storage by connecting various energy domains, could potentially meet the needs of each energy sector. It can also reduce the generation of surplus energy and unnecessary carbon emissions. As a result, sector coupling, an integrated energy system, increases the acceptance of renewable energy in the traditional power system and makes it carbon neutral. However, difficulties in large-scale integration, low conversion efficiency and economic feasibility remain obstacles. This perspective paper discusses the background, definition, and components of sector coupling, as well as its functions and examples in rendering power systems carbon-neutral. The current limitations and outlook of sector coupling are also examined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the promotion of carbon peaking and carbon neutrality goals and the construction of renewable-dominated electric power systems, renewable energy will become the main power source of power systems in China. How to ensure the accommodation of renewable energy will also be the core issue in the future development process of renewable-dominated electric power systems. In this context, shared energy storage (SES), a novel business model combined with energy storage technologies and the sharing economy, has the potential to play an important role in renewable energy accommodation scenarios. This paper systematically organizes the application prospect, development status and key technologies of SES in the renewable energy accommodation scenario in the context of China, providing helpful references for the promotion of the business model. Firstly, a typical SES framework for renewable energy accommodation is described, and three basic forms of SES in this scenario are presented. Moreover, the application prospect of SES in the renewable energy accommodation scenario is quantitatively analyzed based on the renewable energy generation planning under the carbon peaking goal and the current guarantee mechanism of renewable energy accommodation. Furthermore, the rules for energy storage systems that provide the peak-regulation ancillary service in typical regions and provincial administrative regions in China are summarized, and the development status of SES in the renewable energy accommodation scenario is analyzed, combined with the actual market data. Finally, the key technologies to promote the further development of SES for renewable energy accommodation are presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

LVDC buildings use a low-voltage direct current (LVDC) distribution system for energy transmission and integrate photovoltaic (PV), battery energy storage (BES) and the utility grid as building energy resources. This technology can reduce energy loss in conversion to a certain extent and increase renewable energy compared with traditional AC distribution systems. Under the national goal of carbon peaking and carbon neutrality, LVDC buildings have been proven to be a new approach to energy conservation and emission reductions, and have been applied in engineering in China. However, the construction methods and integrated technologies of those projects are not clear, and technical barriers and policy constraints for the engineering application of LVDC buildings are not systematically discussed yet. This paper presents the latest study of LVDC building engineering applications the advantages and drawbacks of LVDC development in China. First, relevant policies and standards which support the development of LVDC building industries are summarized. More than 60 practical LVDC projects are investigated, and the application characteristics and the technology status of building types, and their capacity and design methods, etc., are analyzed. The attitudes of stakeholders toward LVDC buildings are surveyed to determine the policy direction according to the demands of this technology, with reference to building practitioners who intend to engage in LVDC projects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current legal and policy system of renewable energy in China has set up a framework of policy instruments, which provides an important foundation for dealing with climate change and promoting the healthy development of the renewable energy industry with the goal of "carbon neutrality" and "emission peak". However, the current policy instruments cannot meet the needs for rapid development of the renewable energy industry. This paper investigates, analyzes, and concludes the status of renewable energy development along with related policy instruments in different renewable energy sources by literature and points out the problems of current policy instruments, and puts forward corresponding countermeasures. Moreover, from the perspective of energy consumption market transformation, the authors carried out an analysis of China's challenges of policy instruments, pointing out that China's renewable energy policy instruments have the potential to take one step further in the areas of the regulatory system, legal system and legal security system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the exponential growth of traffic demand, ultra-dense networks have been proposed to cope with such demand. However, the increase of the network density causes more power use, and carbon neutrality becomes an important concept to decrease the emission and production of carbon. In cellular networks, emission and production can be directly related to power consumption. In this paper, we aim to achieve carbon neutrality, as well as maximize network capacity with given power constraints. We assume that base stations have their own renewable energy sources to generate power. For carbon neutrality, we control the power consumption for base stations by adjusting the transmission power and switching off base stations to balance the generated power. Given such power constraints, our goal is to maximize the network capacity or the rate achievable for the users. To this end, we carefully design the objective function and then propose an efficient Deep Deterministic Policy Gradient (DDPG) algorithm to maximize the objective. A simulation is conducted to validate the benefits of the proposed method. Extensive simulations show that the proposed method can achieve carbon neutrality and provide a better rate than other baseline schemes. Specifically, up to a 63% gain in the reward value was observed in the DDPG algorithm compared to other baseline schemes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the target of carbon peaking and carbon neutrality, renewable energy generation (REG) develops rapidly. The increasing penetration of REG brings along the problems of fluctuation in power flow and the possible abandonment of wind and photovoltaics (PV) generation. In this context, the so-called integrated energy system (IES) becomes a promising solution to the accommodation of REG thanks to energy storage systems and coupling devices inside. In this paper, the optimal operation model of an IES is first presented, with the schemes of green certificate trading and carbon emission right trading included to provide economic incentives for accommodating REG. Next, in order to address the problem of uncertainty in REG, the devices in the IES are divided into three types based on regulation flexibility, and a multi-time period optimal dispatching scheme is proposed, including day-ahead optimal scheduling, rolling optimal dispatching, and real-time control strategy. Finally, it is demonstrated by simulation results of a numerical example that the proposed method not only promotes the accommodation capability for REG but can also cope well with contingencies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The power sector plays a significant role in carbon neutrality strategies, and the grid system is a crucial part of the power sector. In particular, with less mitigation potential from technology efficiency, the credit from whole life cycles is critical. This paper describes the investigation of the environmental impacts of various scenarios from the perspective of life cycles. By using the life cycle assessment (LCA) method, various grid systems are examined as a case study, including a traditional, renewable energy, and power storage grid system, as well as a microgrid, in Guangdong. The results highlight the fact that with the systematic improvement of a grid, significant environmental benefits can be achieved. For a grid system, optimization through technology has significant carbon reduction effects even if the power grid structure is not changed. Using renewable energy instead of traditional fuel can reduce the emission of 0.05 kg of CO2-equivalent greenhouse gas per 1 kWh of electricity produced, which is 7.9% of the baseline, and microgrid technology leads to a much greater carbon reduction potential of 23.8% of the baseline. The role of energy storage is undervalued due to the limitations of the data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With its abundance of renewable energy potentials, not only for hydropower and bioenergy, but also for wind and solar, Brazil provides good prospects for a carbon neutral energy system. The role of an enhanced coupling of the power, heat and transport sectors in such systems is not yet fully understood. This paper analyses the least-cost composition and operation of a fully renewable power supply system as part of a carbon neutral energy supply in Brazil. It relies on the application of the high-resolution energy system model REMix. Our analysis reveals that the expansion of wind and solar power is more cost-efficient than the construction of additional hydroelectric plants. This is favoured because the existing hydroelectric plants offer large capacity of dispatchable power to compensate for fluctuations, and thus no additional storage is necessary. Furthermore, the REMix analysis indicates that varying shares of solar and wind power technologies as well as the spatial distribution of power generation have only a small influence on supply costs. This implies that the transformation strategy in Brazil can be primarily based on other criteria such as regional development, public acceptance, environmental impact or industrial policy without major impacts on system costs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper focuses on the analysis of the EU carbon trading scheme and its impacts on regional power system development and penetration of renewable energy sources (RES). The aim of the article is to analyze the forecasts of carbon dioxide (EUA) prices for the years 2019–2030 and to apply the results of this forecast in regional power system planning. The data employed in this paper come from many sources, including empirical data of the selected analytical companies, such as Thomson Reuters among others. The current low prices for carbon dioxide emission rights do not encourage the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, in particular carbon dioxide, and do not have a significant impact on the penetration of renewables. This paper presents the results of two scenarios (for 2021 and 2030) developed after the analysis of the EUA price impact on penetration of renewable energy sources in West-Pomeranian region assuming different electricity production and the EUA price forecasts. The results of two regional energy development scenarios run for 2021 and 2030 indicate changes in the structure of renewables in West-Pomeranian region. The results also show that the increase of EUA price has a significant impact on the increase of costs for power production and increase of unit cost of the installed 1GWh. In addition, the forecasted EUA price in 2030 is 3% lower as compared with 2021, which has its impact on the increased share of electricity produced by co-firing biomass with other fossil—from 42% to 68% in the electricity generation structure of West-Pomeranian region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is a global move toward being "carbon neutral". Reducing the use of coal to generate power has become an inevitable choice for many countries when transforming their energy structures. Many countries have proposed phasing out coal. China is a major energy producing and consuming country and intends to reach a carbon peak by 2030 and become carbon neutral by 2060. China has repeatedly emphasized coal reduction, but has not explicitly proposed phasing out coal, due to the influence of local governments, coal-related enterprises, and the public. This paper explores whether China could declare a "coal phase-out", and the possible reasons for doing so, by constructing an evolutionary game model with two correlations. MATLAB was used to simulate the model results to determine the effectiveness of the fractal results of the model, and the entropy method was used to calculate the development level of "coal phase-out" related indicators in China and Germany. The results show that: (1) The government can phase out coal only when coal-related enterprises and the public can benefit from reducing coal production and consumption. In addition, these benefits are needed to ensure stable economic and social development without affecting people's daily lives; (2) The development level of relevant indicators of "coal retreat" in China is lower than that in Germany. Based on these results, it is concluded that it is difficult for China to announce a "coal phase-out" at present. Faced with this reality, China should improve the efficiency of coal use, install carbon capture and storage facilities, vigorously develop renewable energy and reduce the share of coal in the energy system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the emergence of new technologies and policies to transition to clean energy, the household energy consumption sector is also changing. In response to policy, environmental, and technical changes, researchers need to find out what significant issues are related to household energy consumption, and comprehensively analyze which issues are likely to attract attention in the future to contribute to research in the household sector. Based on the abstracts of academic papers published between 2011 and 2020, this study uses probabilistic topic modeling to increase understanding of academic issues in the household energy consumption sector and statistically reviews changes in issues over time. As a result of the analysis, topics related to digitalization and renewable energy, such as microgrid system, smart home, residential solar power generation systems, and non-intrusive load monitoring (NILM), belonging to Strong signals, are being actively studied. Weak Signals, which can attract attention in the future, are included in discussions on coal energy consumption, air pollutant emissions, energy poverty, and energy performance evaluation. The analysis results show that carbon neutrality, such as decarbonization and fossil energy consumption reduction, is expanding to research in the household energy consumption sector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Green bonds have increasingly been utilized around the world as a source of financing for renewable energy development, designed with compliance requirements and measurable economic returns to investors, while mitigating climate change. However, the efficacy of green bond arranged in the emerging economies for financing renewable energy assets and how the underlying risks are managed have remained to be explored. The paper aims to examine the evolving green financial system sponsored by both public and private institutions in managing such risks within China's emerging economy. A case study of green financing for a bundle of wind power assets led by a state-owned enterprise (SOE) reveals an alternative approach by structuring public–private collaboration while stipulating market-based financial incentives to institutional stakeholders under a political economy. This institutional consortium is composed of a state development bank, a commercial bank, credit rating agencies, institutional and private investors, regional power purchasers, and carbon trading entities. Financial stakeholders' risk in such emerging sustainable investment is moderated by these participating institutions and structured "upsides" from carbon trading aligned with the framework of green finance and standards for green bond development. The results reveal the potentials of scaling up the development of renewable energy by adequately managing and sharing key risks, while allocating substantial funding into renewable energy projects under such a green financial system that is to be complementary with a scalable post COVID-19 economic recovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rapid increases in energy demand and international drive to reduce carbon emissions from fossil fuels have led many oil-rich countries to diversify their energy portfolio and resources. Libya is one of these countries, and it has recently become interested in utilizing its renewable-energy resources in order to reduce financial and energy dependency on oil reserves. This paper introduces an original multicriteria decision-making Pairwise-CODAS model in which the modification of the CODAS method was made using Linguistic Neutrosophic Numbers (LNN). The paper also suggests a new LNN Pairwise (LNN PW) model for determining the weight coefficients of the criteria developed by the authors. By integrating these models with linguistic neutrosophic numbers, it was shown that it is possible to a significant extent to eliminate subjective qualitative assessments and assumptions by decision makers in complex decision-making conditions. The LNN PW-CODAS model was tested and validated in a case study of the selection of optimal Power-Generation Technology (PGT) in Libya. Testing of the model showed that the proposed model based on linguistic neutrosophic numbers provides objective expert evaluation by eliminating subjective assessments when determining the numerical values of criteria. A sensitivity analysis of the LNN PW-CODAS model, carried out through 68 scenarios of changes in the weight coefficients, showed a high degree of stability of the solutions obtained in the ranking of the alternatives. The results were validated by comparison with LNN extensions of four multicriteria decision-making models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The achievement of carbon neutrality requires a deep transformation of the Polish power sector. This paper analyses the impact of increased electricity generation from wind and solar technologies envisaged in the newest version of the Energy Policy of Poland until 2040 on the operation of dispatchable generators in 2030. The analysis was carried out using the Model of Economic Dispatch and Unit commitment for System Analysis (MEDUSA) model, which solves a mixed integer problem related to unit commitment and economic dispatch in electrical power production. At first, the model was validated based on the real operation data from 2018. Next, five scenarios were built to analyse the operation of the system in 2030. The overall result of the study is that the safest solution from the point of view of power system stability is to extend the decommissioning of coal units of 200 and 300 MW classes, to invest in renewable energy sources (RES) according to the energy policy, to build new gas power plants with the total capacity of ca. 4 GW, and to enforce Demand Side Management (DSM) programs for shifting the electrical load. The proposed framework for the optimization of power system planning helps to avoid wrong investment decisions that would have a negative impact on energy prices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Under the carbon trading mechanism, renewable energy projects can gain additional benefits through Chinese Certified Emission Reduction transactions. Due to the uncertainty of carbon trading system, carbon prices will fluctuate randomly, which will affect the investment timing of renewable energy projects. Thus, the value of the option will be generated. Therefore, renewable energy power generation project investment has the right of option. However, the traditional investment decision-making method can no longer meet the requirements of renewable energy investment in the current stage. In this paper, a real option model considering carbon price fluctuation is proposed as a tool for renewable energy investment. Considering optimal investment timing and carbon price, the model introduces a carbon price fluctuation as part of the optimization, studies the flexibility of enterprises’ delayed investment under the fluctuation of carbon price. A case study is carried out to verify the effectiveness of the proposed real option model by selecting a wind farm in North China. The model is expected to help investors to assess the volatility and risk of renewable energy projects more accurately, and help investors to make a complete plan for the project investment, thus promoting the efficient allocation of resources in the energy industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]