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This paper explores opportunities for effective policy intervention for residential energy savings in southern China, by analyzing achievable potential of residential energy savings in the city of Xiamen as a case study. In contrast to static technical and economic potential analyses, the achievable potential analysis is based on dynamic energy consumption projections, which consider two real-world factors: (1) gradual ramping-up adoption process of advanced technical measures; and (2) consumers’ adoption of these measures. A bottom-up type Residential Energy Consumption (REC) projection model specifically tailored for southern China was developed in this paper, based on the general logic and calculation principles utilized in the U.S. EIA’s “National Energy Modeling System (NEMS),” and the adoption theory of advanced technical measures proposed by Kastovich. This REC projection model was then used as a policy analysis tool to quantitatively evaluate the impact of various policies on residential energy savings in the case study city of Xiamen. The analysis of the Xiamen case shows that although there is a significant technical potential for residential energy savings in the city (about 20.9–24.9%), the maximum achievable potential (MAP) in 2020 is only about 8.3–8.4% of that year’s business-as-usual baseline consumption. Moreover, with existing policies only about one-fourth to half of the calculated MAP is likely to be achieved by 2020. These findings indicate that in order to realize a larger share of achievable potential for residential energy savings in China, additional and more effective polices are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The African continent is endowed with massive energy resources such as hydropower, solar, wind, natural gas, wave energy, and many more, yet it is the continent with the least energy supply in the world thereby resulting in a lack of sufficient energy to meet its growing energy demand. Though the continent holds 100 GW of wind capabilities, the current installed capacity as at 2018 was 5.7 GW with countries in northern Africa as well as South Africa capturing over 90% of the wind energy share on the continent. Therefore, this paper reviews the wind energy industry in Africa by identifying the current installed and potential capacity of wind energy on the continent. The challenges faced by the wind energy industry such as policy, competition, technical and economic are also reviewed. Transitions, technological innovation systems, and strategic niche management theoretical sustainability transition framework as well as proposed pathways to overcome these prevailing challenges hindering the full exploration of the wind energy sector in Africa are also highlighted in order to uplift the continent's socio-economic status. Basically, this can be achieved through the adoption of strong 'political-will' by African national governments to drive wind energy development. There is also the need for institutional frameworks to ensure the practical adoption of new wind energy technologies. Furthermore, the major benefits Africa stands to gain from investment in wind energy are enumerated by comparing with the benefits realized by other countries' economies as a result of investing in the wind energy industry. For instance, cheap electricity, job creation, industrial growth, and eco-friendly energy source. • Reviewing wind energy industry in Africa and existing challenges. • The challenges faced by African's wind energy industry can be categorized under policy, competition, technical and economic. • Framework for transiting Africa's wind energy industry from small-scale production to large-scale commercial industry.. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the United Arab Emirates (UAE), buildings consume almost 90% of the total electricity used in the country. This paper provides a comprehensive overview of recent trends in energy consumption in the building sector as well as current efforts in promoting energy efficiency within UAE. Moreover, the paper explores available opportunities to improve energy efficiency of the UAE building sector. In particular, the impacts of three levels of energy retrofits are quantified based on results from existing literature and an optimization-based bottom-up analysis for residential, commercial, and governmental buildings. The analysis indicates that any level of energy retrofit for the existing building stock can be effective in reducing energy consumption and peak power demand as well as in lowering carbon emissions for UAE. It is estimated that a basic energy retrofit program applied to existing UAE building stock could achieve savings of 7550 GWh/year in electricity consumption, 1400 MW in peak electricity demand and reduce carbon emissions by 4.5 million tons/year per year. The program would have an average payback period of less than six months for the UAE government and would generate almost 9000 job-years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to increasing amounts of energy being supplied by intermittent renewable energy sources, future energy systems need to be able to react flexibly to sudden changes. To address this challenge, a large body of research is devoted to improving the utilization of energy flexibility of various types of energy resources on the supply and demand side. This is commonly done by applying mathematical models. The objective of this paper is to review such models and identify common modeling approaches used to quantify and optimize the use of flexible energy resources. The literature review is conducted systematically, encompassing 215 publications that feature 694 models of different energy resources. The main distinction of this work, in comparison to other reviews on the topic of energy flexibility lies in its focus on the mathematical formulation of models of energy resources and the quantification of the models' level of detail. The aim is to identify common modeling approaches and the corresponding research problems they address. The review shows that the majority of research efforts are directed towards the management and optimization of distributed energy resources. The most commonly employed modeling approach involves abstract black-box models with limited levels of detail. Linear programming and meta-heuristics are frequently used to optimize energy flexibility. A critical reflection of the current common practice is conducted and recommendations for future research are formulated. [Display omitted] • Literature review of 215 reports presenting model approaches for energy flexibility. • Categories of research problems identified and deduction of two main research focuses. • Presenting models of common energy resources classified into different model types. • Mostly low level of detail seen in modeling energy flexibility. • Optimization models are used to represent and quantify flexibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Energy model, a systematic data-intensive multi-objective framework replicating the energy sector of the country or globe, constitutes of energy resource supply, energy consumption sector-by-sector, energy transformation technologies, greenhouse gas emission and energy pricing. Considering the atypical weather pattern yearly and geographical diversity, the challenges and benefits of designing an energy model have been summarized. The paper has documented the tremendous jeopardy of drastic climate change, energy crisis on the global economy, requirement for transition to low carbon economy and rural electrification which have been impetus for the evolution of legitimate energy model. Special emphasis has been provided on the types of energy models that have been developed and practiced throughout the world followed by a comparative analysis of a few. The requirement to configure a unique energy model in India followed by certain recommendations has been proposed in this paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Poor households in Germany and those that are close to the poverty line are more likely to suffer from increases in electricity costs. One consequence of this is the increasing number of cases in which the supplier disconnects a household's power. According to the Federal Network Agency (Bundesnetzagentur), a total of almost 359,000 interruptions of the electricity supply were caused in 2015 due to outstanding payments. In order to avoid disconnection from the electricity grid, more and more utility companies have begun to offer prepayment meters (PPMs) to their customers as a response to outstanding payments and a growing number of customers owing debts to their energy supplier. The phenomenon of an increasing number of households affected by energy poverty in Germany is new, and thus the number of PPMs is still low. As a result, experiences in this context are – compared to other countries (e.g. Great Britain) – far from extensive, and political awareness of the problem is low. This paper presents the findings of Germany's first scientific survey on experiences with the use of PPMs. Highlights • Prepayment meters (PPM) lead to greater cost transparency and to save energy. • PPM can avoid disconnection from the electricity grid. • A high level of customer satisfaction with Prepayment meters is indicated. • Significantly higher prices for electricity from customers using PPM are paid. • A regulatory framework for PPM is needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Security of energy supply and the threat of climate change are the key challenges that define the further development of EU energy systems. The security of supply problem follows other problems such as energy and material scarcity, import dependency and waste generation. These problems can be alleviated via development of a low-carbon, sustainable, competitive and resource-efficient economy. One of the pillars of this approach is a circular economy and "closing the loop" approach. Integrated waste management system can close the loop, not only material-wise, through material recovery, but also energy-wise, by using energy from waste to drive whole waste management and recovery chain. Such approach is utilized in this paper through tracking of each energy vector and calculating coverage of energy needs inside the analysed systems. Energy analysis is accepted approach for sustainability assessment of the various products and systems, where primary energy consumption approach is mostly used. By combining these two approaches, the impact of closing the loop material- and energy-wise on the sustainability of the recycled materials is assessed by analysing to which degree can the embodied energy of recycled materials be reduced. The results of the analysed city case study show that energy recovery can satisfy up to 60/50% (in 2020/2030) of the total energy needs of the analysed system; in 2030 38% of waste routed to energy recovery (from which 25% to anaerobic digestion and the rest to the incinerator) satisfies around 50% of energy needs. This internal (partial) coverage of systems energy needs can additionally reduce embodied energy of recycled materials, and increase their sustainability (primarily lowered by material recovery) by 11–67% at the same time. From these results it can be concluded that energy recovery of waste could help to "close the loop" in the whole waste recovery mindset. Highlights • Evaluation method of the energy recovery role in the circular economy is elaborated. • Energy recovery influence on the embodied energy of recycled material is analysed. • Sequential, time-dependent, city-based, energy analysis is conducted. • Influence of legislation and time changes on waste management system are analysed. • Impacts of closing the loop on the energy side of the recovery chain are identified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract This paper presents the steps taken by the Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO), the nation's only utility, to overcome limitations involved in increasing renewable energy penetration in an effort to support the government's movement for renewable energy expansion. While the government proposes reducing carbon dioxide emissions by 37% of the Business As Usual (BAU) value by 2030, which is about 315 million tonnes, it has improved energy policies for developing and deploying renewable energy technologies. To facilitate the integration of renewable energy into the future Korean power system, the government has announced a guaranteed interconnection policy for renewable energy sources under 1 MW. Based on this movement, the following measures have been enacted. First, examination of the hosting capacity of the current power system has been initiated to streamline the interconnection process for the distributed renewable energy sources and to reinforce the transmission and distribution network in a proactive manner. Second, to comply with reliability performance standards, an efficient planning procedure has been established for determining the optimal location and size of a renewable complex. To proceed with interconnection requests without delay, a prototype of a Renewable Energy Map (REM) based on PSS/e and Python has been developed. This tool facilitates more practical impact studies by incorporating capacity factors of renewable sources. In addition, it automates the screening process for determining suitable interconnection buses and feasible options for grid reinforcement. This tool is a step toward realizing the twin visions of "G-Platform" and "Carbon Zero" projects in Jeju Island." These efforts, which have been initiated in response to the Paris Climate Change Accord of 2015 and the 23rd Conference of the Parties 2017, aim to increase renewable energy from 7% to 20% of the total generated energy in Korea by 2030. Highlights • The movement of the Korea government in improving support policy, interconnection procedure, and investments for renewable energy expansion. • The movement of Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO) in fully understanding current hosting capacity of the power system for enabling 'Guaranteed interconnection of renewable energy sources under 1 MW'. • The movement of KEPCO and associated universities for developing renewable energy map (REM) for establishing foundation of predicting efficient installation of renewable energy aggregation without violating reliability standard. • Current projects regarding renewable energy expansion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Malaysia's framework for energy development was established in the early 1970s. Henceforth, many successive policies were introduced as potential resources for electricity generation and utilization. Currently, as a signatory to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, Malaysia is sparing a number of effort to comply with the policy to meet the challenges of mitigating over-dependence on fossil fuels, reducing carbon levels, and achieving sustainable national development. This paper reviews the baseline studies on electrical energy policies and the measurement indicators used in Malaysia's electric power system. This research involves a comprehensive survey of electrical energy policies in Malaysia that focus on issues pertaining to energy supply, utilization, its environmental impact and considerations, renewable energy (RE) policies, production and consumption, energy efficiency, and feed-in tariffs. Fourteen energy indicators for sustainable development in Malaysia were investigated through the identification of energy policies in significant areas, such as reliability, safety, adequacy and cost-effectiveness of energy supply; increasing energy efficiency; minimizing environmental impact; and enhancing quality of life in terms of social well-being. The policies and the indicators are classified into different sustainable dimensions and summarized in tables along with the corresponding key references. In this study, future energy planning and options, especially in nuclear and RE programs, as well as the conflict between them, are illustrated through the overall performance relative to targets and benchmarks for past and future projections up to the year 2030. This review seeks to examine the past, present, and future policies and indicators to provide a sufficient overview of Malaysian energy policies for optimizing sustainable development. The goal is for this review to lead to increased efforts to accommodate the increasing demand for the management and utilization of RE, promote energy efficiency, and improve performance in achieving sustainable national development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Between 60% and 80% of global energy is consumed in urban areas and given the projected increase in world׳s urban population, this share is expected to further increase in the future. Continuity of energy supply in cities is affected by climate change and a growing array of other threats such as cyber attacks, terrorism, technical deficiencies, and market volatility. Determined efforts, acknowledging the interactions and interlinkages between energy and other sectors, are needed to avoid adverse consequences of disruption in energy supply. Resilience thinking is an approach to management of socio-ecological systems that aims to develop an integrated framework for bringing together the (often) fragmented, diverse research on disaster risk management. The literature on urban resilience is immense and still growing. This paper reviews literature related to energy resilience to develop a conceptual framework for assessing urban energy resilience, identify planning and design criteria that can be used for assessing urban energy resilience, and examine the relationship of these criteria with the underlying components of the conceptual framework. In the conceptual framework, it is proposed that in order to be resilient, urban energy system needs to be capable of “planning and preparing for”, “absorbing”, “recovering from”, and “adapting” to any adverse events that may happen in the future. Integrating these four abilities into the system would enable it to continuously address “availability”, “accessibility”, “affordability”, and “acceptability” as the four sustainability-related dimensions of energy. The paper explains different resilience principles associated with these abilities and sustainability dimensions. Also, different planning and design criteria were extracted from the literature and categorized into five themes: infrastructure; resources; land use, urban geometry and morphology; governance; and socio-demographic aspects and human behavior. Examination of the relationship of these criteria with the underlying components of the conceptual framework highlighted the complexity and multi-faceted nature of energy resilience. Exploration of the relevance of the identified criteria to climate change mitigation and adaptation revealed that most of the identified criteria can provide both mitigation and adaptation benefits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The population of Pakistan is increasing rapidly and hence the energy demand. Since ninety׳s, people of Pakistan has been experiencing load shedding because of the intense shortfall throughout the country. Pakistan, being an agricultural country, has a lot of potential of renewable energy sources especially biomass. The thing is to utilize the potential in a right direction. This paper presents the policy direction to get rid of the current energy crisis in the country through utilization of different types of biomass. The animal manure, municipal solid wastes and the crop residues are the main biomass sources in the country. This study also focuses the potential of main biomass sources present in the country and its technical routes for the production of bioenergy. The design parameters for standard bioreactor of gasifier and anaerobic digestion and their economic comparison are highlighted with respect to Pakistan environmental conditions. The development of anaerobic digestion technology is reviewed critically. This paper also discusses the different scenarios for the use of biomass sources in urban and rural environment. This verifies the use of biogas energy as the cheapest and the safest way to remove the crisis from the country. The stand-alone biogas plants should be constructed throughout the country where there is not electrification infrastructure exists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The significant variation in building׳s energy intensity is partly due to the large number of distributed energy users characterized by heterogeneous lifestyles and nonuniform consumption behaviours. Understanding the degree of variation and its cause is critical to designing appropriate policies for energy efficiency improvement. This paper aims to provide a data-based benchmark of buildings energy performance in China and investigates the facts and causes of large variations in energy consumption across buildings based on updated and harmonised dataset. Specifically, the paper is the first in literature to decompose aggregate heating consumption in northern urban China and reallocate the disaggregate data to relevant residential and commercial building energy use, which makes it consistent to conduct international comparison of building performance in terms of primary energy intensity. It is found that buildings energy performance exhibits a sizeable heterogeneity varying with building typology and climate zones in China. Heating and cooling energy consumption for residential buildings located in HSCW climate zone may differ by a factor of 4–10 depending on the technology and energy supply mode, whereby nontechnical interventions may have significant impacts on total energy demand in the built environment. In particular, our analysis results point to the importance of making greater efforts in the commercial sector. Commercial buildings are found significantly more energy intensive than their residential counterpart, mainly due to the fact that BEE policy has been poorly implemented and architectural design has not been optimised in commercial sector. An estimate suggests that improving energy efficiency in the commercial sector may contribute to one-fifth of total energy savings potentials by 2020 in line with the IEA׳s 450 ppm scenario. It is necessary for Chinese building authorities to incorporate the heterogeneity characteristics across different climate zones and building typologies into BEE policy portfolio to effectively curb energy consumption related carbon emissions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper provides a review on solid biofuel usage in Lithuania after decommission of Ignalina NPP and cover the period 2007–2012. Lithuania has limited quantity of indigenous energy resources and is depended upon the import of energy resources, such as natural gas, petroleum and hard coal. Up to the year 2009 about 70–80% of electricity was produced from NPP. Lithuanian energy dependence from energy resources in 2009 was about 50.3%. At the end of 2009, NPP was decommissioned and the structure of gross inland fuel and energy consumption changed radically. Lithuania׳s energy dependence on the imports of fuel increased to about 82% and considerably exceeded the EU average 54%. The share of indigenous and renewable energy sources (RES) in gross inland fuel and energy consumption increased from 14.7% in 2009 to 21.4% in 2013 from which about 86% of RES belonged to solid biofuels. The RES became one of the main driving forces of the country׳s economy. In this paper, the Lithuanian solid biofuel resources and energy production up to the 2013 are presented. Growing stock volume, forest coverage, productivity of stands and consumption for energy production in Lithuania and its counties are defined. Fuels and energy flows diagram and distribution of solid biofuels by economy sectors and consumer groups are shown. Solid biofuels usage impact to gross inland and final energy consumption was studied. Implementation of solid biofuels for heat and electricity generation in Lithuania was researched. Solid biofuel prices were examined and comparison with prices of natural gas and fuel oil was done. Principles and criteria for sustainable solid biofuels production and usage were disclosed. The reduction of total greenhouse gases emissions in Lithuania and other EU countries were shown. Strategic initiatives to increase the RES share in electricity and heating sectors till 2020 were highlighted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a good power supplement form of super power and large-scale energy base, distributed energy has the characteristics of less investment and flexible power generation. Facing with the double pressure of the sustainable development of energy use and environmental protection, it has become an efficient solution to meet the demand of load growth, reduce environmental pollution and improve the comprehensive utilization of energy and the reliability of power supply. However, the development of distributed energy starts relatively late in China and confronts many difficulties. So this paper analyzes the present development situation and existing problems of the distributed energy in China. Then it elaborates from the aspects of policies and regulations, technical specifications, price policy and grid-interconnection codes. At last, this paper puts forward relevant policy suggestions of the guarantee mechanism of distributed energy. This paper argues that, with the attention of the development of distributed energy increasing, a series of policies to promote the construction and interconnection of distributed energy will be introduced, and distributed energy will get scaled development in China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Smart Grid benefits from information and communications technology (ICT) to integrate data from different sources across the network. The growing market for electric vehicles (EV) and electric devices is increasing energy demand. To manage a large amount of complex intelligent equipment, EV charging and discharging, and data-intensive devices, a reliable modern smart grid with a service-oriented, secure, efficient, and cost-effective system is compelling. Cloud computing is a promising approach to achieve that objective as monitoring power grid data flow and data center management are the key. This paper proposes an optimization model for energy management within the power cloud. Our energy system model enables accessible services to computing resources and real-time data stream processing within an integrated environment. Using digital technology, the proper implementation of our model reduces costs and energy consumption and improves the smart grid reliability for customers and energy providers in a distributed manner. This paper presents the implementation of a three-procedure optimization algorithm within a novel Multi-Agent Cloud-fog Structure (MACS) to meet the requirements raised by smart grid communication and distribution. Our model promotes reliable energy consumption adjustments by end-users who can choose power supplied by solar, wind, geothermal, biomass, or other renewable sources or from non-renewable sources in ways that reveal opportunities for demand-supply balance and energy saving. • Comprehensive review of cloud approaches in the context of specific areas. • Enhancing dynamic energy network communications using a multiagent cloud-fog. • Considering IoT and advanced meter infrastructure integration in smart grid. • Optimization modeling development for energy network management in smart grid. • Detailed analysis of simulation results considering modeling assumptions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The energy and water sectors are intrinsically linked to meet several consumer needs. A holistic analysis is required to quantify the technoeconomic and environmental benefits and impacts of energy–water interactions. Despite ongoing investigations into assessing the integrated energy and water resource use such as those covered in this review paper, the energy–water nexus linkages seem to remain analytically undefined in a systemic relationship to assess trade-offs among different objectives of energy and water usage, thereby revealing synergies between energy and water. Given an observed lack of quantitative assessments of integrated energy and water resource use in local sites such as urban precincts, the present study comprehensively reviewed literature covering energy and water systems, technologies, management measures, schemes and approaches for integrated planning at various scales. Planning challenges were identified for energy and water system integration at precinct scale. To advance state-of-the-art applications, this paper proposes research directions for integrated precinct-scale energy–water system planning. In addition, planning opportunities for integrated energy and water systems were identified towards precinct-scale deployments. Several findings indicated critical roles of complex inter-building effects from precinct elements with energy–water system interdependencies. In urban precincts, integrated energy and water system plans could enhance resource sustainability at a lower cost. The strategic approach outlined in this paper will help facility custodians to optimise complex energy–water portfolio capital investments for precinct-scale developments, including available retrofit projects supported by appropriate financing options. • Enabling energy–water system integration to move towards sustainable urban precincts. • Managing polygeneration key to enhance renewable energy and nonpotable water usage. • Coupling energy–water resource distribution networks boosts energy–water cost savings. • Deploying decentralised community microgrids augments energy–water system flexibility. • Driving integrated energy–water system plans for robust optimal investment portfolios. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rapidly increasing energy demand and growing concern about economic and environmental consequences call for renewable/sustainable energy technologies׳ adoption in India. Renewable/sustainable energy technologies have faced a number of constraints that have affected their rate of adoption. In this paper an attempt has been made to identify and rank the major barriers in the adoption of ‘renewable and green’ energy technologies in the Indian context. Twenty-eight barriers have been identified from an extensive literature review. These identified barriers have been categorized into seven dimensions of barriers, i.e. Economical & Financial; Market; Awareness & Information; Technical; Ecological and Geographical; Cultural & Behavioral; and Political & Government Issues. Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) technique has been utilized for ranking of barriers to adopt renewable/sustainable technologies in the Indian context. All pair comparisons in AHP have been made based on experts’ opinions (selected from academia and industry). Sensitivity analysis has also been made to investigate the priority ranking stability of barriers to adopt renewable/sustainable technologies in the Indian context. This paper may help practitioners, regulators and academician focus their future efforts in adoption of ‘renewable/sustainable energy technologies’ in India. Further, this understanding may be helpful in framing the policies and strategies towards adoption of renewable/sustainable energy technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the development of decentralized power sources based on renewable energy, power grids need smarter operations to be run properly. This paper investigates different procedures for the optimal power dispatching of a grid-connected prosumer with an energy storage consisting in a high speed flywheel. An off-line optimal scheduling for the day ahead aims at minimizing the cost with regards to the daily energy rates and considering the forecasts for both consumption and production. That dispatching is performed thanks to global optimization procedures based on a trust-region method or on a niching genetic algorithm. Another approach using step by step optimization and exploiting an original self-adaptive dynamic programming strategy is also developed. The paper discusses the performance of all the considered methods with regards to the obtained results and the computational time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents an innovative approach for the understanding and control of grid-connected hybrid micro-generation systems (HMS) without energy storage, to supply electricity to a group of homes designated as 'Sustainable block'. The initiative is based on an effort to integrate non-conventional renewable energies (NCRE) through distributed generation (DG) projects intended for remote and rural communities in Chile and South America, where electricity supply is both expensive and often times unreliable. This may be due to equipment malfunction, line faults and/or harsh climatic conditions or other natural phenomena like earthquakes, all of which can undermine the electric power distribution networks. Here a systems thinking (ST) and cybernetics approach is employed which looks at grid-connected microgrids supplying power to local loads as intrinsically dynamic, complex adaptive systems (CAS). Moreover, such systems can be viewed and approached as a complex sociotechnical system, wherein the energy users ought to play a crucial role as 'active loads' within the sustainable block to which the grid-tie microgrid is coupled. Building upon this theoretical framework, a set of coordination and supervisory control strategies for renewable microgrids is presented based on homeostatic control (HC) principles introduced by Schweppe et al. Homeostatic control of power systems. In: Fourth energy monitoring and control system conference. Norfolk, VA: November; 1979. The approach is intended to study and eventually develop new forms of sustainable renewable energy technologies (RETs) for DG of electricity and heat, working in parallel with the grid and offering new choices and benefits to energy users everywhere. A concrete theoretical model is proposed and the algorithms depicting the strategies are explained and compared through simulation analysis. Unlike what is available in the literature on sustainability, and looking at what is missing in regards to HMS as sustainable energy systems (SES), this paper offers an entirely new and significant perspective in terms of design and operation of such systems. First the concepts of sustainability and SES applied to HMS are explored, finding that the large majority of the mainstream analysis reviewed on the subject is focused on socio-economic, environmental, and regulatory issues rather than on the systemic, technical and operational aspects of such systems, as this paper does, and how HC, energy efficiency (EE), and a novel approach to energy supply and consumption equilibrium based on homeostasis can help build more sustainable HMS. Results are presented which confirm the hypotheses underlying the strategies employed and the model predictability, showing that SES are indeed possible and feasible. Discussion and recommendations are also offered stressing the fact that sustainability is essentially a systemic property and operational in nature, rather than explained by exogenous factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solar simulators are used to test components and systems under controlled and repeatable conditions, often in locations with unsuitable insolation for outdoor testing. The growth in renewable energy generation has led to an increased need to develop, manufacture and test components and subsystems for solar thermal, photovoltaic (PV), and concentrating optics for both thermal and electrical solar applications. At the heart of any solar simulator is the light source itself. This paper reviews the light sources available for both low and high-flux solar simulators used for thermal applications. Criteria considered include a comparison of the lamp wavelength spectrum with the solar spectrum, lamp intensity, cost, stability, durability, and any hazards associated with use. Four main lamp types are discussed in detail, namely argon arc, the metal halide, tungsten halogen lamp, and xenon arc lamps. In addition to describing the characteristics of each lamp type, the popularity of usage of each type over time is also indicated. This is followed by guidelines for selecting a suitable lamp, depending on the requirements of the user and the criteria applied for selection. The appropriate international standards are also addressed and discussed. The review shows that metal halide and xenon arc lamps predominate, since both provide a good spectral match to the solar output. The xenon lamp provides a more intense and stable output, but has the disadvantages of being a high-pressure component, requiring infrared filtering, and the need of a more complex and expensive power supply. As a result, many new solar simulators prefer metal halide lamps. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Energy planning is fundamental for energy planners to accurately plan for the future and to utilize the sustainable and renewable energy resources to a larger extent. But how well are we able to project the future? In this paper, past projections of global and regional energy consumption are compared to real data. The conclusions found that when comparing energy consumption projections with real registered data projections in 1977 substantially overestimated energy demand in the future, while later projections in the 80 s and 90 s were closer to reality, slightly underestimating real growth in demand. Although projections made in these two decades for total demand were typically slightly underestimated, per capita projections were still overestimating real trends. Considering the building sector, residential and commercial, energy consumption was underestimated in WEO 1982 and WEO 1994; and again, when per capita values are considered, higher values than reality were projected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a renewable energy storage system, lithium batteries play a vital role in the population's productivity and personal lives. One of the main priorities for the R&D of lithium batteries is to closely integrate various battery technologies with advanced energy technologies. This is done by designing new heterogeneous structures that offer new mechanisms and features for energy storage while enabling its core functions. This paper organically combines the key technologies, research highlights, and innovations in the worldwide field of lithium battery energy, summarizes the structure and mechanics of lithium batteries, discusses the application progress of newer battery structures in the field of efficient energy storage, and sorts out the obstacles of lithium batteries in the field of renewable energy. Integrating and refining new energy storage mechanisms from lithium battery technology will result in a revolutionary breakthrough in the field of battery energy through the development of batteries at lower costs, higher capacities, and improved storage efficiency. It will reduce the utilization cost of the renewable energy and protect the world's environment, establishing an overall clean structure of energy with a low carbon footprint. At the same time, it will change the current storage methods for renewable and sustainable energy throughout the world and have a positive effect on the global energy supply strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Energy subsidies can incentivise the overconsumption of energy resources and contribute to other economic or social distortions. In this paper, an ex-post analysis is presented that explores the extent to which electricity subsidy reform could have reduced Iran's energy demand during the period 1984–2017. It also quantifies the techno-economic and environmental benefits that could have been achieved through such reforms. A time-varying econometric model is linked to an energy systems optimisation model. The former estimates electricity demand under different subsidy removal scenarios, and the latter identifies the cost-optimal generation mix to meet the demand. The results of cost-optimal transition pathways under subsidy removal scenarios are compared with the real-world energy system development during the study horizon. The comparison reveals that the subsidy reform could have reduced the total cumulative electricity consumption by 22%. Renewable share in power generation could have increased from 5% to 15%. Moreover, the reform combined with a cost-optimal generation pathway would have saved $69 billion and avoided 944 million tons of CO 2 emissions. The analysis also shows that every five-year delay in subsidy removal causes about 100 million tons of additional CO 2 emissions. Finally, the paper presents lessons learnt for future energy modelling. • An ex-post analysis quantifies the benefits of energy subsidy reform in the power sector. • The total cumulative electricity consumption could have been reduced by 22%. • Renewable share in power generation could have tripled. • Subsidy reforms combined with cost-optimal generation could have saved $69 billion. • The paper presents lessons learnt for future energy modelling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Energy subsidies can incentivise the overconsumption of energy resources and contribute to other economic or social distortions. In this paper, an ex-post analysis is presented that explores the extent to which electricity subsidy reform could have reduced Iran's energy demand during the period 1984–2017. It also quantifies the techno-economic and environmental benefits that could have been achieved through such reforms. A time-varying econometric model is linked to an energy systems optimisation model. The former estimates electricity demand under different subsidy removal scenarios, and the latter identifies the cost-optimal generation mix to meet the demand. The results of cost-optimal transition pathways under subsidy removal scenarios are compared with the real-world energy system development during the study horizon. The comparison reveals that the subsidy reform could have reduced the total cumulative electricity consumption by 22%. Renewable share in power generation could have increased from 5% to 15%. Moreover, the reform combined with a cost-optimal generation pathway would have saved $69 billion and avoided 944 million tons of CO 2 emissions. The analysis also shows that every five-year delay in subsidy removal causes about 100 million tons of additional CO 2 emissions. Finally, the paper presents lessons learnt for future energy modelling. • An ex-post analysis quantifies the benefits of energy subsidy reform in the power sector. • The total cumulative electricity consumption could have been reduced by 22%. • Renewable share in power generation could have tripled. • Subsidy reforms combined with cost-optimal generation could have saved $69 billion. • The paper presents lessons learnt for future energy modelling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Over the past century, fossil fuels have provided the majority of China's energy. However, their extensive utilization leads to a shortage and environmental pollution. Recently, submarine and permafrost gas hydrate deposits have been investigated as a possible clean and sustainable energy source by governmental institutions, research organizations, and energy industries in China. The primary objective of this paper is to review the potential studies pertaining to gas hydrate exploration and resource assessment, the safe and efficient exploitation of gas hydrates and the basic properties of gas hydrates. To date, there are over 20 institutions and organizations in China committed to gas hydrate investigation, among which the Guangzhou Marine Geological Survey (GMGS) and the Chinese Academy of Geological Sciences (CAGS) etc. primarily focus on gas hydrate exploration research, while the China National Offshore Oil Corporation (CNOOC) Research Center, Guangzhou Institute of Energy Conversion (GIEC) and China University of Petroleum-Beijing (CUPB) etc. concentrate on gas hydrate mining technologies. In this paper, the occurrence and exploration of gas hydrates in both permafrost regions and the continental slope of China have been determined from numerous research contributions and are presented. Moreover, the latest progress in gas hydrate fundamental studies, including hydrate phase equilibria, hydrate formation mechanisms, hydrate thermal physical properties and the acoustics and resistivity characteristics of gas hydrates are briefly reviewed, and relevant data are gathered and compared. Emphasis is also placed on gas hydrate mining technologies and gas production using depressurization methods, thermal stimulation methods or other methods. Furthermore, the security of natural gas hydrate-bearing sediments during gas production and the environmental impacts of gas hydrate are identified. With additional financial and political support and advanced research facilities, research on gas hydrates in China is progressing rapidly but is still in its early developing stage, thus, future work should be undertaken with greater diligence. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This review paper discusses the perspectives for development of carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies in the global fight against climate change, such as low-carbon technology which is a vital component to reduce future carbon emissions. The information on the level and growth of CO2 emissions, their source and geographic distribution, will be essential to lay the foundation for a global agreement; considering only for energy-related CO2, and not for any other greenhouse gases. We analyzed the distribution of the CO2 emission intensity related to them. Besides, in order to predict possible future situations of energy consumption, CO2 emissions intensity and the CCS role like the largest emission reduction potential, the International Energy Agency (IEA) has developed a number of scenarios; the baseline scenarios and comparative scenarios. We used the approach of the Blue Map Scenarios, bringing the 2005s emissions to a level of 50% by 2050 for a non-catastrophic human intervention in the climate system. Moreover, this paper shows the barriers, strategies for accelerating and the stages in the technology deployment. We also analyzed the CCS projects status; Challenges, SWOT analysis, and the currently Global CCS Technology Activity. For this, we consider the Large Scale Integrated Projects (LSIP), and the asset life-cycle model was used to categorize the status of a project according to its development stage. Alongside, the analysis involves: Total LSIPs by geographic region, by Industry and CO2 Capture Technology. In addition, we also made a scope on some of the most relevant international actions in order to stimulate the fulfillment of the CO2 intensity target. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Biomass supplies about 66% of total energy consumption in Zimbabwe. In recent times there has been an increasing interest in the country to increase the utilization of biomass resources for energy purposes. The major biomass materials found in Zimbabwe are fuelwood, crop and forestry residues, animal dung, energy crops, municipality and industrial wastes. Biomass energy conversion technologies include anaerobic digestion, pyrolysis, gasification, transesterification, fermentation and combustion. The premise of this paper is that as a component of a renewable energy mix, biomass should play an important role in sustainable energy systems in Zimbabwe. With an estimated total energy value of 409pJ, biomass is a huge energy resource for the country and must be optimally exploited. However, traditional utilization of solid biomass materials as a primary source of energy continues to be prevalent in Zimbabwe today. The trend should be to move from traditional biomass energy to improved and modern biomass energy technologies. This is evidenced by numerous projects that have been undertaken in pursuit of this endeavor. The aim of this paper is to review the state of biomass energy technologies in Zimbabwe with a view to provide aggregated information that will inform research, development and policies related to biomass energy. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A case study of small-compressed air energy storage (S-CAES) system in Iran metropolises is discussed in this paper. It proposes an alternative way of clean energy storage for electronic and electrical devices. It will present a hybrid technology for a renewable energy power generation; which is developed as a small scaled power plant. There are various forms of storing energy and the applications of performance requirements. This work provides a feasibility study of S-CAES system to support electricity power of metropolis areas. Classification of S-CAES implementation is made on the basis of available energy, power output and energy efficiency. The most important parameters in this category are the efficiency, output power, enough capacity and so on. This paper concentrates on technical implications. The S-CAES work’s at low pressure and this make it easy to use in metropolises. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Parboiling is an energy and labour intensive pre-milling process aimed at improving the quality of paddy rice. Several parboiling processes along with different energy supply systems have been developed and reported to improve the overall grain quality, processing time and energy consumption. This paper reviews the parboiling process -- concept, systems, energy supply and consumption, as well as the impact of energy use on product quality. Rice husk is most widely used energy source for parboiling and has been used primarily in direct combustion systems, as briquettes or through gasification systems. Parboiling energy consumption varies widely depending on the process conditions, parboiling system, processing capacity and the energy source. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alternative fuels are becoming important due to higher energy demands but with limited fuel supplies. Fusel oil is a by-product obtained through the fermentation of some agricultural products such as beets, cones, grains, potatoes, sweet potatoes, rice and wheat. Fusel oil can be used as a clean and high-efficiency spark ignition fuel with a reduced NO x . The energy value of fusel oil is near to other alternative combustible types and the limited number of researches on the use of fusel oil as an alcohol derivative in spark ignition engines constitute to the base of this research. The literature relevant to fusel oil use was reviewed and summarized to demonstrate the viability of fusel oil as an alternative fuel from renewable energy source. The aim of this paper was to review the potential for the utilization of fusel oil as a candidate for an alternative fuel for spark-ignition engine, while also describing the production and utilization of fusel oil generally. The octane number and density of fusel oil present the most important properties that make fusel oil a candidate for an alternative fuel for SI fuel engines. It was observed that the octane number increased with the increase in percentage of fusel oil in the blend tests. It was also noted that when the fusel oil was used as a blend with gasoline, the engine torque was slightly increased and the volumetric efficiency and specific fuel consumption also increased. The hydro-carbon (HC) and carbon monoxide (CO) emissions were averagely increased. Furthermore, knocking and nitrogen oxides (NO x ) were observed to decrease when fusel oil was used. On the other hand, negative effects occurred in the engine performance caused by the higher water content in fusel oil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

China and India accounted for two-thirds of the world׳s rise in energy use between 2000 and 2012. This paper aimed to calculate the P (population)– A (affluence)– T (technology) effects of energy use in China and India – the world׳s two most populous and largest developing countries. To this end, a combination of the IPAT method and the logarithmic mean divisia index technique, and annual time-series data on population, energy consumption, and gross domestic product during 1970–2012 are used. In China, a 12.53-fold growth of energy use emissions from 1970 to 2012 is driven by a combination of rapid growth in individual income and slow growth in population, with offset by technological advancement since 1980. The accelerating rise in energy use since 2000 is a result of accelerating growth rates in individual income and a reversal of earlier declining in energy intensity (technological advancement). Unlike China, the long-term rise in energy use exceeded the long-term rise in individual income in India. In addition, a strong trend of decline in energy intensity has not yet occurred in India. Thus, a 7.39-folds growth of Indian energy use for 1970–2012 was a result of relatively rapid increase in population and relatively slow increase in income, without effective offset by technological advancement. It suggests that market-oriented economic and energy reforms need to send the correct price signal to promote energy-efficient technologies thus improving energy efficiency, which is the key to a sustainable energy future in China and India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The energy consumption of a building is strongly dependent on the characteristics of its envelope. The thermal performance of external walls represents a key factor to increase the energy efficiency of the construction sector and to reduce greenhouse gases emissions. Thermal insulation is undoubtedly one of the best ways to reduce the energy consumption due to both winter heating and summer cooling. Insulation materials play an important role in this scenario since the selection of the correct material, its thickness and its position, allow to obtain good indoor thermal comfort conditions and adequate energy savings. Thermal properties are extremely important, but they are not the only ones to be considered when designing a building envelope: sound insulation, resistance to fire, water vapor permeability and impact on the environment and on human health need to be carefully assessed too. The purpose of the paper is to provide a review of the main commercialized insulation materials (conventional, alternative and advanced) for the building sector through a holistic and multidisciplinary approach, considering thermal properties, acoustic properties, reaction to fire and water vapor resistance; environmental issues were also taken into account by means of Life Cycle Assessment approach. A comparative analysis was performed, considering also unconventional insulation materials that are not yet present in the market. Finally a case study was conducted evaluating both thermal transmittance and dynamic thermal properties of one lightweight and three heavyweight walls, with different types of insulating materials and ways of installation (external, internal or cavity insulation). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Driven by the recent trends towards a smart power system configuration, there has been a greater focus within the literature on the integration between supply and demand-side resources. The contribution of this research is multifold since it provides a timely and required study, offering valuable insights into how the integration between Demand-Side Management (DSM) resources with clean energy supply options might affect the long-term power planning strategies in high-renewable electricity systems. The innovative aspects of this study are strongly related to a framework proposal for assessing the co-benefits between energy efficiency and demand-response on renewable-based energy systems from a long-term perspective using a co-optimization modelling approach. Overall, the results indicate that a clear benefit of implementing DSM strategies is the percentage reduction of the new installed capacity (−1.0% to −20.6%), CO 2 emissions (−2.4% to −11.8%), and total system costs (−0.5% to −15.8%) for all scenarios compared to Business-As-Usual scenario. The evidence from this study suggests that investments in Energy Efficiency (EE) seem more economically valuable than investing only in Demand-Response (DR) strategies. However, integrating EE and DR would empower the overall power system benefits. Strong evidence for a higher potential to delay investments was found for all scenarios for the first ten years of the planning period. Our findings might provide valuable insights to both governments and policy-makers by delivering supportive information in scaling up EE investments. The methodology proposed offers essential contributions to the scientific community and would benefit energy systems research beyond the cases addressed in this paper. • Integrated assessment of demand-side management for renewable-based energy systems is performed. • The methodology accounts for long-term reinvestments in energy efficiency. • A co-optimization modelling approach is used for the scenario analysis. • Combining energy efficiency and demand-response investments empower the economic benefits. • Demand-side strategies seem to decrease the natural gas capacity for all scenarios. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Biodiesel can be considered as the optimum alternative fuel for diesel fuel in Iran. Biodiesel is an environmentally friendly fuel and has the potential to provide comparable engine performance results. The biodiesel production potential from oil seeds such as canola, soybean, cotton, seasem, olive, sunflower, safflower, almond, corn, coconut, walnut and hazelnut in Iran is investigated in this paper. In Iran, oil seeds are not commonly used for energy application. This is because; more than 90% of the edible oil for human consumption is being imported. To contribute to the fuel supply, renewable energies such as oil seeds to be an attractive resource for biodiesel production, this paper aims to cover several perspectives on the size of the biodiesel oil seeds resource in Iran. Oil seeds are harvested every year in Iran. Around 1 million ha of land from 20 states are estimated to be potential land for growing of oil seeds. There are approximately 3.67MT (million ton) of oil seeds crops in Iran that can potentially produce 721ML (million liter) of biodiesel every year. Canola, cotton and soybean are the most favorable biodiesel production source. Based on the results, it can be concluded that production of biodiesel from the seed oils can ideally replace about 2% of total diesel fuel consumption in Iran. By managing this, an B2 (2% biodiesel and 98% diesel) can be an optimum alternative fuel for compressed ignition engine since there is no major engine modification required to use biodiesel. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The core objective of this paper is to elaborate on historically implemented promotion strategies of renewable energy sources and the associated deployment within the European electricity market. Hence, at a first glance, the historic development of renewable energy sources in the electricity (RES-E) sector is addressed on Member State and on sectoral level as well as consequently discussed according to available RES-E potentials and costs. The specific focus of this paper, are promotion strategies for RES-E options as they are the key driver of an efficient and effective RES-E deployment. Therefore, the paper depicts the main types of different promotion schemes and their properties. Additionally, several cases studies of different European Member States show an in-depth analysis of the different RES-E promotion schemes. In this context, special emphasises are put on the question of effective and efficient promotion scheme designs of different RES-E technologies. Generally, conducted research led to the conclusion, that technology specific financial support measures of RES-E performed much more effective and efficient than others did. Hence, it is not all about the common question of feed-in tariffs vs. quota systems based on tradable green certificates, but more about the design criteria of implemented RES-E support schemes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Available energy resources, global power anxieties and natural energy reserves under, on and above earth''s surface are critically reviewed in this paper. Worldwide utility deregulation practices, privatization policies, impending globalization and political unrest in Middle East have led the think tanks to rationalize future energy outreach. Only 32% of world population consumes 59% of global electric power. The average energy consumption facility for this 32% population of the modern global village amounts to 6795kWh/yr/person whilst it is only 1313kWh/yr/person for others. A so-called perceived fear has led the 68% of world population to a blind race against the time to explore and harness new means of alternative energy sources, the nuclear energy. This paper attempts to plead for the use of other more economic and less hazardous options than to only focus on the nuclear energy. Energy estimation has led to the conclusion that out of many natural energy sources such as solar, fossils and uranium, etc., only 0.095% (17TW) accessible 89PW solar power (total 174PW directed by sun and 120PW in atmosphere) at a PV conversion efficiency of 20% is enough for the whole of the global village. In addition to ongoing continued solar power that may be used, an estimated 20Zettawatt fossils and uranium power reserves continue to exist for future millennia. Realistic analysis shows that so-called global energy crisis is not any immediate threat to human survival. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Social housing offers an alternative for low-to-medium income families and keyworkers (teachers, nurses, and police). In the United Kingdom (UK), this fairly priced, rental accommodation is normally owned by housing associations. This paper explores urban energy generation (micro-generation) focussing on photovoltaics (PV) and how its generated electricity can be used to provide added value in terms of demand reduction and contribute to a reduction in fuel poverty. It presents the results associated from in-depth monitoring of nine low-energy social housing units equipped with PV systems commissioned in 2004 in the South of England, UK. We report on energy load profiles and relate these to occupier behaviour and any changes in consumption that occur. The results highlight the impact of micro-generation showing a close correlation between occupant behaviour and energy consumption. Increased energy awareness can lead to changes in the way energy is used, reducing overall consumption but ‘education’ must be sustained to ensure long-term energy reductions. The financial benefit of operating high demand electrical appliances at the peak of the solar day as opposed to in the evening when overall demand on the central grid is higher is highlighted. The paper also draws conclusions allied to the challenges that PV micro-generation technology presents in the social housing context. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The most important aspect of sustainability in manufacturing is the preservation of energy and natural resources. For modern production, optimized processes that minimize negative impacts on the environment are becoming increasingly important. This can be achieved by increasing energy efficiency through low, clean, and renewable energy consumption. There are many ways to produce less pollution, emissions, and waste in machining: by using more environmentally friendly cooling methods; by applying methods that reduce or eliminate the need for utilization of cooling lubrication; improving the energy efficiency of machining operations; determining the optimal cutting conditions that save resources by increasing machining productivity or reducing the metal removal rate (MRR); minimizing power consumption; and reducing carbon dioxide emissions. This article gives an idea of modern manufacturing with a focus on analyzing the current state of machining operations in terms of saving production resources and ensuring more environmentally friendly production using greener cooling methods of machining such as Dry, Conventional cooling systems, Minimum quantity of lubricant (MQL), Minimum quantity of cooling lubrication (MQCL), Nanofluids, Biodegradable Vegetable Oils, Cryogenic Lubrication, and High-Pressure Cooling (HPC). Finally, the important modern trends of providing resource-saving and environmentally efficient technologies in modern sustainable manufacturing are discussed in this paper. • Present review article deals with the sustainability and resource saving aspects during machining operations. • Different cooling conditions were presented. • Waste minimizing, recycling, pollution etc. were discussed during machining oeprations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of distributed energy system is one of the important measures to promote energy production and innovation of energy utilization patterns of China. Combined with development status of distributed energy resources in China, this paper introduces the development emphasis and main goals of three distributed generation industries from natural gas, photovoltaic and distributed wind power, then describes the policies about distributed generation from three aspects: subsidy standard, grid connection and electrovalence mechanism. Moreover, it analyzes policy options and management experience in developing distributed generation of several typical developed countries, such as America, Germany, Japan and Denmark. Finally, aiming at further development of distributed generation in China, related recommendations on policy options are put forward from four aspects: policies, regulations, financing channel and development pattern. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biogas technology has uneven dissemination over the globe. The technology is at its infant stage of development and dissemination in many developing countries while China has the largest implementation record. The principal factors controlling its dissemination include: policies and institutions, financial constraint, subsidies, availability of inputs, awareness about the technology, consumers’ considerations, and success stories about the technology. However, biogas technology is a multipurpose technology which assists in addressing economic, health, social and environmental problems simultaneously. Thus, development and dissemination of the technology certainly minimize energy poverty and improve peoples’ status in the energy ladder. In line with this, Ethiopia has completed implementing the first phase (2009–2013) of its National Biogas Programme and has started implementing its second phase. During the first phase, it was able to disseminate 57.6% the total 14,000 domestic biogas plants planned for the period. Though the technology was introduced about five decades ago into the country, biogas installations constructed prior to the establishment of the National Biogas Programme were having varied digester models, lacked standards and central coordination and their entire number was not more than 1000. This paper reviews the status of dissemination of household biogas technology, factors influencing the dissemination of the technology, benefits of the technology at global scales, energy resources, consumption patterns and brief account of the technology at national scale-Ethiopia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates the dynamic causal relationships between energy consumption, energy price and economic activity in Saudi Arabia based on a demand side approach. We use a Johansen multivariate cointegration approach and incorporate CO 2 emissions as a control variable. The results indicate that there exists at least a long-run relationship between energy consumption, energy price, carbon dioxide emissions, and economic growth. Furthermore, a long-run unidirectional causality stands from energy consumption to economic growth and CO 2 emissions, bidirectional causality between carbon dioxide emissions and economic growth, and a long-run unidirectional causality runs from energy price to economic growth and CO 2 emissions. In the short-run, there is unidirectional causality running from CO 2 emissions to energy consumption and economic output and from energy price to CO 2 emissions. Even though, the energy-led growth hypothesis is valid, the share of energy consumption in explaining economic growth is minimal. Energy price is the most important factor in explaining economic growth. Hence, policies aimed at reducing energy consumption and controlling for CO 2 emissions may not reduce significantly Saudi׳s economic growth. Investing in the use of renewable energy sources like solar and wind power is an urgent necessity to control for fossil fuel consumption and CO 2 emissions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The issue of worldwide over consumption and squandering of electrical energy has resulted in what one might call an energy obesity problem in terms of energy intake and its expenditure. It is indeed something that must change if modern society is to become sustainable someday. This is to be realized in conjunction with adequate government policies and innovative strategies aimed at effectively integrating non-conventional renewable energies (NCRE), with thriftiness and energy efficiency (EE) – the three pillars of energy sustainability (ES) – in today׳s electric power systems generation and distribution infrastructure. This ought to be done in a way that incorporates them jointly, as part of a comprehensive energy strategy to propitiate a wider penetration of distributed generation (DG) solutions. Departing from mainstream literature on the subject, this paper proposes such strategies for integrating hybrid micro-generation power systems to the grid through homeostatic control (HC), as a means to reconcile power supply and energy demand response management (EDRM). These strategies can be designed and implemented in the microgrid׳s supervisory control system for the purpose of eliciting EE and thriftiness in consumers to build ES in the system. The theoretical model behind the HC strategies is presented and a numerical example is provided, using real electricity consumption data of a small rural community in Chile. Upon examining a particular set of criteria designed to control renewable power (RP) supply from a grid-tie microgrid to residential consumers, simulation results show that the model proves effective when testing such criteria for different power supply scenarios. Particularly revealing is the role of the energy storage system (ESS) – the energy buffer – in the HC strategies being proposed and the difference that it makes in eliciting thrifty, efficient energy consumption as a result of individual and collective efforts to ensure energy sustainability of the system as a whole. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is well known that energy consumption is rapidly increasing due to population growth, higher standard of living and increased production. Significant amounts of energy resources are being consumed by the transportation sector leading to the fast depletion of fossil fuels and environmental pollution. Biodiesel is one of the technically and economically feasible options to tackle the aforesaid problems. Biodiesel is produced mainly from edible oils. However, it is believed that the extensive use of edible oils for biodiesel production may lead to food shortages in most of the developing countries. Therefore, the aim of this paper is to review the necessity and potentiality of the non-edible oils and to identify the emerging technologies to produce biodiesel. Special attention has been paid to the impact of biofuels on agricultural commodity prices and the food-fuel debate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Need for renewable energy education and training at all levels is globally recognized. During the last three decades a large number of countries across the globe have initiated academic programmes on renewable energy technologies and related aspects. A review of published literature on renewable energy education initiatives across the globe, challenges faced, and potential approaches towards efficient and effective solutions are presented in the paper. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The serious energy supply problems along with the conventional resources depletion and the environmental conscience regarding global warming and climate change have urged the need for a complete change in the energy production, supply and consumption patterns. Therefore, the switch towards renewable energy resources including solar, biomass, wind and hydro-power in addition to the development of energy efficient technologies are two key factors to attain a secure and reliable energy sector and to mitigate the global warming problem. Tri-generation is one of the most promising technologies allowing the efficient simultaneous production of heat, coolth and power with potential technical, economic and environmental benefits. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the latest developments in the field of combined cooling, heating and power generation. Recent tri-generation supporting mechanisms, prime movers, cooling technologies, system configurations, fuels and renewable energy resources employed are presented and discussed. As the operation strategy is the critical factor governing the tri-generation system performance, the current work presents the recent strategies developed and implemented to optimize the system performance and improve its overall efficiency. While certain technologies employed in tri-generation systems as internal combustion engines, gas turbines and absorption cooling are well-established and have already found their way to the commercial market, other promising technologies including organic Rankine systems, fuel cells and liquid desiccant cooling, are still in the research and development phase with additional work needed to demonstrate their potential and reach commercialization. Based on the detailed and comprehensive review conducted, a summary with the main conclusions in addition to recommendations for future work are reported. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The purpose of this paper is to use a center of gravity theory to study the spatial distribution and centers of gravity for the global energy supply and consumption and to determine how they have changed over time. In 2011, Middle East was the biggest oil producer and Asia Pacific was the biggest oil consumer; Europe and Eurasia was the biggest natural gas producer and consumer; Asia Pacific was the biggest coal producer and consumer. The center of gravity for oil production is an overall movement towards the northeast. Compared with the shift of the center of gravity for crude oil production, that for oil consumption is an overall movement towards the southeast. The center of gravity for natural gas production and consumption moved towards the east. Our results also show that the center of gravity for coal production is an overall movement towards the southeast. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The paper assesses greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions of forest bioenergy supply and utilization in Finland. Each step in the supply chains of harvesting residues (HR), small-diameter energy wood (EW) and stumps (ST) is assessed separately, with geography-related differences between Northern and Southern Finland (NF and SF) taken into consideration. Furthermore, the GHG performance of five distinct bioenergy options—(1) combined heat and power production, (2) condensing power production, (3) torrefied pellets, (4) gasification, and (5) pyrolysis oil production—is assessed and compared with that of current reference systems in Finland and also the European Union (EU) sustainability criteria. If soil carbon stock (SCS) changes and possible storage emissions are omitted, the GHG emissions deriving from the supply chain of comminuted forest biomass to plants are 2.4, 3.0, and 2.6gCO2eqMJ−1 for HR, EW, and ST in SF, respectively. In NF, the corresponding values are 2.9, 3.6, and 3.2gCO2eqMJ−1, respectively. If SCS changes and possible emissions from storage are accounted for, the emissions for HR, EW, and ST are in the ranges 9.2–49.2, 24.4–64.4, and 33.1–73.1gCO2eqMJ−1 in SF and 12.7–52.7, 29.4–69.4, and 39.5–79.5gCO2eqMJ−1 in NF. Most supply-chain GHG emissions arise from SCS changes and possible emissions from storage of comminuted biomass, both of which may involve significant uncertainty factors. In comparison to local reference systems, significant GHG savings can be achieved through energy utilization of forest biomass, but if SCS changes and, in particular, storage emissions are taken into account, fulfillment of the EU sustainability criteria is not guaranteed. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This paper examines the renewable energy consumption–economic growth causality nexus in Turkey. Studies in the literature can be grouped as country-specific and multi-country studies. The results of these studies are inconsistent, and there is no agreement on the existence or the direction of causality between renewable energy consumption and economic growth. The results of this country-specific study support conservation hypothesis. The results of empirical tests from ARDL approach show that renewable energy consumption has a negative impact on economic growth, and the ones of Toda–Yamamoto causality tests show that there is a unidirectional causality running from economic growth to renewable energy consumption. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This paper assesses 13 different inputs for biodiesel production and shows that the highest cost currently associated with the processing of residual resources, as well as their small production scale, are compensated by their smaller procurement costs, by their immediate availability in the urban centers and by their larger potential for greenhouse gas emission reduction. Biodiesel production from residues can meet all technical international specifications, even the esterification process. Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA), the methodology used in this study, allows for the building of an efficiency index up through linear programming with multiple inputs and outputs, enabling the integration of sustainable development dimensions. The experts' conclusions were arrived at through restrictions on virtual weighting, with findings that allow the grading of alternatives. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Australia has a very sunny climate, with a very high demand for air conditioning. Relying on electricity to drive, buildings' HVAC systems will cause a significant negative impact on the environment. In this paper, recent developments in solar assisted air conditioning technologies are reviewed and presented. The conceptual basis of the technologies including open and closed cycles cooling technologies, capabilities and limitation are discussed. Energy demand, energy consumption by Australian buildings sector and economic and environmental problems associated with the usage of fossil fuel resources are reported. Second the issue of mould growth and indoor thermal comfort and indoor air quality is highlighted. Finally the technology fundamentals and theories involved with solar energy and solar collector's technologies are summarised and discussed. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]