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Malaysia is one of the leading producers and exporters of oil palm, and the industry contributes significantly to the growth of the national economy. Nonetheless, the consequential oil palm biomass (OPB) with a potential yield of ∼97 million tonnes annually presents both challenges and opportunities, demanding innovative waste management solutions. This paper explores the feasibility of converting OPB into valuable commodities by employing concentrated solar-driven pyrolysis. A detailed overview of the biomass produced from oil palm plantations and mills is provided, along with a discussion of the industry stakeholders and associated biomass management challenges. The pyrolysis of OPB is explored, emphasizing benefits, potential barriers, and techniques. The focus then shifts to Malaysia's solar potential, which ranges from 1470 to 1900 kWh/m2 annually. The potentials of solar pyrolysis are explored, encompassing discussions on solar concentrator types, reactors, and the distribution of solar and OPB resources throughout Malaysia. The paper then recommends Tawau in Sabah, as an ideal location for OPB solar pyrolysis, due to its solar availability (up to 1873 kWh/m2), potential OPB resources from 19 mills and 241 plantations, and supportive infrastructure. The paper proposes solar-driven pyrolysis as a sustainable solution for Malaysia's OPB management, offers insights for policy initiatives and technological innovations in optimizing OPB and solar energy utilization. • Analyzes oil palm biomass potential for solar pyrolysis in Malaysia. • Explores solar resources in Malaysia for solar-driven pyrolysis. • Examines solar concentrators and reactors for pyrolysis. • Identifies potential city, as the optimal location for solar pyrolysis. • Discusses commercialization challenges of solar-driven pyrolysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract African countries are in a unique position to reap the socio-economic and environmental benefits of renewable resources as a means for meeting increasing energy demand in a sustainable way. A critical obstacle for the deployment of renewable energy technologies in Africa is the difficulty of attracting sufficient and affordable finance. This paper compares the impact of financial conditions on the cost of electricity generation across six renewable and three fossil-based technologies in 46 African countries. The results show large cost variations and highlight the extent to which renewables are disadvantaged by current financial practices. The energy-economy-environment model TIAM-ECN is used to show how lowering financing costs results in a much higher deployment of renewables. For example, solar PV could account for 10–15% of total electricity generation by 2050, even without explicit climate policy, thanks to financial de-risking programmes. The results demonstrate that changes in financing schemes could outweigh the impact of technology learning. This paper also demonstrates that, once ambitious climate policies are in place, reducing financing costs for renewables could be an efficient way to lower greenhouse gas emissions. Financial de-risking is thus a key ingredient for unlocking the renewable energy potential in Africa. Highlights • We show how renewables are disadvantaged by today's financial practices in Africa. • We show how lower financing costs result in a higher deployment of renewables. • PV can account for 10–15% of electricity generation by 2050 without climate policy. • Changes in financing schemes could outweigh the impact of technology learning. • Financial de-risking is key for unlocking the renewable energy potential in Africa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The small island developing states of the Pacific suffer from both the high cost of fossil fuel imports and from numerous climate-related disasters. These vulnerabilities will worsen unless there is a substantial global shift away from fossil fuels towards renewable energy (RE) sources, coupled with significant improvements in energy efficiency. Apart from traditional biomass-fuelled cooking, the most substantial uses of RE in the Pacific in 2016 were hydropower in some of the hillier island countries and the thousands of household photovoltaic (PV) systems in the remoter parts of island countries. This paper considers also the prospects for grid PV, geothermal, and biofuels – all of which have good technical potential in at least some islands. Barriers to wider use of RE in the region are mostly institutional and financial, but also include opportunity costs, environmental factors, and the limited skills base in small island states. The paper examines the mixed progress since the 1990s towards overcoming these barriers. The Fiji Electricity Authority has a reasonably realistic plan to have 81% of its supply from RE by 2020, drawing on hydropower (~ 50% in 2015), biomass (including bagasse), and some solar and wind. Tonga has its Renewable Energy Roadmap with clear milestones. Several other Pacific Island countries have ambitious RE targets but some are rather vague about how they are to be achieved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Global depletion of fossil fuels, growing awareness on the effects of carbon emissions and greenhouse gases and, the need for renewable energy, has increased the attention towards biocoke research and active engagement with various research groups and industrial players. Biocoke production and utilisation is crucial as it contributes to the efficient management of agricultural residue and municipal solid waste. The technologies involved in the biocoke production and the viability of Malaysia's agricultural waste as a feedstock was described in this paper. In addition, the paper provided background information about the biocoke characteristics and the feedstocks that dictate quality. Comparisons of commercial coal coke and biocoke production technologies that may be applicable to Malaysia were also addressed. Moreover, the paper demonstrated the challenges towards Malaysia's biocoke commercialisation despite its viability from biomass feedstocks characteristics, availability, and evidence of calorific value estimations. [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]

Energy demand in China has risen rapidly and reached an unprecedented level due to the high-speed economic growth and modern development. As a result, the Chinese government faces a growing pressure to address the energy shortage and environmental deterioration, mainly resulting from an over-dependence on fossil energy. China has become both the largest energy consumer and CO 2 emitting country in the world in 2015. Utilization of potential for renewable energy is necessary for changing inappropriate energy consumption structure, protecting environment and achieving sustainable economic and social development. In view of such mentioned situation, this paper firstly introduces the energy structure as well as the development status of renewable energy in China, which includes hydropower, wind power, solar power, biomass power and other renewable energy. Besides, based on the current situation in China, the paper makes a preliminary prediction of the development of renewable energy in the country for the future decades, and proposes targeted countermeasures and suggestions. [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]

Turkey’s rapid economic growth followed by increasing gap between domestic energy production and consumption signifies the large-scale integration of low-carbon and renewable resources into energy system. Turkey’s energy demand is increasing and supplying fossil energies such as oil and gas is becoming more challenging due to the lack of domestic hydrocarbon resources. The country is facing two main issues; first, maintaining energy balance and second, handling environmental issues. Nevertheless, Turkey has substantial renewable and low-carbon energy resources with co-benefits for the country’s fast growing economy and environmental sustainability. This paper aims to present a comprehensive update on Turkey’s renewable and low-carbon energy sector. It reviews not only the current status of the technology, policy and economy, but also provides an insight into the social aspects as well. From a policy point of view, the paper critically discusses Turkey’s energy strategy and perspectives and from the social point of view, the paper argues that there is a research gap in recent literature regarding public awareness and social acceptance of low-carbon energy technologies. Also, the future challenges for promoting low-carbon society in Turkey are discussed in terms of sustainable development and socio-environmental conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper provides a comprehensive review on the status of renewable energy developments and hydrogen economy in the Middle East and North Africa region. This region is heavily reliant on fossil fuels for its domestic energy supply and is also considered a global energy exporter. In this regard, an overview of the current state of energy sector in the region is provided. Moreover, the region possesses great potential for renewable energy exploitation due to its climatic advantages. Therefore, the current status of renewable energy utilization within the region's various countries is reviewed by presenting several operational renewable energy-based plants and future projects for deployment of renewable power in the region. Green hydrogen is an important sustainable clean fuel, and its utilization is essential for both environmental preservation and energy security. Thus, the status of hydrogen production and utilization in the region is discussed considering the various operational systems and future hydrogen generation projects. The concept of source, system and service is also incorporated which considers the utilization of clean energy sources for sustainable hydrogen production through environmentally benign pathways. The potential deployment opportunities for the renewable hydrogen production are also discussed based on available renewable sources in the region. Moreover, this paper discusses the challenges of increasing renewable energy utilization in the region. Furthermore, this paper provides a road map for achieving renewable hydrogen economy including a reduction in domestic utilization of oil and gas sources, subsidization of renewable production sector, and financial support to hydrogen production and transportation infrastructure. • Providing an overview of the status of energy sector in the region. • Providing an overview of the status of renewable energy utilization in the region. • Discussing the challenges and opportunities of renewable and hydrogen energy development in the region. • Providing a road map for renewable hydrogen development in the region. [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]

This paper looks into the possible methods of harvesting energy for applications involving wireless sensors from renewable or sustainable sources. An overview of the fundamentals of energy harvesting models using renewable sources and the advancements in the components used for this purpose is given. It also provides an analysis of the issues that are restricting the current harvesting models and indicates possible advances in technologies that may soon solve those problems. There are two main issues that plague these harvesting models. Firstly, the technology involved in the actual harvesting of renewable energy sources is not well developed and offer poor efficiency. In addition to that, most of the models need a permanent storage device, such as a battery or capacitor in order to operate. This is a serious drawback in applications involving wireless sensors as these devices have limited capacity, lifetime, and require a large area to work efficiently. This is most often not favorable as the attractions of using wireless sensors are in its portability and form. This paper looks into the studies dedicated to solving these problems. The latter part of the paper contains a discussion regarding the technologies that are best suited for applications in wireless sensors. The two most readily available and feasible options of a sustainable energy for these applications are found out to be RF (Radio Frequency) signal and solar radiation. Therefore, the final part of the paper concentrates on reviewing a model that may potentially be able to serve as a basis for a singular model for any kind of energy harvesting from renewable sources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper focuses on financial support from EU Structural Funds to sustainable energy development in Baltic States. The paper aims to compare the use of Structural Funds support for sustainable energy development in Baltic States in two financing periods: 2007–2013 and 2014–2020 and to assess the impact of EU structural support in helping Baltic States to implement energy efficiency and renewable energy development targets set in EU energy policy documents. The paper analyses EU sustainable energy policy priorities and energy efficiency and renewable energy targets set for Baltic States and compares progress achieved in implementing energy efficiency and renewable energy targets in Baltic States after EU accession. The paper found that the EU Structural Funds have positively influenced the sustainable energy development in Baltic States. The major impact was related with increase in energy productivity because of energy savings achieved in refurbishment of residential buildings. Lithuania has achieved the biggest progress in energy productivity development since 2004 among Baltic States. Estonia was the only country from Baltic States which has allocated structural aid for promotion of wind energy and achieved the best results in increase of the share of renewables (mainly wind) in electricity generation. Latvia has the highest share of renewable in electricity generation structure and final energy consumption and did not provide support for renewable in 2007–2014 however support for biomass is foreseen in 2014–2020 financing period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cumulative advancements on high voltage high current fully controlled semiconductor switching technology have led to positive progress for high voltage direct current (HVDC) systems for management and optimization of future power systems with large penetration of renewables in the form of distributed generation (DG). Inter-area oscillation is a natural power system phenomena that can be resulted from the oscillation of two distant groups of generators against each other with low or negative damping, causing to avoid maximum power transfer and system blackout at the worst case. Moreover, high penetration of DG can positively or negatively change the dynamic characteristics of power systems and affects system stability in terms of low frequency inter-area oscillations. Due to its flexibility and almost instant response, HVDC applications with a modified control scheme can offer a great advantage to transmission system control such as damping inter-area oscillations. This paper focuses on supplementary control strategies for damping inter-area oscillations with HVDC systems in the context of renewable DG penetration. First, detection methods for inter-area oscillations are summarized with a brief mathematical framework for each. Later on up-to-date HVDC transmission technology, including its development, converter topologies, operating configurations, and some recent HVDC projects are discussed from its preliminary historical development. HVDC converter modelling approaches and converter control techniques available in recent stability studies are also addressed. Finally, state of the art HVDC damping strategies are classified according to the way of generating damping signals with an emphasis on input signal selection, study system, and simulation tool. It is found that besides many simulation based validations for inter-area oscillation damping of HVDC systems, few practical application examples also exist, which are detailed to some extend paper by paper. Suggestions for future research directions are also incorporated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rapid growth of China׳s installed wind power capacity in recent years is closely related to the wind energy policies issued by the Chinese government. Using content analysis and quantitative analysis methods, this paper studies the historical evolution of Chinese wind energy policies. Based on 72 wind energy policies issued in the past two decades (1995–2014), this paper analyzes the issuing organization, form, number and stringency of wind energy policies and compares different policy instruments in two periods. The results show that the number and stringency of wind energy policies fluctuated greatly from 1995 to 2014 and that more than twenty organizations had independently or jointly issued the policies. The main organization issuing wind energy policies, however, is the department that controls key economic and administrative resources and not the one that is in charge of wind energy. Of the 72 policies issued, twenty-three took the form of notices, and eleven were measures. As to the policy instrument, environmental policies are most widely applied by the Chinese government, and “regulation control” and “goal-planning” instruments are the ones most frequently adopted. Furthermore, the application of supply- and demand-type policies is inadequate, and few effective instruments have been adopted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Power grids have faced major challenges such as increasing consumption, peak demand and CO 2 emission. Distributed Generation (DG) as a solution to these issues is affected by source intermittency, grid-side limited storage capabilities and supply/demand mismatch. In order to achieve more benefits and profits for both customers and the utility, integrated demand management techniques can be used. This paper reviews the issues caused by high penetration of renewables in power production, depending on utility characteristics. In addition, several methods in the literature were reviewed and their both single and combined use was investigated with a comparison study in Turkey. In field data based simulations, consumption of refrigerators were scheduled according to the output of a small scale PV system and changes in consumption in a year were calculated. The results were analyzed and compared with each other from the standpoint of change in amount of power taken from grid, number of active operation hours shifted to solar periods, change in annual consumption and achievable savings in electricity bills. In addition to the analysis and comparison of several management methods, the paper also proposes a number of terms that widens applicability and can be used in decision-making processes. [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]

Development of alternative energy sources has become a necessity as fossil energy resources are declining. At the same time, energy demand is rapidly increasing, putting the world on the verge of a global energy crisis. Moreover, the extensive use of conventional energy sources is polluting the environment and causing global warming. On the other hand, wind and other renewable energy sources are viable and clean alternatives to fossil fuels. Low operating cost and extensive availability make wind one of the most advantageous and effective renewable energy sources. This paper provides an exposure to the necessity for deployment of renewable energy sources and the worldwide installed capacity of wind power as well as a review of various wind technologies in conjunction with their applications and devices of operation. Furthermore, this paper discusses the cost of electric generation in wind power plants as well as the economic and environmental policies that advocate the installation of wind energy systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Total energy consumption per capita of any country is a critical input for the economic and social development. But nowadays, the current energy production systems are not sustainable and they are not environment friendly. Increased fossil energy consumptions in manufacturing, transportation and standard of living in the growing population have the highest impact on the environment in terms of global warming potential and air pollution. Also fossil fuel prices are increasing because of shortening of fossil fuel sources. Sustainable development improves standard of life economically and environmentally over the long term in a way that must be supported by the industrial structure of the country. In order to sustain energy availability and keep environment livable for future generations, finding new alternatives is necessary. Increased awareness of society about environmental issues and fossil energy sources depletion support new clean alternatives. These alternatives are one of the important and determinant policy areas for the countries, and should include both short and long term energy policies. This paper discusses the environmental pollution caused by energy consumption, and the role of conventional and renewable energy technologies as one component of the effective sustainable development and solution. Also, renewable energy potential of Turkey for assessment of the green energy systems is investigated in terms of sustainable development, environmental impact and prices. All the given results in this paper will be useful to researchers, engineers, decision and policy makers in industry and government. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The latest report from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change urges that global CO 2 emissions from the power sector should be reduced by 90 percent or more below 2010 levels between 2040 and 2070. Such a reduction will most likely require greatly increasing the share of wind, solar, energy storage and nuclear energy in the energy mix in the next 40–50 years. This paper emphasizes the importance of developing large energy storage systems without which, wind and solar can only have a limited impact on CO 2 emissions as it will depend mainly on the energy mix used during wind and solar down time. The large areas that are required would be challenging, but not unrealistic, as long as a solution for energy storage exists. Carbon capture and storage has considerable potential to reduce CO 2 emissions from coal and gas power plants, but also from heavy industries such as cement and steel manufacturing. To give an idea of the scale of the required infrastructure, in the United States, coal and gas power plants emit approximately 2.4 billion tonnes of CO 2 per year; whereas the US annual petroleum consumption is about 0.9 billion tonnes (6.9 billion barrels). This paper also emphasizes that uranium and thorium used in breeder reactors represent an almost infinite source of low-carbon energy. The issues associated with the management of nuclear wastes are real, but they are not the uniquely difficult issues perceived by the media, much of the public and by many politicians. Finally, the investment necessary to implement a wind and solar powered economy would very likely be higher than that necessary to implement a nuclear powered economy because of the much larger number of GWe required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of the two-phase closed thermosyphons (TPCTs) is increasing for many heat transfer applications. This paper reviews the most recent published experimental and theoretical studies on the TPCT. After a description of the TPCT operating principle and the performance characteristics, the heat transfer analysis in condenser and evaporator sections that depends on the complex two-phase process are described. The influence of the affecting parameters on the performance of TPCTs such as the geometry (diameter, shape and length), the inclination angle, the filling ratio (FR), the working fluid, the operating temperature and pressure analyzed by various researchers is discussed. The various operating limits occurring in a thermosyphon includes viscous, sonic, dryout, boiling and flooding are also analyzed. Considering the application of TPCTs, the paper presents a review of experimental tests and applications. This paper can be used as the starting point for the researcher interested in the TPCTs and their renewable energy applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Job creation is an important component of the socio-economic effects associated with the development and deployment of renewable energy (RE) and energy efficiency (EE) technologies. The potential contribution of the RE and EE sectors in creating new jobs affect the public policy as well as the allocation of public resources to promote related activities. This paper provides an overview on the job creation potential along the value chains of key RE and EE technologies by skill set, technological category and the stage in the life cycle of the development and deployment process. We summarize the existing approaches to estimate job creation effects of the RE and EE sectors and report the existing estimations of job creation figures by technology and capacity. The paper concludes with the cases studies on Germany, Spain, the United States and the Middle Eastern region to showcase the variation of job creation potential in different regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The negative environmental impacts associated to the use of large hydropower plants have helped to focus the attention on small-scale plants, which reduce these impacts considerably. In Colombia, there is an important potential for the implementation of both, large and small-scale hydropower projects, which has been exploited mostly in large plants. Accordingly, the purpose of this paper is to analyze the present situation of small hydropower (SHP) in Colombia, including current installed capacity and existing potential of hydro-energy resources. In addition, the paper presents the barriers that hinder the proliferation of SHP in the country, the main perspectives for future developments and the corresponding conclusions of the analysis performed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development and exploitation of sustainable and environmentally friendly energy sources are required in order to resolve global energy shortages and to reduce the reliance of many countries on fossil fuel combustion. Salinity gradient energy has been considered a potential candidate for renewable energy due to the abundance of saline waters that could be combined with less saline solutions across the globe. Pressure Retarded Osmosis (PRO) is one of the technologies to harness salinity gradient energy. Apart from zero carbon dioxide emission, PRO is capable of producing power with less periodicity, abundance and low environmental impacts. One of the preconditions for the technical and financial feasibility of PRO, however, is the development of a PRO-specific membrane—one that meets the conditions that none of the current commercially-available membranes have met so far. The current paper discusses the progress made in PRO membrane development, particularly during the past decade, and analyses the challenges that are still hindering the implementation of PRO at large scales. Also, this paper explores possibilities for the implementation of PRO by analysing various combinations of existent solutions of various salt concentrations. Australia has been chosen to demonstrate some potential applications of PRO. This vast country has extensive reserves of saline waters that could be paired with less concentrated solutions to generate power. For each combination of solutions, a conceptual idea is presented, and an estimate of power production is given. Also, advantages and disadvantages of each scheme are discussed. The ideas and estimates can be easily extrapolated, with minor adjustments, to other countries with similar conditions. It is hoped that this publication will be valuable to those nations that have similar policies as Australia’s, with government incentives for the development and implementation of new technologies to explore new renewable energy sources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mitigations of global energy demands, climate change and energy related greenhouse gas effects are the most important factors in the modern days. However, renewable energy is one of the alternative sources which has the capacity to mitigate all the above. Among all the renewable energy sources, solar energy is one of the most abundant and the cleanest energy source. Different laboratories of the world have achieved different solar cell efficiencies, which are also discussed in the present paper. This paper presents the global solar PV developments, per capita values, government supportive invectives and policies of the top ten solar power producing countries. This paper also presents the investments of the global solar energy among the countries. Finally, through the study, it is found that these top ten leading countries are following fulfilment of their projections, supportive tariff rates, net metering, green certificates and government incentive policies as their instruments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

China is vast, abundant and particularly plentiful in energy sources, due to which it has obtained remarkable achievements on economy. However, its energy structure is too simple to support the sustainable development of economy as coal still contributes to the majority of energy consumption in China. As a consequence, Renewable Energy Law was enacted in 2005, and Chinese government announced a series of policies to boom renewable energy industry. Subsidy policy is one of the major forms of these policies. This paper aims to present these subsidy policies and to analyze their effects according to relative data in energy industry 2005–2013, to find out the deficiencies and enlighten possible policy improvements. The original intentions and abstracts of 5 different levels of subsidy related policies are summarized, and the effects in reality are attentively analyzed. It can be concluded that subsidy policies have different short-term effect on different renewable energies, and they all show some negative effect to a certain extent. 6 core problems are summarized in this paper, and remedy strategies are suggested. [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]

Evaluating the environmental sustainability performance of a nation is complex. This paper considers the merits of environmental indices, and how effective they are when assessing the environmental sustainability of any nation. The simplicity and generic qualities of environmental indices currently necessitates a much broader analysis in order to evaluate any nation׳s genuine environmental sustainability credentials – ultimately the development of a synthetic Environmental Sustainability Index is required to fulfil this task. Using Iceland as a case study, this paper reviews the usefulness of four selected environmental indices (Environmental Vulnerability Index, Environmental Performance Index, Ecological Footprint and Happy Planet Index) for governance institutions when formulating reasoned responses to challenges. By adopting a holistic methodology, Iceland׳s environmental sustainability credentials are critically examined in this paper, with particular focus given to the impacts deriving from expanded renewable energy utilisation in recent years. Abundant geothermal and hydropower energy resources have been increasingly used to power heavy industry, particularly aluminium production. The wider health implications and long-term environmental sustainability consequences of renewable energy utilisation have not been analysed in depth within any of the indices. Socio-economic progress in Iceland has also been attained alongside the imposition of the highest ecological footprint of any nation in the world. As such, economic activities in Iceland have not occurred in accordance with commonly accepted notions of sustainable development, which is focused upon the reconciliation of economic, environmental and social objectives, together with recognition of current and future need across these domains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main goal of this paper is to argue for the necessity and significance of studying the distributional employment impacts of renewable and new energy development (RNE). Based on the comprehensive review of the methodology and conclusions of existing literatures, this paper builds up an extended input–output model to study RNE’s distributional employment impacts on gender and personnel structure. The case study of China׳s power sector in this paper affirmed earlier doubts that RNE development will indeed aggravate the gender inequality problem and add to the level of mismatch between the structure of labor demand and supply, causing structural unemployment problems. The quantitative analysis in this paper outlined here implies that from 2011 to 2020 the development of RNE will bring about 7 million employment gains, but only 81.8% of which can be realized due to the mismatch problem. The study of China may alert other countries to be less-optimistic about RNE’s employment impacts and reaffirm the need to carry out the distributional employment impacts analysis. This paper concludes with policy suggestions such as providing suitable training and equal promotion opportunities for women, offering courses and vocational trainings to RNE-related majors, in order to reduce the structural unemployment problem and further speed up the development of RNE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Remote area power supply (RAPS) systems are being used for many years to supply power to rural or remote communities where the utility grid is not accessible. In order to avoid the high operating cost and environmental impact caused by conventional generators, renewable energy resources are currently being utilised in RAPS systems. However, the intermittency of such renewable energy resources greatly impacts on planning and operation of RAPS systems. This paper aims to present a comprehensive review with regard to the RAPS system planning and operation techniques published in the literature. This paper summarises different modelling approaches associated with the RAPS system architectures, pre-feasibility studies for energy potential analysis, component modelling, unit size optimisation approaches, and system control aspects. In addition, technical challenges associated with RAPS systems, such as system sizing, voltage and frequency control and coordination of different system components are also highlighted in the paper. Moreover, further research avenues with regard to various different aspects of RAPS systems are also delineated in the paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many ports and terminals endeavor to enhance energy efficiency as energy prices have increased through years and climate change mitigation is a key target for the port industry. Stricter environmental regulations are adopted by authorities to limit pollutants and GHG emissions arising from energy consumption. Increasingly, port operational strategies and energy usage patterns are under scrutiny. To ingrain sustainability and environmental protection of ports, the use of innovative technology appears as a critical conduit in achieving a transition from a carbon-intensive port industry (dependent on fossil fuels) to a low-carbon port model by harnessing renewable energy, alternative fuels (e.g. LNG, hydrogen, biofuel), smarter power distribution systems, energy consumption measurement systems. In this context, this paper conducts a systematic literature review to analyze operational strategies (e.g. peak shaving, operations optimization), technology usage (e.g. electrification of equipment, cold-ironing, energy storage systems), renewable energy, alternative fuels and energy management systems (e.g. smart grid with renewable energy) for improving the energy efficiency and environmental performance of ports and terminals. Research gaps and future research directions are identified. Analysis shows that there is a great potential for ports to achieve further energy efficiency and researchers have many impactful research opportunities. • A detailed literature review on energy efficiency in ports and container terminals is conducted. • Operational strategies such as optimization of port operations and peak shaving methods are presented. • Technologies such as electrification of equipment, cold-ironing, energy storage systems, smart grid, microgrid are reviewed. • Renewable energy and clean fuel use in ports are presented. • Methods regarding energy consumption and emission measuring/assessment are detailed for ports. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The parametric uncertainties inherent in the models of renewable and sustainable energy systems (RSESs) make the associated decision-making processes of integrated resource operation, planning, and designing profoundly complex. Accordingly, intelligent energy management strategies are recognised as an effective intervention to efficiently accommodate the variability inherent in various input data and integrate distributed demand-side flexibility resources. To identify the key methodological and content gaps in the area of stochastic dispatch and planning optimisation of RSESs in the presence of responsive loads, this paper systematically reviews and synthetically analyses 252 relevant peer-reviewed academic articles. The review reveals that academic studies have utilised a wide variety of methods for the joint quantification of uncertainties and procurement of demand response services, while optimally designing and scheduling RSESs. However, to minimise simulation-to-reality gaps, research is needed into more integrated energy optimisation models that simultaneously characterise a broader spectrum of problem-inherent uncertainties and make behaviourally-founded use of flexible demand-side resources. More specifically, the review finds that while the research in this area is rich in thematic scope, it is commonly associated with strong simplifying assumptions that disconnect the corresponding approaches from reality, and thereby obscure the real challenges of transferring simulations into the real world. Accordingly, based on the descriptive analyses conducted and knowledge gaps identified, the paper provides useful insights into myriad possibilities for new research to more effectively utilise the potential of responsive loads, whilst simultaneously characterising the most salient problem-inherent parametric sources of uncertainty, during the investment planning and operational phases of RSESs. [Display omitted] • A systematic review of stochastic energy optimisation with demand response is conducted. • 252 relevant publications are identified in the literature and synthetically analysed. • Relevant research is rich in thematic scope, but involves strong simplifying assumptions. • Challenges ahead and opportunities for future research in the area are discussed. • Computational burden remains the most significant barrier to minimising reality gaps. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The parametric uncertainties inherent in the models of renewable and sustainable energy systems (RSESs) make the associated decision-making processes of integrated resource operation, planning, and designing profoundly complex. Accordingly, intelligent energy management strategies are recognised as an effective intervention to efficiently accommodate the variability inherent in various input data and integrate distributed demand-side flexibility resources. To identify the key methodological and content gaps in the area of stochastic dispatch and planning optimisation of RSESs in the presence of responsive loads, this paper systematically reviews and synthetically analyses 252 relevant peer-reviewed academic articles. The review reveals that academic studies have utilised a wide variety of methods for the joint quantification of uncertainties and procurement of demand response services, while optimally designing and scheduling RSESs. However, to minimise simulation-to-reality gaps, research is needed into more integrated energy optimisation models that simultaneously characterise a broader spectrum of problem-inherent uncertainties and make behaviourally-founded use of flexible demand-side resources. More specifically, the review finds that while the research in this area is rich in thematic scope, it is commonly associated with strong simplifying assumptions that disconnect the corresponding approaches from reality, and thereby obscure the real challenges of transferring simulations into the real world. Accordingly, based on the descriptive analyses conducted and knowledge gaps identified, the paper provides useful insights into myriad possibilities for new research to more effectively utilise the potential of responsive loads, whilst simultaneously characterising the most salient problem-inherent parametric sources of uncertainty, during the investment planning and operational phases of RSESs. [Display omitted] • A systematic review of stochastic energy optimisation with demand response is conducted. • 252 relevant publications are identified in the literature and synthetically analysed. • Relevant research is rich in thematic scope, but involves strong simplifying assumptions. • Challenges ahead and opportunities for future research in the area are discussed. • Computational burden remains the most significant barrier to minimising reality gaps. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Currently, the electric power sector is looking forward towards increasing the bent for availability, reliability and security of energy supply to consumers. This pursuit has vehemently increased the intention for integrating renewable energy (RE) into the electricity sector as a strategy to curb the problem of energy deficiency especially in isolated off-grid settlements. However, the variability in the sources of RE supply coupled with conditional changes in the level of energy consumption with respect to time has brought to focus the necessity for energy storage systems (ESSs). Despite the stochastic nature of RE produced from solar and wind energy and to some extent hydro, interest in their exploitation is still growing high due to their sustainability regarding environmental receptiveness. Thus, this paper extensively reviews the state of the art of three different kinds of energy storage technologies (pumped hydroelectricity storage, batteries and fuel cells) suitable for the integration and management of intermittency in RE. Within the context of the review, advantages and disadvantages of the various technologies are also presented. Additionally, it also pin-points on the different areas of applications of ESSs for RE integration and offers review summary on factors to be considered for selecting appropriate energy storage technology for either commercial or domestic applications. Finally, the paper concluded that ESSs selection is based on performance characteristics and fuel source used whereas no single ESS can meet all the possible requirements to be called a supreme ESS. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Since the mid 1990s, after the pacification of Central America, the region has experienced a sustained economic growth. Additionally, the Central American governments have been able to increase the population׳s access to electricity, e.g. the percentage of Central American population with access to electricity in 1995 and 2010 was 59% and 86%, respectively. The aforementioned reasons and the need to reduce electricity costs in order to remain competitive in a global economy have produced a transformation of the power scenario in Central America. The present paper presents a review about the power generation scenario of Central America within the framework of the new Regional Interconnected Electric System. It also briefly analyzes the trends of the power generation profile with a special emphasis on the renewable energy sources. As it can be inferred from the analysis presented in this paper, the Central American power scenario will mainly be shaped by the participation of the private sector and the development of the recently created regional electricity market. Additionally, it is clear the willingness of all the Central American countries to move away from oil-fired power generation. The lack of up-front capital needed to develop large renewable energy projects (mainly hydropower) can favor the development of gas-fired and/or coal-fired power stations. Nevertheless, the regional electricity market may favor the viability of large power generation projects. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Pakistan is facing severe energy crisis in spite of the fact that nature has blessed her with huge energy potential. Short fall of electricity supply in the country is increasing and has been recorded up to 4522MW in 2010. This deficit reached to 7000MW in May, 2011. A comprehensive review of Pakistan's energy sector is presented in this paper. Energy potential, major issues of energy sector and energy import options are discussed. Issues like poor management, combined cycle capacity, low hydro power share, circular debt and energy security have been covered. Energy potential assessment includes hydro solar, wind, coal, nuclear, hydrogen cells, geo-thermal, ocean resources and bio mass. Future prediction calculations are based upon country's current and world's average per capita energy consumption. Current oil and gas reserves of the country contribute to only 5 percent and 48.8 percent of the energy mix and at the current rate will be exhausted by 13 and 16 years respectively. The overwhelming dependence of the energy sector on imported fossil fuels may create a situation of energy security threat. However dependence upon the energy import options cannot be avoided in order to lessen the severity of energy crisis in near future. Some of the energy import options are: Turkmanistan, Afghanistan, Pakistan and India (TAPI); Iran, Pakistan and India (IPI) gas pipelines; Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) from Qatar etc. On the other hand exploitation of vast renewable potential like hydro, solar and wind requires serious attention. Exploitation of indigenous coal resources would also be a key for solving energy crisis in the long run. In summary, this paper presents energy potential assessment in context of major issues, future predictions and impact of energy import options. This in turn provides a big, clear and brighter picture of the country's energy sector. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The use of renewable energy systems for real life applications has been increasing for the last few decades due to the growing concern about the global warming and environmental pollution. The renewable energy sources are clean and freely available in the nature, however, the efficient utilization is still a cause of concern among the scientific and business communities. This paper presents an extensive literature review on both the energy and exergy analyses of typical renewable energy systems including, solar thermal, solar photovoltaic and biomass cookstove. Some important conclusions from the literature survey has been drawn and summarized in this paper. Among all important aspects studied and summarized in this paper, it is found that most of the analysis carried out for renewable energy systems so far is based on the energy analysis. Also for all renewable energy systems, the performance based on exergy analysis, in general, is found to be lesser than that of the energy analysis. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The worldwide water supply represents a significant portion of the global energy consumption. This energy consumption, related to the collection, treatment and transportation of water, entails a large amount of costs. However, these costs are liable to be minimised with and/or without reduction on energy consumption. The purpose of this paper is to provide a review about measures and methods to achieve water supply systems efficiency. The paper summarises and compares previous investigations in order to provide the state-of-the-art to the reader. Measures with and without investment in order to reduce costs and energy consumption are presented. The paper also explores the use of hydraulic simulation and optimisation strategies in water supply systems, involving topics such as demand prediction, networks design, pumps operation, real-time operations and renewable energy production. Although the great advances in the area, there are unexplored (or poorly explored) methodologies that can be tested and maybe applied in a large number of water systems. There are also some important issues, mentioned in this paper, which must be considered in order to attend specific requirements of the water industries. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: With rapid urbanization and industrialization, China has become both the largest energy consumer and CO2 emitting country in the world. As a clean and low-carbon energy source, renewable energy is a good choice to substitute for the exhausted fossil energy. The Chinese central and local governments have made a series of policies and optimistic plans to promote a rapid development of renewable energies. China′s renewable energy development has become a key to the sustainable development of socio-economic system. Unlike most of the current studies which mainly identified the challenges regarding policies and technologies around renewable energy or performed specific analyses for a certain kind of renewable energy, this paper summarizes the spatial disparity and consistency among the major renewable energies, coal resources, energy consumption and its major influencing factors in China, and reviews the positive and negative environmental impacts of major renewable energies. Based on the geographical and environmental perspectives, this paper recommends that the Chinese government: constructs the national energy production bases according to the resource distribution; integrates different energies on the basis of their natural features and spatial consistency; adjusts the overall layout of socio-economic development consistent with renewable energies; and promotes a moderate renewable energy development to maximize the environmental benefits. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This paper looks into developing energy policy in the UAE in order to prompt renewable energy practices and thus sustainability in the UAE. This includes analyzing current and proposed future energy policies in the UAE. The research analyzed a wide range of strategies used in different countries in order to assess the best practice examples, while remaining mindful of the particularities of each country. Based on these lessons a strategy for promoting renewable energy in the UAE was formulated. The proposed strategy is composed of short, medium and long term policies. The proposed strategy was submitted to and discussed with relevant authorities and stakeholders in the UAE. Based on the feedback from the stakeholders the proposed policy was further refined. The main components of the final strategy include deregulation at three different levels (emirate, country and the gulf region), open access to the grid as well as financial incentives, e.g. implementation of a Feed-in Tariff. The final strategy is included at the end of the paper. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The global demand for energy is currently growing beyond the limits of installable generation capacity. To meet future energy demands efficiently, energy security and reliability must be improved and alternative energy sources must be investigated aggressively. An effective energy solution should be able to address long-term issues by utilizing alternative and renewable energy sources. Of the many available renewable sources of energy, solar energy is clearly a promising option as it is extensively available. Solar power, especially as it reaches more competitive levels with other energy sources in terms of cost, may serve to sustain the lives of millions of underprivileged people in developing countries. Furthermore, solar energy devices can benefit the environment and economy of developing countries. This paper illustrates the need for the utilization of alternative energy sources, evaluates the global scenario of installed generation systems, reviews technologies underlying various solar powered devices, and discusses several applications and challenges in this area. In addition, this paper addresses the costs of deployment, maintenance, and operation, as well as economic policies that promote installation of solar energy systems. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: During 2010 and 2011, China had been the largest producer of wind turbines in the world for two consecutive years. How China can transform from being the largest producer to being the strongest producer of wind turbines is currently a great concern in the industry. The purpose of this paper is to discuss this issue from the perspective of the international competitiveness of China''s wind turbine manufacturing industry. Firstly, the paper establishes a model for evaluating the international competitiveness of wind turbine manufacturing industry, which consists of five first-level indexes and 10 second-level indexes. Then, the paper uses these indexes to evaluate the international competitiveness of six leading wind turbine companies in the world—Vestas (Denmark), Gamesa (Germany), GE Wind (the USA), Nordex (Spain), Suzlon (India) and Sinovel (China). The result shows that the international competitiveness of the Chinese wind turbine company, Sinovel, ranked the fifth, lagging behind Vestas, Gamesa, GE Wind and Suzlon. Finally, the paper makes in-depth analysis on the major factors that hamper the international competitiveness of China''s wind turbine manufacturing industry and provides implications for future development of the industry. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This paper provides an insight to the feasibility of adopting hydrogen as a key energy carrier and fuel source in the near future. It is shown that hydrogen has several advantages, as well as few drawbacks in using for the above purposes. The research shows that hydrogen will be a key player in storing energy that is wasted at generation stage in large-scale power grids by off-peak diversion to dummy loads. The estimations show that by the year of 2050 there will be a hydrogen demand of over 42 million metric tons or 45 billion gallon gasoline equivalent (GGE) in the United States of America alone which can fuel up 342 million light-duty vehicles for 51×1011 miles (82×1011 km) travel per year. The production at distributed level has also been discussed. The paper also presents the levels of risk in production, storage and distribution stages and proposes possible techniques to address safety issues. It is shown that the storage in small to medium scale containers is much economical compared to doing the same at large-scale containers. The study concludes that hydrogen has a promising future to be a highly feasible energy carrier and energy source itself at consumer level. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The goal of this paper is to estimate the perspectives of the Baltic States: Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania on meeting the new European Union climate commitments, i.e., to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 20% to the year 2020 in comparison with 1990. This ambitious target could be reached based on other EU climate and energy package commitments: increase of the share of renewables and improvement of energy efficiency as tools for fulfilling the GHG emissions reduction target. The paper gives an overview on the current situation and future plans of the Baltic States in the field of energy efficiency, consumption of renewables and reduction of GHG emissions. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Energy is indispensible in modern society and is one of the most important components of socio-economic development. Nepal is one of the least developed countries with more than 80% of its population residing in rural communities. Per capita energy usage – often viewed as a key index of the development – in the country is far less than the global average per capita energy usage. The energy sector is dominated by the traditional energy sources such as fuel woods, crop residues and animal dung mainly for domestic usage contributing to about 86% of the national energy consumption. Currently 40% of the population has access to electricity, and the rural electrification accounts for only 29%. The majority of rural populations are meeting their energy needs by burning biomass in traditional stoves which has several environmental and public health issues. Nearly all fossil-derived fuels consumed in the country are imported in a refined form, and the perpetual increase in petroleum imports has adversely impacted the existing fragile economy of the country. Despite a huge potential in harnessing various renewable energy resources such as hydropower, solar power, wind energy and biofuels/bioenergy, these resources have not been sustainably captured due to geographical, technical, political and economical reasons. This paper presents a brief account of Nepal''s renewable energy resources and the current status of various renewable energy technologies (RETs) such as micro-hydro, solar power, wind energy, biofuel/bioenergy, improved cook stoves, and improved water mill. It also highlights the opportunities and barriers for the development of RETs. Finally this paper presents some recommendations for the promotion, development and implementation of RETs in the country. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Renewable energy technologies offer an economically viable and environmentally suitable scenario towards addressing energy requirements for rural livelihoods. China''s Renewable Energy Rural Electrification Program, initiated in 2001, is an effort to employ renewable energy technologies on a large-scale for rural electrification. The Program has been designed with several stages. This paper firstly offers an analysis of the problems encountered during the progress of this rural electrification program, using data obtained from field survey of representative areas in western China where the first stage of the program was implemented. The paper then explores feasible solutions in order to address existing rural energy issues and provide long-term reliable energy service for remote communities. In support of future course of development of renewable energy application for rural energy demands, policy recommendations are provided. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

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]

This paper investigates the determinants of carbon emissions based on energy consumption, analyzing the data of 30 countries using nuclear energy for the period 1990–2014. Renewable energy and nuclear energy consumption are adopted as determinants, and real coal price and real GDP are used as additive variables. The panel cointegration analysis and Granger causality tests are conducted to investigating the relationship among the variables. First, the panel cointegration test results suggest that long-run equilibrium relationship exists among carbon emissions, renewable energy consumption, and nuclear energy consumption. The results of the long-run cointegrating vector and Granger causality tests indicate that nuclear energy does not contribute to carbon reduction unlike renewable energy. Thus, the development and expansion of renewable, not nuclear, energy are essential to prevent global warming. Though there is a concern that rising energy prices caused by the expansion of renewable energy may impact the economy negatively, our empirical results also imply that renewable energy consumption will promote economic growth. In other words, our evidence shows that using and expanding renewable energy is both economically and ecologically beneficial. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The limited availability of fossil energy carriers and environmental impact of energy consumption demand mid- and long-term strategies both for the rational use of energy and for increased renewable energy utilization. Despite the establishment of the National Energy Policy, there is still an obstacle in reaching those objectives and targets. In the 7th Malaysia Plan for instance, the government has highlighted that a third of the Government''s total allocation of RM469 million for rural electrification programmes under the has been allocated for the provision of solar powered installations for rural and remote communities. This paper outlines a detailed description of various existing solar technologies, the understanding of each technology and its associated challenges, which will provide a suitable basis to recognize advantages and drawbacks in its implementation in Malaysia. The paper finally justifies some of the barriers in promoting the full scale utilization for the solar energy in Malaysia. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Renewable energy sources and technologies have potential to provide solutions to the long-standing energy problems being faced by the developing countries. The renewable energy sources like wind energy, solar energy, geothermal energy, ocean energy, biomass energy and fuel cell technology can be used to overcome energy shortage in India. To meet the energy requirement for such a fast growing economy, India will require an assured supply of 3–4 times more energy than the total energy consumed today. The renewable energy is one of the options to meet this requirement. Today, renewable account for about 33% of India''s primary energy consumptions. India is increasingly adopting responsible renewable energy techniques and taking positive steps towards carbon emissions, cleaning the air and ensuring a more sustainable future. In India, from the last two and half decades there has been a vigorous pursuit of activities relating to research, development, demonstration, production and application of a variety of renewable energy technologies for use in different sectors. In this paper, efforts have been made to summarize the availability, current status, major achievements and future potentials of renewable energy options in India. This paper also assesses specific policy interventions for overcoming the barriers and enhancing deployment of renewables for the future. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]