Search

Low-carbon and environmentally friendly development are becoming increasingly important in the metallurgical industry. In this study, the use of biomass as a source of both material and energy in metallurgical technologies is reviewed. The paper discusses the preparation of bio-based raw materials, their utilization in metallurgical processes, phytoremediation and metal extraction technology, and forestry as a carbon dioxide sequestration method. Bio-based raw materials, such as bio-based fuels, reductants, adhesives, and activated carbons, are found to provide energy, act as reductants and binders, dispose metallurgical flue gas, and adjust metal melt composition, thereby reducing energy consumption in metallurgical processes. Additionally, heavy metals can be enriched in plants through biomass-mediated soil remediation, and these metals can then be processed to obtain raw materials for metallurgical processes. Moreover, metallurgical waste heat can be used to prepare biomass as soil amendments, remediate deserts, and indirectly reduce metallurgical industry carbon dioxide emissions through forest carbon sinks. Based on these findings, the concept of biomass metallurgy is proposed, which promotes the use of biomass as energy or raw materials, ecological restoration and reforestation, and reduction of carbon dioxide and pollutant emissions in metallurgical processes. This study emphasizes the advantages of biomass metallurgy and encourages the development of low-carbon and green metallurgical processes. [Display omitted] • Development of metallurgical technologies using bio-based material and energy. • Bio-based materials including fuels, reductants, adhesives, and activated carbon. • Biomass used in metallurgy for combustion, reductants, pellets making, etc. • Heavy metals in hyperaccumulators extracted and recovered by biochemical methods. • Indirectly reducing CO 2 by transforming metallurgical waste heat into carbon sinks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Under the banner of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goal 7 (SDG 7), governments, industry, and civil society organisations have supported many energy access projects since 2015. Notably, funding and investments allotted to renewable energy are regarded not only to provide 'energy for all' but also support the delivery of other SDGs related to climate change, food security, health, and poverty reduction, among others. With less than 10 years left to meet the SDG 7 targets, it is timely to take stock and examine how the provision of access to energy is driving development initiatives, impacting local communities, and influencing governance processes. This paper offers a critical review and analysis of the impact of access to energy projects based on empirical work from eight country case studies across Africa, Asia, and Latin America. It interrogates how these projects contribute towards achieving SDG 7 and other sustainable development goals, highlights challenges, and then draws lessons for research, policy, and development practice. To advance SDGs, it recommends action in four areas: addressing rural-urban disparities, ensuring that energy is linked to sustainable outcomes, balancing top-down and bottom-up agendas, and appraising implications of techno-economic factors. [Display omitted] • Energy access has been constrained by multiple factors outside of policy decisions. • Governance decisions have overlooked local actors who are key to project sustainability. • Improved efficiency is more vital to energy security and access than increased generation. • Alignment between policies, governance processes, and institutional commitments is crucial. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Retrofitting the building stock is pivotal to achieving climate neutrality by 2050. Most of the existing research on energy efficiency focuses on new residential buildings. The focus must shift to multi-building retrofits, thereby more frequently including non-residential buildings. As multi-building and non-residential projects are given a lighthouse role in achieving current global climate goals, more research should focus on this potential. This study covers single- and multi-building retrofitting projects. It also explores the role of non-residential projects, typical project settings, energy reduction achievements and the added complexity of the multi-building scale. The chosen methodology combines a systematic literature search with a subsequent critical metadata and full-text review of more than 80 peer-reviewed scientific papers. The results show that the number of studies in the research field has increased substantially in the last few years, while the research mostly originates from Europe and focuses on the residential building typology. This research is partly transferable to similar climate zones elsewhere, while a large proportion of climate zones remains unexplored. The current body of definitions and requirements regarding energy retrofitting is an impediment to the comparability of projects, and particularly the multi-building scale is in need of international guidance. Future research should focus on making retrofit measures more applicable internationally, while unifying project boundaries. The stronger inclusion of non-residential retrofitting projects as lighthouse projects including social aspects is needed. Retrofitting that covers energy production and sharing has great potential and should be seen as an opportunity. [Display omitted] • Multi-building retrofitting is emerging but requires clearer international guides. • Europe stands for most publications, motivated by policies and climate goals. • Most of the reported energy retrofits do not satisfy "deep retrofitting" goals. • Multi-building retrofitting results in added social and technical difficulties. • Clearer international guidelines and best practices needed to reach climate goals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Energy scarcity and environmental pollution from biogenic residues and wastes are major challenges in the 21st century, which can be converted to useful renewable energy and reduce environmental threats. In Bangladesh, a tremendous amount of biogenic residues is generated which remains largely underutilized. Mono-digestion, which is a common practice in Bangladesh for biogenic residue processing, resulted in low biogas yield. However, Bangladesh has a vast source of biogenic residues which can be utilized through anaerobic co-digestion to increase biogas production. In this paper, a desk study and comprehensive review has been conducted in finding potentiality of biogenic residues in biogas production from available biogenic residues in Bangladesh. Research studies on co-digestion of biogenic residues were reviewed critically, and their practices and benefits on energy production and impact on the environment were stipulated in this study. The study shows that co-digestion of biogenic residues in appropriate ratio increases the biogas production, improves digested quality and reduces GHG emissions. [Display omitted] • Biogas production potential from agricultural and livestock sectors were analyzed. • State of art co-digestion options of animal dung as main feedstock was reviewed. • Co-digestion of crop residues and animal dung lessened environmental burden. • Digestate can be used as bio fertilizer or converted into other forms of fuels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Conventional petrol vehicles emit a substantial quantity of greenhouse gases, leading to increasingly serious global warming problems. The expansion and development of renewable power generation technologies is conducive in promoting the use of electric vehicles, which are more environmentally friendly. This paper proposes a multi-objective power expansion model considering renewable energy policy objectives. The model regards the problem as a multi-period optimisation task, taking the newly installed capacity and the power generation capacity of each power generation technology as decision variables, and simulating the uncertain factors in the planning process using Geometric Brownian Motion and Monte Carlo approaches. The optimisation objective of the model is to minimise expected costs, reduce risk and environmental impacts, and incorporate changing policy objectives into the constraints to meet policy makers' expectations for renewable energy development. Then, a decentralised target search-based multi-objective evolutionary algorithm is proposed to solve the model. Its effectiveness is verified by a numerical example using real data from the Chinese power system. The experimental results show that the proposed algorithm exhibits improved performance compared with benchmark algorithms and provides high quality and diverse Pareto-optimal solutions to decision makers. Finally, the optimal plans for power expansion and generation mix under different preferences and policy objectives are discussed and corresponding recommendations are made. [Display omitted] • Planning for the expansion of power generation under uncertainties is determined. • Strategies for the expansion of power generation towards renewable energy are optimised. • A novel multi-objective evolutionary algorithm with a constraint handling method is developed. • The impact of multiple renewable energy policies on power generation expansion planning is discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The power sector and environment cordially affect each other throughout the economic growth journey of a developing country. It is high time to take care of the power demand, considering the environmental effects and the physical health of Indians. Power generation using renewable energy sources (RESs) can be a great alternative on behalf of the power sector in contributing to a cleaner environment. In this paper, a model has been developed to opt out the best energy-producing source for most polluted Indian states to combat hazardous air pollution. Multiple criteria, i.e., technical, economic, environmental, and resource availability factors and their sub-criteria, are considered to determine the best-suited RES. The priority of the energy source is established by using the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) to ascertain the relative value of different sub-attributes for the selected state. The findings indicate that, with priorities of 39.04% and 33.06%, respectively, photovoltaics (PV) predominates in Delhi and Haryana. The PV priority of 34.43% in Uttar Pradesh is in line with this trend. Punjab gives PV a 36.73% significance as well. Bihar prioritizes PV at 38.37%, mirroring Punjab's preferences. Tidal energy is given 51.80% priority in coastal Gujarat, whereas CSP is preferred by Rajasthan with 37.26% priority. For Maharashtra, tidal energy is the preference, with 33.70%. The primary goal behind this research is to plan and model a way out for the national electricity planners that aids in fulfilling the power demand in the most polluted Indian states without making a burden on the environment. • India is facing a significant problem with air pollution, especially in the months of October to December. • Power generation using renewable energy sources can be beneficial for improving AQI in Indian cities. • The Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP), is used to decide the most suitable energy source. • Technical, economical, environmental, and resource location is used as deciding criteria. • The work can be beneficial for policymakers and electricity planners to integrate more RE into India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In addressing the detrimental impacts of greenhouse gas emissions and decarbonization targets, the imperative shift towards electrification in the transportation sector is underscored, with additional advantages arising from shared features. Nevertheless, technological progress, particularly in the realm of connected and autonomous features, brings forth notable benefits but also introduces challenges related to safety, cost, and implementation. The convergence of connectivity, autonomy, shared mobility, and electric propulsion leads to the concept of shared autonomous electric vehicles. In practical integration scenarios several concerns encompassing the transportation network, power network, and user satisfaction. This paper conducts a thorough analysis of various aspects of shared autonomous electric vehicles, rigorously evaluating the feasibility of their integration within a coupled power and transportation network. The analysis highlights allocation, routing, charging, battery swapping, social-economic considerations, and modelling as pivotal areas warranting focused research attention in the realm of shared autonomous electric vehicles. • Comprehensive review of shared autonomous electric vehicle (SAEV). • SAEV features and comparative literature. • Independent study on power network and transport network. • Integration challenges of SAEV in the coupled power and transportation network (CPTN). • Future research direction and research recommendation for the perspective of green energy and mobility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Falling film flow and heat transfer are extensively encountered in various industries of renewable and sustainable energy due to the outstanding heat transfer performance. The predictions in falling film hydrodynamics and heat transfer are crucial for the optimal design of falling film heat exchangers, and there have been considerable advancements made in this area over the past few decades. Considering the gaps in current literature predictions, this paper aims to present a comprehensive review on the correlations of flow pattern transition, film thickness, heat transfer, and liquid film rupture within falling film flowing over horizontal tubes and tube bundles. Through comparisons and summarizations, it can be found that the documented correlations appear to be significantly out of alignment with one another, which greatly restricts the applicability of these predictions. The correlations of falling film thickness that are obtained using regression approach based on dimensional analysis may take into account more factors than the ones modified from Nusselt theory. The predictions of flow pattern transition of falling liquid film with horizontal column are often described as the functions of the film Reynolds number, derived from the Kapitza number or the Galileo number. The functions of Nusselt number, film Reynolds number, Prandtl number, and Archimedes number are typically used to represent sensible and evaporative heat transfer correlations, whereas boiling heat transfer correlations also take into account the influence of heat flux, such as Boiling number. The full process of actual heat transfer is taken into account from both the standpoints of sensible convection and nucleate boiling using the combination functions of various heat transfer forms. Within the ranges of their own parameters, the well-established heat transfer models often offer good accuracy. While the predictions of phase change heat transfer often behave worse, the predictions of sensible heat transfer are more general and accurate. Generally speaking, the minimum film flow rate or the maximum heat flux were the functions that correlated with the inceptions of liquid film rupture. • Provides a comprehensive review of predictions for falling film hydrodynamics and heat transfer. • Describes in fully the most recent advancements in the relevant correlations. • Reviews respectively heat transfer prediction of sensible convection, evaporation, and boiling. • Provides an entire review of falling film heat transfer from subcooled convection to film dryout. • Proposed some recommendations and improvements for future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brazil is a case of the achievement of a high share of wind energy integration to an interconnected power system in an emerging market. A series of successful energy supply programmes and a strong renewable-oriented finance framework implemented since 2002, have promoted alternative renewables – wind installed capacity increased over 22-fold from 927 MW in 2011 to 21 GW in 2022, reaching 11.77% of total procured power. From this, about 90% are concentrated in Brazil's least developed region, the Northeast, where wind investment should create jobs and propel socioeconomic development. Despite that, there is no studies specific assessing the regional and economy-wide effects of those programmes, gap that this paper aims to fill by applying the regional Computable General Equilibrium (CGE) model TERM-BR10. We assess that by modelling an alternative scenario for the period 2010-19 based on an official electricity matrix built in 2010, that projected 3.4 additional GW of wind power while not considering all the success of renewable policies, against the observed installed capacity expansion, where wind power was 3.7 times higher than what had been planned. Our results show that in the absence of renewable policies, Brazil would have faced economic losses such as GDP (−0.27%) and investment (−4.76%). The Northeast region would have been the most impacted in terms of GDP (−1.3%), real wage (−2.99%) and employment creation (−0.1%). We propose that such socioeconomic co-benefits are incorporated in energy planning, which could promote regional equality through renewable energy expansion. • Wind power capacity increased over 20-fold from 2011 to 2022. • 90% are in the poorest region where policies propel development and job creation. • Policy absence would entail a GDP loss of 0.27% nationally and of 1.3% in the region. • Negative impacts to labour market are mostly over skilled jobs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For twenty years, social scientists have used place concepts to understand energy infrastructure siting. Much of this research stemmed from attempts to provide theoretical explanations that avoid pejorative NIMBY (Not in My Back Yard) assumptions about community objections. Despite a burgeoning literature, a comprehensive review of place-related energy infrastructure research is lacking. This paper addresses this gap for the first time by collating and systematically reviewing a corpus of 190 articles published between January 1999 and March 2022, using search terms combining 'energy' and five place concepts (place attachment, sense of place, place identity, identity of a place, place-technology fit). Content analysis revealed the application of place concepts most frequently to wind energy, as well as nuclear power, fossil-fuel extraction and energy distribution; a high number of journal outlets (n = 76); a prevalence of single case study and survey methods; geographical concentration in developed countries, and a high prevalence of female authors. Bibliometric analysis of key words indicated a hub and spoke structure centered on the term place attachment, with low levels of coherence. 8 research clusters were identified comprising disparate technologies, geographical contexts, concepts and methods. Two of the search terms (identity of a place, place-technology fit) had low prevalence. Analysis revealed the application of place concepts to be highly varied, with 15 place concepts identified that are often not the primary focus of research, and sometimes used superficially. To improve coherence, cumulative learning and rigour in future studies, a lexicon of place definitions and specific recommendations are provided. • A corpus of 190 articles draws on place concepts to research energy infrastructure. • This literature spans diverse technology sectors, countries and numerous journals. • Studies on renewable energy, in particular wind energy, are most prevalent. • Eight clusters with weak coherence are identified, indicating a fragmented literature. • Recommendations to improve coherence, cumulative learning and rigour are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The primary objective of this research was to analyze the technoeconomic feasibility assessment of hybrid WTE processes (i.e., gasification and hybrid renewable systems) by turning the campus waste into clean electricity and thermal energy. More specifically, the proposed WTE process relies on the use of wastes including papers, woods, plastics, green residues, organic wastes, etc. Solid wastes from the UVic campus (University of Victoria) and the neighbouring areas (e.g., MSWs in CRD) were considered for the feedstock. The potential for generation of 400 kW of renewable electricity and 500 kW of clean heat per day was calculated using approximately 3500 tons of feedstock per year based on proposed standalone gasification system, which could reduce about 1130 tCO 2 -eq of annual GHG emissions by avoiding the landfill disposal of the waste feedstock. Finally, the technoeconomic feasibility of a hybrid system - e.g., including solar photovoltaic panel, wind turbine, and a biomass gasifier - for a model campus building (ECS building) was assessed by HOMER simulation software to identify the cost-optimal HRES configuration for ECS building. The final HRES system was composed of 245 kW PV, 175 kW wind, 250 kW biomass gasifier and 46 batteries. Subsequently, the system net present cost and the cost of electricity were 2.3 MCAD, 0.0941 CAD/kWh, respectively. Likewise, the operating cost of the proposed HRES system was estimated 44,731 CAD/year. By implementing the proposed HRES system, UVic will save annually 386,000 CAD along with 1039 tons of CO 2 emissions. [Display omitted] • A hybrid renewable energy system and standalone gasification process for a model campus building are proposed. • Technoeconomic feasibility of representative gasification and hybrid systems are investigated. • Using the hybrid energy systems, GHG emissions due to landfilling are reduced significantly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The advent of reliable and inexpensive sensors and advancements in general computing have made data-heavy algorithms feasible for operational, real-time decision-making applications in the geothermal energy industry. This systematic review aims to provide a starting point for researchers interested in developing data-driven systems, tools, and frameworks to enhance the performance and reliability of above-ground geothermal energy operations. The approach and results of the review are presented to answer the following research questions: how has data analytics been applied in above-ground geothermal operations, what data sets have been used in such studies, which types of machine learning or artificial intelligence algorithms have been used in geothermal studies, and at which stages of geothermal development have studies been applied. Published research articles were retrieved from four literature databases: the International Geothermal Association (IGA) online library, ScienceDirect, SpringerLink, and IEEE Xplore. A total of 830 publications were retrieved using the same search query across the selected databases, from which 63 research papers were selected based on a set of inclusion and exclusion criteria. A full-text evaluation of the selected research papers revealed that machine learning has been used in geothermal for design optimisation, performance monitoring, performance optimisation, fault detection, and other applications. Most of the trained models (95 %) were of the artificial neural network family with other model types generally used as performance benchmarks. The systematic review revealed significant potential for further research and applications in the areas of feature selection, systematic time-series feature engineering, and model evaluation. • A systematic review of AI and data analytics studies in geothermal was conducted. • Most of the reviewed research focused on the development of neural network models. • Design optimisation and condition monitoring are the primary themes in the studies. • Model quality and interpretability can be addressed by applying ML best practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, the severe environmental degradation and high levels of fossil fuel consumption linked to conventional ship energy systems have drawn attention to the advancement of alternative ship energy systems. Consequently, ship energy systems based on the use of an electrical microgrid are coming to the fore as an increasingly popular alternative solution. However, managing the energy flows within a shipboard microgrid can be highly challenging due to the multiple energy sources (including renewable energy sources) and types of loads involved. Additionally, the integration of an energy storage system has been identified as an effective solution for improving the reliability of shipboard power systems, pointing out the important role of energy storage systems in maritime microgrids and their potential to enhance the energy management process. As such, effective energy management strategies are necessary to optimize performance and ensure that the vessel's energy demands are met while minimizing fuel consumption and reducing cost and environmental impacts. This paper presents a comprehensive review of such strategies and methods recently presented in the literature associated with energy management in shipboard microgrids integrating energy storage systems and examine the different techniques that can be utilized to achieve optimal system performance. Moreover, the paper also sheds light on the future challenges and perspectives imposed by the modern shipboard microgrids operation on the energy/power management of these systems. The aim of this paper is to provide a helpful guideline for researchers and engineers conducting research in the field of electrically powered ships. [Display omitted] • A comprehensive review of EMS for electrical and hybrid ship is presented. • A comprehensive review of ESS which can be used in such ships is presented. • Technologies of ESS and their suitability to ships are discussed and commented. • Future challenges and perspectives imposed by modern SMG operation are presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Efficient thermal management system is crucial for maintaining optimal temperatures in a comprehensive range of applications, including buildings, electronic devices, the automobile industry, and solar PV systems. Spray cooling (SC) has emerged as a promising technique for effectively dissipating heat generated by these systems, offering rapid heat transfer rates with low energy requirements. This paper presents a comprehensive review of recent advancements in SC technology across multiple applications, such as solar panel cooling, fuel cells, electric vehicles, electronic devices, and the building sector. The review highlights the significant role of SC in achieving efficient thermal management and improving overall system performance. It discusses the capacity of SC systems to reduce the temperature and enhance thermal comfort levels effectively. Notably, the review emphasizes the impact of critical factors, including surface-to-nozzle distance, critical heat flux (CHF) stimulation, nozzle design, and nozzle angle, on the performance of SC systems. Furthermore, the work identifies key areas for future exploration and development, including the investigation of factors influencing CHF, such as the utilization of nanofluids in sprays, exploration of different angles of inclination, optimization of the number of nozzles, droplet size characterization, and considerations of economic feasibility. The findings underscore the immense potential of SC technology in diverse applications, highlighting its capability to enhance thermal management, reduce energy consumption, and optimize system performance. Continued research and development endeavors in this field are crucial for further advancements in SC systems, enabling their faster adoption in practical applications. [Display omitted] • An efficient review of the spray cooling system is performed. • Advances of spray cooling in automobile, electronic, solar, and building sectors are reviewed. • This review paper mainly focused on low-temperature applications. • Future research on spray cooling systems is discussed and recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The offshore wind industry is growing rapidly around the world. Many governments have set ambitious targets for growth to achieve their decarbonisation goals. As the industry grows it can become more challenging to build and operate wind farms safely. Wind farms are being constructed further from shore in tougher weather and sea conditions. In the UK, the Health and Safety Executive has raised concerns about safety performance. This paper aims to review the current state of health and safety in the offshore wind industry. It reviews the latest research, injury statistics and the state of legislation covering the sector. It also considers how the risk profile of the industry may change in coming years. The paper finds there is a need for more research specific to the safety challenges of offshore wind. Injury rate statistics show that performance is 3–4 times worse than comparable industries, and industry reports do not currently include large parts of the sector. Rapid growth and the implementation of new technologies will create additional challenges. Regulators should consider the implementation of industry specific safety legislation to manage the unique challenges of offshore wind. [Display omitted] • Injury rates are up to 4 times higher than the offshore oil and gas industry. • Risk exposure to workers is expected to increase due to growth and technology. • Safety legislation requires reform to address specific industry risks. • Innovations from other industries in safety management should be adopted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fault diagnosis and location play a pivotal role in expediting fault restoration and enhancing power system resilience. However, integrating distributed generation and diverse load profiles has led to more complicated distribution networks, intensifying fault diagnosis and location challenges. Hence, there is a need to transform traditional distribution networks into resilient active ones that actively guide and utilize distributed energy resources, possessing active control and operational capabilities. This paper comprehensively reviews fault diagnosis and location techniques in distribution networks, focusing on faulted line selection, fault section estimation, and accurate fault location. It provides an in-depth analysis of current fault diagnosis and location techniques, along with an assessment of their challenges, summarizing and evaluating the current research status at both local and international levels. To address existing fault diagnosis and location technologies limitations, a method utilizing micro-phasor measurement units (μPMUs) to enhance situational awareness and state estimation of active distribution networks is proposed. The paper also provides a comprehensive analysis of the optimized configuration strategy for achieving network observability and fault diagnosis using limited μPMU, in addition to comparing and analyzing the advantages and disadvantages of typical solution algorithms for the optimal PMU placement (OPP) problem. In response to extreme disturbance scenarios in active distribution networks, resilience enhancement strategies are proposed from three perspectives: fault prevention, fault response, and fault restoration. Finally, a summary and outlook on current research methods for fault diagnosis and location, as well as the challenges and future research directions in resilience enhancement strategies, are provided. [Display omitted] • Review fault diagnosis, section estimation, and accurate fault location methods. • Improving power system resilience through fault diagnosis and location. • Strategies using limited μPMUs to enhance distribution network situation awareness. • Comprehensive methods for power system resilience in extreme disasters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The proliferation of solar power plants has begun to have an impact on utility grid operation, stability, and security. As a result, several governments have developed additional regulations for solar photovoltaic grid integration in order to solve power system stability and security concerns. With the development of modern and innovative inverter topologies, efficiency, size, weight, and reliability have all increased dramatically. This paper provides a thorough examination of all most aspects concerning photovoltaic power plant grid connection, from grid codes to inverter topologies and control. The reader is guided through a survey of recent research in order to create high-performance grid-connected equipments. Efficiency, cost, size, power quality, control robustness and accuracy, and grid coding requirements are among the features highlighted. Nine international regulations are examined and compared in depth, exposing the lack of a worldwide harmonization and a consistent communication protocol. The latest and most innovative inverter topologies that help to enhance power quality are compared. Modern control approaches are evaluated in terms of robustness, flexibility, accuracy, and disturbance rejection on both the DC and grid sides. The purpose of this review paper is to provide the reader with a comprehensive overview of alternatives and performance, highlighting lacks and deficiencies of recent technologies and critically discussing and proposing new solutions paving the way for future investigations and developments. • The proliferation of solar plants have an impact on grid operation and stability. • Nine international regulations are examined and compared in depth. • PV power system architecture, topologies, and control are examined. • Cutting-edge solutions that handle all facets of PV system design are examined. • The reader obtain a comprehensive grasp of most relevant challenges and concerns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, high-temperature water/wastewater treatment has become an emerging area of high priority interest for industries such as oil and gas, food production, and power plants, which require the separation of impurities from wastewater at elevated temperatures to recycle the treated water. However, most polymer membranes used in different membrane separation processes have poor thermal and chemical resistance, and they often soften, creep, or fail at high temperatures, reducing their performance with regard to water flux and rejection of emerging contaminants. Therefore, there is a need to develop heat-resistant polymers and membranes for treating high-temperature streams. This review paper explores the chemistry and applications of high-temperature polymers used as membranes to process wastewater and recycle water for useful purposes. The paper highlights the importance of advanced thermally stable polymer membranes in purifying wastewater at elevated temperatures and summarizes recent advances in membrane fabrication techniques, including blending, crosslinking, and nanocomposite approaches. The review also identifies future research directions in this field to meet the growing demand for sustainable water treatment solutions. [Display omitted] • Thermally stable polymeric membranes having environmental stability in water/wastewater treatment were discussed. • Structural properties and various strategies applied to increase the stability of polymers were discussed. • The high temperature resistant membrane separation processes including MF/UF, NF/RO, and MD systems were reviewed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Energy simulations are extensively employed by researchers and designers to assess strategies aimed at enhancing the thermal performance or energy efficiency of buildings. However, the methodologies for conducting these simulations and analyzing their outcomes vary according to regional standards and among research groups. This work aims to investigate the methods for evaluating the thermal performance of buildings through energy simulations, through a systematic literature review. Initially, the authors surveyed articles published between 2011 and 2022 on Scopus and Web of Science. From an initial pool of 1463 articles that met the research criteria, a refined list of 158 papers were read completely. The authors examined prevalent trends in the methods and identified future research directions. Most publications originated from authors in Northern Hemisphere, with only Brazil showing expressive numbers in the Southern Hemisphere. The results revealed the three most employed methods: Thermal Load (94 %), Degree-Hour (or Degree-Day) (9 %), and Design Days (5 %). EnergyPlus stands out as the widely preferred software (65 % of studies), and 62 % of them incorporate some form of validation or calibration. Articles often lack complete simulations parameters and/or clarity in their presentation. In response to the identified gaps, this study introduces a checklist of best practices for presenting the simulation steps. As such, this work serves as a valuable theoretical framework for future assessments of building thermal performance through computer simulation. • We reviewed 185 papers on methods to evaluate therm. Perform. Via energy simulations. • Thermal Load (94 %), Degree-Hour (9 %) and Design Days (5 %) are the most used methods. • EnergyPlus and ASHRAE are the most used software and standard, respectively. • Literature gaps include comparative studies and conversion strategies among methods. • Standardized protocols for model calibration and validation are still limited. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Australia has significant offshore wind resources that can support ever-increasing power demand and hence provide a long-term contribution to the net-zero target by 2050. Although some offshore wind farm projects are proposed in Australia, the industry is not mature enough to justify the benefits and display economic opportunities. More specifically, the techno-economic analysis of offshore wind energy has not been systematically mapped in Australia. Therefore, the investigation of the spatial variation of technical feasibility and economic potential of offshore wind is vital to identify the potential regions and to develop strategies for future offshore wind farm developments in Australia. This paper presents detailed mappings of the techno-economic potential of offshore wind energy in Victoria-Tasmania's exclusive economic zone. Offshore wind energy resources are assessed in the paper in terms of energy availability and variability and the feasibility of various offshore wind technologies is investigated, including turbines, foundation types and transmission topologies. In addition, the high-fidelity life-cycle cost models and two innovative evaluation matrices are developed to assess the economic potential of offshore energy farms in South-eastern Australia. The impact of local power system regulation costs and future carbon prices on the viability of offshore wind is also investigated in this paper. It is concluded that the detailed mapping approach and analysis in the paper can provide a systematic tool for industry partners, investors and policymakers at the pre-planning stage of developing offshore renewable energy systems. • The technical feasibility of offshore wind is mapped under various constraints. • The novel LACE and high-fidelity LCC assessment models are developed. • The techno-economic potential is systemically mapped in South-eastern Australia. • The impacts of electricity market regulation and future carbon prices are studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Digital Twin-based (DT) decisions are becoming increasingly popular in several areas, and the energy industry has been exploring the advantages of this approach. By creating synchronised virtual models that mirror the physical systems' behaviour, decision-makers can make more efficient and quicker decisions. In this case, this work aims to evaluate relevant papers in this area considering their objectives, application fields, adopted techniques and tools, as well as to discuss the advantages and challenges of this approach. Though a Systematic Literature Review (SLR), the main scientific databases were explored, and relevant articles were selected for analysis based on search criteria. Some crucial findings were highlighted, including the state of the art of the theme and important discussions considering energy generation, storage, transmission, and consumption subsystems. The main methods and tools adopted by the analysed literature were also evaluated and the objectives, advantages, and limitations stood out. The results of this SLR provide valuable insights for researchers and practitioners in the field and can be used to identify gaps in the current literature and provide directions for future research. It is important to mention that this work fills a gap in the literature considering the need for theoretical studies that provide a theoretical and conceptual basis for researchers and professionals in the field of Energy DTs. • This paper reviews the state-of-the-art of EDTs. • DTs in energy generation, distribution, storage, and consumption were discussed. • This paper presents insights about techniques, advantages, and challenges of EDTs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a critical advancement in Building Energy Modeling (BEM) through an empirical validation approach using a high-quality dataset from a multizone commercial office building in Oak Ridge, TN, USA. BEM is widely utilized in diverse construction applications, but its effectiveness relies on the accuracy of its predictions. The study focuses on empirical validation of input parameters in BEM, including building envelope data, infiltration modeling, and rooftop unit system performance curves. The validation of simulation input parameters leads to substantial improvements in the accuracy of simulation results. Notable both NMBE and cv (RMSE) values are reduced by 0.5 % for indoor air temperature and 17 % for indoor air relative humidity compared to the previous model. At the system level, both NMBE and cv (RMSE) values are reduced by 2 % for fan energy consumption and 4 % for cooling energy consumption, compared to the previous model. A literature review highlights a significant gap in empirical validation studies, which predominantly concentrate on either component-level or whole building validation. Furthermore, many studies employ simplified setups that may not faithfully represent the complexities of multizone commercial buildings. This paper distinguishes itself by emphasizing the critical importance of component-level input parameter validation. It underlines the need to validate data related to building envelope components and HVAC system performance curves, resulting in more accurate simulation outcomes. The utilization of actual multizone commercial building data enhances the study's practical relevance. In summary, this research underscores the pivotal role of input parameter validation in enhancing the accuracy and reliability of BEM. • The EnergyPlus simulation model input parameters have been empirically validated. • Building envelope input parameters have been evaluated. • Tracer gas and blower door tests have been performed to update infiltration model. • The rooftop unit performance curve has been developed using field datasets. • The simulation results are well-matched with field data at zonal- and system-level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate policy affects the economy. Economists typically consider the economic costs associated with climate policy, but not all economic consequences of climate policy are necessarily negative. This paper considers the impact of the Kyoto Protocol on the international trade network for timber products and the competition graph derived therefrom. Implementing an instrumental variables difference-in-differences approach which uses a panel of centrality and clustering measures describing the relative importance of individual nations in the international trade network for timber products, this paper finds that nations that set a binding emissions target under the Kyoto Protocol saw the centrality of their position within this network decrease. Since the nations which set binding emissions targets were also the wealthiest nations, an additional consequence is that less wealthy economies became relative more important members of this international trade network. This is likely due to nations with a binding emissions target placing an increased importance on forested land for carbon sequestration. These results are extended to the competition graph of the international trade network for timber products where it is found that nations with binding emissions targets became marginally less important. However, increased clustering among nations with binding emissions targets in the competition graph occurred as a consequence of the Kyoto Protocol. Collectively, these results indicate that the competitive playing field was leveled in the international timber trade network while helping make progress towards multiple economically and environmentally oriented United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. [Display omitted] • Studies the effect of the Kyoto Protocol topology of the global timber trade network. • Uses a panel of centrality and clustering measures. • The Kyoto Protocol made the global timber trade more competitive. • Demonstrates the use of a competition graph. • Performs a series of intertemporal core–periphery analyses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research on power system resilience has increased due to frequent natural hazards. Many reviews have been performed on power system resilience, focusing on specific topics such as the application of energy storage systems and microgrids for resilience enhancement. To comprehensively analyze the work carried out on power system resilience, this paper presents a methodology to perform quantitative analyses that combines bibliometric and correlation analyses. For this reason, 851 research publications from popular databases, namely Scopus and Web of Science, spanning from 2001 to 2022, were obtained for analysis. In the quantitative analysis, bibliometric measures are evaluated and analyzed to identify the most productive elements (e.g., countries, papers, journals, and institutions), keyword co-occurrences, and track the thematic evolution of authors' keywords. Additionally, hazard metrics such as risk against natural hazards and word count of natural hazards are proposed to reflect the event-specific risk level of a country and its progress in event-specific resilience research. These metrics are later utilized to perform correlation analyses along with bibliometric measures. This correlation aims to identify lesser-explored natural hazards and countries with the potential for event-specific resilience studies. Overall, this study offers insights into power system resilience trends and emerging areas. It emphasizes less-attended, highly exposed natural hazards, helping prioritize research for future resilient models to address their unique challenges. • Bibliometric and Correlation Analyses were performed using 851 resources. • Identify top countries, institutions, journals, and cited papers. • Perform keyword co-occurrence, its evolution, and visualize trends using diagrams. • Correlation analysis between resilience publications and risk of natural hazards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper is a state-of-the-art literature review on spatial parameters for neighbourhood-level solar potential studies. The objective of this review study is to provide a comprehensive overview of the different types of spatial parameters used in past studies to investigate the impact of solar irradiance on neighbourhood surfaces (roofs, facades, and ground), whilst the computation of each spatial parameter is described through relevant formulaic expressions and visual representations. The review shows that most studies on this domain adopt geometrical and density parameters for representing uniform and simple neighbourhood typologies, while some recent studies use more complex and multi-dimensional parameters to capture the diversity and variability of intra-neighbourhood attributes and how the parameters may be correlated to the magnitude of the solar potential of surfaces of neighbourhood buildings. The review also highlights that studies have adopted novel parameters to represent the morphological complexity and geometrical interplay between buildings in neighbourhoods that have grown organically and without planning. The usage of the computational complex parameters contributes to insight into overshadowing that occurs due to the synergistic influences of the surrounding urban texture. Therefore, given that computationally intensive simulations are commonly used for neighbourhood solar potential assessment, this paper sheds light on the importance of adopting multi-dimensional parameters for the advancement of novel data-centric approaches to conducting such evaluations. [Display omitted] • Building surfaces' solar potential is influenced by prevailing urban form. • Urban morphological parameters can be computationally simple or complex. • Data-centric approaches can entail spatial parameters in solar assessments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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]

Sugar alcohol phase change material (PCM) with high latent heat and wide temperature range are widely applied in phase change thermal energy storage (TES) fields such as building energy efficiency and solar thermal utilization. Unfortunately, sugar alcohol-based PCM exist defects such as high supercooling and poor thermal conductivity, which greatly limits their application in TES. This paper comprehensively discusses the current methods employed for improving the thermal properties of sugar alcohols phase change materials, including the introduction of high thermal conductivity materials, encapsulation, coupling porous media, and eutectic formation, while also evaluating the mechanisms and effects of these methods on enhancing the thermal properties of sugar alcohols PCM. In addition, technical challenges, limitations and further prospective research on the thermal properties optimization of sugar alcohols PCM are discussed. It is expected that this paper has certain reference value for the improving thermal properties of sugar alcohols PCM. • The comparison of sugar alcohols PCM with other PCM was reviewed. • The supercooling generation processes and supercooling suppression mechanisms of sugar alcohols PCM were reviewed. • Various strategies on improving thermal properties of sugar alcohols PCM were reviewed. • The applications of sugar alcohols PCM were reviewed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper develops a framework for a financial, economic, and stakeholder analysis of a residential rooftop solar net-metering program. The empirical focus of the paper is the net-metering program in Ontario, Canada, but the methodology is applicable to evaluating other public programs. The results highlight that without the Federal Government's subsidy for the initial investment cost, net-metered solar systems are not financially viable for representative households. Moreover, the stakeholder analysis reveals that for each additional net-metered system installed in Ontario, non-net-metered households experience financial losses of six times the benefits to the net-metered households. The net losses to the Federal Government of Canada and the Canadian economy are five and nine times the benefit to the net-metered households, respectively. The only stakeholder who benefits marginally is the Government of Ontario. In terms of environmental benefits, our estimate of the cost of greenhouse gas abatement by residential net-metered solar is 325 CAD per ton of CO 2 , which is significantly higher than the current (65 CAD in 2023) and future (170 CAD by 2030) national carbon price set by the Government of Canada. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bike-sharing systems are promoted worldwide due to their low carbon environmental and social benefits. However, the substitution relationship between dockless and docked bike-sharing systems is barely studied. This paper uses an online survey in Nanjing, China to reveal the factors influencing the substitution relationship between dockless and docked bike-sharing systems using a hybrid choice model. Results show that male prefer to substitute dockless bike-sharing with docked bike-sharing. It is more likely that dockless bike-sharing provides substitution services for docked bike-sharing in the scenario of transferring with bus/subway. Satisfaction to service quality of both bike-sharing systems influence the substitution relationship between the two bike-sharing systems. This paper offers policy implications to improve service level and promote coordinated services of the two bike-sharing systems. • Among users of both docked and dockless bike-sharing systems, more than 40% use only one kind in the end. • Males prefer to substitute dockless bike-sharing with docked bike-sharing. • Dockless bike-sharing provides substitution services for docked bike-sharing in scenarios of transferring with bus/subway. • Docked bike-sharing can substitute dockless bike-sharing if the time used to access docked stations is less. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper reviewed the recent research advances in the thermal management issues of Proton-Exchange-Membrane-Fuel-Cells (PEMFC) from design and control perspectives. Most of the current research on PEMFC thermal management have focused mainly on two main aspects; the cooling technology and stack cold start. However, PEM fuel cell thermal management involves many other issues such as effective heat-dissipation, temperature-distribution, temperature-control, and parasitic power, which are crucial in the process of thermal management research. The PEMFC temperature control has been weakly explored in the current review papers and thus, it has a potential research gap to be further studied in the area of PEMFC research. In addition, a review of the latest research in fuel cell technology is necessary due to its rapid development, especially with the increasing demand for fuel cell vehicles in recent years. In this paper, the PEMFC heat production, transfer and dissipation, and their related calculation equations are first reviewed. Then, the thermal management of PEMFC is reviewed from two perspectives: (i) the temperature-distribution characteristics inside the PEMFC and the influence of the structural parameters of each component on the heat dissipation and the uniformity of temperature distribution. (ii) The effects of different control strategies on stack temperature-control (Tst) with the evaluation of robustness of each controller. In addition, the coupling relationship between the fan and the pump in the cooling system and parasitic power studies are analyzed. Finally, according to the current research status of the PEMFC thermal management, the directions for further research are proposed. • PEMFC temperature control has been weakly explored in the current review papers • PEMFC heat production, transfer and dissipation with related equations are reviewed • PEMFC thermal management review is focused on temperature distribution and control • The coupling control between the fan and the pump in the cooling system is studied [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One crucial requirement for power systems is the necessity to enhance flexibility, enabling the seamless integration of a substantial amount of renewable energy generation. While flexibility holds significance in current power systems, the escalating penetration of renewable energy resources emphasizes an ongoing and growing need for flexibility in the future, given the intermittent nature of these energy sources. To address the crucial aspects of decarbonization for sustainable development and recognizing decentralization as a strategy for grid development, this research concentrates on flexibility in the context of microgrids. Diverging from many existing review papers that explore flexibility in the broader power system context, this study pioneers an investigation from the local energy system's perspective, introducing a novel classification of flexibility resources. The exploration begins with elucidating various concepts and definitions of flexibility. Subsequently, flexibility resources available to microgrids are systematically categorized based on the operation modes. A comprehensive review of conducted research follows, highlighting diverse categories and emphasizing primary flexibility resources. Special attention is given to recent concepts such as power-to-gas/hydrogen conversion, using electrolyzers as flexible loads for (green) hydrogen production, and various storage devices, as they offer flexibility during both off-grid and grid-connected operation modes in microgrids. Furthermore, a comparative analysis is undertaken, detailing the objective function(s) and flexibility resources employed in different research studies. To quantify flexibility, the latest metrics are categorized and explained. The study concludes by presenting suggestions for future research directions and summarizing key findings. [Display omitted] • Reviewing the concept of flexibility from the point of view of microgrids. • Novel classification for flexibility resources based on microgrids operating modes. • Special attention to recent technologies such as power-to-gas/hydrogen. • A comparative analysis, detailing the objective function(s) and flexibility resources. • Categorization and explanation of the latest flexibility metrics and their application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

China has been introducing reforms in the electricity market. Since 2016, electricity retailers are allowed to operate in the market once monopolized by traditional power companies. This regulatory environment demands new types of purchase contracts to remunerate the energy agents and deliver better prices for consumers fairly and sustainably. This paper proposes two new electricity purchase contracts with risk sharing mechanism and studies on wind power supplier's optimal capacity investment problem under supply and demand uncertainty. Firstly, a basic model for fixed demand contract is developed, and the optimal capacity is obtained. Secondly, the fixed commitment order contract and the forecast order contract with risk sharing mechanism are proposed to manage the fluctuation of wind power supply randomness. With backward induction, the optimal investment capacity of wind power supplier is solved, and then the fixed order quantity or forecast demand quantity of the electricity retailer can be obtained. Our results show that the fixed order quantity may have a positive influence on the wind power supplier's capacity investment decision. While, the forecast order quantity may have a negative influence on the wind power supplier's capacity investment decision. In addition, wind density has a strong influence on wind power capacity investment, and it has a positive impact on wind power supplier's profit, but it does not always have a positive impact on electricity retailer's profit. At last, based on numerical analysis, we examine how the wind density distribution coefficient change affect members' profit in the electricity supply chain. We also find that even with wind curtailment punishment, the forecast order contract can make a Pareto improvement on the whole electricity supply chain. [Display omitted] • Risk sharing mechanism is introduced to the fixed commitment order contract and the forecast order contract in the electricity supply chain. • Increasing the forecast order quantity may reduce the capacity investment. • The forecast order contract can improve the performance of the whole electricity supply chain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As countries worldwide seek to reach net zero emissions within the coming decades, data center sustainability measures are becoming increasingly important as these facilities consume substantial amounts of electricity to support globally expanding digital infrastructure. Yet, local renewable energy production and waste heat utilization are still rarely used in data centers, even though recent high electricity prices have considerably increased the economic value of self-generation and energy efficiency investments. The benefits and cost-effectiveness of data center sustainability measures have also not yet been thoroughly researched in cold-climate regions, where the data center industry is currently growing rapidly. Thus, this paper assesses how solar photovoltaics (PV) and waste heat utilization can effectively be integrated into different cold climate data centers, with a case study analyzing data centers in Finland and northern Japan. The modelled results indicate that solar PV systems can cost-effectively be used to provide renewable electricity to data centers in both Finland and northern Japan, with electricity prices having the largest influence on economic performance. The use of larger external PV systems is shown to be cost-effective at the higher electricity prices seen in 2022, whereas smaller rooftop PV systems and grid electricity provide more economic benefits at 2019 price levels. Selling surplus PV electricity to the grid and using waste heat for district heating is also shown to be effective in data centers located in Finland, whereas battery storage and snow melting are better suited to utilize surplus PV electricity and data center waste heat in northern Japan. [Display omitted] • Solar photovoltaic systems can cost-effectively reduce data center emissions in cold climate countries. • Data center waste heat can provide value in district heating and snow melting applications. • The cost-effectiveness of data center sustainability measures is largely influenced by electricity prices. • The option to sell surplus electricity to the grid incentives larger solar photovoltaic investments in data centers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Proton exchange membrane fuel cells offer a sustainable solution to electrical power generation and combined power and heat applications, even if they still encounter durability and reliability challenges. Prognostics and health management (PHM) is a promising solution to enhance the durability and reliability of fuel cell systems by providing information on fuel cell health status, predicting future performance, and prescribing optimal operational actions. Generally, the PHM technique can be divided into observation, analysis, and action phases. In this review, the state-of-the-art fuel cell PHM studies concerning the three phases of the PHM method are summarized. Hybrid fuel cell systems composed of single and multi-stack are investigated. The paper covers the main degradation mechanisms of fuel cell key components and existing durability datasets in the observation phase. The study of defining a proper health indicator and prediction of future health states of fuel cells, namely, prognostics are reviewed in the analysis phase. The outputs from the previous two phases are intended to be integrated into the action phase for optimizing the operational decisions that are responsible for achieving durable and reliable fuel cell systems. The objective of this review is three-fold: (1) to put together the existing studies of fuel cell durability and reliability-related studies into a PHM cycle and summarize the development status of each phase, (2) to identify the research gaps in existing PHM studies, and (3) to provide future perspectives for fuel cell PHM studies to achieve the ultimate goal of enhancing fuel cell system durability and reliability. [Display omitted] • Review of progress of prognostics and health management (PHM) for PEM fuel cells. • The observation, analysis, and action phases in PHM are examined with a focus on action phase. • Basic, deterioration-aware, and maintenance-based management strategies are investigated. • Perspectives on prognostics, deterioration-aware and maintenance-based EMSs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the current energy crisis, converting solar-thermal energy into chemical forms has become paramount. Within the broad spectrum of light-mediated catalysis, which includes heat and photocatalysis (relevant to processes like organic transformations, water splitting, and CO2 reduction), photothermal catalysis is a critical avenue for transforming solar energy into chemical or thermal forms via light-matter interactions. However, challenges persist, notably in conventional semiconductor photocatalysts. These challenges encompass the suboptimal harnessing of solar radiation, electron-hole pair recombination, limited exposure of reactive sites, and the complex endeavor of establishing the structure-activity relationship. This state-of-the-art review sharply focuses on photothermal catalytic materials associated with water splitting, CO2 conversion, and the breakdown of organic contaminants. Distinctively, it provides a profound experimental and theoretical insight into the application of various materials in photothermal catalysis, representing a pioneering consolidation. Furthermore, the article delves deep into the barriers to commercialization, offering a robust discussion of the inherent challenges and their prospective remedies. Our findings underscore that enhancing catalytic efficiency is achievable through strategic structural, surface, and compositional modifications. Techniques such as doping, the formation of heterojunctions using Z- and S- schemes, multi-metal incorporation, and the synergistic application of materials prove beneficial. Equally pivotal is the introduction of supporting materials to curb agglomeration, the incorporation of porosity, and the design of varied 3D structures. Collectively, these innovative approaches enhance surface area, modulate band gaps, widen light absorption capacity, minimize charge recombination, and, consequently, pave the way for the evolution of optimal catalysts suited for photothermal applications. In the quest to address energy challenges, this comprehensive review delves into the pivotal role of photothermal catalysis in converting solar-thermal energy into valuable chemical forms. Highlighting the inherent limitations of conventional semiconductor photocatalysts, it presents a synthesis of advanced materials tailored for water splitting, CO2 conversion, and organic contaminant decomposition. Through in-depth analysis, the paper underscores innovative techniques like doping, heterojunction formation, and multi-metal incorporation. By emphasizing strategic structural and compositional modifications, the review offers insights into the roadmap for optimizing photothermal catalytic efficiency and paves the way for future commercialization. [Display omitted] • Delivers groundbreaking insights into materials for photothermal catalysis including water splitting and pollution reduction. • Provides solutions to commercialization issues including solar radiation harnessing and recombination reduction. • Shows efficiency gains through structural modifications, doping, and heterojunctions. • Emphasizes techniques like material synergy and 3D structuring to enhance catalyst performance. • Details optimization strategies for photothermal catalysts, aiming at sustainable energy and environmental solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Digitalization of lithium-ion batteries can significantly advance the performance improvement of lithium-ion batteries by enabling smarter controlling strategies during operation and reducing risk and expenses in the design and development phase. Accurate physics-based models play a crucial role in the digitalization of lithium-ion batteries by providing an in-depth understanding of the system. Unfortunately, the high accuracy comes at the cost of increased computational cost preventing the employment of these models in real-time applications and for parametric design. Machine learning models have emerged as powerful tools that are increasingly being used in lithium-ion battery studies. Hybrid models can be developed by integrating physics-based models and machine learning algorithms providing high accuracy as well as computational efficiency. Therefore, this paper presents a comprehensive review of the current trends in integration of physics-based models and machine learning algorithms to accelerate the digitalization of lithium-ion batteries. Firstly, the current direction in explicit modeling methods and machine learning algorithms used in battery research are reviewed. Then a thorough investigation of contemporary hybrid models is presented addressing both battery design and development as well as real-time monitoring and control. The objective of this work is to provide details of hybrid methods including the various applications, type of employed models and machine learning algorithms, the architecture of hybrid models, and the outcome of the proposed models. The challenges and research gaps are discussed aiming to provide inspiration for future works in this field. [Display omitted] • Physics-based battery models are computationally expensive. • Machine learning models facilitate fast computation of battery states. • Machine learning models do not provide insight about the physical mechanisms. • Hybrid models allow battery monitoring, control and design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The integration of stochastic distributed energy sources and loads has introduced unprecedented levels of uncertainty in power systems. This uncertainty poses significant challenges to power system stability due to the resulting variability of power flows and system inertia. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the methods proposed in the scientific literature for assessing the small-signal stability of power systems under uncertain conditions. The review critically examines the key features, advantages and disadvantages of each method presented and identifies relevant research gaps in the field, suggesting potential future research directions. [Display omitted] • Power systems are increasingly affected by uncertainties. • A review on the methods to evaluate uncertain small-signal stability is lacking. • An extensive collection of papers on uncertain small-signal stability is provided. • The advantages, disadvantages and features of the presented methods are presented. • Existing research gaps are highlighted and future research directions are suggested. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An optimization model that incorporates all combinatorically feasible inter-plant collaboration networks is developed using P-graph. It has been theoretically proven that time-sliced-based energy planning optimization has positive impacts and is capable of achieving carbon emissions reduction goals and minimizing costs simultaneously. However, as the number of entities increased, an exponential growth in possible combinatorial feasible coalitions is anticipated. Therefore, an extension of the P-graph optimization tool that is capable of generating all possible outcomes in multi-period P2P energy trading – PEP (P-graph for energy planning) is developed. The PEP software can be effectively used in modelling complex process networks graphically and solving optimization problems with the combined advantages of combinatorial algorithms and mathematical programming. In this paper, a systematic framework for implementing P2P energy trading using PEP software is proposed and demonstrated using a real-life case study. [Display omitted] • An optimization tool – PEP software is developed to model P2P energy trading scheme. • The software is capable of generating all possible financial outcomes effectively. • Optimal coalition structure is chosen based on the highest cost savings. • Marginal contribution analysis is done to ensure fair profit distribution. • The sample case study showed that entities can reduce electricity bills by 6.75 %. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Trombe wall technology, a passive solar design strategy, has garnered significant interest for its potential to reduce building energy consumption. This paper presents a comprehensive review of the evaluation and optimization trends for Trombe walls. The historical evolution and recent advancements in Trombe wall systems are critically analyzed. Furthermore, key optimizing parameters are discussed in detail, including material selection, wall thickness, insulation characteristics, window specifications, vent dimensions, and intelligent control strategies. Common experimental methodologies and simulation approaches employed for Trombe wall optimization are summarized. Finally, current research limitations are identified and future research directions are proposed to fill existing knowledge gaps and facilitate the widespread adoption of optimized Trombe wall systems for improved energy efficiency in buildings. • One figure shows the timeline of Trombe wall development. • Subdivided statistical analysis of Trombe wall research trends in the past five years. • Rich and detailed original Trombe wall diagram. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The massive load of effluents released from the pulp and paper industry has an adverse environmental impact due to the discharge of hazardous materials. These effluents contain mostly recalcitrant compounds like lignin, which are rigid and resilient to degradation. Bioremediation technologies such as biostimulation using nutrients and biological techniques are being used for the biodegradation of hazardous effluents. But they are not up to that level of remediation efficiency. Many enzymes have been used for bioremediation in recent years, which are easy to use, eco-friendly, and adequate to ensure the public safety. Such enzymes, along with their mechanisms, have been well studied for the bioremediation of effluents. This review describes enzyme technologies, including laccase mediated treatment, lignin peroxidase, and manganese peroxidase treatment to reduce effluent load into the environment. The other methods including aerobic and anaerobic treatments utilizing bio-sludge for producing beneficial products such as biofuels, and bio-sorbents for oil peeling are also described in the present review. This review also gives a summarized but unique description of the aspects of the immobilized biocatalysts and biosorbents used to mitigate the production of toxic pollutants from the pulp and paper industry. The strategies based on the advanced enzyme engineering technologies for bioremediation of such contaminants are also briefly described. This review also discusses the techno-economic assessment of enzymatic remediation and future challenges for the bioremediation of these effluents. In conclusion, enzyme-based advanced technologies are crucial 'green technologies' for providing a sustainable solution for bioremediation and reduced environmental pollution. • Advanced enzyme engineering for bioremediation of pulp effluents is described. • The laccase treatment, lignin peroxidase, manganese peroxidase treatment outlined. • A description of the aspects of the immobilized biocatalysts and bio-sorbents. • The aerobic and anaerobic treatment of pollutants utilizing bio-sludge delineated. • Enzyme based technologies are clue to sustainable solution of environment pollution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates the dynamics of energy poverty in Ghana using two nationwide cross-sectional datasets (Ghana Living Standards Surveys Round 5 and Round 6). Employing the Multidimensional Energy Poverty Index (MEPI) as a measure of energy poverty, this paper estimates that the share of energy poor people decreased from 88.4% in 2005/2006 to 82.5% in 2012/2013. The results indicate that although there has been a significant decline in the overall energy poverty in Ghana during the study periods, the incidence of energy poverty remains high. Moreover, the study findings show a large gap between urban and rural energy poverty over the two periods; rural people are almost twice as energy poor as urban people. These findings suggest the need for the incorporation of energy poverty reduction strategies into income poverty reduction strategies to help improve not only access to modern energy but also in terms of affordability. • There is a gradual transition from the use of traditional cooking energy sources to modern sources. • Overall energy poverty in Ghana has significantly reduced but incidence of energy poverty continues to be very high. • Rural people are almost twice as energy poor as urban people. • The goal of reducing energy poverty can be incorporated into income poverty reduction strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite a substantial potential of renewable energy sources, the current energy supply system in Iran relies almost entirely on fossil fuel resources. It has imposed significant financial burden on the country and has led to considerable GHG emissions. Moreover, the country is confronting several challenges for harnessing alternative clean energy sources and promoting rational energy policies over the recent decades. To probe the root cause of these problems, this paper first provides an overview on the previous energy planning attempts in Iran. It shows that adequate commitment to a long-term energy planning could have meaningfully prevented these serious challenges. However, the previous studies have had some limitations in terms of employing appropriate planning tools, comprehensive evaluations, and scenarios definition and ranking. This paper thus proposes a power planning framework to assess the sustainability of future electricity scenarios for the period 2015–2050. MESSAGE, a systems engineering optimization model, is employed to evaluate the potential impacts of transitioning to a low-carbon electricity supply system. Using a combined AHP-TOPSIS method, the scenarios are then ranked based on 18 different techno-economic, environmental, and social dimensions of sustainability. The results indicate that scenario Cl_32, in which the share of non-hydro clean energy for electricity generation reaches 32%, is ranked best. • Iran's energy planning studies are reviewed. • A suitable link between energy planning and policy making is necessary for Iran. • A framework for sustainable development of the power sector is proposed. • MCDM is used to assess the sustainability of different scenarios. • The share of non-hydro clean energy technologies should increase up to 32% by 2050. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zero energy buildings (ZEBs) are targeted by several developed countries around the world which consequently promotes the progress toward achieving ZEBs. The concept of ZEBs is, however, uncommon in developing economies such as Oman. In 2011, The Research Council of Oman has announced a competition to design, construct and operate buildings that embrace sustainability principles. The first five eco-friendly buildings were designed and constructed by academic institutions in different climatic conditions of Oman. This project has significantly contributed toward raising awareness of energy efficiency and renewable energy systems in buildings. This paper outlines the design of sustainable energy systems of one of these five buildings. The ZEB prototype is located at the Sultan Qaboos University campus in Muscat, which is an extremely hot climate as classified by the ASHRAE Standard 169-2013. The ZEB building was designed with full manipulation of natural energy. This paper also reports the experimental results of its one year of operation. The results showed that energy use intensity (EUI) of 103 kWh/m2 was achieved by this building. The building was less than 3% from achieving its net-zero energy source/site/emissions status. Nonetheless, it was able to achieve a positive energy cost status because of the financial credits received from the exported energy, which is subjected to high cost feed-in tariffs. When grid interaction was considered, 40% of the building load was met by site generation. For 33% of the time, this building was independent of the electrical grid, which is comparable to other net-zero energy buildings located in other climates. While several experimental studies for ZEB performance have been described in literature for heating dominated climates, very few experimental studies have been published for cooling dominated climates. Hence, this study aims to fill the gap in the knowledge of energy performance of ZEBs located in this region. • The design of sustainable energy systems for ZEB in a hot climate is described. • ZEB is feasible in cooling dominated climate. • Experimental result for one year of operation for a prototype ZEB is described. • For 33% of the time, the building was independent of the electrical grid. 40% of the building load was met by the site generation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology is an effective and economic solution to enable the integration of electric vehicles (EVs) into power grids. As an effort to present the state of the art in relevant fields, the power interaction mode between EVs and power grids, and the scheduling methodology for the V2G implementation are overviewed comprehensively in this paper. To be specific, technical requirements, grid impacts and battery degradations regarding each power interaction mode are discussed; the operating processes of centralized and decentralized scheduling approaches are introduced and compared. More importantly, it is noted that few attentions are given to the solving algorithms of programming models used for optimizing the scheduling strategy of EVs and few works examine their feasibilities to acquire the optimal charging strategies especially for a large number of EVs. In this context, this paper also illuminates the mathematical foundation on optimization techniques for the optimal V2G strategy, and provides new insights for evaluating these models. • A review in the aspect of the EV-grid integration is made including power interaction mode and mainstream scheduling method. • Mathematical foundation on optimization techniques for the V2G strategy is given. • New insights are provided to make an overall evaluation on the existing methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Energy efficiency of current Waste-to-Energy plants is mainly limited by high temperature corrosion combined with temperature fluctuation of flue gas. This paper introduces a technology based on Phase Change Materials in the combustion chamber and its contribution to higher overall electrical efficiency. This technology encapsulates aluminium alloy-based Phase Change Materials in ceramic bricks similar to traditional refractory bricks in the combustion chamber. The proposed brick allows steam superheating on waterwall by absorbing temperature fluctuations and delivering a higher heat flux. Two studies are carried out to realize the technology development from refractory bricks to waterwall system. Study One adopts Dynamic Thermal Network method to model the heat transfer on waterwall with and without the novel brick. Real plant information is used as boundary condition to locate the design points of the novel bricks. Study Two conducts experiment to validate the numerical model, and performs a transient analysis of the waterwall to compare the thermal dampening and superheating effect of Phase Change Material-based waterwall. From the result, there is a 10% improvement in energy conversion efficiency on the waterwall by introducing the novel technology. Lastly, this paper introduces an integration scheme of three types of Phase Change Materials-based bricks in the waterwall to achieve continuous superheating of steam. A 34% electrical efficiency can be achieved by producing over 600 °C of superheated steam with this new plant configuration. The result shows that this new technology is highly applicable and promising to upgrade the overall efficiency of Waste-to-Energy plants. • Latent heat-based brick is proposed to buffer temperature fluctuation in waterwall. • Thermal network model is used to study the transient response of the new brick. • Experimental result is employed to validate the numerical model in system level. • Technology integration of new brick-based waterwall to Waste-to-Energy plant proposed. • High steam parameter over 600 °C can be achieved with proposed plant configuration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alkaline hydrogen peroxide (AHP) was first introduced in 1984. Its ability to selectively attack carbonyl and ethylene groups is proven to enhance the delignification process of lignocellulosic biomass. The capabilities of AHP in dissociating the recalcitrant matrix of biomass indicate its potential in improving the accessibility of biomass to achieve valorization. In this paper, the background information of AHP and its reaction pathways are provided. Moreover, the recent applications of AHP in biomass processing and biofuel production are discussed by highlighting the effects of AHP in process selectivity and biomass dissolution. This paper also aims to provide some insights on the advantages and disadvantages of utilizing AHP in a pretreatment process. Lastly, a technoeconomic and cost benefit analysis of two scenarios of AHP production are critically reviewed to highlight the feasibility of implementing AHP in large scale production. It was reported that, AHP pretreatments were compatible with wide range of biomass and subsequent enzymatic hydrolysis. Besides, it was found that the application of AHP sequential pretreatment of biomass could increase the production yield of various bio-products such as silica and lignin. On top of that, AHP pretreatment was found to be a mild pretreatment method that promoted inherent safer and greener process. However, the mild operation condition would require a prolonged period to achieve the necessary delignification. Through technoeconomic analysis, the high chemical cost has rendered the installation of recycle stream compulsory to achieve economic feasibility. Image 1 • Alkaline hydrogen peroxide could be operated at ambient pressure and temperature. • Alkaline hydrogen peroxide are compatible with subsequent bioconversion. • High lignin solubilization and polysaccharide retention promote biofuel yield. • Sequential pretreatments generate less inhibitory by-products to fermentation. • Alkaline hydrogen peroxide pretreatments with recycling are economically feasible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

HVDC systems are playing an increasingly significant role in energy transmission due to their technical and economic superiority over HVAC systems for long distance transmission. HVDC is preferable beyond 300–800 km for overhead point-to-point transmission projects and for the cable based interconnection or the grid integration of remote offshore wind farms beyond 50–100 km. Several HVDC review papers exist in literature but often focus on specific geographic locations or system components. In contrast, this paper presents a detailed, up-to-date, analysis and assessment of HVDC transmission systems on a global scale, targeting expert and general audience alike. The paper covers the following aspects: technical and economic comparison of HVAC and HVDC systems; investigation of international HVDC market size, conditions, geographic sparsity of the technology adoption, as well as the main suppliers landscape; and high-level comparisons and analysis of HVDC system components such as Voltage Source Converters (VSCs) and Line Commutated Converters (LCCs), etc. The presented analysis are supported by practical case studies from existing projects in an effort to reveal the complex technical and economic considerations, factors and rationale involved in the evaluation and selection of transmission system technology for a given project. The contemporary operational challenges such as the ownership of Multi-Terminal DC (MTDC) networks are also discussed. Subsequently, the required development factors, both technically and regulatory, for proper MTDC networks operation are highlighted, including a future outlook of different HVDC system components. Collectively, the role of HVDC transmission in achieving national renewable energy targets in light of the Paris agreement commitments is highlighted with relevant examples of potential HVDC corridors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aims to anticipate social acceptance issues related to the deployment of the smart electricity grid by identifying underlying value conflicts. The smart electricity grid is a key enabler of the energy transition. Its successful deployment is however jeopardized by social acceptance issues, such as concerns related to privacy and fairness. Social acceptance issues may be explained by value conflicts, i.e. the impossibility for a technological or regulatory design to simultaneously satisfy multiple societal expectations. Due to unsatisfied expectations concerning values, social discontent may arise. This paper identifies five groups of value conflicts in the smart electricity grid: consumer values versus competitiveness, IT enabled systems versus data protection, fair spatial distributions of energy systems versus system performance, market performance versus local trading, and individual access versus economies of scale. This is important for policy-makers and industry to increase the chances that the technology gains acceptance. As resolving value conflicts requires resources, this paper suggests three factors to prioritize their resolution: severity of resulting acceptance issues, resolvability of conflicts, and the level of resources required. The analysis shows that particularly the socio-economic disparities caused by the deployment of the smart electricity grid are alarming. Affordable policies are currently limited, but the impact in terms of social acceptance may be large. • This paper reviews conflicting values in the smart electricity grid. • Scientific articles of interest are captured using topic models and semantic fields. • Five groups of value conflicts caused by the smart electricity grid are identified. • Acceptance issues may persist when conflicts are not resolved. • Resolvability, severity of acceptances issues, and resources required are suggested to prioritize value conflicts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The floating photovoltaic (FPV) system is a new power generation system which has attracted a wide attention due to its numerous advantages. Apart from power generation, the system can reduce the water evaporation. Development of FPV power plants requires studying both mechanical and electrical structure of these systems. Many studies have been conducted on FPV systems which have assessed these systems from different points of view. In this paper, an analytical analysis and updated review that studies different aspects of FPV systems as a power generation system is presented. Also, a comparison between the ground mounted and floating PV systems is presented and the gaps of the reviewed subjects are indicated. Furthermore, the applicable FPV array interconnection schemes are discussed and the most favorable reconfiguration schemes for FPV arrays are shown, also multilevel DC-DC converters for grid integration of FPV panels are investigated. Reviewing the articles indicated that the main focus of the researchers was on the experimental study and mechanical investigation of FPV systems as well as the impact of the application of these systems on water evaporation. The present research has a potential to make a contribution to the electrical design and application of FPV panels which are less described in the existing papers. • Different aspects of FPV application as a power generation system is evaluated and relevant papers are reviewed as well. • A comparison between the efficiency of gro C O 2 und mounted and floating PV systems is presented. • The gaps in FPV research field are indicated and some recommendations for future works are presented. • The applicable FPV array interconnection schemes are discussed and multi DC-DC converters for grid integration are investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over the last two decades, the world has experienced a boom in the number of hydropower projects. Considered an important part of sustainable development, particularly in post-socialist transition and developing countries, it is claimed that hydropower plants will make substantial contributions to environmentally friendly economic growth and poverty eradication. However, the so-called 'hydropower boom' has not resulted in a global mass construction of plants. In general, over-ambitious planning, a lack of funding opportunities and corruption are often put forward as explanations for the discrepancy between the number of plans and actual construction of hydropower plants. In this paper, it is added to these three reasons, illustrating with a case study from Bosnia and Herzegovina, where the planning of hydropower projects very rarely results in their construction. The results are based on secondary data and primary data, i.e. semi-structured interviews and informal talks, collected during fieldwork in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The data was analyzed using the analytical induction method. The results highlight how administrative complexity, over-estimations of exploitable capacity, an unattractive sociopolitical and socioeconomic situation and how these factors in combination create the conditions for various practices of corruption hinder the construction of plants. Comparing the results with other findings from around the world, the paper suggests approaching the so-called global hydropower boom with caution. • Over-ambitious planning results in an unrealistic number of planned project. • Lack of funding opportunities hinders the actual construction of the projects. • Prevalent corruption result in projects being revoked or remaining on paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]