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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]

Electrical energy becomes necessary for human being. Generation of electrical energy mostly depends on fossils fuel, they are limited in nature and also responsible for environmental pollution. Renewable energy resources provides a better alternative for future,In comparison to conventional energy resources economical aspect is a major issue of renewable energy sources with the feasibility and efficiency. These limitations are tried to overcome by deployment hybrid renewable energy resources. There are certain criteria to analyze and implement the sized, optimized and cost efficient system. This paper focus on hybrid energy systems based on solar photovoltaic (PV) and wind resources. This paper shed lights on various parameters of economic feasibility, sizing strategies with logical advancements to enhance their utilization, future prospects, and their arrangement. Strategies to develop an effective storage system is also presented here.A brief review on developments in optimization techniques, reliability index and cost analyzing techniques for hybrid renewable energy systems are also presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

Pakistan is among the 10 countries that face the worst energy crisis of the world. As the country struggles with a number of financial, political and social issues, the transition from a conventional fuels based economy to a green economy is not an easy one. Pakistan has been blessed with immense potential of clean renewable sources of solar, wind and biomass but they have not been exploited yet. Renewable energy technology sector has not penetrated the energy mix and is currently an emerging market. This paper highlights the steps the country has taken in the past and the steps that are being taken at present to emerge out of the prevailing energy crisis when even the most urban areas suffer from power outages of 12 h per day. Until 2009, no single grid interconnected wind farm existed but now the situation has changed considerably and wind farms contributing to the national grid are a reality now. Three grid interconnected farms have been inaugurated and many others are in pipeline. The national policy regarding wind power systems has recently changed after unexpected setbacks to ongoing projects. This paper reviews the developments in the wind power sector of the country and lists some suggestions that can help improve the wind power penetration in the national energy mix. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

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

Renewable energy becomes an asset to the world׳s energy resource for its eco-friendly and low cost energy production feature. As an important renewable energy source, wind turbine technology has become a significant contributor to the world energy production because of its feasible production cost, reliability and efficiency. Researchers are very active to optimize the effectiveness of wind turbines which may lead to increase the productivity of this source of energy. Vibration in the wind turbine system affects the productivity and thus reduces efficiency. Vibration of a system cannot be destroyed but can be reduced or converted to energy using appropriate strategies. Vibration control system improves structural response of wind turbines and reliability which has impact on lifetime of the components. Lowering the vibration amplitude of a system will provide a lesser amount of noise, assure user and operating comport, maintain the high performance and production efficiency. These will assist the system to prolong the lifetime of an industrial structure or machinery. Also vibration control enhances the performance of wind turbines providing suitable work environment without external disturbance. This paper presents an ample review on performance enhancement of the wind turbines by vibration mitigation. The aim of this review is to provide a concise point for researchers to assess the current trend to control vibration of wind turbines technology. This paper will focus on main vibration control techniques of wind turbine structures. It provides the applications of passive, active and semi-active and vibration control strategies for structures, especially for wind turbines. Besides, this paper reviews on damping devices needed for vibration mitigation of structures. These damping devices have been implemented extensively in wind turbines for increasing their efficiency by mitigating vibration. This paper also reviews and assesses the performance of different control policies to control the system input and power input of damping devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Energy is one of the indispensable inputs for the survival of human being in the earth. Bangladesh has the very inadequate amount of indigenous non-renewable energy resources even which is being diminished rapidly to increase the electricity generation. Although the installed electricity generation capacity has been increased to 10,709 MW, still the amount is insufficient to meet the demand of the country. In addition to this, the insufficient power generation hinders the socio-economic and industrial development. This current problem in power generation of Bangladesh can be removed by incorporating renewable energy into electricity generation. Recently, utilization of renewable energy and Renewable Energy Technologies (RETs) is getting momentum in the country to achieve not only energy security but also to reduce environmental pollution and to limit the imminent depletion of the non-renewable energy resources. Overall, Bangladesh has the vast potential of biomass, solar, hydro, wind, and tidal powers. This paper outlines the present energy scenario of the country. Following this, the potential of available renewable energy resources is also reviewed and presented in this paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Canary Island of Tenerife is supplied by an insular power system which relies mainly on conventional thermal power plants. However Tenerife has reached grid parity in photovoltaics (PV) and wind energy. The Spanish government has just approved a new legislation to stimulate the deployment of new PV and wind energy systems in all Spanish insular systems mainly to reduce the cost of these systems. This paper analyses the current electric power system and energy production in Tenerife, especially PV and wind energy, and investigates the consequences of this new legislation and the planning initially approved by the government of the Canary Islands to substantially increase the share of both technologies in the horizon 2020. This paper shows that the Tenerife power system is technically capable of managing the ramps expected to occur in the defined near term scenarios. However, the cost per MWh will increase because of the curtailment of renewable energy generation and the operation of the thermal power system in suboptimal conditions. Some regulatory recommendations are included as conclusions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The insatiable appetite for non-renewable fossil fuels in the past has resulted in a plethora of anthropogenic climate changes and pollution across the globe, causing serious threats to human beings and the environment. To avoid this contention, greater use of wind energy could be the solution for economic growth and sustainable environment, in the long run. This paper discusses the ways in which India has started the growth of wind energy and the country’s potential to expand its contribution to meet ever-increasing energy needs. The paper lucidly presents India’s progress to become the top five wind energy producers in the world. This paper also discusses the major achievements, programs, policy, and incentives for the installation of wind power in India. Opportunities and challenges have been discussed along with the ways to remove barriers to achieve higher growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Given the abundant availability of resources, the market potential, and their cost competitiveness, onshore wind farms and photovoltaic units are expected to drive the overall growth of renewable energy sources in the next decade. However, Europe is a small and densely populated continent, which results in many countries experiencing a severe shortage of suitable land sites for installing new wind and photovoltaic facilities. This, combined with the fact that many existing wind turbines and photovoltaic units reach the end of their operational lifetime, has laid the groundwork for 'repowering'. Repowering includes upgrading or retrofitting renewable energy sources' components and exploits existing land sites, in which renewables are operating for years. This paper intends to emphasise the multiple dimensions of repowering, also delving in its surrounding socio-economic context in various European countries, to identify its barriers and allies as well as gather best practices and lessons learnt from its implementation. Considering data availability, extent of spatial use and bulk equipment, and consequent attention in literature and practice, the analysis mainly orbits around repowering of wind projects, rather than solar photovoltaics. Finally, the paper presents key directions toward wider future exploitation of repowering. • Land scarcity problem with high renewable energy potential addressed by repowering. • In-depth socio-economic extensions of repowering are discussed. • Semi-quantified evaluation highlighting main implementation pillars of repowering. • Best practices and lessons learnt from the implementation of repowering. • Legislative barriers against the wider implementation of repowering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wind power is one of the main sources of renewable energy. New applications of this technology are currently under development through small vertical axis wind turbines, allowing energy production in small spaces even at low wind speeds. Therefore, creating an effective turbine design methodology tailored to these operating conditions has been the subject of extensive research. The Savonius-type vertical axis wind turbine is one of the most widely used due to its low cost and easy manufacturing. Several works have examined the effect of various geometric parameters on the performance of the Savonius-type wind turbine. However, there are no published overarching conclusions about these works. Thus, this paper aims to review and discuss in a concise way experiments and simulations carried out by several authors evaluating the effect of some geometric parameters on the maximum power and torque coefficient of Savonius vertical axis wind turbines. The paper also discusses additional experiments that should be performed in future work. • The effect of geometrical parameters of Savonius-type vertical axis wind turbine rotor on its efficiency is reviewed. • Power and torque coefficients response to variation of four geometrical parameters are discussed. • Geometrical parameters as aspect ratio, twist angle, overlap ratio, number of blades, and number of stages are explored. • Diverse experimental and numerical researches are explored and maximum power and torque coefficients found are graphically presented as function of each geometrical parameter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, an increasing number of Chinese wind power firms have been going international in search of global market for development channels. By employing qualitative research and case study methods, this paper examines the export scale and markets of China’s wind turbines, the market entry modes and location choices of China’s outward foreign direct investment (FDI) in the wind power sector, identifies the determinants and prospects of Chinese wind firms’ internationalization, as well as provides policy implications. It is found that Chinese wind power firms has chosen to internationalize very differently from the Uppsala model in that the exports and FDI of Chinese wind power firms both took place around 2008, and the exports and FDI of Chinese wind power firms are closely linked. The determinants of Chinese wind firms’ internationalization are the competitive advantages of leading Chinese wind firms and the intensified domestic market competition, followed by Chinese government support for internationalization and the attractive overseas market. The prospects of Chinese wind firms’ internationalization are bright but challenging. Drawn on this analysis, conclusions and three policy implications are provided at the end of the paper. This paper contributes to the study of China’s wind power sector from a new perspective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The focus of this paper is to analyse the determinants of wind energy development in the United States and how procedural and regulatory frameworks influence the deployment of wind power facilities. The empirical analysis uses statistical regression models integrating geospatial, macroeconomic and socio-environmental control variables. Using wind penetration as well as wind capacity additions as dependent variable permits a more differentiated analysis of both absolute and relative growth factors. This enables a precise assessment of state-to-state variations in permitting, zoning and siting procedures that wind developers have to clear before being authorised to start construction. Quantifying the number of state-level financial support measures and various permitting and regulatory process stages allowed for a more comprehensive assessment of administrative barriers to wind energy development than prior research studies. The results indicate a partial reversal of previous findings that showed that a high quantity of state-level regulations negatively affects wind capacity additions. Exogenous factors such as the ratio of in-state federal lands, population density, and especially wind energy potential, as well as federal statutes and incentives remain the main drivers of wind capacity additions and overall wind energy penetration. Contrasting prior literature, the influence of localised financial incentives or regulatory approval procedures appears to be minor; therefore streamlining national policies and incentives at the federal level might prove more effective than promoting wind development at the state level. We point out that future research should also examine the role of quality of state-level regulations in addition to quantity. Highlights • Most up-to-date United States state-level study using recent data sets from 2010 to 2016. • Number of financial incentives & regulatory measures are weak growth indicators. • Overall wind potential is the strongest driver of wind development. • Novel dependent variable for wind penetration enables relative growth analysis. • Quantity of environmental regulations did not influence energy growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Smart energy transition includes a widespread deployment of clean energy technologies and intelligent energy management with information and communication technologies (ICTs). In this paper, the smart energy transition is studied from the viewpoint of the technology convergence of renewable energy sources (RESs) and ICTs. Two important, fast-growing and weather-dependent renewable energy generation technologies: wind power and solar PV (photovoltaic) are studied. This paper provides technology convergence analyses of RES and ICT inventions based on international patent data. Digitalisation is changing the whole of society, and according to the results, this transition can also be seen in the studied renewable energy generation technologies. The digitalisation of RES production covers technologies that control, manage and optimise electricity production in different intelligent ways. Differences between wind power and solar PV technologies are found: in the case of wind power, the development from virtually no ICT solutions to partial technology convergence with the ICT sector is straightforward. However, in the case of solar PV, the development of basic technologies has been even faster than the development of the solar PV ICT solutions, which may indicate the immature nature of solar PV technologies during the studied years. The digitalisation of the renewable energy sector poses challenges for RES companies in following and predicting ICT development and opportunities for innovations and collaborations with ICT companies. This conclusion can also be expanded to society and policy levels because focusing on only a narrow field when planning innovation policy instruments can negatively impact the country's competitiveness. • Digitalisation and ICT solutions are impacting on wind power and solar PV technologies. • The prominent RES technologies with ICT solutions control, manage and optimise electricity production. • Wind power patent data shows a straightforward technology convergence trend with ICT. • Basic inventions in solar PV have increased more rapidly than solar PV ICT solutions. • Digitalisation in wind power and solar PV has been driven by the US, Germany, Denmark and Japan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper we study a community or firm considering to diversify its investment in two distinct renewable energy technologies, namely wind and solar PV electricity. We assume technological learning curves as a function of cumulative capital investment. A real options approach is applied as it takes into account uncertainty about prices and learning, as well as irreversibility associated with investment decisions. We investigate three different cases, dealing with uncertainty about future electricity prices, and uncertainty about the speed with which learning drives the costs of wind and solar electricity down. We assess the minimum threshold for the stochastic price and the maximum electricity production cost that makes it optimal for the firm to invest in the two technologies. The results show that the learning rate affects the option to invest in but reducing critical threshold for exercising it. The greater the amount of capital invested, the more learning stimulates earlier exercising of the option to invest. The firm will then anticipate the option to invest and exercise it for lower critical threshold values if all capital is invested in one technology. If capital investment is diversified, the option should be exercised at a higher critical threshold. More uncertainty in energy prices or technology costs postpones the option to invest. Although investing in both solar and wind may be profitable under particular conditions of price and cost uncertainty, the theoretically optimal strategy is generally investing in only one technology, that is, solar or wind, depending on their relative initial costs and learning rates. This suggests that the practice in most countries of diversifying renewable energy may reflect a mistaken strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Globally, renewable generation is growing rapidly, and the next few decades are likely to see many consumers adopting new grid-connected technologies such as electric vehicles, photovoltaics and energy management systems. However, these ‘greener’ and smarter’ changes could create significant challenges for power quality, safety and other aspects of grid management. We describe how New Zealand is an ideal research environment for combining smart grid capability with integration of high levels of renewables, as it already has around 80% renewable generation, and advanced metering infrastructure in over 62% of households. Challenges for achieving a greener, smarter grid identified in the GREEN Grid research programme include managing the increased variability in supply, especially from the growing use of wind and solar generation; the potential for power quality and congestion issues from high levels of small scale distributed generation; the need for increased frequency keeping and instantaneous reserves as variability increases; and the relatively low level of consumer engagement in demand response which could ideally assist with variability. In this paper we describe the methodology and approach used in the research programme, and note some initial findings that may help address these issues, including the benefits of geographically distributed wind farms to reduce overall wind variability; the development of a hosting capacity tool for small scale distributed generation; a proposal for new ancillary services to help manage (and cover the costs of) increased variability; and the increased use of hot water cylinders for demand response. As the research programme continues to move forward with developing mechanisms for managing a smart green grid, the findings are likely to have widespread relevance to other nations that are seeking high levels of renewable generation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper reports recent efforts made by the mining industry in adapting and applying photovoltaic (PV) and wind power systems at operating and abandoned mines around the world. Several applications of PV systems have been found at operating mines such as the Goldstrike mine in USA, Chuquicamata mine in Chile, Weipa and DeGrussa mines in Australia, Thaba mine in South Africa, and the Rosebel mine in Suriname. A few PV systems were also identified at abandoned mines in USA, Germany, Canada, and Korea. Applications of wind power systems in operating mines were investigated, including those at the Veladero mine in Argentina, Diavik and Raglan mines in Canada; and the Los Pelambres mine in Chile. In addition, some large-scale wind farms constructed at abandoned mines in the USA (i.e., Dave Johnston, Somerset, and Buffalo Mountain) were studied. From the review, we learned that PV and wind power systems have been utilized at mines operating in remote areas to resolve energy supply problems, and at abandoned mines to foster substitute industries able to benefit from exhausted mines. Because the utilization of PV and wind power systems by the mining industry will have positive effects in both environmental and economic terms, it is expected to continue to spread. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Renewable energy is considered to be one of the viable options in consideration of intense economic development and increasing energy consumption. With maturity of advanced technologies, economical viable and environmental friendly, wind energy has become one of the fastest growing sources of renewable energy in the world. This study focuses on the combined use of geographic information systems (GIS) and spatial multi-criteria decision analysis for selecting the most appropriate sites for wind-farm development projects. This paper utilized wind speed data over a period of almost 20 years between 1991 and 2010 from different stations to assess the wind power potential sites. The wind energy potential zones were grouped into four categories as “high suitable”, “moderate suitable”, “low suitable” and “not suitable”. The results show that the study area has 12.20% (2787.78 km 2 ) as high suitable, 17.06% (3899.78 km 2 ) as moderate suitable and 11.06% (2528.61 km 2 ) as low suitable. The most potential suitable sites were located in the northwestern (along Osian, Shergargh, Dechu, and Shaitrawa, Phalodi) of Jodhpur district, India. This scientific approach will enable resource managers during planning process to make informed decisions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Offshore wind energy generation has experienced an important growth in the last five years, reaching currently an installed capacity of almost 8000 MW. The most important references in this type of technology are Denmark, Holland, Sweden, Germany and United Kingdom. In Spain, previsions for technology, have been set at around 750 MW of installed power during the period 2011–2020. However, Spanish coastal features, social opposition to installations near the coast and lack of a stable regulatory environment guaranteeing the investments are factors which are restraining the development of this technology. This paper presents a brief review of the state of the art of offshore wind technology and it describes the most frequently used types of turbines, transmission systems and support structures in Europe. It also presents the current situation and the expected growth of offshore wind power facilities, introducing the characteristics of the operational – and under construction – windfarms. Finally, it analyses particular problems and solutions for its development in Spain which can be extrapolated to countries with similar circumstances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper describes the development of a data set mapping all commercial wind turbines in Canada: the 9th largest onshore wind energy fleet in the world. Details contained in the data enable the analysis of the evolution of commercially deployed wind turbines as well as the illustrating the effects of the introduction and cessation of different policies affected historical deployment. In total, over 6700 turbines spanning more than 265 projects and nearly 14.0 GW of generating capacity were indexed including coordinates, model, manufacturer, owner, tower height and commissioning date. Data were compiled from publicly available sources including planning documents, technical reports, environmental impact studies and acoustic emission reports. In 2021, average rotor diameters were 140 m with 108 m tall towers, more than triple the average diameter and double the average tower height from 20 years ago. The analysis of this data found that a typical wind farm in Canada consists of 0.97 turbines/km 2 , while the typical installed capacity density has recently jumped from around 1 to 2.94 MW/km 2 in 2021. Competitive procurement policies have often trended towards larger installed capacities, whereas smaller wind farms emerged more often when policies directed at community ownership were in place. Policies that encouraged local manufacturing developed regional clusters of particular manufacturers, but generally ceased after the local manufacturing policies ended. This work serves as a benchmark for the evolution of wind energy in Canada and a framework for similar data sets in other jurisdictions, and provides a resource for academic researchers, wind farm developers, government bodies and planning agencies as well as the general public. • Details of the Canadian wind fleet database mapping over 6700 individual turbines. • Discussion of the major policies that have influenced the evolution of wind in Canada. • Evolution of wind turbine and wind farm size and capacity density. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper deals with the simultaneous scheduling of electrical vehicles and responsive loads to reduce operation cost and emission in presence of wind and PV powers in microgrid. In the proposed method, the electrical vehicles are used for peak shaving and load curve modification while the responsive loads are employed to supply the reserves needed to compensate the intrinsic uncertainties of wind and PV powers. Furthermore, a developed two-stage model is proposed to determine the expected operation cost of microgrid (energy and reserve). In the first stage, the generation and reserve power costs are minimized while in the second stage, the costs associated with unit scheduling changes resulting from wind and PV power variations are minimized. The proposed model is implemented in a microgrid with various distributed generations. The simulation results have shown that the incorporation of electrical vehicles and responsive loads leads to decrease the system operation costs and emissions while the uncertainties related to wind and PV are compensated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The farming sector is a major actor in developing renewable energy, providing sites, feedstock and investment. Media coverage can both drive and reflect levels of interest in renewable energy, and affect policy support and farmer decision-making about deployment. This paper presents a content analysis of attention to renewable energy in the British farming press from 1980 to 2013, identifying the topics which sparked sustained media interest. Cycles of increased attention to specific types of renewable energy are made evident through quantification of article frequencies and qualitative analysis of content. The findings contribute to the explanation of the role of information in the diffusion of renewable energy. Wind energy and liquid biofuels have received the most attention, with multiple attention cycles, whereas photovoltaics and anaerobic digestion have received focused attention only in recent years. Policy changes, particularly support measures, emerge as the most important driver of media attention, although public controversies, particularly in relation to wind energy, lead to longer periods of attention. Attention typically increases when opportunities in renewable energy emerge and then quickly shifts to a longer stage of focused attention, in which opportunities, problems and solutions are explored and advice is offered, before attention declines. The media thus clearly play a role in informing farmers about opportunities arising in relation to renewable energy technology and policy developments, but are less helpful in providing on-going and consistent information about recurrent and more complex problems. Thus the farming press appears likely to have the strongest impact on ‘early adopters’ of renewable technologies, but is unlikely to contribute to diffusion at later stages, when potential adopters are less willing to bear uncertainties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Insular electricity grids are considered to have a more fragile structure than the mainland ones due to several factors such as the lower inertia because of lower number of generation facilities connected to the system, absence or insufficient interconnection with the main grid, etc. The recent trend of integrating large portions of environmentally sustainable power generation units that have a significantly volatile nature in the generation mix (such as wind and solar energy conversion systems) within this fragile structure, poses profound challenges that need deeper and specific analysis. This study aims to provide an overview of insular power system structures and operational requirements, especially under increasing penetration of renewable energy sources. Firstly, a general evaluation of insular power systems is presented. Then, potential challenges are thoroughly discussed together with opportunities to tackle them. Future technological developments, as well as innovative applications are also given special attention. Hence, this paper contributes to the scarce literature regarding insular power systems by providing a critical overview of issues regarding their operation and possible solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Among novel technologies for producing electricity from renewable resources, a new class of wind energy converters has been conceived under the name of Airborne Wind Energy Systems (AWESs). This new generation of systems employs flying tethered wings or aircraft in order to reach winds blowing at atmosphere layers that are inaccessible by traditional wind turbines. Research on AWESs started in the mid seventies, with a rapid acceleration in the last decade. A number of systems based on radically different concepts have been analyzed and tested. Several prototypes have been developed all over the world and the results from early experiments are becoming available. This paper provides a review of the different technologies that have been conceived to harvest the energy of high-altitude winds, specifically including prototypes developed by universities and companies. A classification of such systems is proposed on the basis of their general layout and architecture. The focus is set on the hardware architecture of systems that have been demonstrated and tested in real scenarios. Promising solutions that are likely to be implemented in the close future are also considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the feasibility and cost benefit analysis of wind and photovoltaic power systems connected to a conventional grid. The main interest in such systems is on-site consumption of the produced energy, system hybridization, pooling of resources and contribution to the environment protection. To ensure a better management of system energy, models have been developed for determining the power that the constituting subsystems can deliver under specific weather conditions. Simulation is performed using MATLAB-SIMULINK, while the economic and environmental study is performed using HOMER software. Results show that from the analyzed solutions for this case, for 24% of the renewable energy fraction, the set of PV(3 MW) and wind (1.98 MW) is the best one, since it presents the least cost of energy, the smallest initial capital and the highest Net Present Cost. The sensitivity analysis derive that these results are obtained if the grid electricity price is equal to $3/kW h. From an economic point of view, this study shows that the renewable energy will not be immediately economically viable, even with generous feed-in tariff schemes. In these cases, it is preferable that the grid operator himself makes the investments in the renewable production. To improve the system energy performance, the options should not be focused on the production of renewable electricity, but rather on energy efficiency measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The depletion of fossil fuels and climate change pose huge challenges to sustainable development. How to meet the increasing energy demands in an efficient and environmentally friendly manner has become the focus of attention all around the world. The hybrid combined cooling, heating and power (CCHP) systems that combine fuel powered CCHP systems with high energy efficiency and renewable energy technologies with zero emissions are attractive. Hence, this paper reviews various studies on such systems. Firstly, the possible integration forms of available technologies are summarized, which include combined heating and power systems, waste heat recovery systems, solar energy systems, geothermal energy systems, wind energy systems as well as energy storage systems. Secondly, the different application scenarios such as neighborhood level, district level and city level are summed up. The primary concern at the neighborhood level is whether the allocation of benefits needs to be considered. The core of the district level is how to properly decompose the district into multiple sub-districts. Research on the city level is to provide valuable guidance for the harmonious development of the city. Finally, on the basis of the above review, several perspectives that require further efforts are put forward. • The possible integration methods of available energy technologies are investigated. • The application scenarios of distributed energy systems are detailed in three levels. • Several potential perspectives are proposed based on the current studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Renewable energy (RE) trade disputes have been rising in response to certain green industrial policies, i.e., policy mechanisms used to develop domestic RE industries and accrue associated local economic benefits. Since 2011, countries have been increasingly filing trade litigations to counter the use of green industrial policies by their trading partners so that they can expand RE industry competitiveness and the associated manufacturing jobs within their own countries. However, in the absence of systematic studies on the impacts of RE trade duties, evidence regarding their success in achieving these economic goals remains limited. In this paper, the effectiveness of RE trade duties in supporting employment, especially in manufacturing, is assessed. First, the literature on the motivations behind RE trade duties is reviewed, and then the case of trade duties imposed by the US on the imports of solar and wind energy components from China between 2011 and 2019 is examined. Although several factors may drive employment, no evidence is found for the increase in jobs in solar and wind manufacturing in the years after the trade duties were imposed. Meanwhile, downstream jobs in installation, operation and maintenance continued to grow, corresponding to increases in annual installation of solar and wind capacity in the US. These were driven by policy incentives and the declining costs of solar and wind technologies. Overall, this case study highlights the broader implication that trade duties alone are unlikely to promote local manufacturing industries, and countries would benefit from other well-designed policies. • Renewable energy (RE) related trade disputes rising but studies examining effectiveness of trade duties limited. • Literature on the goals behind trade duties on RE components reviewed. • A framework developed to assess the relationship between RE trade duties and manufacturing employment. • Framework applied to examine the case of trade duties by the US on the imports of solar and wind energy components from China. • Trade duties not effective to develop local RE industries; other well-designed policies needed to increase local RE manufacturing jobs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, wind energy utilization has become increasingly attractive on economic grounds. Wind turbines for electricity generation employ a proven technology, supply energy on a reliable and sustainable basis, and at good, windy sites may even be competitive with conventional sources of energy. In this paper, the statistical results are reported of an investigation of the potential of wind energy as a power source for the Iranian northwestern cities of Tabriz and Ardabil. A number of different methods were explored as well. In this study, the Weibull probability distribution function is employed using mean meteorological wind data measured at three-hour intervals. These data have been measured at a height of 10 m above ground level and gathered over a six-year period. Furthermore, the hourly, diurnal, seasonal, monthly, and annual wind speed variations are analyzed and the economics of the wind turbines is evaluated. The yearly values of the Weibull shape parameter vary from 1.81 to 2.13 m/s with a mean of 1.99 m/s for Tabriz and from 2.62 to 2.98 m/s with a mean of 2.86 m/s for Ardabil. Also, yearly values of the Weibull scale parameter vary from 3.35 to 4.45 m/s with a mean of 4.18 m/s for Tabriz and from 3.68 to 4.55 m/s with a mean of 4.16 m/s for Ardabil. The results show that the highest wind power potential occurs during months of August and July in Tabriz and during months of October and September in Ardabil. The results indicate that the monthly mean price of electricity generated from the 25 kW wind turbine in Tabriz and Ardabil, for most of the months of the year, are less than or approximately equivalent to the current purchase tariff of renewable energy in Iran. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Integrating variable and non-dispatchable renewable power generation into existing power systems will have consequences for their operation and future expansion. These impacts will depend on two factors: (1) the variability of the total renewable power generation on different time scales and (2) the possibilities of accurately forecasting these fluctuations. In this paper, previous research on variability assessment and forecasting of solar, wind, wave and tidal energy resources is reviewed. The aim is to summarize the state of knowledge in each area and to compare the approaches used for the respective resources. For temporal variability, methods and models used for assessing the variability are surveyed, as well as what is known about the variability at individual sites and for larger aggregates of sites. For forecasting, an overview of forecasting methods for the different resources is made, and selected forecasting methods are compared over different time horizons. An important finding is that it is hard to draw strong conclusions from the existing studies due to differences in approaches and presentation of results. There is a need for further, more coherent studies that analyze the variability for the different resources in comparable ways, using data with the same resolution, and for studies that evaluate the smoothing effect and complementarity of combinations of several renewable energy resources. For forecasting, future research should suggest ways to evaluate forecasts from different renewable energy sources in easily comparable ways, using data from the same locations or regions, with the same temporal and spatial resolution, and with comparable metrics for the forecasting errors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent time, the concern for grid integration of wind power has been a subject of discussion in the academic community. At present, the penetration level is still moderate for most grids to accommodate. As the penetration level increases, wind power may cause additional problems to the grid due to its intermittent nature. One of the intending solutions to this problem is the adoption of energy storage. This paper examines the state of the art energy storage technology options that are capable of mitigating wind power intermittency on the grid and their challenges. It also highlighted the existing policies that aided the development of wind power and discusses the limitations of its integration into the grid. It was found that, the ability of storage technology to be effectively utilised in mitigating the wind power intermittency depends on the ramp rate of the technology, response delay time, duration of storage, maturity of technology, installation cost, efficiency of the technology, its environmental impact and the suitability of the site topology. Therefore, no single storage technology is capable of providing total solution at mitigating the effect of wind power intermittency on the grid. The effectiveness of the storage technology lies in the hybridization of the storage technologies depending on the level of cost and technical requirements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Uneconomical extension of the grid has led to generation of electric power at the end user facility and has been proved to be cost effective and to an extent efficient. With augmented significance on eco-friendly technologies the use of renewable energy sources such as micro-hydro, wind, solar, biomass and biogas is being explored. This paper presents an extensive review on various issues related to Integrated Renewable Energy System (IRES) based power generation. Issues related to integration configurations, storage options, sizing methodologies and system control for energy flow management are discussed in detail. For stand-alone applications integration of renewable energy sources, performed through DC coupled, AC coupled or hybrid DC-AC coupled configurations, are studied in detail. Based on the requirement of storage duration in isolated areas, storage technology options can be selected for integrated systems. Uncertainties involved in designing an effective IRES based power generation system for isolated areas is accounted due to highly dynamic nature of availability of sources and the demand at site. Different methodologies adopted and reported in literature for sizing of the system components are presented. Distributed control, centralized and hybrid control schemes for energy flow management in IRES have also been discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents two different scenarios for the energy system of the Netherlands that achieve the Dutch government's national target of near net-zero greenhouse gas emissions in 2050. Using the system optimisation model OPERA, the authors have analysed the technology, sector and cost implications of the assumptions underlying these scenarios. While the roles of a number of key energy technology and emission mitigation options are strongly dependent on the scenario and cost assumptions, the analysis yields several common elements that appear in both scenarios and that consistently appear under differing cost assumptions. For example, one of the main options for the decarbonisation of the Dutch energy system is electrification of energy use in end-use sectors and for the production of renewable hydrogen with electrolysers. As a result the level of electricity generation in 2050 will be three to four times higher than present generation levels. Ultimately, renewable energy – particularly from wind turbines and solar panels – is projected to account for the vast majority of electricity generation, around 99% in 2050. Imbalances between supply and demand resulting from this variable renewable electricity production can be managed via flexibility options, including demand response and energy storage. Hydrogen also becomes an important energy carrier, notably for transportation and in industry. If import prices are lower than costs of domestic production from natural gas with CCS or through electrolysis from renewable electricity (2.4–2.7 €/kgH 2), the use of hydrogen increases, especially in the built environment. • We explore two scenarios for a near climate-neutral energy system in the Netherlands. • With the OPERA model we determine their technology, sector and cost implications. • The electricity share in primary energy increases from 19% today to 41–71% in 2050. • Hydrogen becomes another important energy carrier, notably in transport and industry. • Biomass use increases, mostly as fuel in transport and industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Environmental and socioeconomic challenges facing many hydrocarbon-rich nations could help them evolve from hydrocarbon-based (black) into renewables-based (green) economies. In this paper, we present a case study for application of this Black Into Green (BIG) method for Iran. We show that with international cooperation Iran could indefinitely meet its energy and freshwater needs by leveraging large-scale renewable energy harvesting systems integrated with seawater pumped storage hydropower, reverse osmosis desalination, and enhanced distribution systems. This BIG transition could be facilitated by allocating a significant portion of Iran's potential hydrocarbon-based income to acquire, develop, and deploy renewable energy technology that utilizes Iran's immense solar and wind energy potential. Our analysis shows that developing just 1% of identified sites would provide over 30 TWh of annual renewable electricity generation and storage, and 221 million m 3 /day of renewably-powered desalination capacity to meet the freshwater needs of over 85% of its population. In addition to providing renewable energy design and manufacturing technology, the international community could also work with Iran to help evolve its nuclear power program toward small modular reactors for baseload power generation. Such an arrangement would contribute to regional and global security, and greatly reduce the Middle East's carbon emissions of which Iran is the largest emitter. Results from this holistic approach could then serve as a model for the world economy to work with other resource-rich nations to reduce their environmental impact while modernizing their economies and helping them achieve the socioeconomic goals outlined in the UN's Brundtland report. • Presents strategy for a sustainable economy to emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic. • Case study for Iran with oil (black) exchanged for renewables (green). • Wind and solar energy with coastal pumped storage hydro and reverse osmosis. • 1% of viable sites could supply Iran with 10% of power and 45% of freshwater needs. • Distributed economic and environmental benefits meet UN sustainable development goals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Installed capacities of wind and solar power have grown rapidly over recent years, and the pool of literature on very short-term (minutes- to hours-ahead) wind and solar forecasting has grown in line with this. This paper reviews established and emerging approaches to provide an up-to-date view of the field. Knowledge transfer between wind and solar forecasting has benefited the field and is discussed, and new opportunities are identified, particularly regarding use of remote sensing technology. Forecasting methodologies and study design are compared and recommendations for high quality, reproducible results are presented. In particular, the choice of suitable benchmarks and use of sufficiently long datasets is highlighted. A case study of three distinct approaches to probabilistic wind power forecasting is presented using an open dataset. The case study provides an example of exemplary forecast evaluation, and open source code allows for its reproduction and use in future work. • Research in minutes- to hours-ahead wind and solar power forecasting is reviewed. • Knowledge transfer between wind and solar continues to benefit both fields. • An open-source case study of three distinct methods is presented. • Best practice in forecast evaluation is set out in the case study. • Common areas for improvement in research quality are identified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Compressed air energy storage (CAES) is an established and evolving technology for providing large-scale, long-term electricity storage that can aid electrical power systems achieve the goal of decarbonisation. CAES facilities often utilise large underground storage caverns to ensure high capacity systems. This results in the need of locations with suitable geological features to develop a CAES plant. This paper examines recent and ongoing large-scale CAES projects and presents candidate methods of storing high pressure air using underground features. An assessment of the overall potential for CAES in India is presented by examining its geological features and locations with the greatest potential for CAES plants are determined. This is combined with an analysis of the renewable electricity generation potential in India to identify candidate areas for renewable generation and CAES integrated systems. Up to 1.05% of Indian land area is deemed suitable for CAES plant development and if fully utilised would be sufficient to meet the energy storage needs of India, however, practically a very small fraction of the total suitable land that could be developed so other competing energy storage technologies should be considered. Conversely, the UK possesses a very good potential for CAES, enough to greatly exceed necessary energy storage, owing to the abundance of salt beds not present in India. For CAES to garner serious consideration in India, aquifer storage based CAES needs to be demonstrated. • A comparative assessment of the Indian and UK potential for CAES. • Methodology for linking CAES suitable regions and renewable electricity generation. • Comprehensive review of all major large-scale CAES projects. • Economic and geographic problems have led to the failure of many CAES projects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper represents an expert view from Europe of future emerging technologies within the wind energy sector considering their potential, challenges, applications and technology readiness and how they might evolve in the coming years. These technologies were identified as originating primarily from the academic sector, some start-up companies and a few larger industrial entities. The following areas were considered: airborne wind energy, offshore floating concepts, smart rotors, wind-induced energy harvesting devices, blade tip-mounted rotors, unconventional power transmission systems, multi-rotor turbines, alternative support structures, modular high voltage direct current generators, innovative blade manufacturing techniques, diffuser-augmented turbines and small turbine technologies. The future role of advanced multiscale modelling and data availability is also considered. This expert review has highlighted that more research will be required to realise many of these emerging technologies. However, there is a need to identify synergies between fundamental and industrial research by correctly targeting public and private funding in these emerging technology areas as industrial development may outpace more fundamental research faster than anticipated. • A set of emerging technologies in the wind power sector was identified and studied. • For each technology, an analysis of the main advantages and challenges was made. • Potential for scaling each technology was identified. • Technology Readiness Levels and their development trends were assessed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]