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This paper is the editorial for the virtual special issue (VSI) of Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews (RSER) dedicated to three Sustainable Development of Energy Water and Environment Systems (SDEWES) Conferences held in 2022, namely: (i) the 5th South East European Conference SEESDEWES 2022 held from May 22 to 26, 2022 in Vlore, Albania; (ii) the 3rd Latin American LASDEWES 2022 held from July 24 to 28, 2022 in Sao Paulo, Brazil and (iii) the 17th SDEWES 2022 held from November 6 to 10, 2022 in Paphos, Cyprus. The VSI collected both high quality review papers and original research articles presented at these conferences, aligning with the aims and scope of RSER. Following a rigorous peer review process, seventeen articles were accepted and published. These articles explore techniques and technologies essential for advancing feasible Renewable and Sustainable Energy Systems. Spanning multidisciplinary topics, many of them address almost all the Sustainable Development Goals, offering feasible solutions for much-needed decarbonization pathways. • The VSI SDEWES 2022 presents the ready solutions for Renewable and Sustainable Energy Systems. • Five clusters for presenting the Renewable and Sustainable energy cutting edge solutions. • The positioning in the scientific context of the Renewable and Sustainable Energy Systems. • Feasible solutions for much-needed decarbonization pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rapid growth in population and economic development in Iran and its neighboring countries has resulted in a dramatic increase in electricity demand over the past few years. A substantial amount of electricity must be produced to meet this growing demand in this region. By installing conventional fossil power plants, using renewable energy, and interconnecting with neighboring countries, this growing demand can be accomplished. The main aim of this research is to identify prospects and challenges in the electrical sector around Iran. To this end, this paper evaluates the existing and future state of the electrical sector in Iran and its neighboring countries. Despite the fact that there is still a long way to go in terms of renewable energy in this region, there are some promising targets for the future that will allow fossil fuels to be replaced effectively. Notwithstanding this, we should point out that a number of cross-border interconnection projects are being pursued by Iran and its neighbors in order to integrate their networks and supply this growing demand. Finally, this study presents an overview of the future prospects and challenges of electricity capacity expansion, cross-border interconnections, and electricity transmission corridors in this region. The review results provide comprehensive background knowledge to all the researchers in order to investigate further into the field. This paper assists energy policy makers regarding the development of sustainable energy planning. • •In addition to providing a general overview of the geographical location, population growth, and economic indicators of Iran and its neighboring countries, this paper presents the current state of the Iranian electricity sector and its neighboring countries in light of the trends in electricity production, energy mix, price, and exports and imports. • •This paper explores the existing and future states of electricity capacity expansion in the region, specifically focusing on renewable energy sources. • •The existing and future states of cross-border electricity interconnections are examined to present a comprehensive overview of the cross-border interconnections in this region. • •This region's potential electricity transmission corridors are proposed to create the opportunity to transmit electricity across countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Energy transformation and consumption improvements have enhanced the planning and utilization of various energy sources. With the rapid expansion of integrated energy systems (IES), integrated demand response (IDR) can contribute to the response by suppressing demand and facilitating the conversion and storage of multiple energy sources, thereby enabling users to participate more freely in network regulation. The article introduces novel concept of IDR, hierarchical interaction structure, and adaptable response resources. It categorizes IDR into four response modes based on load reduction and transfer, load substitution and conversion, contractual agreements, and market interaction control, considering the level of response mode and the initiative/passivity of users. Additionally, it details the modeling process for these four types of IDR. Finally, the paper explores significant technological constraints and future development opportunities for IDR, focusing on intelligent deployment, accurate modeling, market management, intelligent information technology, flexible demand resources, and summarized the risks and challenges in the implementation of IDR. The development of IDR contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). • Introduced the core concept of IDR, interaction structure and response resources. • Classified IDR into response four modes and analyses the modeling process. • Analyzed the bottlenecks, key technologies with implementation of IDR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The phenomenon of polycrisis poses a significant and pressing challenge to the global community in the present era. The issues show diverse origins, consequences, and remedies, yet possess the capacity to profoundly disrupt the lives of countless individuals globally. The objectives of this study are to identify the factors, impact, and responses related to the occurrence of polycrisis in the housing market globally, with the goal to increase awareness among housing market regulators and participants who have been directly impacted by polycrisis and to ensure preparedness for future crises. A qualitative research method was employed in this study, where a desktop study was conducted to fulfil the research objectives. The qualitative data was then subjected to a thematic analysis. To address polycrisis effectively, a thorough strategy is necessary, considering historical occurrences, present conditions, and future potentialities. Therefore, this paper holds significant value for governments, businesses, and individuals looking to reduce their environmental footprint and effectively handle the consequences of economic, political, and social upheavals. The study is in line with both local and global goals, including the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 8, 11, and 13. [Display omitted] • The pressing global polycrisis necessitates remedies for its diverse consequences. • The study examined how the housing market worldwide is affected by and responds to polycrisis. • These crises underscored the importance of addressing consequences effectively. • This study provided valuable ways to mitigate consequences in economics, politics, and society. [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]

Existing pieces of literature on previous studies advocate the research focus by various researchers to reach the benchmark of energy efficiency of Wastewater Treatment Plants (WWTPs). The driving factors to improve the energy efficiency and mitigate the energy self-sufficiency of WWTP have been identified as the increase in population growth, rising energy costs, and tightening effluent discharge requirements. WWTP economy is directly related to energy consumption and thus affects smart grid economy. There has been limited research on energy self-sufficiency and optimizing the energy demand and cost of WWTP, where the significant contributing factors are in development an optimal pumping system and advanced motor technologies. Moreover, high quality WWTP's effluent depends on the concentration level of biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) and total kjedhal nitrogen (TKN). Even so, WWTPs are always subject to evident nonlinearities and uncertainties, making it difficult to define proper optimization objectives. Besides, controllers and control systems have a strong influence on the performance of the plants. Therefore, existing research gaps to achieve optimal efficiency with minimized energy consumption and costs are the design of the WWTP plant, pumping system, motors, selection of suitable controllers and control systems, and their parameter optimizations to get the optimal output from the plant, switching techniques, challenges and uncertainties associated with plant are highlighted in this paper. Thus, as a novel contribution to the literature, this study aims to review and analyze the history, current issues, and future directions of WWTP control technologies in the context of sustainable development. The rigorous study by the authors in this paper will definitely lead the academic researchers and industry partners toward the development of optimal WWTP technologies with improved efficiency and minimized energy consumption and costs. • Effective control techniques and monitoring of the wastewater treatment plant. • Optimal energy-efficient WWTPs with renewable sources and the utility grid. • Uncertainties of WWTP can be considered for improved operation. • Effective policies should be imposed by combining academics and industry. • Reduced energy consumption and cost can be achieved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High-value utilization of plant resources is crucial for achieving carbon neutrality and complete carbon transformation. Significant progress has already been made in the comprehensive utilization of plant resources through pretreatment methods, particularly the deep eutectic solvent (DES) method for the pretreatment of plant fibers. This method enables sustainable development of lignocellulose deconstruction and high-value utilization. This paper provided a review of the composition, classification, and properties of different types of DES. It also investigated the effects of stoichiometric ratio, temperature, time, microwave, ultrasonic, hydrothermal, and emulsification on lignocellulose deconstruction using the DES. Additionally, the study explored the use and prospects of lignocellulosic fractions in lignin extraction, enzymatic saccharification, and high-value cellulose production using functional DES systems. The evaluation of the DES functionality is conducted through quantum chemistry, molecular simulation calculations, and the DES recycling effects (optimum 10 cycles). The mechanism of DES in lignocellulosic extraction is elucidated, and the prospects for sustainable development are outlined. • DES is capable of deconstructing lignocellulose to achieve high-value plant resources. • The progress of the functional and specific application of DES for lignocellulosic pretreatment has been discussed. • Summary of the evaluation system for the DES functional system and method for the DES pretreated lignocellulose. • Prospects for the future development of the DES system in the field of plant resource extraction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Virtual power plants possess the capability to effectively manage the inherent conflict between dispersed electricity generation and user demand, hence optimising market advantages. Nevertheless, the presence of severe weather conditions, geopolitical factors, the phenomenon of global warming, and several other global concerns greatly enhance the level of uncertainty related to the establishment of sustainable energy sources and the corresponding demand from users. Consequently, these factors expose the limitations of virtual power plants in effectively controlling power supply. The active involvement of community members has the potential to invigorate the process of development. This study presents a novel model, referred to as the CE-based cVPP (CE-cVPP) model, that combines the principles of circular economy (CE) and community-based virtual power plant (cVPP). The objective of this model is to enhance the effectiveness of sustainable development efforts. This research redefines the concept of a CE-cVPP, elucidates its defining features, scopes, and classification, and constructs a technological framework, together with an explanatory community case structure. The CE-cVPP energy life cycle framework is constructed based on the principles of the circular economy paradigm. This study investigates the enduring and sustainable benefits of the CE-cVPP across four dimensions: energy, environment, economics, and society. In conclusion, this paper provides a comprehensive examination of the energy, digital, and circular economy perspectives, encompassing critical analysis, problems, prospective analysis, and future directions. • Circular economy and community-based Virtual Power Plant (CE-cVPP) is a paradigm for the future energy sector. • CE-cVPP is a novel sustainable pattern that combines circular economy and community virtual power plants. • CE-cVPP features renewable energy, electricity, gas, cold, heat, and biodegradable waste. • CE-cVPP promotes economic, social, and ecological sustainability. • CE-cVPPs enhance the power and energy system's adaptability, versatility, and stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biobased products are complete or partial derivatives from naturally occurring/growing materials such as agricultural, plants, and forest materials and serve as an alternative to traditional product derivatives of petroleum. Technically, biobased product counterparts can replace almost every fossil resource-based industrial material. Adopting life cycle analysis and circular economy concepts has also accelerated the move towards biobased products. It meets the criteria for easy recycling and can facilitate the shift from linear fossil-based productions to a greener circular economy. In line with the Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews (RSER) policy, this Virtual Special Issue (VSI) published two types of articles, high-quality review papers and original research papers with a strong review component. After a rigorous peer-review process, 32 articles were accepted and published in this VSI. This editorial overview these articles and examines their contribution to the field. This RSER VSI has contributed with new insights on value-added biobased products from various bioresources to their applications, technical challenges and advancement in a sustainable manner. • VSI is focused on the recent development of biobased biorefineries. • Greener technologies offering biobased products. • Sustainable bioprocesses and bioproducts development from bioresources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solar energy offers over 2,945,926 TWh/year of global Concentrating Solar Power (CSP) potential, that can be used to substitute fossil fuels in power generation and mitigate 2.1 GtCO 2 of greenhouse gas (GHG) emission to support Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) set by the United Nations (UN). Thermal energy storage (TES) is required in CSP plants to improve dispatchability, reliability, efficiency, and economy. Of all TES options, the latent heat thermal energy storage (LHTES) together with phase change materials (PCMs) exhibit the highest potential in terms of efficiency and economy. PCM properties thus become the ultimate decider of CSP performance. This paper reviews over 200 of published articles and websites to describe the history, identify the technologies, economics, and current trends of PCM as LHTES material for CSP plants. A list of 163 PCM candidates suitable for LHTES systems in low-temperature (T < 220 °C), medium-temperature (220 °C < T < 420 °C), and high-temperature (T > 420 °C) applications is presented for the first time. Research gaps are identified to determine the future directions. • CSP shows remarkable potential in global electricity generation. • Intermittency of solar has made the requirement of a TES for CSP system. • We evaluate the advantages of LHTES for storing thermal energy. • LHTES shows 5–14 times the energy density of SHTES allowing for more compact storage and lower inventory requirements. • Selection of a compatible PCM is crucial for operating the LHTES at desired performance level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Before the COVID pandemic, oil and gas companies invested only a small fraction of their capital on sustainable energy technologies. With the substantial improvement in the performance of batteries and their rapid cost reduction, the oil and gas industry could potentially lose a large share of their market in the transport sector. A similar shift in energy sources is happening with the surge in renewable energy sources to supply electricity, heating and cooling. In an ever more sustainable future, the need for an oil and gas industry could reduce significantly. This paper reviews the possible paths that an oil and gas company could follow to become a sustainable development corporation and continue to be relevant in the future. This paper aims to describe alternative sustainable pathways such as the extraction of natural hydrogen, a hydrogen economy, offshore wind power, deep sea mining, biorefineries, seawater air-conditioning, geothermal and geoengineering. This paper also proposes the use of electrolysis ships for the flexible production of green hydrogen and showed that its investment cost can be three times smaller than in fixed electrolysis plants. The oil and gas industry has substantial intellectual, financial capital and geopolitical influence that would not be lost during a shift to a more sustainable world. Indeed, these assets should be used to facilitate the transition to a more sustainable future. • Hydrogen is a good alternative for sustainable development in O&G companies. • Natural hydrogen is a good alternative to the upstream O&G companies. • Benefits of electrolysis ships to produce green hydrogen. • Case study to produce green hydrogen in Brazil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Improving energy performance has been recognized as an effective measure to promote the energy saving and emission reduction and to realize the sustainable development. Methods of improving energy performance towards sustainable manufacturing are numerous and scattered, resulting in insufficiency from the perspective of overall strategies and system integration. After the intensive selection of advanced literatures, about 166 research papers directly related to energy performance improvement are analyzed. A comprehensive review and analysis from multi-perspectives of energy monitoring, evaluation, optimization and benchmarking are performed, which is conducive to understand the energy consumption pattern and take effective energy-saving measures. This paper establishes a framework of energy performance integrated method, and four energy management methods and their energy models in energy monitoring, evaluation, optimization and benchmarking phase are analyzed and summarized. Besides, the proposed framework analyzes potential applications and key advantages, and some challenges and potential opportunities for energy performance improvement methods are discussed. This study will provide a significant foundation for energy-efficient production through various methods application. • Performing a review on methods of improving energy performance. • Constructing a framework of methods of improving energy performance. • Summarizing advances in energy monitoring, evaluation, optimization and benchmarking. • Discussing challenges and opportunities of improving energy performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to provide "affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all" by 2030 under Sustainable Development Goal 7 (SDG7), rural electrification needs significant progress as the majority of people without access to electricity reside in rural areas. Optimization methods can play a critical role in this progress, providing an analytical framework to achieve a variety of economic, social, and environmental objectives subject to budget, resources, local demographics and other constraints. This review paper presents the first overview of optimization-based solution methodologies developed or applied for rural electrification. Based on our review, we first propose four archetype problems for rural electrification, namely (i) optimal system configuration and unit sizing, (ii) optimal power dispatch strategy, (iii) optimal technology choice, and (iv) optimal network design. We discuss each problem type, and provide a systematic classification based on the problem objective, proposed solution methodology, components, scale, region as well as their relationship to the different SDG7 components. We reveal research gaps and open questions for future studies for energy researchers and aim to draw the attention of the optimization community to the challenging and unique problems that need urgent attention in this critical area. • Majority of the people without access to electricity reside in rural areas. • Optimization methods can play a critical role in rural electrification. • We review optimization-based solution methodologies for rural electrification. • We provide a novel and systematic classification of the reviewed papers. • We reveal research gaps and open questions for future studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This virtual special issue published in Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews contains 25 high-quality selected extended papers presented at the HERAKLION 2019 7th International Conference on Sustainable Solid Waste Management held in Heraklion, Crete in Greece from 26th to June 29, 2019. The articles published in this special issue focus on recent developments in sustainable waste-to-energy systems and waste management practices and highlight the critical challenges and potential solutions. The editorial paper aims to give a brief overview of the key findings and future perspectives proposed in these 25 selected papers. It is worth noting that although the articles presented in this special issue covered a wider range of topics, they are categorized into five categories. These include the latest developments in 1) waste-to-energy technologies, 2) biofuels and bioenergy, 3) waste valorization, 4) emerging renewable and sustainable energy systems, and finally, 5) biorefineries and circular economy. • Twenty five high quality peer-reviewed papers were selected from HERAKLION 2019 Conference. • The mian theme of sustainable waste-to-energy systems catogorised into five topics. • It will support advancement of waste-to-energy technologies and circular economy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Net-zero emission and self-sustaining carbon-neutral have been widely encouraged and intensively explored in wastewater treatment, as the wastewater industry accounts for approximately 1.6% of global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. However, how to achieve net-zero GHG emission in wastewater treatment from a biological standpoint is still lacking. In this paper, the status of GHG (i.e. nitrous oxide (N 2 O), methane (CH 4) and carbon dioxide (CO 2)) production and emission in wastewater treatment was comprehensively reviewed. Generally, N 2 O emission contributes the majority of the total GHG emissions from wastewater treatment, and the dissolved N 2 O and CH 4 in the effluent should be paid more attention for the further GHG mitigation. Based on the newly identified microbial communities capable of nitrogen removal with less GHG emissions, several alternative integration systems for GHG mitigation were discussed. Coupling denitrifying anaerobic methane oxidation with anammox process shows high nitrogen removal performance and low GHG emissions, which is regarded as a more promising integration system for GHG mitigation. Moreover, the novel strategies to manage N 2 O and CH 4 as energy sources were also demonstrated, aiming to offset certain carbon footprint in wastewater treatment and thus attain net-zero GHG emission. In addition, future challenges and perspectives of above integration systems and strategies were discussed to facilitate the development of environmentally sustainable wastewater treatment. Finally, a prospective hybrid system integrating emission reduction and energy recovery was proposed as an example for achieving net-zero GHG emission from wastewater treatment. [Display omitted] • Status on GHG production and emission in each treatment unit is quantified. • Autotrophic microorganisms play important roles in mitigating GHG emission. • CH 4 is more feasible than N 2 O for energy recovery from mainstream wastewater. • Net-zero GHG emission integrates both emission reduction and energy recovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Energy Internet (EI) envisions a future energy system with sustainable concerns of efficiency, economy and environment by achieving flexibility of multi-energy-integrated physical space, digitalization of data-driven cyber space and interaction of customer-aware social space. To systemically understand how EI manages energy, data and information flows, a comprehensive investigation from multi-angle perspectives is presented in this paper. The core building blocks are categorized into three-layered framework: energy-oriented network, communication-oriented network and service-oriented management. Furthermore, this paper provides a multi-disciplinary portrait of today's EI in terms of architecture, technologies, standards, services and platforms. Finally, open issues, future trends and challenges for development of sustainable EI are discussed. • Investigation of Energy Internet from the energy-oriented, communication-oriented and service-oriented perspectives. • Concepts, infrastructures and key technologies are reviewed and discussed in the energy-oriented network. • Architectures, protocols and key technologies are reviewed and discussed in communication-oriented network. • Services and platforms are reviewed and discussed in service-oriented management network. • Challenges and future trends for sustainable Energy Internet are discussed from cyber, physical and social space aspects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In previous years, much research has been carried out to specify eco-innovations determinants. In most studies, eco-innovation was analyzed at a general level. From the perspective of climate change and the aim of achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and the European Green Deal objectives, the issue of innovations that replace the share of fossil fuel energy with renewable energy sources in the European Union appears to be particularly important. Therefore, this paper has two purposes. First, using a systematic literature review, it examines the key factors driving decisions taken by European Union enterprises to create innovations with environmental benefits. Second, it estimates the impact of these factors on introducing innovations that replace the share of fossil fuel energy with renewable energy sources. Specifically, using the logistic regression model, it analyses microdata from thirteen European Union Member States collected during the 2014 Community Innovation Survey. The effects show that six out of seven drivers under assessment positively affect the introduction of innovations that replace fossil fuel energy with renewable energy sources. These are (1) the high cost of energy, water, or materials, (2) environmental regulations or taxes expected in the future, (3) existing environmental taxes, charges, or fees, (4) government grants, subsidies, or other financial incentives for environmental innovations, (5) current or expected market demand for environmental innovations, and (6) voluntary actions or initiatives for good environmental practice within a sector. • Innovations that replace fossil fuel energy depend on a few drivers. • The most important is the high cost of energy, water, or materials. • Existing environmental regulations have no effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Policymakers have increasingly voiced an ambition to combine the transition to a climate-neutral society with a "green" domestic industrial agenda. In recent years, innovation systems scholars have advanced the understanding of the evolution of industries around renewable energy technologies as well as the role of policy feedback (and indeed politics) surrounding the development of domestic green industrial development policies. To take a step towards combining these literature streams, the purpose of this paper is to investigate the role of policy mixes and policy feedback in the emergence of domestic green industries. This is achieved in the empirical case of biofuels in Sweden, and the findings show that policy feedback dynamics created difficulties in aligning the national policy mix with the technology and industrial developments in the country. The resulting political uncertainty predominantly hampered the scaling up of domestic production capacity, while R&D and import of biofuels instead could grow strong. Based on this empirical case, a process model is developed to explain the role of policy feedback in the development of domestic industries, thus demonstrating how the growth of domestic industries is driven by the interplay of policy effects and various feedback processes. The findings suggest that future research into the role of policies in "green" domestic industry growth should devote more attention to the dynamics driving the co-evolution of policy, technology and industry structures. • Policy Feedbacks influence the co-evolution of policy mix, technology and industry structure. • Policy feedback dynamics within innovation systems influence local industry growth. • Evolution of industrial policy affects local "green" industry growth. • Policy mix influences growth of "green" industry actors, while relative lack of actors to mobilize and produce feedbacks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endeavouring to promote sustainability and citizens' well-being, and attempting to avoid or at least mitigate catastrophic climate change; the European Union adopted in 2019 the "Green Deal" as a new growth strategy, to thus become the first climate-neutral continent by 2050. As an intermediate 2030 target, it set the goals of at least 40% net reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, an increase to 32% share for renewable energy, and 32.5% increase in energy efficiency. Reaching these targets was estimated to require investments of €260 billion/year till 2030, which is 1.94% of EU's annual gross domestic product in 2020. The aim of this paper is to introduce a perspective that attempts to analyse relationships between two exceptionally important and ambitious simultaneous goals of the Green Deal: to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, as well as the Sustainable Developments Goals, all based on the sustainability environmental, economic and social pillars. The study shows that the link between these two goals, including the cost-benefit effects for all citizens, should be made clearer. Without adequate understanding and monitoring of the consequences of each action, and quantitative indicators for the environmental, economic and social sustainability pillars, the attainment of the goals would be subject to high uncertainty. With ongoing global changes and problems within and surrounding the European Union, implementation of the Green Deal without the noted adjustments poses a potential risk to sustainable development and to the European Union unity. Transition to climate neutrality can be sustainable only if supported by conviction and accord. • The carbon neutrality - sustainable development link must be evidence-based. • The Green Deal focuses inadequately on social dimensions of SD. • Its high cost should be born without major risk to the SDGs. • Need for quantitative socio-economic targets, continuous monitoring and evaluation. • The proposed support mechanisms is unlikely to reach all vulnerable groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The realization of a near zero energy consumption building (NZEB) is one of the important goals to promote the sustainable development of green buildings. To achieve the goal of NZEB and to allow for factors such as building comfort, environmental protection and cost, an intelligent optimization framework that combines Building Information Modeling DesignBuilder(BIM-DB) and random forest-nondominated sorting genetic algorithm-III (RF-NSGA-III) is proposed to study the multiobjective optimization of NZEB performance. The data in this paper are simulated by BIM-DB through orthogonal experimental design. RF is used to establish the complex relationship between building design parameters and NZEB performance. After the accuracy of the model is verified by the goodness of fit (R2) and the root mean square error (RMSE), the obtained nonlinear mapping relationship is taken as the fitness function of NSGA-III, and the multiobjective Pareto optimal solution set is obtained by using the proposed RF-NSGA-III intelligent optimization framework. Taking a teaching building in Wuhan as an example, the effectiveness of this method is verified. The results show that (1) the RF prediction accuracy is good, the RMSE range for the performance of NZEB is 0.015–0.035, and the R2 range is 0.91–0.93. (2) After optimization, the energy-saving rate of the building body is 21.25%, which meets the near zero energy consumption standard. (3) The proposed RF-NSGA-III intelligent optimization framework can achieve multiobjective optimization, and the comprehensive optimization rate of five objectives is the best compared with three and four objectives. Accordingly, this intelligent method that combines BIM-DB and RF-NSGA-III provides an effective idea for the design optimization of NZEB. • BIM-DB can well realize the simulation of building performance parameters. • The RF model is an effective prediction model. • RF- NSGA-III provides an effective method for multiobjective optimization. • A NZEB parameter optimization framework based on machine learning is proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increased environmental concern over climate change due to higher oil usage has made human being to shift to cleaner and greener alternatives. The utilization of abundant agricultural waste streams as renewable feedstock for biofuels production can be a pivotal strategy. Among others, rice is one of the most largely grown crops, and more than 4.8% of the total production goes to waste. Although previous reviews are related to biofuels obtained from some rice waste, most of those are focused on lignocellulosic rice residues with much attention to thermo-chemical processes. The present paper, instead, reviews for the first time the biotechnological approaches to convert all rice wastes, like rice husk, rice straw, broken rice, discolored rice, unripe rice, into liquid (bioethanol, biobutanol, biodiesel), and gaseous (biogas, biohydrogen) biofuels through the use of pure or mixed microbial cultures. The global availability of each rice byproduct has been also investigated and the potential of rice waste as a 'fuel farm' has been estimated for bioethanol. The physical, chemical, enzymatic, or microbial pretreatments, which play a key role in making carbon available for hydrolysis and fermentation, are here discussed and evaluated. Despite the great promise of technologies so far developed, further research is still required for their up-scale and industrial commercialization. Moreover, future process integrations will open the landscape to biorefinery schemes where rice waste streams can be processed into biofuels and other added-value products, towards the full exploitation of the feedstocks and the economic and environmental sustainability of the overall process. [Display omitted] • Rice waste has the potential to produce many gigalitres of biofuels worldwide. • Selection of pretreatment is the key to obtain the highest biofuel production. • Different biotechnological approaches for biofuel production are elucidated. • Complete rice waste valorization using a biorefinery approach is underscored. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oil palm wastes (OPWs) are important biomass resources, and approximately 127 million tons of OPWs are generated from the oil palm industry annually in Malaysia. The scientific and reasonable utilization of OPWs is essential to economic and environmental sustainability in the country. Pyrolysis is a mature and revolutionary technology that can convert OPWs into biofuel. The conversion of OPWs into biofuel is in accordance with the national conditions of Malaysia and can simultaneously address the problems of fossil fuel shortage and environmental deterioration. Therefore, Malaysia is the most active country in the research of OPWs pyrolysis and has achieved fruitful results. Bio-oil produced from the catalytic co-pyrolysis of OPWs with hydrogen-rich materials exhibits remarkable fuel properties. Biochar generated from OPWs pyrolysis presents huge application potential as an absorbent, catalyst, soil conditioner, and carbon sequestration agent. Consequently, the paper provides a comprehensive review of OPWs pyrolysis and lays the foundation for the exploitation of OPWs resources. [Display omitted] • Malaysia is the most active country in the research of OPWs pyrolysis. • Effects of reactors and conditions on OPWs pyrolysis are detailed. • OPWs-based biochar exhibits great application potential in various fields. • Building a pyrolysis plant near the oil palm mill is a viable and economic method. • OPWs pyrolysis has great commercial potential and economic value in Malaysia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper presents an overview of existing urban sustainability rating tools for their possible application in historic urban environments, facing the debate between environmental sustainability and urban heritage conservation. This critical study focuses on Urban Green Rating Systems (UGRS) that make a transparent and systematic decision-making support tool for evaluating the sustainability in urban planning, combining environmental, economic, and social aspects. The research aims at comparing different UGRS approaches for cities and neighbourhood renovation, highlighting main themes, criteria, indicators, pros, and cons to balance heritage preservation and sustainable development. All the UGRS give high importance to environmental aspects while lower or no consideration is dedicated to heritage conservation. Thus, gaps in the methodological approaches to be addressed in the future have been identified, to serve as a guideline and reference for developing a comprehensive, international assessment system to bridge this knowledge and applicability gap. • Debate between environmental sustainability and urban heritage conservation. • Overview of existing protocols, tools and system for urban renovation assessment. • Critical analysis and comparison of heritage conservation in existing Urban Green Rating Systems (UGRS). • Themes, criteria, indicators, pros, and cons for balancing heritage preservation and sustainable development in UGRS. • Suggestions for a new URGS on sustainability evaluations of urban heritage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For stakeholders and decision makers within the bioeconomy, it is important that sustainability assessment methodologies be holistic, reliable, and accurate. Life cycle assessment (LCA) methodologies are well-known for their ability to avoid burden shifting by considering the impacts of a product, process, or system throughout the full life cycle. However, when it comes to assessing advanced multifunctional systems within the bioeconomy i.e. biorefineries, methodological challenges arise. Such issues are discussed at length in this review paper, which include the goal, scope, and allocation methods, land use considerations, handling of biogenic carbon and emissions, impacts assessed, simplification of feedstocks and processes, regionality, and future foreground and background systems. Furthermore, the review discusses challenges in capturing social and economic impacts with LCA methodologies, with social assessments lacking data and appropriate quantitative indicators and economic assessments lacking diversity in stakeholder and cost inclusivity. Finally, this review confirms the importance of temporal factors, regional differences, and integrating multidimensional approaches to sustainability analysis, highlighting developing LCA methodologies which successfully address these areas. Methodologies to address spatial considerations include exergetic LCIA, natural capital assessment, and integration of supply chain modelling, while methodologies to address dynamic variability include process modelling integration, system dynamics modelling integration, agent-based modelling integration, consequential LCA, prospective LCA, and dynamic LCIA. Finally, extended LCC, extended LCIA, and MCDA can address challenges identified in multidimensional sustainability integration. • Biorefineries are part of a circular bioeconomy but should be critically assessed. • LCA can be used but must overcome methodological challenges. • Main challenges involve consideration of space, time, and overall sustainability. • Spatial and temporal issues can be addressed through systems modelling integration. • Social and economic aspects can be integrated through LCSA methodologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Integrating increasing shares of weather-dependent renewable energies into energy systems while maintaining high levels of security of supply constitutes a challenge for system operators. The system integration of large shares of variable renewable energy generation requires an effective operation of electricity grids and efficient coordination among grid operators. Hence, the detailed modelling of grid operation has increasingly become important in recent years. Methods for modelling the operation of (extra) high-voltage grids are undergoing persistent enhancements in academia and industry. Existing approaches vary in data granularity and computational methods. Moreover, assumptions on technical details in grid models vary. The results are thus subject to differences in input data and modelling methods. The paper at hand aims to identify the most relevant differences that exist amongst grid simulation models and methods for studying congestion management in a European context. Differences are studied based on a comparison of grid simulation models from eight German energy modelling institutions. The effects of model parameterization and formulation on congestion management results are investigated based on three different case studies focusing on outage simulation, line constraint relaxation and the modelling of cross-border measures. Results indicate that data parametrization can have large impacts on model results with respect to congestion management volumes and the geographic distribution of the respective measures. The analysis also highlights the need to thoroughly calibrate key model parameters. The research findings will assist the grid modelling community and power system planners in simulating congestion management and increase the validity and explorative power of grid simulation models. • Various differences in model formulations for grid operation exist in academia. • Soft-constraints are widely used to detect data inconsistencies and infeasibilities. • Simplified outage simulations particularly impact congestion results in meshed grids. • Parametrization of cross-border measures largely affects congestion volumes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper presents the historical overview and the current state of the hydropower sector in Poland. The history of Polish hydropower sector reaches over 120 years of tradition. The first power plants on Polish territory were built at the end of the 19th century. The development of the hydropower sector in Poland was irregular due to the First and Second World War. Moreover, the economic crisis of the 1970s was another factor affecting the development of the hydropower sector. After the political system change in 1989, favourable conditions for the development of the hydropower sector were created. Furthermore, the development of the hydropower sector was significantly affected by Poland's accession to the European Union. Currently in Poland there are 771 run-of -river hydropower plants of which 761 are small hydropower plants with installed capacity amounts below 10 MW. The total power of run of the river hydropower plants is 937 MW. The largest installed capacity is in the pumped storage hydropower plants, whose total installed capacity is 1433 MW. Poland ranks far in Europe in terms of installed capacity and production of electricity by hydropower plants. In recent years, the development of large hydropower plants has stopped mainly due to environmental and economic reasons. However, there is a constantly growing interest in small hydropower plants. The analyses show that the role of hydropower in stabilizing the power generation system in Poland is important. The hydropower plants provide a perfect answer for the development of other, unstable renewable energy sources. • History of development and the current status of hydropower in Poland were presented. • The low hydropower potential of Poland is due to the country's natural conditions. • Poland has one of the lowest rates of installed and generated hydropower in Europe. • Construction of large hydropower plants have been halted by development of small ones. • Polish hydropower potential against other European countries is presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This Virtual Special Issue (VSI) contains some of the papers presented at the 23rd Conference of Process Integration, Modelling and Optimisation for Energy Saving and Pollution Reduction (PRES′20), which was virtually held in Xi'an, China on the 17 to 21 August 2020, related to the scope of Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews. The works are not limited to review articles; most of them have significant contributions to knowledge development for integration and optimisation for sustainable industrial processing within the circular economy. Topics covered in this VSI also includes studies on salt hydrate-based gas-solid thermochemical energy storage technology, hybrid battery optimisation, and energy recovery under thermal waste-to-energy. In addition, work on novel and effective passive cooling strategy for photovoltaic panels, integrated gasification combined cycle (IGCC) power generation systems, heat pumps optimisation in low-temperature waste heat recovery, utilisation of solar heating systems for low-temperature heat demand industries, and double reheat for thermal power generation are presented. The articles on the energy strategies towards the circular economy (CE) show the content of biomass supply chain optimisation, renewable energy system towards carbon emissions neutral, stable energy use strategies. Lastly, nexus thinking for sustainable development under COVID-19 assesses the energy and environmental performance of waste personal protective equipment treatment and the optimisation of the energy-water-waste nexus at the district level for regional sustainability. These achievements communicate the most significant and relevant critical thinking in renewable and sustainable energy research and development. • Virtual Special Issue PRES′20 Conference. • Integration and Optimisation for Sustainable Industrial Processing within the Circular Economy. • Salt hydrate-based gas-solid thermochemical energy storage, Hybrid battery, double reheat for thermal power generation. • Waste-to-energy, Passive cooling strategy for photovoltaic panels, integrated gasification combined cycle power generation systems. • Heat pumps optimisation in low-temperature waste heat recovery, solar systems for low-temperature heat demand industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper presents the historical overview and the current state of the hydropower sector in Poland. The history of Polish hydropower sector reaches over 120 years of tradition. The first power plants on Polish territory were built at the end of the 19th century. The development of the hydropower sector in Poland was irregular due to the First and Second World War. Moreover, the economic crisis of the 1970s was another factor affecting the development of the hydropower sector. After the political system change in 1989, favourable conditions for the development of the hydropower sector were created. Furthermore, the development of the hydropower sector was significantly affected by Poland's accession to the European Union. Currently in Poland there are 771 run-of -river hydropower plants of which 761 are small hydropower plants with installed capacity amounts below 10 MW. The total power of run of the river hydropower plants is 937 MW. The largest installed capacity is in the pumped storage hydropower plants, whose total installed capacity is 1433 MW. Poland ranks far in Europe in terms of installed capacity and production of electricity by hydropower plants. In recent years, the development of large hydropower plants has stopped mainly due to environmental and economic reasons. However, there is a constantly growing interest in small hydropower plants. The analyses show that the role of hydropower in stabilizing the power generation system in Poland is important. The hydropower plants provide a perfect answer for the development of other, unstable renewable energy sources. • History of development and the current status of hydropower in Poland were presented. • The low hydropower potential of Poland is due to the country's natural conditions. • Poland has one of the lowest rates of installed and generated hydropower in Europe. • Construction of large hydropower plants have been halted by development of small ones. • Polish hydropower potential against other European countries is presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This Virtual Special Issue (VSI) contains some of the papers presented at the 23rd Conference of Process Integration, Modelling and Optimisation for Energy Saving and Pollution Reduction (PRES′20), which was virtually held in Xi'an, China on the 17 to 21 August 2020, related to the scope of Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews. The works are not limited to review articles; most of them have significant contributions to knowledge development for integration and optimisation for sustainable industrial processing within the circular economy. Topics covered in this VSI also includes studies on salt hydrate-based gas-solid thermochemical energy storage technology, hybrid battery optimisation, and energy recovery under thermal waste-to-energy. In addition, work on novel and effective passive cooling strategy for photovoltaic panels, integrated gasification combined cycle (IGCC) power generation systems, heat pumps optimisation in low-temperature waste heat recovery, utilisation of solar heating systems for low-temperature heat demand industries, and double reheat for thermal power generation are presented. The articles on the energy strategies towards the circular economy (CE) show the content of biomass supply chain optimisation, renewable energy system towards carbon emissions neutral, stable energy use strategies. Lastly, nexus thinking for sustainable development under COVID-19 assesses the energy and environmental performance of waste personal protective equipment treatment and the optimisation of the energy-water-waste nexus at the district level for regional sustainability. These achievements communicate the most significant and relevant critical thinking in renewable and sustainable energy research and development. • Virtual Special Issue PRES′20 Conference. • Integration and Optimisation for Sustainable Industrial Processing within the Circular Economy. • Salt hydrate-based gas-solid thermochemical energy storage, Hybrid battery, double reheat for thermal power generation. • Waste-to-energy, Passive cooling strategy for photovoltaic panels, integrated gasification combined cycle power generation systems. • Heat pumps optimisation in low-temperature waste heat recovery, solar systems for low-temperature heat demand industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Access to reliable solar radiation data is of paramount importance for the sustainable development of mankind. However, solar radiation measurements are available in few meteorological stations, so models are used to estimate global solar radiation from other climate variables. This paper presents a compilation of 165 global solar radiation models that is representative of the progress over the last 100 years. The models were classified according to the type of variables used and a large majority of dimensionally non-homogeneous equations were identified. Furthermore, it was observed that comparisons between various models studied in different regions over recent decades were occasionally contradictory, so that no single existing model seems to have definitively outperformed the others. In this context, homogeneity analysis provides a procedure to improve the quality of models by reducing the presence of variables implicit in numerical coefficients, which deserves to be valued as a methodological tool. In addition, a previously introduced temperature-based homogeneous model was updated using recent experimental data and revising the functional form of the local geographic factor dependent on elevation and distance to the sea. Using site-calibrated coefficients, the modified model provides accurate results at 22 meteorological stations in northern Spain, located over a distance of about 1000 km. Using a general equation, acceptable predictions are obtained for the 21 stations with the highest climatic similarity. • Homogeneity analyses are performed on 165 radiation models for the first time. • Implicit variables in coefficients limit model validity for diverse climate zones. • Any solar radiation model based on a non-homogeneous equation can be improved. • A homogeneous temperature-based model is valid at Spanish stations 1000 km apart. [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]

The European industry sector is responsible for about one-third of the EU's total energy consumption and process-related Greenhouse Gas emissions, which makes it a central factor in the EU's climate and energy strategies. Energy cooperation, i.e., the mutualised generation, use and/or acquisition of energy by at least two companies, has the potential of significantly supporting the successful achievement of these strategies. This paper presents a concept for moving from a single-company sustainable energy intervention approach to cooperative sustainable energy solutions within the framework of industrial parks. Technical, economic, regulatory, organizational, and social barriers for energy-efficient park design and operation on all levels and instruments to overcome them have been systematically analysed, taking correlation of solutions, and park-specific requirements into account, thus providing a holistic workflow. First results show that technical and economic attractiveness, and an enabling legal and policy context, are not always enough. For promising energy cooperation solutions to flourish, cultural, organizational, social, and behavioural factors also play a significant role. Furthermore, findings show that external facilitators are helpful to pool efforts to achieve greater engagement. • Systematic assessment of barriers to energy cooperation and instruments to overcome them. • Highlighting the role of park managers as key facilitators of energy cooperation. • Assessment of feasibility studies based on key performance indicators. • Proposes a replicable strategy to identify energy cooperation opportunities at the industrial park level. • Integration of the findings in an easy-to-use decision-making tool. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Innovation and technology are seen today as key points in the transition to a greener and more sustainable economy. In this sense, the development of new processes able to result in reduced emissions and levels of CO 2 in the atmosphere has been considered essential to support this transition and, at the same time, promote economic growth. Several techno-economic and life cycle assessment studies have shown promising data when sugars derived from lignocellulosic biomass are used as carbon source for fermentation processes. The use of CO 2 as carbon source for fermentation is another smart concept for reusing this molecule while minimizing its emissions to the atmosphere. However, the large-scale implementation of biomass-based and CO 2 -based processes still require significant research efforts to result in robust and cost-competitive technologies. This paper discusses some promising approaches able to advance this research area including potential strategies for process intensification (enzymatic hydrolysis using high solid loading, simultaneous saccharification and fermentation, fermentation with downstream process integration), robust microbial strains for application in biomass-based and CO 2 -based bioprocesses, microbial co-cultivation systems, greener technologies for lignocellulosic biomass fractionation, among others. A critical evaluation of sustainability aspects including techno-economic and life cycle assessment is also provided. Overall, this study contributes with information on innovative trends able to advance the development of greener bioprocesses. • Process intensification reduces operational costs and improves biomass conversion. • Microbial co-cultivation is a promising approach to convert complex substrates. • Biomass-based and CO 2 -based technologies can boost a green transition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The high energy consumption of the data centers is a major challenge in sustainable development. In addition to the energy consumption of Information Technology (IT) section in a data center, the energy consumed in the cooling section for eliminating the heat generated by these centers is also significant. For this reason, finding an effective solution to decrease the energy consumption and to increase the energy efficiency in data centers has recently given much attention by researchers. In this paper, the combined cooling, heating and power (CCHP) system is employed in a data center based on absorption chiller scenario and compression chiller scenario. The proposed CCHP systems for the data center are evaluated in case of sustainability using emergy analysis taking into account non-renewable/renewable environmental resources and non-renewable/renewable purchased inputs as well as the other environmental viewpoints. Results show that the total emergy consumption using the first and second scenario is 4.02 E+18 and 6.01 E+18 solar emjoule, respectively. It was found that the maximum emergy consumption in the first scenario is related to absorption chiller by 3.49 E+18 solar emjoule and the maximum emergy consumption in second scenario is related to compression chiller by 5.24 E+18 solar emjoule. In addition, using the first and second scenario, the sustainability index is obtained 1.70 and 2.50 respectively, which indicates that the second scenario is more sustainable than the first one. [Display omitted] • The CCHP system is employed in a data center based on absorption chiller and compression chiller scenario. • The proposed CCHP systems for the data center are evaluated using emergy analysis. • The total emergy consumption using the first and second scenario is 4.02E+18 and 6.01E+18 solar emjoule, respectively. • The sustainability index using the first and second scenario is 1.70 and 2.50 respectively. • It was found that the compression chiller based CCHP is more sustainable than the absorption chiller based CCHP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over the coming years, the world is projected to witness an upsurge in "drop-in" aviation biofuel production as part of the renewable energy and bioeconomy developments. This paper presents a comprehensive review of the current status of biojet fuel development and uptake in global commercial aviation industry, including state-of-the-art certified technologies (i.e. Fischer-Tropsch (FT); hydroprocessed esters and fatty acids (HEFA); alcohol-to-jet (ATJ); and hydroprocessing of fermented sugars (HFS)); potential feedstock that can be deployed; a comparison of techno-economic and environmental performances of biojet fuel production routes; airlines' commitment in promoting higher biofuel uptake; and global initiatives and policies. This review shows that the HEFA route using oil-based crops is best performing in terms of lowest production cost and greenhouse gas emissions, however it is in competition with the existing road transport biofuel market. Lignocellulosic biomass and waste feedstock should be promoted in view of replacing food/feed crops which have high indirect land use change emissions. Therefore, further improvement should be focused on FT, ATJ and HFS routes to enhance the cost effectiveness of biojet fuel production and promote commercialisation of these technologies. The selection of feedstock and technologies for SAF production should be justified based on production cost and environmental footprint, while avoiding competition with the existing road transport biofuel market. The shortcomings in the SAF policies such as blending mandate and multiplier in RED II should be addressed to reduce the negative impacts of feedstock competition between the road and aviation biofuel sectors and to meet the decarbonisation targets. • Waste and residue feedstock should be deployed for biojet fuel production. • Non-oil based routes require further improvement on cost competitiveness. • Imposing a blending mandate is more effective than voluntary approach. • Multi-stakeholder collaboration promotes uptake of sustainable aviation fuel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The organic Rankine cycle (ORC) is an effective technology for power generation from temperatures of up to 400 °C and for capacities of up to 10 MW el. The use of solar irradiation for driving an ORC is a promising renewable energy-based technology due to the high compatibility between the operating temperatures of solar thermal collector technologies and the temperature needs of the cycle. The objective of this review paper is to present and discuss the operation principles of solar-ORC technology and the wide range of solar-ORC systems that have been studied in the literature. Various solar thermal technologies that can drive the ORC are investigated, such as the flat plate collector, evacuated tube collector, compound parabolic collector, parabolic trough collector, linear Fresnel reflectors, dish concentrators and solar towers. Both simulation studies and experimental investigations are included in the study. Hybrid systems and different thermal storage techniques are also examined in detail. Moreover, systems with ORC which produce many useful outputs such as cooling, heating and fresh water are studied because they present high sustainability indexes. The limitations of the technology are also highlighted, along with critical suggestions aimed at steering future research in this field. The final conclusions indicate that the development of trigeneration and polygeneration systems with ORC sub-systems is a promising avenue, not only for the future development of solar-ORC technology but also for the development of renewable and sustainable energy systems in a broader context. • Solar driven organic Rankine cycles are summarized and discussed in detail. • Concentrating and non-concentrating solar thermal systems are included. • Parabolic trough collector is the best solar technology for power production. • The use of solar organic Rankine cycles in polygeneration is a promising idea. • There is a need for conducting future experimental studies in a great scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The agro-processing industries can play a critical role in the development of sustainable and clean energy systems. The lack of knowledge about the technical and economic viability of agro-waste to energy is a major barrier to the successful implementation of such energy systems in developing countries, especially sub-Saharan Africa countries. This paper presents the techno-economic-environmental assessment of a cluster of rice mills located in Abakaliki, Nigeria, as a provider of clean energy. The cluster of rice mills can sustainably fulfil its energy needs through the application of organic Rankine cycle based combined heat and power plant fired by rice husks. Three scenarios of the plant were proposed and investigated for complete information. The rice husk from the cluster can provide daily 20–30 MWh and 4–91 MWh of electrical power and thermal power, respectively, at 14.5–21% efficiency. A tonne of rice husk can provide 0.45–0.65 MWh of electricity; that the unit cost of electricity from the proposed system is between 0.12 and 0.159$/kWh, which is better than 0.947 US$/kWh for the diesel generator currently in use. About 270–483 kg of CO 2 /MWh can be saved by the proposed combined heat and power system in relation to the current use of Lister diesel generators. The proposed plant has the potentials to support the Nigerian Nationally Determined Contributions to the Paris Agreement. The work also presents an appropriate business model and policy pathway for sustainable cottage rice processing industries. • Assessment of rice husk potential for cleaner energy generation. • Proposed three CHP ORC rice husk fired plants. • Techno-economic-environmental analyses of CHP ORC. • Appropriate sustainable business and energy model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]