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Abstract The assessment of building energy performance through dynamic simulations has been increasing significantly in recent years since it represents a key strategy for the correct design of highly efficient buildings. Results of dynamic energy simulations are affected by many uncertainties, and its reliability depends on the accuracy of the input variables. One of the most influential variables is the climate surrounding the building, a reason why the use of accurate weather data files is essential, but experimental datasets are not always available. In this context, this paper analyses numerical weather datasets obtained from different regional climate models by comparing them with real data; in addition, it evaluates their impact on the energy performance of a historical building in Asunción through dynamic simulations. The database of five different weather data sources is compared with observed meteorological data in order to assess their accuracy through statistical analyses. Moreover, some methodologies to estimate diffused and direct components of the global solar radiation are evaluated, with the objective of solving the problem of missing direct and diffused solar data components from the meteorological codes. Subsequently, weather data files are generated to quantify the influence of measured/simulated meteorological data on the evaluation of building energy performance. The results obtained in this paper show that the simulated meteorological data agree very well with real observations for the year under study. Also, the simulations of the building energy performance delivered similar values to those obtained using the real weather dataset. Therefore, the regional climate models can represent a reliable tool for building energy performance assessment, and mainly for the calibration of building energy models when measured weather data is not available. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Giving policy advice related to climate mitigation requires insights that take both sectoral and technology effects (and their interactions) into account. This paper develops a novel soft-linking method for bridging the gap between sectoral top-down and technology rich bottom-up models. A unique feature of the approach is the explicit modelling of energy service demand in the top-down model, which creates a direct correspondence to the energy service production in the bottom-up model. This correspondence allows us, unlike previous work, to capture the macroeconomic impact of energy system investment flows. The paper illustrates the full-scale application of the method in the Danish IntERACT model, considering the unilateral introduction of coal carbon capture and storage in the Danish concrete sector. The policy leads to a reduction in the Danish concrete production, and in turn, a carbon leakage effect of 88%. Results also underscores the importance of accounting for the macroeconomic impact of energy system investment flows, as this is the source of approximately half of the policy-induced reduction in macroeconomic activity. Highlights • Introduces energy service demands in a computable general equilibrium model. • Identifies a highly consistent method for soft linking a top-down and a bottom-up model. • Highlights the full scale implementation of the method in the Danish IntERACT model. • Demonstrates the impact of energy system investments on the macro economy. • Shows that climate mitigation technologies may lead to significant carbon leakage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Addressing environmental concerns alongside economic development and energy transitions is a challenge for all countries and effective policy making requires approaches that can balance all these concerns. In this paper, combining a range of modeling methodologies is proposed as a way of addressing these questions in an integrated manner. The choice of models to be used would depend on the specific characteristics of the system and region being studied. One possible combination of models is discusses in this paper for the specific case of India. The Integrated Modeling Framework (IMF) proposed combines three modeling approaches – i) index decomposition to estimate impacts of structural changes in the economy, ii) constrained optimization to estimate least cost fuel options for the power sector, iii) input-output analysis to estimate economic impacts. The model results indicate that the mode of investment for climate change mitigation is a significant determinant of the impact on economic growth, incomes, and income distribution in India. In some scenarios, higher investments in green energy negatively affects low income households significantly more as compared to other households. The paper also demonstrates how the IMF can be used to determine the reasons for and therefore alleviate the negative impacts. Highlights • An Integrated Modeling Framework (IMF) combining three modeling methods is presented. • IMF built for India, but applicable for other developing countries also. • IMF useful to study balance between energy, environment, economy, and equity. • Negative trade-off between equity and renewable energy transition in some scenarios. • IMF useful for identifying ways to alleviate the negative trade-off. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Combining cost-optimal solutions to reach nearly zero energy buildings (NZEBs) in compliance with European policies is an ongoing challenge. Energy consumption can be reduced evaluating different configurations at the design stage and implementing the most appropriate solutions according to the building and the location. This paper develops a simulation-based optimization framework of cost-optimal choices and energy efficiency measures for new buildings. It combines energy and cost simulations using a sequential search technique to find the most effective combination of energy efficiency and renewable energy measures starting from a base configuration. The model is applied to a residential building prototype, taking into consideration hourly climatic data, construction methods, cost data and energy consumption. A cost database and a library of potential measures, related to envelope, appliances and systems, have been established and used within the optimization process. The potential impact of climate change on the estimated cooling loads has been included in the calculations. The paper shows the feasibility of European requirements for new NZEBs located in different cities. It describes how to best achieve the NZEB design at the lowest cost in 14 locations across Europe. Results highlight how the cost-optimal measures vary with climate and how in each location final selected options differ. Insulation and building tightness appear essential in colder climates, while efficient appliances and lighting are key measures in warmer locations. A key finding of the research is that a source energy reduction of 90% and beyond is feasible for new constructions in all locations. Results also show how efficient lighting and appliances considerably impact the building energy performance. The importance of integrating renewables and energy efficiency measures is confirmed as crucial to reach the NZEBs target. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With important implications for global climate change mitigation, the development of a cap-and-trade emission trading scheme (ETS) in China is embedded in distinctive political, economic, and institutional contexts and has been attracting increasing attention in recent years. To offer a clear perspective on current research progress, this paper systematically reviews the recent literature on China’s ETS from three main aspects: mechanism design, policy and regional linkages, as well as impact assessment. The current research consensuses are summarized based upon detailed literature analyses and commentaries, and together with observations of international experience and China’s actual condition, the paper provides policy proposals for the development of China’s national ETS during 2016–2020. Finally, several important controversies in the current literature are discussed with regard to the practical demands of China’s ETS development. Five pressing topics that need to be further studied in the coming years are highlighted, including cap setting, allowance allocation among sectors and enterprises, carbon pricing, policy package and unified carbon market construction, as well as ex-ante and ex-post impact assessments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PV/T technology attracted numerous researchers and professionals during the last decades. There are many review papers in the literature evaluated the R&D aspects of PV/T collectors. In fact, there are abundant of case studies discussed the parameters of climate, design and operational conditions affected the PV/T collector performance. But, a comprehensive compilation of the information of those case studies is still a missing link in the literature. Hence, this paper intended to review thoroughly the information regarding the parameters affecting the PV/T collector performance mainly and PV module performance partially. The parameters are supported with the most available R&D to measure the accurate influence of each parameter on the performance. The outcomes from the study are highlighted in lessons learned section. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction of renewable energy sources (RES) in insular areas is growing on different islands of various regions in the world and the large-scale deployment of renewables in island power systems is appealing to local attention of grid operators as a method to decrease fossil fuel consumption. Planning a grid based on renewable power plants (RPP) presents serious challenges to the normal operation of a power system, precisely on voltage and frequency stability. Despite of its inherent problems, there is a consensus that in near future the RES could supply most of local needs without depending exclusively on fossil fuels. In previous grid code compliance, wind turbines did not required services to support grid operation. Thus, in order to shift to large-scale integration of renewables, the insular grid code ought to incorporate a new set of requirements with the intention of regulating the inclusion of these services. Hence, this paper discusses grid code requirements for large-scale integration of renewables in an island context, as a new contribution to earlier studies. The current trends on grid code formulation, towards an improved integration of distributed renewable resources in island power systems, are addressed. The paper also discusses advanced grid code requirement concepts such as virtual wind inertia and synthetic inertia for improving regulation capability of wind farms and the application of energy storage systems (EES) for enhancing renewable generation integration. Finally, a comparative analysis of insular grid code compliance to these requirements is presented in the European context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With increased acknowledgment of global climate change and warming, governments, consumers, and firms are responding collectively to create today's low-carbon economy. Carbon footprint labeling has developed as a meaningful instrument to motivate greenhouse gas emission reductions. This paper reviews existing research and implementation examples to understand the development of carbon labeling. This includes discussing the evolution of the carbon labeling concept, and different measurement methodologies and standards for carbon labels. These methods and standards include life cycle assessment, Public Available Standard 2050, Greenhouse Gas Protocol, and International Organization for Standardization 14067. The review also considers carbon label implementation in different countries and the potential impacts of carbon labeling schemes. The paper closes with recommendations for carbon label implementation, summarizing the advantages and drawbacks of carbon labeling approaches. Governments, consumers, and firms may use this review to adjust their strategy for future carbon label implementation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The threat of increased global warming resulting from the use of fossil fuels stresses decision-makers to formulate and adopt policies towards different sectors of the economy. In light of the great earthquake in Japan 2011, energy efficiency also plays an important role in meeting the challenge of power supply shortage. Energy policies towards industry are of particular importance as a major part of the energy in the economy is used in industrial production. The number of papers investigating and presenting experience from energy end-use policies are scarce. Furthermore, for those present, they often only include a very brief analysis. From a public point of view, evaluations of energy programs are of major importance to measure the performance of the programs. From an energy policy designer point of view, it is of major importance to not only see the cost-effectiveness of the policy but also to understand the fundamental mechanisms for the success or failure of an industrial energy program, in order to learn how to improve future programs. The aim of this paper is to present a review of energy end-use policy instrument in Japan and Sweden towards the industrial sector from 1990 to 2014, with special emphasis on industrial SMEs. From the results presented some general conclusions can be made, (1) results show that the cost-effectiveness differs substantially between the evaluated programs, and (2) that from a governmental point of view, subsidies towards energy audit programs seem like the most cost-effective policy. In addition to this (3) the results from the review also stress the importance of a clear strategy for every energy program on how the program is going to be evaluated, ex-ante or ex-post, and how the performance of the program is to be measured. This structure should be included from the start of the program. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cities use a big amount of energy resources and account for over 70% of global carbon emissions. Form and position of urban blocks not only influence the micro-climate but also the energy performance of each block; so, considering the building without studying the effect of its surroundings is senseless. This paper provides a review of research on the impact of urban block form on the environmental performance of buildings and their direct environment. For this purpose, all papers are categorised in three main groups: • Thermal behaviour inside and outside the building. • Solar access inside and outside the building. • Indoor and outdoor natural ventilation. A discussion of these studies reflects the impact of urban block form parameters on the energy performance of the building and reviews existing methods and techniques to predict thermal behaviour, solar access and ventilation on a neighbourhood scale. This study is useful for planners and architects who are responsible for decision-making during the design phase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is a growing interest on how climate change may affect the energy sector, including changes in wind energy generation. This paper builds on existing research adding an economic component that considers how climate change can affect operating margins and investment values in specific wind farms in Spain. A projection of wind speed was carried out using an ensemble of three climate models, two scenarios (RCP 4.5 and 8.5) and two time periods (2018–2041 and 2042–2065) per plant. Using historical power curves, the changes in wind speed were converted to production output. The results show variations in production of up to 8% and changes in operating margins up to 10%. Seasonal generation may fluctuate as well, with an increase in summer and decrease in winter. An investment analysis was also conducted to consider how climate change may influence future developments in the sector. • Climate change will affect wind speed and therefore wind energy production. • In four wind farms in Spain we project variations in wind speed of up to ± 5%. • This will imply changes in production (±8%) and in operative margins (±10%). • The regulatory framework is more relevant in comparison. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: In a world constantly shaped by climate change, the search for decarbonising pathways will deliver many innovative technological solutions as well as trigger changes in the way people behave. This however will take time and will require negotiations and new business models. There is increasing evidence that arresting climate change at 2°C is unlikely to be attained in a world where carbon is essential for development. Achieving agreement and commitments between developed and developing countries have proven difficult but is there something that those most responsible for the current levels of CO2e emissions in the atmosphere can do? The paper examines food consumption and argues that there is a lot of potential for decarbonisation if people reduce their meat consumption. The highest levels of meat consumption are observed in the developed world and the livestock sector has been shown to be the largest single contributor for greenhouse gas emissions globally. Estimates indicate that a low-meat diet can reduce the cost of abating climate change. The paper presents an argument as to how flexitarianism – reduced meat consumption to the recommended healthy levels, can help in arresting climate change. Flexitarianism offers an easy way to achieve fast decarbonisation and has the added benefits of contributing towards improving not only the biophysical health of the planet but also that of its human habitants. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This paper reviewed the history of the evolution of low-carbon development strategies and the establishment of low-carbon targets in China, over the past 30 years. The climate policy development in China has been classified into four stages and the key strategies of the Chinese government adopted towards low-carbon development were analysed. The results showed the changing view of the government regarding the climate issue, was the underlying reason for the establishment of low-carbon development targets, whilst a low-carbon economy is now receiving increasing attention in the governance of China. Some recommendations for future improvement were given at the end of the paper. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: India is facing acute energy shortage that is likely to affect its economic development. There are severe supply side constraints in term of coal and gas shortages that are likely to continue in the near future. Hence, in its current focus to solving the energy shortage problem and sustaining the development trajectory, the country should aim at a balance between supply side and demand side measures. Energy Efficiency in end use is increasingly gaining importance as one of the most cost effective options for achieving short to medium term energy savings. India has initiated the National Mission for Enhanced Energy Efficiency under National Action Plan for Climate Change which addresses various aspects of energy efficiency such as technology, financing, fiscal incentive and also creation of energy efficiency as a market instrument. However, even though energy efficiency has substantial scope in the Indian subcontinent, the market for energy efficiency has been limited. This paper discusses the concept of mega Demand Side Management projects as a DSM Power Plant. A DSM Power Plant acts as an umbrella with multiple energy efficiency schemes under its ambit aimed at transforming energy efficiency into a business by providing a push to the scale of operation as well as financial sustenance to energy efficiency projects. This paper expounds on the various aspects of DSM Power Plant in terms of its policy and institutional mechanism for the large scale implementation of energy efficiency in India. This paper provides an illustration of the concept of DSM Power Plant model through a case study in one of the states (Rajasthan) of India. Further, a comparative analysis of the cost of generation from DSM Power Plant and a representative conventional power plant (CPP) in Rajasthan has been undertaken and the DSM Power Plant comes out to be a more cost effective option. The concept of DSM Power Plant will not only address the issue of energy shortages but will also help the financially thwarted utilities to reduce their revenue deficit in the near future. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

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

• Model development on the lifetime energy prediction and annual energy assessment. • Expression of domestic PV generation potential in various climatic conditions. • Demonstration of the importance of the reliability and maintenance of PV systems. • Demonstration of the energy prediction risks regarding PV systems' economic viability. This paper presents a generic model for the prediction of the lifetime energy production of photovoltaic (PV) systems and the assessment of their annual energy yield in different time periods of operation. As case studies, it considers domestic PV system generation potentials in the UK and India to demonstrate the model results across a range of contrasting climatic and operating conditions. The model combines long-term averages of solar data, a commercial PV system simulation package and a probability density function to express the range of the annual energy prediction in different time periods of system operation. Moreover, a sensitivity analysis based on degradation rates and energy output uncertainties is embedded in the lifetime energy calculations. The importance of the reliability and maintenance of the PV systems and the energy prediction risks, especially regarding economic viability, are demonstrated through the PV lifetime energy potentials in these two countries. It is shown that, even for countries that are significantly different in respect to their solar resource, PV systems may produce similar amounts of energy during their lifetime for reasonable assumptions of degradation rates and uncertainty levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract This paper presents an evaluation of energy supply strategies for Egypt's power sector and identifies prospects to meet rising electricity demand while addressing energy security and low-carbon development issues. We apply the TIMES energy system model to examine Egypt's energy policy goals as reflected in Egypt's Vision 2030 , and specifically: (a) targeted power generation based on renewable energy under two different scenarios; (b) targeted carbon dioxide (CO 2) emissions' mitigation toward low-carbon society development; and (c) constraints on natural gas production for power generation. The quantitative results from the model suggest a need for diversification from predominantly natural gas to a mix of renewable and conventional energy sources in order to improve energy security, reduce dependency on fossil fuels, and reduce carbon dioxide emissions, with the level of diversification changing with different policy options. Although total energy system cost is projected to increase the effects on fossil-fuel dependency, diversity of energy supply-mix, marginal electricity generation price, and GHG mitigation indicate that it may be wise to target promotion of renewable energy for power generation and develop a low-carbon society. Highlights • Egypt energy strategies call for GHG reductions and diversified energy portfolios. • Egypt can diversify from natural gas to a mix-supply to improve energy security. • Enhanced promotion of renewables would reduce fossil fuel dependency by 42% by 2050. • The long-term cost of pursuing renewable technologies is not significantly higher. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The aim of this paper is to evaluate and compare the techno-economic performance of grid-connected photovoltaic (PV) power systems for a rooftop solar PV building containing 14 families in five climate zones in China. The techno-economic performance of grid-connected PV system in the five regions was evaluated using the HOMER software. Monthly average electric production, economic and environmental considerations, and sensitivity analyses were all considered. The results show that the pollutants from grid-only, grid/PV, and grid/PV/battery systems come mainly in the form of CO 2 emissions. In addition, this study concludes that grid/PV systems are technically, economically and environmentally feasible for all five climate zones. The excess electricity, NPC, and COE values of the grid/PV systems for all five climate zones increased with PV penetration increased, whereas the CO 2 emissions for these climate zones decreased due to the increasing PV sizes. For the grid/PV systems of five climate zones, Kunming is the most economical with the least NPC ($113,382) and COE ($0.073/kWh). The lowest CO 2 (38,975 kg/yr), SO 2 (35.4 kg/yr), and NO x (165 kg/yr) emissions of grid/PV systems occurred in Kunming. From an economic and environmental perspective, Kunming, with its mild climate conditions, may be especially suitable for grid/PV power generation. Highlights • The techno-economic performance of grid/PV system is evaluated using HOMER in five climate zones. • The grid/PV systems are feasible in five climate zones, China. • Kunming is the most economical with the least NPC ($113,382) and COE ($0.073/kWh). • Kunming may be especially suitable for grid/PV power generation. • The grid/PV system is a better choice for all five regions than the other studied systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Economical design of Ground Heat Exchangers (GHEs) relies significantly on accurate estimations of ground thermal properties, including undisturbed ground temperature, ground thermal conductivity, and GHE thermal resistance. Typically these are measured in situ by a Thermal Response Test (TRT), where the parameters are back-calculated by fitting a heat transfer model to the temperature response. The accuracy of most models relies on an assumption of constant ground temperature with depth, but in reality there are several mechanisms by which this may be invalid, one being seasonal variation in ground temperature. In this paper a study of Infinite Line Source Model performance under different seasonal conditions using a Finite Element model is presented. The study aims to determine the robustness of interpretation of TRTs conducted at different times of the year and the sensitivity of the effect's key influencing variables. Results suggest that there is little variability in effective thermal conductivity but some variation in GHE thermal resistance. A dimensionless parameter was derived and found to be strongly linearly related to the difference in GHE thermal resistance, leading to generalized estimates of the potential impact on design length that were greater than 10% under relatively extreme conditions and for short GHEs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The transition to low-carbon technologies is essential to meet international climate change agreements. While market dynamics are contributing to make technologies increasingly affordable, experience has shown that other factors as well play a role in investment decisions. Uncertainty is one of them. Focusing on the power generation sector, this paper reviews the most recent literature on the subject, under the specific conditions that at least one adoption driver is uncertain and that a technology and/or environmental policy is in place. To understand how uncertainty affects adoption decisions, the survey considers economic parameters (e.g., investment costs or electricity prices) first and then focuses on the role of policy. While the deterring effect of uncertainty over investments is largely confirmed, several mitigating and underexplored issues are also identified, such as the role of heterogeneous investors’ characteristics or the welfare implications of different policy designs. Moreover, by explicitly considering policy uncertainty, this survey provides a clearer understanding of the effects of a lack of government commitment on the adoption of environmentally friendly technologies in the energy sector. Related challenges for policymakers and investors are carefully delineated, together with directions for further research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: India''s energy challenges are multi-pronged. They are manifested through growing demand for modern energy carriers, a fossil fuel dominated energy system facing a severe resource crunch, the need for creating access to quality energy for the large section of deprived population, vulnerable energy security, local and global pollution regimes and the need for sustaining economic development. Renewable energy is considered as one of the most promising alternatives. Recognizing this potential, India has been implementing one of the largest renewable energy programmes in the world. Among the renewable energy technologies, bioenergy has a large diverse portfolio including efficient biomass stoves, biogas, biomass combustion and gasification and process heat and liquid fuels. India has also formulated and implemented a number of innovative policies and programmes to promote bioenergy technologies. However, according to some preliminary studies, the success rate is marginal compared to the potential available. This limited success is a clear indicator of the need for a serious reassessment of the bioenergy programme. Further, a realization of the need for adopting a sustainable energy path to address the above challenges will be the guiding force in this reassessment. In this paper an attempt is made to consider the potential of bioenergy to meet the rural energy needs: (1) biomass combustion and gasification for electricity; (2) biomethanation for cooking energy (gas) and electricity; and (3) efficient wood-burning devices for cooking. The paper focuses on analysing the effectiveness of bioenergy in creating this rural energy access and its sustainability in the long run through assessing: the demand for bioenergy and potential that could be created; technologies, status of commercialization and technology transfer and dissemination in India; economic and environmental performance and impacts; bioenergy policies, regulatory measures and barrier analysis. The whole assessment aims at presenting bioenergy as an integral part of a sustainable energy strategy for India. The results show that bioenergy technology (BET) alternatives compare favourably with the conventional ones. The cost comparisons show that the unit costs of BET alternatives are in the range of 15–187% of the conventional alternatives. The climate change benefits in terms of carbon emission reductions are to the tune of 110T C per year provided the available potential of BETs are utilized. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Climate change response, including the implementation of the Kyoto targets as the first step, calls for technological innovation of future sustainable energy systems. Based on the Danish case, this paper evaluates the type of technological change necessary. During a period of 30 years, Denmark managed to stabilize primary energy supply, and CO2 emissions decreased by 10%, during a period of 20 years. However, after the introduction of the Kyoto Mechanisms, Denmark has changed its strategy. Instead of continuing the domestic CO2 emission controls, Denmark plans to buy CO2 reductions in other countries. Consequently, the innovative technological development has changed. This paper evaluates the character of such change and makes preliminary recommendations for policies to encourage the use of the Kyoto Mechanisms as an acceleration of the necessary technological innovation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Geoengineering methods based on either direct carbon dioxide removal (CDR) from the atmosphere or solar radiation management (SRM) that curtails solar irradiation are campaigned for as technical solutions that would slow down the global temperature rise and climate change. Except for a few CDR methods, this does not receive much interest from policy-makers as a result of a lack of evidence on net advantages and decision-making challenges related to boundary-crossing effects, not to mention costs. An alternative, third geoengineering approach would be enhanced cooling by thermal radiation from the Earth's surface into space. The so-called atmospheric window, the 8–14 μm bandwidth where the atmosphere is transparent for thermal radiation indeed offers a “window of opportunity” for technology that enables sending out thermal radiation at rates that significantly exceed the natural process. This paper describes work that addresses this, with focus on technical devices that combine materials with the properties required for enhanced long wavelength (LW) thermal radiation heat transfer from Earth to space, through the atmospheric window. One example is a skylight (roof window) developed and tested at our institute, using ZnS windows and HFC-type gas (performing better than CO 2 or NH 3 ). Suggestions for several other system layouts are given. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In an effort to address climate change, in 2013 China launched the world’s largest government-driven carbon emission reduction programme, the National Low Carbon Industrial Parks Pilot Programme (LCIPPP). This paper analyses this newly developed pilot program. To deepen our understanding of the causes and the impact of industrial park CO 2 emissions, we use the STIRPAT (Stochastic Impacts by Regression on Population, Affluence and Technology) model and data from 20 pilot industrial parks involved in the LCIPPP for the period 2012–2016. This study quantitatively evaluates the effect of CO 2 emissions on output, energy structure, energy intensity, industrial structure, R&D intensity, and population change in different regions and nationally through an elasticity coefficient method. The results confirm that an increase in output and energy intensity is a dominant contributor to the growth of CO 2 emissions whereas an increase of the share of tertiary industry and R&D intensity has significant effects on reducing CO 2 emissions. The elasticity of energy intensity and renewable energy consumption on CO 2 emissions in the eastern region of China is the highest, indicating that using renewable energy to reduce CO 2 emissions for the industrial parks is more effective in the eastern region as compared to the central and western regions of the country. The elasticity of population is significantly negative in both the central and western areas while it is positive in eastern part of China, thereby illustrating that promoting labour intensive industries will be an effective way to reduce CO 2 emissions for the industrial parks in China’s central and western regions. Our study reveals that differentiated low carbon development pathways should be adopted. Concrete policy implications for reducing CO 2 emissions are also provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A passenger transport model, Asia-pacific Integrated Model (AIM)/Transport, incorporating travelers’ mode of choice and transport technological details was developed in this study. This AIM/Transport was coupled with the AIM/Computable General Equilibrium (AIM/CGE) to capture interactive mechanisms between the transport sector, energy consumption, greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, and the macro-economy. This paper presents the model structure and mathematical formulation of AIM/Transport, and explains how it was integrated with the CGE model by an iterative algorithm, taking into consideration the feedback between AIM/Transport and AIM/CGE. A numerical simulation proved that the integration of AIM/CGE and AIM/Transport can achieve a convergence after 13 iterations. A business-as-usual (BaU) scenario and a mitigation scenario were created to test the robustness of the model integration and how the mitigation potential and cost would be modified by coupling AIM/Transport. The key finding was that the carbon price and mitigation cost were modified with the coupled CGE-Transport model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper develops an Index of Sustainable Economic Welfare for Spain from 1970 to 2012 and seeks to update valuation approaches to a number of items. Two approaches have proven particularly controversial over recent decades; the costs of energy depletion and of climate change. The valuation implications in measuring present welfare have proven problematic, as both include future sustainability consequences arising from resource depletion and environmental impacts. This study includes a ‘ transition cost ’ approach to energy depletion, a modified approach to costs of climate change and water pollution, and removes the cost of ozone depletion. The results illustrate that while GDP per capita increased significantly, the ISEW per capita shows a widening gap. Household labour contributes strongly, but income distribution, energy depletion and costs of climate change limit improvement. Sensitivity analysis shows that accumulating climate change costs and escalating energy depletion costs have significant effects. Nevertheless, the new valuation approaches do not alter conclusions that welfare has shown little improvement. The ISEW provides a useful alternative to current indicators such as GDP subject to awareness of limitations. It is a measure of welfare that uses sustainability accounting methods when estimating costs, but is not an indicator of whether welfare is actually sustainable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sustainability is a paradigm that affects many sectors due to an increasing of stakeholders’ pressure, economic or political reasons. The wine industry is concerned about sustainability in both senses: it confronts threats from sustainability issues, such as climate change, chemical exposure and water and energy availability and its activities have their own impacts. In this sense, understanding sustainability in the wine world requires identifying definitions and principles, but also a review of current practices. This paper sets forth a cross-country analysis about current sustainability assessment frameworks in six countries (South Africa, Australia, New Zealand, US, Chile and France) in order to identify their main aspects, drivers and issues. A cross-analysis discusses the presentation, the scale, the scope, the governance, the deepness, the learning potential and the content, in a cross-disciplinary perspective. The common grounds are summarized in terms of main indicators linked with official guidelines. Most of the frameworks are certifications or labels in voluntary programs, using a qualitative approach to check compliance with guidelines, without proposing the improvement of sustainability performance. They are more focused on operation and on mitigating impact. All frameworks have indicators considering the main environmental issues to the wine industry. The frameworks development should move toward a more effective proposition for improving wine sustainability, in order to answer to the operational challenges with a strategic thinking. The analysis performed can contribute to the development of sustainability programs, improve current methods and encourage the diffusion of sustainability practices to the individuals or in terms of national programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tremendous increment of carbon dioxide in atmosphere has posed devastating impacts to global climate change. The phenomenon has become one of the great challenges need to be considered for achieving techno-economic system. This paper presents an alternative approach for capturing high concentration of CO 2 by combination of two separation processes, adsorption and gas hydrate. Potentials of waste seashell from cockle for producing low cost porous calcium oxide for CO 2 capture were investigated. The adsorption equilibrium of CO 2 on porous calcium oxide with presence of water was measured using a static volumetric technique at 2 °C for pressures up to 36 bar. The CO 2 uptakes of 9.1 mmol/g and 11.3 mmol/g were obtained for commercial and synthesized CaO at 36 bar. At optimum water ratio, the equilibrium data were simulated first with three different isotherm models: Langmuir, Freundlich and Redlich-Peterson. The Freundlich model adequately describe the CO 2 adsorption on dry samples and Redlich-Peterson gives the best fitted for wet samples at optimum water ratio. The Redlich-Peterson model having the highest R 2 was further extended by incorporating water isotherm model to determine the occurrence of water inside the sample. The curve obtained from the extended isotherm model shows an increment of coefficient from 0.94 to 0.99 and 0.94 to 0.98 for commercial and synthesized CaO. The findings revealed the potential of waste cockle shell as a viable and sustainable materials for preparation of calcium oxide for gas adsorption applications. This novel technology will go a long way in amassing the impacts of water in CO 2 adsorbent for gas adsorption applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The following article conducts a meta-analysis to systematically investigate why Representative Concentration Pathways (RCPs) in the Fifth IPCC Assessment are illustrated with energy system reference cases dominated by coal. These scenarios of 21st-century climate change span many decades, requiring a consideration of potential developments in future society, technology, and energy systems. To understand possibilities for energy resources in this context, the research community draws from Rogner (1997) which proposes a theory of learning-by-extracting (LBE). The LBE hypothesis conceptualizes total geologic occurrences of oil, gas, and coal with a learning model of productivity that has yet to be empirically assessed. This paper finds climate change scenarios anticipate a transition toward coal because of systematic errors in fossil production outlooks based on total geologic assessments like the LBE model. Such blind spots have distorted uncertainty ranges for long-run primary energy since the 1970s and continue to influence the levels of future climate change selected for the SSP-RCP scenario framework. Accounting for this bias indicates RCP8.5 and other ‘business- as -usual scenarios’ consistent with high CO 2 forcing from vast future coal combustion are exceptionally unlikely. Therefore, SSP5-RCP8.5 should not be a priority for future scientific research or a benchmark for policy studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Changes to the energy supply infrastructure are a vital component of climate change mitigation strategies. But what exactly underlies changes to energy supply infrastructure? This paper, through exploration and critical analysis of relevant literature, explores the various underpinning influences on energy infrastructure supply using a comparison of different theoretical perspectives. These influences were explored with specific emphasis on techno-economics, social psychology, socio-technical transitions, social practices and institutional dimensions to energy supply. The aim was to have a better understanding of the (direct and indirect) role of politics and the political system in influencing energy supply infrastructure decisions through the various theoretical lenses. The study revealed that techno-economics uses financial instruments and market information as intervention tools. Its effectiveness is measured by social welfare and cost effectiveness. Social psychology uses a combination of information, incentives and innovative informative instruments as its intervention tools. Its effectiveness is measured by behavioural change. Institutions use regulatory instruments as its intervention tool. Its effectiveness is measured by regulatory compliance. Social practices look at change in broader social systems. Its effectiveness is measured by social change. Socio-technical transitions focus on determining social movements and social innovations. Its effectiveness is measured by legitimacy and social learning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High levels of observed city involvement in energy and climate initiatives indicate that free-riding has been much less of a barrier to local climate protection efforts than suggested by theories of collective action. This study investigates why local governments have adopted various energy and climate change policy instruments despite the non-excludability of climate benefits. This paper advances theories of institutional collective action (ICA) and policy diffusion by testing ICA based hypotheses that local officials are able to overcome collective action problems to the extent that the costs of these initiatives are minimized through policy network interactions, the extent to which climate action produces localized benefits or compliments local environmental, development or growth management efforts, and the extent to which energy and climate protection efforts generate selective benefits to elected and appointed local government officials who advance their career interests depending on the existing configurations of political system institutions. Analysis of adoptions of the Climate Protection Agreements by Florida Cities indicates larger cities are more likely to adopt climate agreement, while district elections decrease the likelihood of climate policy adoption. Moreover, economic development rather than growth management or environmental problem situation is linked to climate initiatives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Long-term credibility is a central pillar of climate policy. This paper assesses whether Ecuador's recently adopted climate targets, policies to decarbonize the power sector, and measures to reduce deforestation constitute a credible basis for a transformation towards a low-carbon economy. Based on the literature on the design of credible climate policy and expert interviews, we argue that even though Ecuador's existing policies may reduce emissions in the short term, they do not yet constitute an entry point for a long-term strategy of economic transformation. We then outline politically and institutionally feasible mitigation measures, which we evaluate from a dynamic policy sequencing perspective according to their potential to prepare the ground for more stringent measures to reduce emission in the future. These measures include inter alia reform of driving restrictions, public transport, vehicle efficiency standards, support for electric cars, and results-based payments to reduce land use emission. Such reforms will need to be phased in gradually and embedded in a broad fiscal reform package. To counter potential adverse distributional effects of higher energy prices, low-income groups could be protected by lowering other taxes, scaling up investment in education, and block-pricing schemes. Furthermore, increased participation of key stakeholders would likely reduce public opposition against energy- and climate-related policies, such as fossil fuel subsidy reform. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

District Heating (DH) is considered as an efficient, environmentally friendly and cost-effective method for providing heat to buildings, and is playing an important role in the mitigation of climate change. Nowadays, Swedish DH companies are facing multiple challenges, and in urgent need for new price models to increase transparency and keep the competitiveness. In this paper, a survey is carried out to understand the structure of the present price models. Then, two restructured price models are proposed and compared with the price model most commonly used. To increase the transparency, price models should be based on users’ measured consumption profile; while to reduce the peak load, adoption of a pricing strategy based on a load demand component is an effective way. Consequently, users with flat consumption profiles will reduce cost, whereas users with steep consumption profiles will have a cost increase, both when charging the load demand cost based on the maximum daily or hourly peak load. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper develops a scenario-based model to identify and provide an array of electricity demand in Africa, and to derive them from the African power system of development. A system-based approach is performed by applying the scenario methodology developed by Schwartz in the context of the energy-economic modeling platform ‘Long-range Energy Alternative Planning’. Four scenarios are investigated. The Business as Usual scenario (BAU) replicates the regional and national Master Plans. The renewable-promotion scenario increases the share of renewable energy in the electricity mix. The demand and supply side efficiency scenarios investigate the impact of energy efficiency measures on the power system. The results show an increase in electricity demand by 4% by 2040, supply shortages and high emissions of Greenhouse Gases. Contrary to expectations, the renewable energy scenario did not emerge as the best solution to a sustainable electrification of the region. The energy efficiency scenarios have allowed us to draw a sustainable pathway for electrification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The awareness for energy efficiency in buildings increasingly expands in Algeria, where a legal framework exists for promoting the utilization of regenerative energies. However, models of best practice are still relatively few. As a contribution, this paper reports on a study, which aims at finding out the best design strategies for affordable energy efficient residential buildings. The focus is put on the Mediterranean Algiers and the Saharan Ghardaia. Dynamic energy modelling was carried out using TRNSYS 17 to assess a residential house built as a MED-ENEC pilot project. The simulation is executed at two sequential stages: the reconnaissance stage where the building is compared to a typically non-insulated conventional construction and then the assessment stage, in which the pilot project already designed to low energy standards is investigated in an attempt to increase its energy efficiency further. By means of a parametric study, the most efficient passive design measures for minimizing heating and cooling energy demands were delineated and their dimensioning fixed. The results confirm i) the easiness to save energy in comparison to the local inappropriate conventional building type, and ii) possible additional energy savings in the pilot project, so that almost no heating is required and the cooling visibly further reduced. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Society's dependence on weather systems has broadened to include electricity generation from wind turbines. Climate change is altering energy flows in the atmosphere, which will affect the economic potential of wind power. Changes to wind resources and their upstream impacts on the energy industry have received limited academic attention, despite their risks earning interest from investors. We propose a framework for assessing the impact of climate change on the cost of wind energy, going from the change in hourly wind speed distributions from radiative forcing through to energy output and levelised cost of electricity (LCOE) from wind farms. The paper outlines the proof of concept for this framework, exploring the limitations of global climate models for assessing wind resources, and a novel Weibull transfer function to characterise the climate signal. The framework is demonstrated by considering the UK's wind resources to 2100. Results are mixed: capacity factors increase in some regions and decrease in others, while the year-to-year variation generally increases. This highlights important financial and risk impacts which can be adopted into policy to enhance energy system resilience to the impacts of climate change. We call for greater emphasis to be placed on modelling wind resources in climate science. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper adopts an ex ante perspective to investigate the potential techno-organisational dynamics related to reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in the EU by 2030 and 2050. We provide a qualitative analysis based on interviews with representatives from the main manufacturing sectors in the EU. Path dependency and enhanced carbon pricing may support the ‘incremental path’. More radical changes are achievable through strong techno-organisational reorganisation and new policy support. It follows that technological innovation is sufficiently effective only if coupled with organisational innovation. Earmarking ‘environmental revenues’ to support sector R&D is a way to enhance the governance of the innovation-policy realm and create opportunities for radical innovation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper analyses the energy and economic performance of roof and/or façades Building Integrated flat-plate PhotoVoltaic and Thermal (BIPVT) collectors for residential applications. Aim of the analysis is to assess the active and passive effects due to the building integration of solar technologies on the building energy consumptions. In particular, a comparison among innovative building-plant system configurations, based on BIPVT collectors for the simultaneous production of electricity, thermal energy, and domestic hot water, is carried out. The simulation models of the proposed system layouts are designed and implemented in TRNSYS simulation environment for the dynamic assessment of their energy and economic performance. By means of the developed simulation model, the occurring summer and winter building passive energy effects due to the PVT building integration are also analysed. Several case studies are developed by modelling a representative multi-storey residential building and by taking into account different European climates. For such case studies a suitable energy parametric analysis is performed by varying the thermal resistances and capacitances of the building envelope. By the simulation results interesting design and economic feasibility guidelines are obtained. In particular, by varying the weather location and the building-plant configuration, the adoption of BIPVT panels produces a decrease of the primary energy demands from 67% to 89%. The passive effects of the BIPVT system in both the winter and summer season are also assessed for all the investigated climate zones. The calculated economic profitability resulted slightly better for roof BIPVT panels than for roof and façade applications. For the investigated case studies, the pay back periods appear quite long, varying from 11 years for South European weather zones to 20 for North European ones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The United Nations-led international climate change negotiations in Paris in December 2015 (COP21) trigger and enhance climate action across the globe. This paper presents a model-based assessment of the Paris Agreement. In particular, we assess the mitigation policies implied by the Intended Nationally Determined Contributions (INDCs) put forward in the run-up to COP21 by individual member states and a policy that is likely to limit global warming to 2 °C above pre-industrial levels. We combine a technology-rich bottom-up energy system model with an economy-wide top-down CGE model to analyse the impact on greenhouse gas emissions, energy demand and supply, and the wider economic effects, including the implications for trade flows and employment levels. In addition, we illustrate how the gap between the Paris mitigation pledges and a pathway that is likely to restrict global warming to 2 °C can be bridged. Results indicate that energy demand reduction and a decarbonisation of the power sector are important contributors to overall emission reductions up to 2050. Further, the analysis shows that the Paris pledges lead to relatively small losses in GDP, indicating that global action to cut emissions is consistent with robust economic growth. The results for employment indicate a potential transition of jobs from energy-intensive to low-carbon, service oriented sectors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photovoltaic solar energy has been explored as an energy solution to the decline of energy production, as well as environmental concerns. However, generate electricity through the sun still considered uncompetitive freight to other sources, cause it presents low efficiency and high production cost. In attempt to make it more attractive from a financial point view, solar trackers has been used to increase the photovoltaic systems efficiency. Considering its facts, this paper aims to perform a comparative study between a static photovoltaic solar panel and a one-axis mobility panel, installed in the city of Mossoró/RN. The city in study is located in the Brazilian semiarid, under high solar radiation levels, in a dry climate and hot region, reaching high temperatures during the day. After assembly the proposed systems, were performed operating analysis and performance comparative study between the static and mobile systems, which allowed to conclude that the panel using the sun tracking showed a low average gain in power generated relative to the fixed panel to the region where the systems installed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research on climate change impacts on renewable energy is becoming increasingly relevant due to the vulnerability of the sector and to the continual development of methodologies and availability of data. Public and private decision-making needs specific research. However, many gaps still exist in certain geographical regions and technologies. Providing economic estimates with a value chain perspective are also missing from most papers. This paper addresses the most relevant studies that project quantitative estimates of climate change impacts on solar, wind, hydro and other renewable generation technologies. Summary tables of impacts and projections are provided so that researchers, governments and the private sector may have an accurate view of the state-of-the-art on this topic. • The impacts of climate change on renewables make up a growing area of research. • Despite uncertainties, climate models are the most well-trusted method. • Comparing projections is complex due to scopes, methodologies and variables. • Hydro and solar are more frequently analysed than other technologies. • Main gaps are lack of economics assessments and projections in developing countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The role of renewable energy (RE) resources as clean alternatives to fossil fuel in power generation has been increasing. Widespread deployment of RE sources in Hybrid Power Systems (HPS) however can be a challenging task due to the stochastic nature of RE. Solar and wind are intermittent with weather variations, and the end use demands are also climate dependant. In this paper, Power Pinch Analysis (PoPA) method is applied to assess the different RE generation and load profiles from two seasonal climates namely winter and summer. The minimum electricity targets established from PoPA allows the designer to visualise the feasible limits for the sizing of HPS. Results show that HPS operation during winter demands a substantial amount of outsourced electricity, while summer operation requires higher investment on the PV generator and storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reconciling economic growth and energy supply with the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and other goals for environmental protection is a major challenge for emerging economies such as Brazil. Establishing energy security standards consistent with realistic economic growth projections while considering climate change requires complex calculations and relies upon risky assumptions. Yet, such calculations and decisions must be made to avoid future energy shortages and economic crises. This paper discusses the current dilemma concerning planning and decision-making for the Brazilian electric sector considering the construction of hydroelectric power plants in the Amazon region, energy security requirements, projected economic growth and climate change feedbacks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we estimate the potential marine energy available from different types of resources in Colombia: waves, tides, currents, salinity gradients and thermal gradients, focussing on specific locations. The main constraint on this analysis is the lack of long-term marine instrumentation and data. In order to overcome this difficulty, we use oceanic numerical modelling with data from reanalysis models, climatic data from remote sensors, and primary data from existing instrumentation and fieldwork. The models were calibrated and run to calculate—based on existing marine systems—the potential nationwide marine power resources, on different time and spatial scales, for both the Colombian Caribbean and Pacific coasts. For each marine resource, we first explain the method used to assess the power potential; then we present the potential marine energy result. Further, we carry out a policy analysis where we discuss not only the power potential but also the barriers (mainly cost) faced by marine energy. Given the potentials found by earlier studies, these results define for Colombia, and also for Central and South America generally, the road map for future pre-feasibility analysis, taking into account the energy demands of the populations, existing technologies, and the environmental, social and geographical characteristics of the regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a methodology to allocate carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) emissions that result from fuel combusted to produce electricity and heat to the end-use sectors (industry, buildings, transport, and agriculture) where the electricity and heat are actually consumed. Attributing these indirect emissions to the appropriate sectors results in a very different picture of CO 2 emissions per sector than is seen when only direct emissions are characterized. With attribution to the demand side, the industrial and buildings sectors contribute the largest shares of CO 2 emissions globally. When indirect emissions are allocated to their respective end-use sectors, the buildings sector’s share of total emissions increases the most, from 9% (direct emissions only) to 31% (including indirect emissions), which reflects the large share of electricity and heat consumed in this sector. The share of CO 2 emissions attributable to the industrial sector also increases significantly, from 18% to 37%. These increased values include emissions from both electricity and heat used in end-use sectors, in contrast to the traditional accounting method, which allocates all electricity and heat emissions to the transformation and energy sector. Allocating these emissions to end-use sectors makes it possible to assess the full potential impact of demand reduction of electricity and heat use. This article is based on contributions to the Fifth Assessment Report of Working Group III of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The concentration of CO 2 in the atmosphere is increasing rapidly. CO 2 emissions may have an impact on global climate change. Effective CO 2 emission abatement strategies such as carbon capture and storage (CCS) are required to combat this trend. Compared with pre-combustion carbon capture and oxy-fuel carbon capture approaches, post-combustion CO 2 capture (PCC) using solvent process is one of the most mature carbon capture technologies. There are two main barriers for the PCC process using solvent to be commercially deployed: (a) high capital cost; (b) high thermal efficiency penalty due to solvent regeneration. Applying process intensification (PI) technology into PCC with solvent process has the potential to significantly reduce capital costs compared with conventional technology using packed columns. This paper intends to evaluate different PI technologies for their suitability in PCC process. The study shows that rotating packed bed (RPB) absorber/stripper has attracted much interest due to its high mass transfer capability. Currently experimental studies on CO 2 capture using RPB are based on standalone absorber or stripper. Therefore a schematic process flow diagram of intensified PCC process is proposed so as to motivate other researches for possible optimal design, operation and control. To intensify heat transfer in reboiler, spinning disc technology is recommended. To replace cross heat exchanger in conventional PCC (with packed column) process, printed circuit heat exchanger will be preferred. Solvent selection for conventional PCC process has been studied extensively. However, it needs more studies for solvent selection in intensified PCC process. The authors also predicted research challenges in intensified PCC process and potential new breakthrough from different aspects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study presents a 2-years performance assessment of a 2.18 kWp grid-connected PV (photovoltaic) system, installed in the premises of the Technical University of Crete, Chania; important normalized parameters such as yields, losses and efficiencies are calculated and related to the local climatic characteristics. The scopes of this paper are: (i) the quantification of the effect of high temperature conditions on the electrical performance of a thin film PV system; (ii) the verification and comparison amongst the existing empirical models used to estimate PV frames operating temperature emphasizing on the accuracy of their predictions; (iii) the development of a new customized empirical model in order to determine the PV frames operating temperature, under real field conditions. The output provides safe estimates and information about the potential improvements in order to create small and large scale thin film PV installations in areas with similar climatic characteristics such as the Mediterranean coastal areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The accurate prediction of direct solar irradiance is essential in many solar energy applications, particularly those relying on concentrating solar technologies. The present paper is aimed at a detailed assessment of a large range of clear-sky solar radiation models under Algerian climate to select the more accurate one for estimating the performance of solar power projects where meteorological and radiometric measurement stations are not available. To this end, seventeen models have been reviewed and their performance compared to measured irradiance of Ghardaia (Southern Algeria). The validation methodology presented herein is very helpful for ranking the models. A new statistical accuracy indicator has been originally introduced to find out the most accurate ones. A thorough analysis of selected models has shown that the more complex models, that seem at first sight more sophisticated, are not necessary the most accurate; while simpler models depending on a limited number of parameters are more suitable. In other words, the suitability and accuracy of a model do not necessarily improve with an increase in the number of its parameters. This important finding is in good agreement with the previous published studies. This fact is important to take into account, in the case where measured data are not available, for the selection of the most suitable locations for the installation of the future concentrating solar power plants in Algeria or even in other countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photovoltaic (PV) is a high-potential renewable energy technology for Kuwait to pursue due to high daily irradiation, and has garnered local attention in recent years due to the growing energy demand and concerns over climate change. As yet, no data are available regarding the actual performance of PV systems in Kuwait’s harsh environment. This paper presents a 12-month-long performance evaluation of the first 85.05 kW p and 21.6 kW p copper indium gallium selenide (CIGS) thin film, grid-connected PV systems on the rooftops of two schools. The schools’ monthly energy consumption and PV generation profiles, the actual performance of the PV plants, the effectiveness of automated cleaning systems on the power output, and the benefits of PV implementation in schools were analyzed and evaluated. Data analysis was applied to filter and normalize the data in order to identify the actual performance parameters. The findings of the study, based on solar irradiation collected, the performance of the module technology and the effectiveness of the automated cleaning systems, show that the performance ratio was maintained between 0.74 and 0.85. Furthermore, the minimum monthly energy yield of the PV systems was about 104 kW h/kW p . The annual average daily final yields of the PV systems in this study were 4.5 kW h/kW p /day. The results provided insight into the performance of CIGS grid-connected PV systems in Kuwait, and those data will be beneficial to the PV research community worldwide. School buildings, particularly for the rooftops, are a unique and important asset for urban PV system implementation, because they provide a combination of relatively large, unused, suitable areas, which would make distributed and effective solar power generation possible on the national level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fossil fuels production peaks, declines and depletions depend on their proved reserves, exploration and consumption rates. Worldwide proven oil, gas and coal reserves are 1688 billion barrels (Bb), 6558 trillion cubic feet (TCF) and 891 billion tons (Bt) being consumed at rates of 0.092 Bb, 0.329 TCF and 7.89 BT per day, respectively. The oil, gas and coal reserves are increasing at the rate of 600 million barrels (Mb), 400 billion cubic feet (BCF) and 19.2 Giga tons of oil equivalents (GTOE) per year. While the rate of annual increase in consumption of oil, gas and coal is 1.4 Mb, 4.5 BCF and 3.1 million tons (Mt). Global annual energy demand of over 12 billion tons of oil equivalent (BTOE) results in the emission of 39.5 Giga tons of carbon dioxide (Gt-CO 2 ), and the annual CO 2 emission would increase up to 75 Gt-CO 2 when future energy demand will rise to 24–25 BTOE. Oil, gas and coal may continue to exist for next several decades, yet the energy transition to low carbon intensity fuels is necessary to cope with rampant climate change. Renewable and alternative energy sources hold key to the solution of twin problems, energy and climate change, with a high initial investment. Transition from fossil fuels to sustainable and renewable energy resources of 150 Petawatt hours (PWh) requires major investment and innovatory technologies. Perhaps CO 2 and H 2 O based fuel systems would facilitate climate change and grand energy transition. An energy mix consisting of fossil fuels, hydrogen, bio-fuels, and renewable energy sources seems to be a good initiative. This paper reviews evidence of hydrocarbons decline scenarios and timelines of future energy technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]