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With further penetration of low-carbon energy conversion, microgrids (MGs) have become a necessary tool for expanding the consumption of renewable energies. In this paper, an optimal operation model for a microgrid-based multi-agent system is proposed. The goal is to save the total energy cost, which is expressed as a sum of locally observable convex functions. Therefore, improving the operational efficiency of microgrids is the key to promoting renewable energy development. This paper develops a three-layer multi-agent system model considering energy storage system and power thermal load demand response to solve the energy management problem of microgrids. In order to investigate the effect of energy storage system and demand response in microgrids, this paper designs three simulation cases, namely infrastructure case, energy storage case and demand response case. In order to prove the effectiveness of the proposed method, this paper uses the proposed method to solve three cases and compare the result with other meta-heuristic algorithms. The comparison results show that: (1) the multi-agent system model can realize the joint optimization of "resource, network, load and storage". (2) The introduction of energy storage and demand response system in microgrids can stabilize the output. Renewable energy units promote the use of renewable energy and reduce the overall operating cost of microgrids. Moreover, the results clearly demonstrate that the proposed algorithm has far better performance than other optimization methods. Also, the analysis obtained from the results shows that the cost is reduced by 1.82%. PV and WT output increased by 14.54% and 2.42%. In addition, their standard deviation decreases after ESS participation. The proposed approach is very effective through a simulation case study, which shows high potential for applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• We study the relationship between GVC embedding and carbon emission density. • A mediation effect model was established to test the mechanism. • There is a U-shaped relationship between urban GVC embedding and carbon emission density. To achieve its carbon peak and neutrality plan, whether China's global value chain (GVC) embedding has a carbon emission reduction effect is a question worthy of attention. This paper measures the GVC embedding degree of 218 Chinese cities from 2000 to 2016, and constructs a panel data model to investigate the impact and its mechanism of GVC embedding on carbon emission intensity. This study finds that there is a significant U-shaped relationship between GVC embedding and carbon emission intensity, and a series of robustness test results support this conclusion. Export scale, energy consumption structure and technological innovation play a mediation role in the impact path of GVC embedding on carbon emission intensity. Based on this, this paper proposes that while participating in GVC, China needs to actively utilize the emission reduction effect of GVC, promote the transformation of export mode to high quality, reduce the use and dependence on high-carbon resources such as coal, and encourage companies to innovate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Energy and environmental performances of strawberry supply chain. • Field measurement and interviews of professional stakeholders. • Non-plastic packaging showed significantly better environmental performance. • Most impactful processes are packaging production and refrigerated transport. Berries are highly perishable fruits and require both low storage temperature and suitable packaging throughout the supply chain to preserve their organoleptic qualities. However, the energy consumption of refrigerated equipment and the use of packaging materials, plastic in particular, might generate important environmental impacts. Besides, there is a strong commitment to reduce the use of plastic in the food industry. The aims of the current work are first to assess the energy consumption of refrigerated equipment and second to analyze the environmental performance of the strawberry supply chain. Various stages of the supply chain from transport from growers to retail storage were modeled using data from field measurement and interviews with professional stakeholders. Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) was performed for the strawberry supply chain. Different packaging materials, plastic (PET, RPET) and alternatives (molded pulp, recycled paper, cardboard), were used. The processes that generated the most important environmental burden were the packaging production and the long-distance refrigerated transport. To limit the impact related to packaging production, it is necessary to consider not only the type of packaging material but also the processes and energy consumption used in their manufacturing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Generally, the central air conditioners are centralized in a refrigeration room in public buildings. The proportion of energy consumption of the refrigeration room is about 40% of entire building. This paper aims to propose an energy plus and self-designed simulator to reduce the energy consumption of a large electronic factory in Zhuhai City, Guangdong province, China. In this paper, the real data collected from the electronic factory in February and the group control method used in the refrigeration room based on the kernel ridge regression algorithm. The correctness of the kernel ridge regression algorithm was verified with the experimental results. Compared to traditional PID control method, the kernel ridge regression algorithm could dynamically adjust those parameters, such as temperature and frequency to match the high efficiency zone of each device. The overall average COP of the system is increased from 4.17 to 7.04. The electricity of the refrigeration room could save 64 MWh with the cooling load forecast error being below 7% in February. The power consumption is expected to reduce by 8.2% and 562.3 MWh in 2022. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Waste activated sludge is an efficient feedstock for biohydrogen production. • Synergetic disintegration were emphasized by thermo-chemo disperser pretreatment. • Solubilization and SS reduction fostered at 2081.82 kJ/kg TS specific energy. • About 116.9 mL H 2 /g COD achieved at TCD pretreated samples. Generation of excess sludge in large quantities from wastewater treatment plant face huge problem in terms of handling and management, whereas it possess higher organic and inorganic constituents and thus it can be used as a feedstock for the generation of biofuel with proper disintegration techniques. In this regard, an effort has been made in this study to combine thermo-chemo-disperser pretreatment for the disintegration of paper mill waste activated sludge for the production of biohydrogen in an energy efficient way. These combinations of thermo-chemo-disperser (TCD) tend to be effective in disintegration and possess 24.3% COD solubilization and higher suspended solid reduction of 18.8% at the specific energy usage of 2081.82 kJ/kg TS. The pretreatment with TCD technique shows the biohydrogen production of 120.2 mLH 2 /gCOD as compared to thermochemically pretreated alone (73.6 mLH 2 /gCOD) sample. Thus, the combined process was considered to be potentially effective in sludge disintegration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sustainable power generation for portable electronic devices is of high interest due to increasing energy demands. Miniaturized biofuel cells are well-reported for this purpose where ubiquitous fluids, like glucose or lactate, can be leveraged. However, such biofuel cells need enzymes to complete the catalysis, leading to many prevalent issues like the longevity of enzymes, complicated immobilization, additional mediators etc. Therefore, non-enzymatic glucose biofuel cells (NEGBFCs) are gaining interest due to their cost-effectiveness, high repeatability and excellent stability. However, based on our best knowledge such glucose biofuel cells are not reported in microfluidic environment, and therefore their potential is not exploited. Realization of the functionality of such NEGBFCs in a microscale is crucial to replace them with their enzymatic counterparts. In this work, for the first time, a microfluidic non-enzymatic glucose biofuel cell (μNEGBFC) is developed on a paper-based platform using metallic catalysts. The catalysts for electrocatalytic energy generation is fabricated using electrodeposition method and their detailed physicochemical characterizations are done. The μNEGBFC is capable of producing a power density of 12.5 μW/cm2 with a stable potential of 410 mV. This green power output can be used to operate low-power micro-devices and lab-on-chip sensors in a more continual and viable manner. [Display omitted] • A simple, cost-effective electrodeposition technique was used for electrode fabrication. • Gold deposited anode and copper deposited cathode were used as electrodes. • A paper-based Microfluidic Non-Enzymatic Biofuel Cell (μNGBFC) was constructed. • The developed μNGBFC generated a power density of 12.5 μW/cm2. • The μNGBFC was capable of retaining 56% of the initial power after 72 h. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper reviews applied single and hybrid solar energy-saving techniques with emphasis on solar chimney, Trombe wall, and photovoltaics for building energy consumption and thermal comfort. Solar energy techniques can be broadly classified into passive and active. Passive strategies refer to collecting, storing, and distributing solar energy without relying on electrical or mechanical components. In contrast, active techniques rely on mechanical and electrical components. The discussed passive devices include solar chimney and Trombe wall. Different design configurations have been reported to influence various buildings' thermal and electrical performances. On the other hand, active solar strategies in buildings including photovoltaic technologies, are discussed. Moreover, applied the hybrid system of these techniques in building is discussed. The review paper critically analyzes these systems' energy and thermal performances to demonstrate their significance in building applications. The significant findings of these studies demonstrate the capability of these systems to provide thermal comfort and considerable energy savings. The review studies indicated that passive architecture could improve thermal (as high as 20%) and visual comfort and reduce electricity consumption by 46%. Besides, several highlights on BIPV and BIPV/T systems are discussed, showcasing their status, recent research, development, and applications toward achieving building energy efficiency. Throughout the review, it is seen that solar technologies applied in buildings have undergone a remarkable revolution, demonstrated significant energy-saving potentials and opening the road for application in net-zero energy buildings. Further research is required on some of the technologies to assess the techno-economic feasibility of these systems in the building sector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on the evidence from listed company microdata and data from 285 cities in China, this paper studies the coordinated development of two-way FDI (CDFDI) in improving green energy efficiency (GEE). In particular, this paper examines the spatial heterogeneity effects of CDFDI on GEE. The results showed that CDFDI had a positive impact on the GEE of local and surrounding cities. Mechanistic examinations show that the effects of CDFDI on GEE are mediated by technological diffusion, nationalization, and environmental regulation. After dividing different city types, the impact of CDFDI is also different. By constructing a spatial decay weight matrix, this paper also finds that the positive spatial spillover effect of CDFDI is limited to 1050 KM. Finally, different investment motive portfolios also has a heterogeneous impact on the local and surrounding cities' GEE. After dividing the time nodes, the effect of this heterogeneity is more prominent. • We use multiple undesired output indicators covering eight pollutants to measure green energy efficiency (GEE). • CDFDI has a significant boost to GEE in local and surrounding cities. • The impact of CDFDI on GEE is moderated by technological diffusion, nationalization, and environmental regulation. • The spatial spillover effects of CDFDI are heterogeneous by city category and geographic distance. • CDFDI with different investment motives has heterogeneous effects on local and surrounding cities' GEE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Regional integrated energy systems (RIES) can economically and efficiently use regional renewable energy resources, of which energy storage is an important means to solve the uncertainty of renewable energy output, but traditional electrochemical energy storage is only single electrical energy storage, and the energy efficiency level is low. Hydrogen energy storage has the advantages of large energy storage capacity, long storage time, clean and pollution-free, and can realize the synergistic and efficient utilization of electricity and thermal power. Based on this, this paper proposes a synergistic planning method for an integrated energy system with hydrogen storage taking into account the coupled use of electric-thermal energy, which effectively reduces the system carbon emission and improves the comprehensive energy efficiency level. Firstly, this paper constructs an electric-thermal coupling model of the hydrogen energy storage unit and proposes an optimization strategy for the integrated energy system containing hydrogen storage taking into account the utilization of electricity and thermal power. Secondly, a planning optimization model with the lowest economy and carbon emission and the highest comprehensive energy efficiency was constructed. Third, the CSPO-GE optimization algorithm is proposed for solving the problem, which significantly improves the solution efficiency. Finally, a planning optimization simulation of RIES for a residential community W in northern China verifies the effectiveness of the model and method proposed in this paper. The comparative analysis of the three schemes shows that compared with the integrated energy system with conventional electrochemical energy storage and heat storage tank as the main form of energy storage and the integrated energy system with only hydrogen storage, the integrated energy system with hydrogen storage and heat storage tank can reduce carbon emissions by 43.8% and 7.61%, respectively, and improve the integrated energy efficiency level by 337.14% and 14.44%. • An electrothermal coupled production strategy based on dynamic equilibrium feedback regulation is proposed. • A hydrogen-containing RIES planning and optimization model considering economy-environment-efficiency is constructed. • A multi-objective chaotic particle swarm algorithm (CPSO-GE) based on greedy and elite retention strategies is proposed • The impact of cost variation of hydrogen storage devices on the economics of integrated energy systems is considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present paper analyses the evolution of renewable energy generation in the European Union through a decomposition analysis based on the Index Decomposition Analysis together with the Logarithmic Mean Divisia Index within the EU27 between 2000 and 2020. A four factors decomposition approach is considered for decomposing the total RES generation and a five factors model is employed to decompose the carbon emissions. Furthermore, a focus on wind and solar photovoltaic generation is introduced through a four factors decomposition calculated in the period 2010–2020. The most influential factors affecting the RES generation trend in the period 2000–2020 are the RES share and energy efficiency wich determined an increase of 1841 TWh and a decrease of 635 TWh respectively. Variations of carbon emissions are mostly affected by the energy intensity, namely the amount of energy necessary to produce one unit of GDP, which determined a reduction of 1040 Mt. Through the decomposition analysis, the paper successfully identifies the specific drivers supporting RES development and controlling carbon emissions, thus adequate policy measures can be designed to reach planned targets. • LMDI methodology is used to study decomposition of RES generation in EU. • Technical and socio-economic factors are highlighted by using 4 or 5 factors identity. • Technical factors have the main impact on the increase in RES generation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Considering the escalating global warming and its severe consequences, the exploitation of hydrogen, an eco-friendly energy carrier, is gaining great interest. This paper comprehensively reviews the most common hydrogen production, storage, transportation and utilization processes, while their effectiveness is explored from energy, water, economic and environmental perspectives. Their main characteristics, advantages, shortcomings and challenges are discussed as well. The research reveals that the hydrogen's water footprint, energy consumption, carbon emissions, and cost vary significantly depending on the specific technologies used throughout its life cycle, from production to end use. For instance, fossil fuel-based hydrogen production methods, such as steam methane reforming, offer elevated energy performance and cost-effectiveness, but have a significant carbon footprint. In contrast, water electrolysis is environmentally friendly, but requires more water and has lower energy efficiency. Besides, high-pressure containers are the preferred method for hydrogen storage, while liquid and solid storages are better suited for high-energy-density applications. Regarding hydrogen transportation, pipelines are effective over long distances, whereas tankers are convenient for short distances. Furthermore, fuel cells are more energy, carbon and water efficient when using hydrogen as fuel, but they are generally more expensive than internal combustion engines. [Display omitted] • Hydrogen production, storage, transportation and utilization methods are reviewed. • Their energy efficiency, water use, cost, and environmental impact are explored. • Key recommendations to boost the utilization of hydrogen systems are outlined. • Fossil fuel-based technologies are more energy-efficient and cost-effective. • Renewable-based processes are more environmentally friendly but water-intensive. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, an integrated system is proposed for the production of turquoise hydrogen from methane cracking using solar energy. The produced hydrogen and carbon by-products are used in fuel cells to generate clean electricity. Syngas is produced through power generated via photovoltaics, using a solid oxide electrolyzer cell (SOEC). The SOEC co-electrolyzes the exhaust CO 2 from the direct carbon fuel cell, along with H 2 O. The resulting syngas is subsequently converted into methanol. The system is modelled using Aspen Plus to obtain the thermodynamic evaluation. Mass, energy, entropy, and exergy balances are performed over the system's units. The energy and exergy efficiency of the subsystems is determined, with solar methane cracking system achieving energy and exergy efficiencies of 82.2% and 92.5%, respectively. The overall system produces methanol and generates 7.71 MW of electricity with the overall energy and exergy efficiencies of 40.6% and 37.5%, respectively. • Energy and exergy analysis of an integrated methane cracking system. • Carbon black by-product is used in a direct carbon fuel cell. • Produced CO 2 is co-electrolyzed with water to produce syngas. • Processes modelled on Aspen Plus to obtain thermodynamic evaluation. • The proposed system has an energy and exergy efficiency of 40.6% and 37.5%, respectively. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Financing, sizing, operating, or upgrading a hydrogen refueling station (HRS) is challenging and may be complex, much more so in today's rapidly changing and growing hydrogen industry. There is a significant information gap regarding experimental hydrogen station activities. A high-level perspective on such data and information may facilitate the transition between present and future HRS operations. To address the need for such high-level perspective, this paper presents a comprehensive data set on the performance of the California State University Los Angeles Hydrogen Research and Fueling Facility, based on multi-year operational data. The analysis of over 4500 refueling events and over 8800 kg of hydrogen dispensed, as well as the operation of the facility electrolyzer and of both storage and refueling compressors from 2016 to 2020, reveals a comprehensive picture of HRS energy performance and the identification of useful key performance indicators. In 2016, the station's energy efficiency was 25%, but in 2017 and the first three quarters of 2018, it dropped to 15%. Station-specific energy consumption increased during these quarters. The 2020 first quarter energy consumption was between 70 and 80 kWh/kg. At this time, the energy efficiency of the station reached 40%. This research is based on an unprecedented and unique dataset of an HRS operating under real-world conditions, with an approach that can be informative for modeling the performance of other stations, providing a dataset that HRS designers, operators, and investors may utilize to make data-driven choices regarding HRS components and their specs and size, as well as operating strategies. • Evaluation of the Energy Performance of an HRS from 2016 to 2020. • Multi-annual Assessment and Breakdown of the Station Energy Expenditure. • Analysis based on 4500 Refueling Events and over 8800 kg of Hydrogen Dispensed. • A new approach to HRS operation is recommended. • Usage of Historical Data Source to Document and Evaluate Station Performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Large-scale hydrogen production through water electrolysis is recognized as a promising way to promote the utilization of renewable energy. However, the integration of massive electrolyzers will lead to low computational efficiency in their scheduling problem, thus an aggregation modeling method for electrolyzer clusters is urgently needed. In this paper, a refined operation model of alkaline water electrolyzers is established to accurately describe their operation characteristics. Moreover, to solve 'the curse of dimensionality' in their large-scale applications, an approximated aggregated model for electrolyzer clusters which can improve the computational efficiency is proposed. The proposed model is incorporated into the optimal scheduling of power systems, and its effectiveness is validated via numerical experiments on the modified IEEE 118-bus test system. The results show that the proposed method can improve the computational efficiency by at least 1–2 orders of magnitude while ensuring high modeling accuracy. • A refined operation model for alkaline water electrolyzers is established. • An approximated aggregated model for electrolyzer clusters is proposed. • The proposed model is incorporated into the optimal scheduling of power systems. • The computational efficiency can be improved by at least 1–2 orders of magnitude. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper presents a critical analysis of a commercial pre-feasibility study for hydrogen generation from sewage sludge generated in a wastewater treatment plant sized Population Equivalent (PE) = 160,000 Three commercial offers based on hydrothermal carbonization, gasification/plasma gasification and gas separation, are analysed and validated in terms of chemical reactions and energy balance. The obtained hydrogen yield equals 10 kg H 2 /Mg sludge for Technology#2 and 5.5 kg H 2 /Mg sludge for Technology#3, while the process efficiency equals 31.4% and 41.2%, respectively. The offer for Technology#1 is inconsistent. The potential market can be built in the transport sector, based on buses (8–12/day) or locomotives (1–2/day) and complemented by passenger cars (16–22/day). Hydrogen surplus can be disposed into the natural gas network at a city gate station, with target concentration <2%. Alternatively, it is possible to install a fuel cell unit for on-site electricity generation of 1780 MWh/a sold to the public grid. • Commercial technologies of hydrogen production from sewage sludge were studied. • Technologies of hydrothermal carbonization and plasma gasification were validated. • 1 of 3 commercial offers was found inconsistent regarding thermodynamics. • Hydrogen yield was found 5.5–10 kg/Mg sludge. • Process energy efficiency was found 31.4%–41.2%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The transition to a low-carbon energy system can be depicted as a "great reconfiguration" from a socio-technical perspective that carries the risk of impact shifts. Electrification with the objective of achieving rapidly deep decarbonisation must be accompanied by effective efficiency and flexibility measures. Hydrogen can be a preferred option in the decarbonisation process where electrification of end-uses is difficult or impractical as well as for long-term storage in energy infrastructure characterised by a large penetration of renewable energy sources. Notwithstanding the current uncertainties regarding costs, environmental impact and the inherent difficulties of increasing rapidly supply capacity, hydrogen can represent a solution to be used in multi-energy systems with combined heat and power (CHP), in particular in urban energy districts. In fact, while achieving carbon savings with natural gas fuelled CHP is not possible when low grid carbon intensity factors are present, it may still be possible to use it to provide flexibility services and to reduce emissions further with switch from natural gas to hydrogen. In this paper, a commercially established urban district energy scheme located in Southampton (United Kingdom) is analysed with the goal of exploring potential variations in its energy demand. The study proposes the use of scalable data-driven methods and probabilistic simulation to generate seasonal energy demand patterns representing the potential short-term and long-term evolution of the energy district. • Hydrogen role in the transition to low carbon energy systems for urban energy district. • Data-driven urban energy modelling using regression-based approaches. • Probabilistic modelling of energy demand in terms of electricity and fuels. • Climate change impact and energy efficiency measures accounting. • Seasonal variations of energy demand patterns from short-term to long-term scenarios. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increasing demand for green hydrogen and power production necessitates the development of novel and upgraded power generation technologies. The solid oxide fuel cell combined heat and power (SOFC–CHP) system is a promising solution due to its high efficiency, clean operation, and fuel flexibility. In practical terms, SOFCs can operate using a variety of fuels such as alcoholic fuel, hydrogen, ammonia, etc. Recently, methanol and ammonia have become noteworthy alternative fuel options as it possesses advantages such as low transportation cost and high hydrogen storage capacity. In this paper, we have established two SOFC–CHP models fueled by methanol or ammonia integrated with the steam Rankine cycle. A comprehensive thermodynamic model is proposed for energy and exergy analyses. Sensitivity analysis is performed to study the system's characteristics. The results show that the SOFC–CHP system fueled by ammonia exhibits superior performance, the maximum electrical power, efficiency, and exergy efficiency is 430W, 7% and 10% greater than the methanol fueled system. The operating temperature is about 30K higher in methanol supplied system. The largest thermal power difference can reach 0.65 kW. Overall, the ammonia fueled SOFC–CHP system shows greater potential than that fueled by methanol. [Display omitted] • Using ammonia as fuel can improve energy and exergy efficiency by 7% and 10%. • Methanol fueled system requires almost half fuel than that supplied by ammonia. • The operating temperature is about 30K higher in methanol supplied system. • The largest thermal power difference can reach 0.65 kW. • The exergy destruction of preheat process accounts for the majority of both systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The hybrid combination of hydrogen fuel cells (FCs) and batteries has emerged as a promising solution for efficient and eco-friendly power supply in maritime applications. Yet, ensuring high-quality and cost-effective energy supply presents challenges. Addressing these goals requires effective coordination among multiple FC stacks, batteries, and cold-ironing. Although there has been previous work focusing it, the unique maritime load characteristics, variable cruise plans, and diverse fuel cell system architectures introduce additional complexities and therefore worth to be further studied. Motivated by it, a two-layer energy management system (EMS) is presented in this paper to enhance shipping fuel efficiency. The first layer of the EMS, executed offline, optimizes day-ahead power generation plans based on the vessel's next-day cruises. To further enhance the EMS's effectiveness in dynamic real-time situations, the second layer, conducted online, dynamically adjusts power splitting decisions based on the output from the first layer and instantaneous load information. This dual-layer approach optimally exploits the maritime environment and the fuel cell features. The presented method provides valuable utility in the development of control strategies for hybrid powertrains, thereby enabling the optimization of power generation plans and dynamic adjustment of power splitting decisions in response to load variations. Through comprehensive case studies, the effectiveness of the proposed EMS is evaluated, thereby showcasing its ability to improve system performance, enhance fuel efficiency (potential fuel savings of up to 28%), and support sustainable maritime operations. [Display omitted] • Hybrid PEM fuel cell/battery system enables zero-emission shipping. • Two-layer EMS enhances fuel efficiency while satisfying real-time load requirements. • Rotational sequential distribution prevents uneven degradation. • Rotational sequential distribution enhances computational efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, wind resource availability was determined by analyzing the meteorological wind energy potential at the hub height of wind turbines. The wind resource potential was identified in specific geographic locations. Technical factors, such as siting requirements and resource availability, were taken into account in the investigation. The economic potential was calculated for each area of Algeria, considering overall losses. Subsequently, the potential for reducing fossil fuel usage was determined through wind to hydrogen estimation. The main components utilized in this work were a Vestas-90 wind turbine (V90–2.0 MW) and an alkaline electrolyzer. The analysis employed a Geographical Information System (GIS) tool. The results demonstrate Algeria's significant potential for wind to hydrogen production, estimated at 1.093 Gt/year without constraints, and reduced to 1.066 Gt/year when considering constraints. The levelized cost of wind to hydrogen production in Algeria varies between 1.51 and 15.37 US $/kg, depending on the chosen wind turbine. The wind to hydrogen production potential identified has the capacity to replace the entire current fossil fuel consumption in the transportation sector, which amounts to 5.28 Mt H 2 /year. The utilization of wind to hydrogen in the transport sector results in a significant reduction of CO 2 emissions, with a calculated avoidance of 45.69 Mt compared to the use of gasoline and diesel. Hydrogen produced from wind energy resources also could be used to support other sectors, including residential, agricultural, and industry in Algeria. • GIS-Based approach is used to evaluate the potential for wind to hydrogen production in Algeria. • The total wind to hydrogen potential in Algeria, when considering constraints, is estimated at 1.066 Gt/year, covering an area of 730,719 km2. • The levelized cost of wind to hydrogen production in Algeria ranges between 1.51 and 15.37 US $/kg, depending on the selected wind turbine (V90–2.0 MW). • The CO 2 emissions avoided in the transport sector are 45.69 Mt compared if the same amount of gasoline and diesel used. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The All-electric ship (AES) concept has revolutionized the maritime sector. Indeed, AES is a promising solution for modern vessels where decreasing emission pollution, suppressing fossil fuel consumption, and making economical operation are its brilliant merits. Fuel cell (FC) technology based on clean hydrogen energy sources can play a significant role in meeting these requirements in the AES platform. Because of the slow transient response of the FC, an energy storage system (ESS) is required to improve AES performance in different operation scenarios. Therefore, optimal sizing of the FC and the ESS and proper design of energy management strategy is a challenging problem. This paper proposes a systematic approach for the optimal design of hybrid FC-ESS of AES power systems. The proposed method is based on an optimization technique to determine the optimal sizing of the FCs and the ESS. Capital investment, fuel consumption, personnel electrical safety, and occupied volume of the AES power system are the main objectives. The FC size, the battery size, the scheduled output power of the FC, and the battery are the decision variables. Genetic Algorithm (GA) is used to solve the optimization problem. To validate the numerical results, the optimization problem is also solved by Mayfly Algorithm (MA) separately. To assess the feasibility of the proposed strategy, the optimal design of hybrid FC-ESS for a vessel is implemented based on the proposed method. The simulation results validate the proposed approach's sufficiency to investigate and optimize the economic, safety, and dimensional aspects of designing the FC ship's IPS. Numerical results are reported for each design aspect. Considering the minor differences of the numerical results obtained by GA and MA, the optimum points are validated by the two techniques. Using the obtained results, various perceptions can be derived from the FC ship's IPS design. For example, the IPS cost in the cases with optimum volume, weight, and safety, has 2.3%, 2.6%, and 7.3% penalties, respectively compared to the case with the minimum cost. • Fuel cell-based electrification of a fishing ship based on practical information. • Systematic approach for optimal power system design of hydrogen-powered ship. • Proposing safety objective function for integrated power system of fuel cell ship. • Fuel cell hybrid IPS optimization based on volume, mass, cost and safety. • Estimation of propulsion power demand based on ship's resistance and speed profile. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a framework for the efficient design and evaluation of a standalone hybrid renewable energy system (HRES) to meet the energy requirements of a rural community in the north-eastern region of Nigeria. The proposed microgrid system incorporates solar photovoltaic, wind turbines, biomass gasifier, fuel cell, and Battery storage. The sizing of each component is determined through the utilization of real local meteorological data and the load demand over a year, employing the Levy flight-salp swarm algorithms (LF-SSA). The optimization objective is to minimize the annualized system cost (ASC) of the HRES, while also considering the reliability constraint of Loss of power supply probability (LPSP). The comparative outcomes demonstrate that the LF-SSA surpasses other examined algorithms, namely the salp swarm, genetic algorithm, and HOMER software by achieving substantial cost savings of $29033, $50796, $191771 respectively in relation to the proposed HRES. The result further shows that, the LF-SSA provides the lowest LCOE of $0.933162/kWh, in contrast to SSA at $0.947737/kWh, GA at $0.958660/kWh, and HOMER at $1.075351/kWh. Additionally, the results indicate that the implemented Energy Management System (EMS) has successfully facilitated the establishment of an environmentally friendly and cost-effective energy system. • An efficient energy storage system is essential for managing intermittent energy supply. • The fuel cell can generate DC power by combining hydrogen with oxygen. • The amount of power generated by a PV panel depends on temperature and solar radiation intensity. • Deterministic rule-based controllers operate based on pre-defined rules. • Energy Management System coordinate the flow of power between different components. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Green Hydrogen (GH) is increasingly recognized as a viable solution in the United States (US) for meeting energy demands, achieving net zero emissions by 2050, and mitigating the intermittent nature of renewable sources such as wind and solar. This review paper identifies and examines three crucial research areas concerning GH. Despite significant federal, state, and business investment in the development of hydrogen technology, numerous questions have remained unanswered including economic viability, social acceptance, and policies and regulations. In comparison to the US, Europe, and Asia have taken a lead role in studying the social and regulatory aspects of GH. The study shows limited focus on social acceptance, and the absence of dedicated policies and regulations for hydrogen. The US lacks coordinated policies for GH and is blended with natural gas. The literature shows that the relationship between economics, social sciences, and policies and regulations are intrinsic. The success of GH in the US will require massive investments, public and private collaboration, research on social sciences, and regulatory support. Hence, the GH rollout will bridge the energy transition, and climate and development targets which guide future industrial, government and public decisions. • Knowledge and experience play a major role in the acceptance of green hydrogen. • Green hydrogen technology lacks a value chain. • Lack of green hydrogen-specific regulatory agencies and standards in the US. • Economic, social, and regulatory challenges interlinked for green hydrogen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The hydrogen and oxygen bubbles covering the electrode surface will reduce the reaction rate of water electrolysis and increase energy consumption. Adding ultrasonic to the electrolytic cell can improve the escape velocity of bubbles on the electrode surface by oscillation and cavitation effect. In this paper, the effects of ultrasound on the performance of water electrolysis under different working conditions are studied by experiment and numerical simulation. Firstly, the polarization curves and bubble flow patterns under different positions of the ultrasonic vibrator and electrode were obtained through experiments. And then, the flow model of the electrolytic cell with ultrasonic is constructed, which considers the mass transfer between the gas and liquid phases and the acoustic flow phenomenon caused by cavitation. The results revealed that, due to the reflection of the wall and the transmission process of the ultrasonic in the electrolyte, the electrode position has a significant impact on the current density when the ultrasonic vibrator is located on the right side of the electrolytic cell, which can be increased by 2.40%–22.70% at different electrode positions compared with that without ultrasound. The influence of operating parameters on the flow field inside the electrolyzer was obtained through numerical simulation. As a result, appropriate loading methods and operating conditions can maximize the effectiveness of ultrasound. [Display omitted] • Improper ultrasonic loading method increases energy consumption. • Wall conditions have a significant impact on the performance of water electrolysis. • The bubble flow morphology on the electrode surface was observed. • A flow field model of electrolyzer with ultrasonic was constructed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Proton exchange membrane electrolysis cells (PEMEC) can be utilized to produce hydrogen using renewable energy. In this paper, photovoltaic (PV) integrated with PEMEC is developed for hydrogen production. Based on the operation characteristics of PV and PEMEC, two operation strategies (Strategy 1 and Strategy 2) are proposed to regulate membrane temperature lower than 353.15 K under different solar irradiations. For Strategy 1, the water flow rate is firstly increased and then the inlet water temperature is reduced in the morning with increasing irradiation; and only increasing the inlet water temperature in the afternoon. While for Strategy 2, only reducing the inlet water temperature is adopted in the morning, and increasing the inlet water temperature in the afternoon. Results show that Strategy 1 outperforms Strategy 2 in terms of higher energy efficiency of 5.38% and exergy efficiency of 5.46%. However, the specific energy consumption is higher with Strategy 1 owing to higher pump power consumption, which is 6.15 kWh/Nm3. • Producing green hydrogen with PEMEC using renewable energy of PV. • Two strategies aiming to regulate the membrane temperature under different DNI. • Changing inlet water flow rate and temperature adopted for temperature control. • Higher energy and exergy efficiency are achieved with Strategy 1, 5.38% and 5.46%. • Real temperature distribution of the PEMEC with two strategies is illustrated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cryogenic supercritical hydrogen storage technology is a high-density physical hydrogen storage method, which is a highly promising hydrogen storage approach. However, existing research has mainly focused on the development of storage devices for cryogenic supercritical hydrogen, with limited research on the cooling process of supercritical hydrogen. Therefore, a novel cooling process for cryogenic supercritical hydrogen production based on helium expansion cycle with liquid nitrogen (LN 2) pre-cooling is proposed in this paper. In this process, after being compressed and cooled in multiple stages, the feed hydrogen is pre-cooled by LN 2. Then, cryogenic supercritical hydrogen (10 MPa, −235.15 °C, 63.36 g/L) is obtained by helium multi-stage expansion refrigeration. The process is simulated by Aspen HYSYS and optimized by genetic algorithm (GA) to obtain lower specific energy consumption (SEC). Thermodynamic analyses are conducted to evaluate the process. And compared with the conventional hydrogen liquefaction process, the results show that the proposed process is reasonable and superior. The SEC 0 , figure of merit (FOM), and the total exergy loss of the system are 5.432 kWh/kg H2 , 43.88%, and 289.69 kW respectively. This study indicates that the proposed process has significant implications for the hydrogen industry and provides valuable information for cryogenic supercritical hydrogen storage systems. • A novel high-density cryogenic supercritical hydrogen storage system is proposed. • Twelve key variables in the process are optimized to reduce the energy consumption. • The process has higher exergy efficiency than conventional LH 2 plants. • The volume storage density of hydrogen can reach 63.36 kg/m3 in the system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Optimal energy management of microgrids enables efficient integration of renewable energies by considering all system flexibilities. For systems with significant seasonal imbalance between energy production and demand, it may be necessary to integrate seasonal storage in order to achieve fully decarbonized operation. This paper develops a novel model predictive control strategy for a renewable microgrid with seasonal hydrogen storage. The strategy relies on data-based prediction of the energy production and consumption of an industrial power plant and finds optimized energy flows using a digital twin optimizer. To enable seasonal operation, incentives for long-term energy shifts are provided by assigning a cost value to the storage charge and adding it to the optimization target function. A hybrid control scheme based on rule-based heuristics compensates for imperfect predictions. With only 6% oversizing compared to the optimal system layout, the strategy manages to deliver enough energy to meet all demand while achieving balanced hydrogen production and consumption throughout the year. • PV with seasonal H 2 storage enables fully sustainable operation of industrial microgrids. • Model predictive control overcomes perfect foresight limitation in energy management. • H 2 production for long-term storage is incentivized by adding an extra cost term. • Hybrid predictive control enables a low cost system with nearly perfect yearly operation. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With rapid industrialization, rising fossil fuel consumption, and environmental concerns, developing clean and green energy is an inescapable option. Hydrogen has emerged as a significant potential energy carrier and a viable future replacement fuel for fossil fuels due to its renewable and pollution-free properties. Previous review papers have significantly contributed to the body of literature on the various technologies for producing hydrogen by revealing key insights into their working principles and conditions, as well as the economic and environmental aspects. In addition, they also highlighted the potential pathways to enable the application of these technologies in the context of carbon neutrality. However, these studies have not broken down the evolutionary patterns and developmental progress of either fossil fuel-based or renewable energy-based technologies used to produce hydrogen. In addition, the currently available literature does not contain the most recent research that focuses on the evolution and life cycle of each technology category from a chronological point of view. The key drivers, countries/regions, and their contributions to the field's development have received little attention. As a result, it is critical to monitor technological advances in hydrogen energy production and investigate the key enablers of these advancements. Against this backdrop, the current study employs patent analysis tools to achieve four primary goals: (1) to track the development trends in the field of hydrogen production from 2000 to 2019; (2) to identify and compare the recent development trends in the last five years according to the feedstock, i.e., fossil fuel, water, and biomass-based technologies; (3) to predict the technology life cycle of the two main groups of hydrogen production technologies (fossil and renewable); (4) to identify and compare the key drivers of hydrogen production technologies from a statistical standpoint. The findings of the study may aid in identifying technical prospects in the field of fossil and renewable-based hydrogen production, and decision-makers may use them as a reference in developing a strategic plan for future technological growth. • Patent review on hydrogen production technologies from 2000 to 2019. • Japan, US, China are the leading countries in the field. • Recent developments are focused on renewable energy-based technologies especially water. • Technology maturity rate of renewable-based technologies is about 57%. • R&D expenditure strongly promotes hydrogen production innovations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The impact of installation environment for a condensing unit in a plant room of apartment dwelling was evaluated. • As the louver window open area ratio decreases, the input power of the air conditioner increases in a logarithmic function. • As the rear clearance distance decreases, the input power of the air conditioner increases in a logarithmic function. • Insect screen in a plant room can deteriorate the performance of the condensing unit. • Using air-guide can offset the negative impact of louver window or insect screen on air discharge performance. In many countries, split-type air conditioners have been widely used in residential buildings due to the high energy efficiency. It has been reported that optimal heat exchange conditions are necessary for the condensing unit of the air source air conditioner to perform at its rated level, particularly when installed in an apartment building's plant room. This study analyzes the impact of installation parameters of a condensing unit of a split-type air conditioner, such as the clearance distance from the rear surface of the condensing unit, the louver angle, and the use of insect screen or air-guide, on the cooling performance. The findings from the experiments and the correlations between parameters and input power presented in this paper would be useful in designing residential buildings with split-type air conditioners and air conditioner plant rooms for optimal cooling performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work aimed at solving the environmental problem of the hottest greenhouse gas reduction. The paper identifies the energy electricity demand, proposes solutions, and calculates the greenhouse gases emitted in each of the interconnected networks available in Cameroon. For a total production estimated at 1292 MW, the country's electricity production depends heavily on hydropower plants (57%), thermal power plants (42%), and only 1% of biomass. Specifically, biomass would contribute to 40% of the supply of the demand if it is sufficiently exploited. Hydroelectricity needs transmission for long distances. The electricity demand in the median economic scenario is the basis of this study. GHGs were calculated using the tool MESSAGE. The results of this study show that it will be possible, without taking into account the fact that biomass is clean energy, to avoid 462 kt of CO 2 eq and 14 kt of CO 2 eq for South Interconnected Network and East Interconnected Network respectively. The amounts of CH 4 , SO 2 , and NO x are not statistically significant. This study takes into account the main existing energy sources in the country. The specificity of this study is to treat the three interconnected networks of the country separately. The use of biomass in local power plants was proposed to reduce dependence on fossil fuels. This study shows that to reduce the GHG emission and the loss of electricity due to its transmission in the country, it is better to use biomass instead of fossil fuels for the production of electricity in Cameroon. [Display omitted] • Electricity demand of the country was identified. • The quantity of GHG emitted from electricity generation in Cameroon was estimated. • Biomass power plants were introduced in the electricity mix of the country to promote local production. • Local realities were taken into account and dependence of imported fossil fuels was reduced. • Biomass instead of fossil fuels was to avoid emission of 462 kt of CO 2 eq. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Single-rate pipeline prices have resulted in low competitive flexibility and have led to high costs and consumption in China's refined oil logistics system. This study aims to propose a framework for multi-product pipelines supplementary pricing strategy that creates a win-win situation for both shippers and pipeline carriers while quantifying economic, energy and environmental performance. Based on the objective of cost minimization, a lower limit constraint on pipeline transportation quantity is added, and a discount coefficient is introduced for pipeline prices, thus improving the transportation optimization model. Moreover, this paper develops an implementation approach for a supplementary pricing strategy that can ensure that the discounted price is not lower than the sum of cost and minimum profit. This framework usability is confirmed using a Chinese oil company as an example. The results show that the optimal scheme can increase pipeline revenue by ¥79.8 million while reduce shipper's logistics costs by ¥1.68 million during the practice cycle. Meanwhile, this work reduces energy consumption by 1.37 tce, CO 2 emission by 444 tons, SO 2 emission by 5.65 tons, and NO X emission by 7.07 million tons for the logistics system. Compared with past studies, this study is more economical or more in line with market-oriented behavior. • A framework for 3E performance improvement of multi-product pipelines is proposed. • The improved transportation optimization model is used as a pricing tool. • A supplementary strategy implementation approach is defined. • Total economic benefit to shippers and pipeline carriers is ¥9.66 million. • The energy and environmental benefits of the logistics system are quantified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A fully stretchable photosynaptic device with low energy consumption is achieved by the intrinsic stretchability of conjugated block copolymers and the accommodation of perovskite quantum dots. The strategy emulates photosynapse functionalities and provides an artificial muscle's neural network with high recognition accuracy, thereby representing potentially major advances in soft optoelectronics. [Display omitted] Emulation of photonic synapses offers a promising avenue for developing low-energy consumption of soft electronics, neurologically inspired robotics, and neuromorphic network computation. In this paper, a fully stretchable photosynaptic device with ultralow energy consumption using intrinsically stretchable poly(δ -decanolactone) (PDL)-based conjugated block copolymers (BCPs) with perovskite quantum dots (PeQDs) is first reported. The findings reveal that selectively choosing solvents for the PDL-based BCPs effectively regulates the assembly of P3HT and the accommodation of PeQDs, leading to improved self-aggregation of PeQDs, increased grain size, and optimized interfaces between P3HT and PeQDs The BCPs/PeQDs composite effectively emulates significant features of photonic synapses, such as paired-pulse facilitation (PPF), spike-dependent and short/long-term neuroplasticity, demonstrating excellent performance, including the fastest response time (1 ms), the highest current contrast (4.9 × 105), PPF (1.93) and ultra-low energy consumption (0.3 aJ) at an operating voltage of –0.1 mV. Furthermore, the BCP/PeQDs exhibit remarkable neuromuscular synapse characteristics, including high strain and bending tolerance and spike-dependent plasticity, enabling the devices to achieve high classification accuracy in artificial neural network simulations during tensile strain. The accommodation solvent selectivity of BCP/PeQDs suggests a promising strategy for advancing neurologically soft electronics, human-like pattern recognition, and neuromorphic computation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Regular Ship hull maintenance is an essential for sustainability. The maintenance work of ship hulls that involve human labor suffers from many shortcomings. Maintenance robots have been introduced for drydocks to eliminate these shortcomings. An energy-efficient Complete Coverage Path Planning (CCPP) is a crucial requirement from a ship hull maintenance robot. This paper proposes a novel energy-efficient CCPP method based on Glasius Bioinspired Neural Network (GBNN) for a ship hull inspection robot. The proposed method accounts for a comprehensive energy model for path planning. This energy model reflects the energy usage of a ship hull maintenance robot due to changes in direction, distance, and vertical position. Furthermore, the proposed method is effective for dynamic workspaces since it performs online path planning. These are the major contributions made to state of the art by the work proposed in this paper. The behavior and the performance of the proposed method have been compared against state of the art through simulations considering Hornbill, a multipurpose ship hull maintenance robot. The validation confirms the ability of the proposed in realizing a complete coverage of a given dynamic workspace. According to the statistical outcomes of the comparison, the performance of the proposed method significantly surpasses that of the state-of-the-art methods in terms of energy usage. Therefore, the proposed method contributes to the development of energy-efficient CCPP methods for a ship hull maintenance robot. • A novel coverage method based on Glasius Bioinspired Neural Network is proposed. • The proposed method is intended for a multipurpose ship hull maintenance robot. • A comprehensive energy model is utilized by the proposed method for path planning. • The proposed method is significantly efficient than the state of the art methods. • The paper contributes to the development of a ship hull maintenance robot. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A simple, large-scale fabrication of cooling paper via pulping and papermaking technology. • The cooling paper is facilely deconstructed and regenerated to architect the secondary cooler. • The cooling paper features a high solar reflectance of 94% and emissivity of 0.95. • The cooling paper shows the sub-ambient temperature drop of 6 ∼ 8.8 °C under directly solar radiation at daytime. Passive radiative cooling materials provide coldness without energy consumption for all-day thermal comfort by reflecting solar irradiation and emitting heat into the 3 K universe. However, the conventional radiative cooling materials involve complex multilayer structures and unsustainable polymers, showing the non-recyclable disadvantage, which induces resource waste and environmental issues. Herein, we reported a low-cost, scalable, and eco-friendly radiative cooling material (namely cooling paper), consisting of the delignified, fibrillated cellulose fibers and nano-sized hydroxyapatite (HA) via the mature pulping and papermaking process. The resulting cooled paper can be recycled, and it can be easily deconstructed to harvest cellulose fibers and HA, individually. The recovered source materials can be reused to prepare secondary products that show comparable performance to the original cooling paper, including a high solar reflectance of ∼94% and an infrared emissivity of ∼0.95 in the atmospheric transparency window. Such cooling paper enables superior cooling performance with the temperature drop of 6 ∼ 8.8 °C under directly solar radiation. Based on the EnergyPlus simulation, our cooling paper shows a average cooling energy saving of ∼29 % in buildings across China. The recyclable cooling paper with high cooling capability and scalability, as well as environmental friendliness, shows promising potential for sustainable energy-efficient buildings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A rhombic-shaped paper-based TENG for harvesting mechanical energy is proposed. • Multiple unites are integrated in an harvester to enlarge the electrical output. • The rhombic-shaped frame enables the contact mode TENG to work effectively under tensile conditions. • Two pressurizing braces are designed to enlarge the contact force between the tribo-pair. Triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) as a promising energy harvesting technology attracts much attention in recent years. Among others, the contact mode TENG is often given priority by virtue of its reliable robustness and high energy conversion efficiency. However, in most cases, the contact-mode TENG is only suitable for collecting energy from pressure-induced incentives because it requires a compression forces to drive. Here, we propose a rhombic-shaped paper-based triboelectric nanogenerator (RP-TENG) that may operate effectively under tensile conditions together with an enhanced contact force between the tribo-pair induced by the design of pressurizing braces. Mechanical tests were carried out to investigate the output performance of the RP-TENG under the activation of various applied forces. An integrated RP-TENG with four tribo-pairs were fabricated for optimizing the output performance. The novel design facilitates the device to achieve higher energy conversion efficiency and also expand its application circumstances. A theoretical model is developed to establish the correlation between the output voltage of the RP-TENG and the geometric characteristics as well as external excitations. The results suggest an effective strategy of using paper-based rhombic-shape design to enhance contact-mode TENGs and may serve as a guideline for structural and circuit design of this novel TENG devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper probes the effectiveness of competitive industrial performance (CIP) and renewable energy in enhancing load capacity factor in top-10 CIP economies for the period 1990–2018. We run panel econometric techniques that address cross-sectional dependence, endogeneity and heterogeneity to provide policy recommendations with the applications of industry, innovation, and infrastructure (SDG 9), which is linked to affordable and clean energy (SDG 7) and climate action (SDG 13). In the empirical analysis, two different environmental quality indicators such as CO 2 emissions and load capacity factor are used. While cointegration between variables cannot be detected in the emissions model, evidence for the existence of cointegration is presented in the load capacity factor model. The findings in the paper suggest that economic growth and competitive industrial performance adversely impact environmental quality, while renewable energy consumption and human capital can improve load capacity factor. The result shows that human capital and renewable energy consumption can be strong tools for stimulating load capacity factor in top-10 CIP economies. Countries with high competitive industrial performance need to return to a green economy without losing their competitiveness. • SDG-based environmental policies was presented for the top-10 CIP economies. • A battery of second generations methods was employed. • Investigating the impacts of Competitive industrial performance on environmental quality. • Competitive industrial performance has a negative impact on environmental quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The safety of energy infrastructure is currently attracting more and more attention. Once accidents happened or improper incident handling, uncontrolled release of huge energy will lead catastrophic consequences. The manuscript takes the hydrogen refueling station as a typical representative of the energy infrastructure. Once the hydrogen in hydrogen refueling stations (HRSs) leaks, it easily forms a combustible cloud and can explode by encountering a heat source. At such a time, effective emergency management can prevent and reduce the impact of accidents. In this paper, the "scene-task-ability" scenario construction method is first applied to HRS leakage and explosive accidents and used to illustrate the risk evolution process during the different stages of an accident. This method separates the emergency tasks of various emergency responders and evaluates their emergency response ability. The values of prevention, preparation, response and recovery are coupled using the time-ordered weighted averaging and time-ordered weighted geometric averaging hybrid operator, in order to derive a systematic and comprehensive evaluation of the safe emergency management of HRSs. Finally, based on the results of the emergency response ability evaluation, targeted and effective suggested measures are proposed to improve the emergency management level of emergency responders. • The "scene-task-ability" method is first applied to HRS accident. • This scenario construction method separates the tasks of emergency responders. • This paper uses the TOWA-TOWGA hybrid operator model for dynamic evaluation. • Measures to improve the emergency level are proposed based on evaluation results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Maize production due to its many climate friendly properties have been center of research and development in terms of yield, water per hectare requirement, and so forth. • Out of agricultural stubble waste, corncob showed highest potential for beneficiation amongst traditional cash crops. Corncob beneficiation products and their applications span from bio fuels to mattress, with over 3500 products. • With processes such as gasification, pyrolysis, combustion and so forth, we can use this agricultural waste product for energy generation. • With applications such as bio-oil, ethanol blending, poultry feed, bio char, methanol, and so on maize was found to be the answer to many global problems. Increased global energy consumption and energy generation constraints using non-renewable energy sources have stressed countries and major industries to practice and develop cleaner, sustainable, readily available and predictable source of energy. On the other hand, agricultural waste or stubble burning presents a major problem for developing countries like India as it alone produces 516 million tons of agricultural waste in the year 2017-2018, out of which 116 million tons waste was burnt producing 176.1 Mt Carbon dioxide, 10 Mt of Carbon monoxide, and other harmful greenhouse gases. Though 13% of India's total energy is produced by the biomass, a lot of scope and potential in waste biomass is still left unexplored. Research and development in biomass (agricultural waste) conversion to energy is the potential solution to both problems. Out of all agricultural waste biomass, corncob was the center of research for this review paper. This review paper covers global and Indian scenario in the generation of corn cob, its beneficiation and uses in multiple industries, characteristics of corn cob, technologies available and used for the biomass conversion, limitations faced by the industry in corn cob's beneficiation, future potential developments, pledged goals and projected targets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper collects monthly data for the United States from January 2005 to April 2021 and develops a time-varying parameter vector autoregressive model with stochastic volatility (TVP-SV-VAR) model to investigate the time-varying relationship between climate policy uncertainty, oil prices, and renewable energy consumption. In addition, this paper discusses the dynamic impact of climate policy uncertainty on five types of renewable energy consumption. Our results show that the relationship between them is time-varying. In most periods, climate policy uncertainty positively affects oil prices in the short and medium term, and positively affects total renewable energy consumption in the short and long term. In addition, the impact of climate policy uncertainty on the consumption of the five types of renewable energy is heterogeneous. The results of the robustness tests indicate that our results are robust and our study has important implications for the development of relevant policies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• This study proposes an hour-ahead demand response (DR) for PV-based smart homes utilizing the AI method in digital twin while taking into account customer energy consumption and discomfort; • This study adopts a MARL approach for ensuring optimum and decentralized decision-making among several devices; • This study presents a steady cost prediction method utilizing ANN for overcoming the uncertainties in upcoming costs; • This study also compares the energy prices under 2 various scenarios including and excluding AI-enabled DR. Energy management (EM) systems need to have the flexibility to take the optimum real-time decision in the face of constantly varying market factors. Demand response (DR) has become the newest method of improving the performance and reliability of the electrical system. Here, an hour-ahead DR algorithm is proposed for EM at home. This paper presents an artificial neural network approach that uses stable cost predictions as a method for dealing with upcoming price uncertainties. For making optimum and decentralized decisions for various household devices, multi-agent reinforcement learning has been used along with predicted upcoming costs. This paper conducts the simulation with shiftable, non-shiftable, and controllable loads to determine the effectiveness of this suggested EM strategy. Based on the outcomes of the experiments, this suggested DR algorithm has capable of handling EM for a number of devices, minimizing consumer electricity expenses and discomfort prices, and helping the consumer considerably reduce its energy expenses in comparison to a benchmark using no DR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

World's energy demand is majorly met by fossil fuels. An increase in the demand for energy and the depletion of fossil fuels leads to look for the alternate source of energy. Hydrogen is one of the most viable alternate sources of alternate energy. This paper presents the performance study of a Compression Ignition engine using a fuel combination of diesel and hydrogen-diesel. The performance parameters have been analyzed with two input factors, load and Compression Ratio and three output responses, Brake Thermal efficiency (BTE), Brake Specific Fuel Consumption (BSFC) and Volumetric efficiency. The experimental results indicate the improvement in BTE, reduction in BSFC and volumetric efficiency. The BTE was improved by 6.38%, BSFC was reduced by 4.87% and Volumetric efficiency got reduced by 1.89% when hydrogen-diesel fuel is used in place of neat diesel. The experiments have been designed with the help of Design Expert® 13.0.5 using Response Surface Method. The experiments are conducted using Optimal (Custom) design. Mathematical relations are developed between the process parameters and the input factors using regression analysis. The optimal solution has been obtained using the desirability approach. The confirmation experiments have been performed on the optimal solution to verify with the experiment results. Results of the confirmation test shows that the developed mathematical are appropriate for the use in CI engine. • Use of Hydrogen (H 2) as alternate fuel in CI engine. • Experimental investigation of CI engine's performance parameters using Diesel and Hydrogen fuels. • Optimization of CI engine's performance parameters using Response Surface Method. • Performance parameters of H 2 fuelled CI Engine increased at higher compression ratio under varying load condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates the impact of import competition on energy efficiency among firms in China. Using a difference-in-differences approach that exploits industry- and firm-level tariff reductions following China's accession to the WTO, we examine the effects of reduced output tariffs on coal intensity, measured as coal use per output, of Chinese manufacturing firms. Our findings indicate that higher levels of import competition lead to significant reductions in coal intensity, without negatively affecting firm production levels. We also find evidence that these effects are primarily driven by multi-product firms adjusting their product mix to prioritize energy-saving options. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper proposes a methodology for designing intelligent systems of autonomous distributed hybrid power complexes (ADHPC) ensuring a minimum level of energy consumption from the national external grid as well as diesel power plants used to deliver the power to regional households, and industrial consumers. It will be realized because of the effective use of generated energy from renewable energy sources in such ADHPC systems by considering their both normal and emergency operating modes. In doing so, ADHPC will not only help offload the existing power grid during peak demand, but also allow for significant process efficiencies in energy production from renewable energy sources (RES), including "green" hydrogen: for instance, the excess energy is accumulated during the period of its excess and is provided back to power consumers in the period of shortage, the electricity losses are reduced since effective management is applied for power flows circulating in the ADHPC systems. The methodology includes the following stages (subtasks): development of the structure of a distributed hybrid system for generating and transporting electricity from sources to consumers; development of a system for diagnostics of failures of generating units and wire breaks in sections of local power transportation networks and management based on the diagnostics results of power flows circulating in the ADHPC systems for both normal and emergency modes. Therefore, a balance of power capacities and minimization of their losses are ensured. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To reduce the energy consumption of the hydrogen liquefaction process, a hydrogen liquefaction process based on cascaded mixed refrigerant cycles is proposed in this paper. The two mixed refrigerant cycles are connected in series so that the cooling capacity of refrigerants can be fully utilized. Cascaded processes with different numbers of pre-cooling stages are compared. The processes are optimized using the particle swarm algorithm. And cascaded and non-cascaded processes are compared under the same conditions. The results show that the more the number of pre-cooling stages, the lower the SEC and the higher the exergy efficiency. And the cascaded process has higher energy efficiency than the non-cascaded process. The specific power consumption of the process is 5.664 kWh/kg LH2 , the coefficient of performance is 0.2322, and the exergy efficiency is 52.77%. This research can provide valuable ideas and methods for the improvement of hydrogen liquefaction process design. • A cascaded dual mixed refrigerant hydrogen liquefaction process is put up. • The cascaded process has higher energy efficiency than the non-cascaded process. • The SEC of the process is 5.664 kWh/kg LH2 and the exergy efficiency is 52.77%. • The efficiency of this liquefaction process reaches the highest level currently. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low–thrust propulsion systems of high specific impulse are advantageous in the fuel efficiency. The fuel expenditure is further reduced together with optimization techniques though fuel–optimal low–thrust trajectories result in a discontinuous bang–bang control structure that can cause numerical difficulties. The present paper introduces regularized formulations into the direct multiple shooting method of minimizing fuel expenditure for low–thrust spacecraft trajectories. Instantaneous velocity changes approximating low–thrust maneuvers are expressed by regularized variables based on the Levi–Civita or Kustaanheimo–Stiefel transformation. The new formulation removes singularities due to null thrust impulses from derivatives of an objective function and constraints. The method automatically and robustly finds fuel–efficient bang–bang control structures for multi–revolutional transfers between periodic orbits in the Earth–Moon circular restricted three–body problem. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper addresses the trajectory planning and control problem of multi-spacecraft formation reconstruction in the presence of obstacles. By expressing spacecraft dynamics relative to a leader spacecraft in the formation, an integrated planning and control approach named predictive null-space-based behavior control (PNSBC) is proposed. First, a planner using null-space-based behavior control (NSBC) is designed at an upper layer to resolve multi-task conflicts. Here, both global tasks, e.g. formation keeping, and local tasks, e.g. obstacle avoidance, are considered. Second, a tracking controller is designed at the bottom layer using decentralized model predictive control. Unlike traditional two-layer approaches that treat planning and control separately, the proposed PNSBC integrates the planning and control in two ways: 1) the planner provides reference trajectories for the controller to track; 2) the model predictive control (MPC) controller provides predicted trajectories that can be employed by the planner for future task priority predictions, which extends the capability of NSBC from one-step planning to multi-step predicting. In addition, the computational burden of the MPC controller is greatly reduced by putting the nonlinear obstacle avoidance constraints into the planner as a local task. Simulation results show that such integrated approach has better performance in terms of safety constraint guarantee, fuel consumption and travel distance when compared against traditional non-integrated approaches, or all-in-one MPC methods, while constraints and task objectives are fully satisfied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• We employed MRA to specify the authentic empirical effect based on 328 estimation results from 33 primary studies. • Financial development leads to higher renewable energy consumption / use / capacity / production according to the MRA. • There is no publication bias in the existing literature. • The authentic empirical effect may change depending on financial development or renewable energy indicators used, time period covered, the unit analyzed, and the estimation technique employed. • There is an omitted variable bias in the existing literature. The current paper tries to determine and quantify the authentic empirical effect of financial development on renewable energy beyond publication selection bias, if any, based on 328 estimation results from 33 primary studies that were published or presented over the period of 2009-2022. Bivariate and multivariate FAT-PET analyses were used as tools of meta-regression analysis. A positive significant authentic empirical effect of financial development on renewable energy is found as a first contribution. Hence the results support Hypothesis 1; by offering more reliable, efficient, and less costly funds to investors; whether private or public, financial development boosts renewable energy. An absence of publication bias is resulted regarding the overall findings of the primary studies or design characteristics (moderating variables) as a second contribution. Based on the results for moderating variables, the authentic empirical effect may change in direction and magnitude due to the financial development or renewable energy indicators used, the time period covered, the unit analyzed, and/or the estimation technique employed as a third contribution. Omitted variable bias is found in the existing literature analyzing this subject. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electrical Distribution Systems (EDS) are extensively penetrated with Distributed Energy Resources (DERs) to cater the energy demands with the general perception that it enhances the system's resilience. However, integration of DERs may adversely affect the grid operation and affect the system resilience due to various factors like their intermittent availability, dynamics of weather conditions, non-linearity, complexity, number of malicious threats, and improved reliability requirements of consumers. This paper proposes a methodology to evaluate the planning and operational resilience of power distribution systems under extreme events and determines the withstand capability of the electrical network. The proposed framework is developed by effectively employing the complex network theory. Correlated networks for undesirable configurations are developed from the time-series data of active power monitored at nodes of the electrical network. For these correlated networks, compute the network parameters such as clustering coefficient, assortative coefficient, average degree, and power law exponent for the anticipation; and percolation threshold for the determination of the network's withstand capability under extreme conditions. The proposed methodology is also suitable for identifying the hosting capacity of solar panels in the system while maintaining resilience under different unfavorable conditions and identifying the most critical nodes of the system that could drive the system into non-resilience. This framework is demonstrated on IEEE 123 node test feeder by generating active power time-series data for a variety of electrical conditions using the simulation software, GridLAB-D. The percolation threshold resulted as an effective metric for the determination of the planning and operational resilience of the power distribution system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The primary requirement for multimedia applications is energy efficient design along with computational efficiency of portable devices. This work proposes an energy efficient MAC with error compensating novel approximate adder and approximate multiplier. The proposed approximate hierarchical adder (AXHA – N) has the advantage of zero carry propagation and consists of only two gate levels which deliver very high speed and very low energy consumption along with the near to zero mean error distances. The proposed approximate 4 - bit multiplier also has no carry propagation from Least Significant Bit (LSB) to Most Significant Bit (MSB), which leads to high speed with very low energy consumption and acceptable error profiles. Higher bit size multipliers can be built using the proposed modified recursive multiplication scheme. This work proposes three variants A X M A C 1 , A X M A C 2 , A X M A C 3 basing on one or both of adder and multiplier being approximate. The proposed A X M A C 3 with any k , has energy savings ranging from 40% to 60% for different A x L when compared to accurate with Mean Error Distance between − 358 and 4305. The MED for A X M A C 3 with k = 8 , A X L = 4 is only 0.7% of the maximum possible value with 60% energy savings. The MED for A X M A C 3 with k = 12 s , A X L = 4 is only 0.8% of the maximum possible value with 57% energy savings. Mean Relative Error Distance (MRED) and Normalised Mean Error Distance (NMED) are also evaluated and presented in the paper for wholesome evaluation of AXMAC. The (Energy savings, MRED, MED) tuple 8 − b i t MAC for design of Adams et al., (2019) with k = 8 is (26.9%, 0.1, − 15048), for proposed A X M A C 3 with similar configuration has (57%, 0.01, 3663). • This work proposes an energy-efficient unsigned MAC with self-error compensating novel approximate adder and approximate multiplier. • The proposed higher size multipliers (AXM - N) recursively using the proposed approximate 4 - bit multipliers by which a balance between error tuning and parallelism can be obtained. • The proposed approximate hierarchical adder has the advantage of zero carry propagation and consists of only two gate levels which deliver very high speed and very low energy consumption along with the near to zero mean error distances. • This work proposes three variants AXMAC1, AXMAC2, AXMAC3 basing on one or both of adder and multiplier being approximate. • The proposed AXM AC3 with any k, has energy savings ranging from 40% to 60% for different AxL when compared to accurate with MED between − 358 and 4305. The deviation i.e., MED for AXMAC3 with k = 8, AXL = 4 is only 0.7% of the maximum possible value for 60% energy savings. The deviation i.e., MED for AXMAC3 with k = 12, AXL = 4 is only 0.8% of the maximum possible value for 57% energy savings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the relationship between energy price dynamics and competitiveness is key to the debate on the transition to environmental and economic sustainability. That is particularly the case in emerging economies, where sectors and firms are less mature and more fragile to external shocks. Using a panel of firms in 12 sectors and 11 high and middle-income countries over the years 2002–2013, this paper provides evidence that growing energy prices do not harm and in some cases can even strengthen economic performance. The results suggest that the size and direction of the impact of growing energy prices depends on firms' energy intensity, among other characteristics. This should be taken into account in empirical studies focusing solely on average effects. • A widespread view is that growing energy prices determine a reduction of profits and competitiveness of firms. • This study analyzes the impact of energy prices on performance indicators of firms in developing and emerging countries. • We find that rise in energy prices can trigger innovation, which may compensate the static losses of rising input costs. • The negative impact of energy price changes on performance is stronger for firms with a higher level of energy intensity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]