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Agriculture represents the "cause" and the "victim" of climate change. Almost 30 percent of greenhouse gas emissions come from the agricultural sector. They contribute to global warming and therefore significantly affect the sustainability of agricultural production systems. The aim of the paper is to determine which factors have the greatest influence on the greenhouse gas emission from agriculture. For this purpose, a dynamic panel analysis for 26 members of the European Union in the period from 2013 to 2021 in the paper is conducted. The results of the analysis suggest that the capacity for biofuel production, organic agricultural production and greenhouse gas emissions from the previous period have the greatest impact on the same emissions from agriculture. The results of this research can serve policy makers in formulating strategies for the development of food systems that will pollute the environment to a lesser extent and use available resources more rationally. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Serbian Journal of Management is the property of Serbian Journal of Management and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

University campuses represent a heterogeneous ecosystem as to social, economic, energetic, and personal travel planning with a huge impact on hosting cities and territories. Sustainable policies are thus fundamental to reduce this impact and to adopt ecological behaviors. The measures for any University Sustainability Plan should be evaluated in terms of GHG emissions, as well as the overall impact of the university itself. Carbon footprint (CF) calculation is a relevant Decision Support tool that allows university organizations to measure and communicate the environmental effects of their activities. The aim of this paper is to present a carbon footprint methodology specifically designed to calculate the carbon footprint of large universities. The methodology was applied to calculate the CF of the University of Bologna by following international standards—i.e., the GHG protocol, the ISO 14064, and the ISO/TR 14069 guide—to understand the environmental impact caused by greenhouse gas emissions from direct and indirect university activities. The study was conducted upon the data available in 2020 and then was compared to the 2018 data, with the aim to recognize if the effect of the pandemic could have altered the results. In 2020, the University of Bologna emitted 16,467 tCO2e which became 15,753 tCO2e considering the offset and avoided emission provided by the internal production of energy from renewable sources. Comparison between 2020 and 2018 shows how, in 2018, most of the emissions came from transportation, representing 74% of the total emissions, while in 2020 almost 50% of total emissions derived by IT procurements. The case application demonstrates the way with which the methodology may be applied to assess environmental impact for complex university campuses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Investigating the effect of renewable energy on the drivers of climate change correctly is significant as it is the basic source of climate change mitigation. In the extant literature, its effect on climate change has been estimated predominantly by regressing aggregate rather than sectoral renewable energy use either on aggregate greenhouse gas emissions or the components of greenhouse gases (GHGs) like carbon dioxide emissions. Against this backdrop, the paper investigates if we should estimate the nexus (i) by the causal effects running from aggregate or sectoral renewable energy use to GHG emissions and (ii) by the causal effects running from renewable energy consumption to aggregate GHG emissions or to its components like carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. To this end, the paper introduces negative and positive (functional) complementarity between sectoral renewable energy consumptions in reducing or increasing GHG emissions, takes 20 OECD countries from 1990 to 2019, and uses augmented and non-augmented auto-regressive distributed lag approach and vector error correction mechanism. The study finds substantial differences among the results coming out of (i) regressing aggregate and sectoral renewable energy consumption on GHG emissions and (ii) regressing renewable energy consumption on aggregate GHG emissions and on CO2 emissions. The paper suggests regressing sectoral rather than aggregate renewable energy consumption on the components of aggregate GHG emissions like CO2 emissions rather than on aggregate GHG emissions to produce workable, specific, and conclusive policy alternatives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The incontestable evidence of climate change and extreme weather events has brought the entire world to the brink of a red code alert, which determined the need to establish targets for limiting greenhouse gas emissions and the other actions that can be taken to solve them. The paper presents aspects of limiting the contribution of buildings to climate change through energy efficiency measures with an emphasis on the importance of the nZEB concept. The need to reduce the consumption of energy from fossil sources and increase the contribution of energy renewable sources is discussed, in a realistic context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Combating global warming-related climate change demands prompt actions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, particularly carbon dioxide. Biomass-based biofuels represent a promising alternative fossil energy source. To convert biomass into energy, numerous conversion processes are performed at high pressure and temperature conditions, and the design and dimensioning of such processes requires thermophysical property data, particularly thermal conductivity, which are not always available in the literature. In this paper, we proposed the application of Chemoinformatics methodologies to investigate the prediction of thermal conductivity for hydrocarbons and oxygenated compounds. A compilation of experimental data followed by a careful data curation were performed to establish a database. The support vector machine algorithm has been applied to the database leading to models with good predictive abilities. The support vector regression (SVR) model has then been applied to an external set of compounds, i.e. not considered during the training of models. It showed that our SVR model can be used for the prediction of thermal conductivity values for temperatures and/or compounds that are not covered experimentally in the literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this paper is to investigate climate change awareness and mitigation effort and their associated motivating and limiting factors to pro‐environmental behavior and firm demographics in small and medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs) in Switzerland. For this purpose, a questionnaire was developed, conducted, and analyzed on motivating and limiting factors along with firm demographics, using descriptive statistics and ordinary least squares (OLS) and ordered probit regression models. The results show that Swiss SMEs are in general aware of climate change and their resulting consequences. SMEs have taken steps to help mitigate greenhouse gas emissions through recycling, reduction of energy and water consumption, and use of recycled packaging. SMEs could however improve their environmental impact through low‐carbon means of transport and use of public transport, sustainable raw material inputs, sustainable energy sources, and setting environmental goals and audits. There was a positive association between climate change awareness and mitigation. Motivating factors to pro‐environmental behavior included financial advantage and responsibility towards the environment, while firm size and human resources were limiting factors. Lastly, different mitigation measures might be influenced by different motivating and limiting factors including financial advantage and pressure from interest groups, as well as firm size. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines Ethiopia's efforts, strategies, and programs for sustainable development, with an emphasis on the Oromia regional state. The economy of Ethiopia is growing at one of the fastest rates on the continent, and it has made significant progress towards achieving the United Nation's Sustainable Development Goals. The country has initiated several policies, agreements, and initiatives to promote sustainable development for the Oromia people. The development of sustainable farming practices, land-use planning, renewable energy sources, and forest preservation are all prioritized in the majority of the government's projects, decreasing greenhouse gas emissions and strengthening resistance to climate change as a result. The initiatives have also been successful in promoting economic growth, improving food security, and reducing poverty. A number of noteworthy projects that have been implemented in the Oromia region. Through the promotion of renewable energy sources like solar and wind power, these projects aim to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and mitigate the consequences of climate change. In order to ensure the population's general development and well-being, efforts have also been undertaken to increase access to healthcare and education. The Oromia region has many obstacles in the way of achieving sustainable development, despite boasting a diverse population and an abundance of natural resources. This paper examines the initiatives undertaken by the federal government, state and local governments, and other stakeholders to address these problems and promote sustainable development. The research findings enhance comprehension of the challenges faced by the Ethiopian government in defending its long-term objectives for both the country's citizens and the global community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solar Irradiance depicts the light energy produced by the Sun that hits the Earth. This energy is important for renewable energy generation and is intrinsically fluctuating. Forecasting solar irradiance is crucial for efficient solar energy generation and management. Work in the literature focused on the short-term prediction of solar irradiance, using meteorological data to forecast the irradiance for the next hours, days, or weeks. Facing climate change and the continuous increase in greenhouse gas emissions, particularly from the use of fossil fuels, the reliance on renewable energy sources, such as solar energy, is expanding. Consequently, governments and practitioners are calling for efficient long-term energy generation plans, which could enable 100% renewable-based electricity systems to match energy demand. In this paper, we aim to perform the long-term prediction of daily solar irradiance, by leveraging the downscaled climate simulations of Global Circulation Models (GCMs). We propose a novel Bayesian deep learning framework, named DeepSI (denoting Deep Solar Irradiance), that employs bidirectional long short-term memory autoencoders, prefixed to a transformer, with an uncertainty quantification component based on the Monte Carlo dropout sampling technique. We use DeepSI to predict daily solar irradiance for three different locations within the United States. These locations include the Solar Star power station in California, Medford in New Jersey, and Farmers Branch in Texas. Experimental results showcase the suitability of DeepSI for predicting daily solar irradiance from the simulated climate data, its superiority over related machine learning methods, and its ability to reproduce the daily variability. We further use DeepSI with future climate simulations to produce long-term projections of daily solar irradiance, up to year 2099. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Romanian Journal of Civil Engineering / Revista Română de Inginerie Civilă is the property of Matrix Rom and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Hydropower represents the world's largest renewable energy source. As a flexible technology, it enhances reliability and security of the electricity system. However, climate change and market liberalization may hinder investment due to the evolution of water runoffs and electricity prices. Both alter expected revenue and bring uncertainty. It increases risk and deters investment. Our research assesses how climate change and market fluctuation affect annual revenue. But this paper focuses on the uncertainty, rather than on forecasting. This transdisciplinary topic is investigated by means of a mixed method, i.e. both quantitative and qualitative. The quantitative approach uses established models in natural sciences and economics. The uncertainty is accounted for by applying various scenarios and various datasets coming from different models. Based on those results, uncertainty is discussed through an analysis discerning three dimensions of uncertainty. Uncertainty analysis requires the assessment of a large panel of models and data sets. It is therefore rarely carried out. The originality of the paper also lies on the combination of quantitative established models with a qualitative analysis. The results surprisingly show that the greenhouse gas scenarios may in fact represent a low source of uncertainty, unlike electricity prices. Like forecasting, the main uncertainties are actually case study related and depend on the investigated variables. It is also shown that the nature of uncertainty evolves. Runoff uncertainty goes from variability, i.e. inherent randomness, to epistemic, i.e. limitation of science. The reverse situation occurs with the electricity price. The implications for scientists and policy makers are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Public policies influence reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. Also the extent to which policies are developed and implemented can influence the achievement of the national, regional and international climate change mitigation policy framework in the renewable energy sub-sector. This paper provides a critical overview of key policy options influencing the development of renewable energy sub-sector through climate change mitigation policy options in Tanzania. Questionnaire surveys were used to collect primary data from 100 relevant experts who represented 64 organizations in Tanzania. Secondary data were collected by literature review. The state of climate change mitigation policy options in the renewable energy sub-sector was assessed by using Statistical Product and Service Solutions (SPSS) version 26.0 and content analysis. The results showed Tanzania lacks adequate climate change mitigation policy and renewable energy policy frameworks. A specific national climate change policy and national renewable energy policy are needed to guide stakeholders to undertake climate change mitigation actions in the renewable energy sub-sector in Tanzania. Perceptions gained and recommendations made are essential for undertaking climate change mitigation actions in Tanzania, and can be relevant for other developing countries because of similar climate change mitigation contexts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate change poses an unprecedented global challenge, which prompts nations to adopt new strategies to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions. The European Union emissions trading system (EU ETS) is a cornerstone of the EU's efforts towards a cost-effective fight against climate change. This study examines the effectiveness of the EU ETS by analyzing monthly data from December 2008 to December 2021, with the focus on CO2 emission allowance futures prices, renewable energy indices, coal prices, oil prices, and fossil energy indices. The key findings are as follows: The CO2 emission allowance futures prices have averaged EUR 14.83 per ton, ranging from EUR 2.87 to EUR 76.81, which shows a significant upward trend. The renewable energy index also demonstrated strong growth, with a mean 1562.07 and maximum 4571.96. Coal prices have averaged EUR 65.32 per ton, while Brent oil prices averaged EUR 59.85 per barrel. A cointegration analysis revealed a long-run equilibrium relationship between these variables. The Vector Error Correction model (VECM) revealed significant negative responses to long-run equilibrium deviations of the renewable energy index (−0.0155) and oil prices (−0.0236), a significant negative short-run response of CO2 prices to their own lagged values (−0.223), and a significant positive short-run effect of oil prices on the fossil energy index (0.254). These results suggest the EU ETS has created significant linkages between carbon, energy, and financial markets. The study concludes that while the EU ETS has made progress in motivating emissions reductions and promoting renewable energy, the system's efficacy still needs improvement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is well known fact that the rate of industrial growth of any country is a function of the amount of energy available in that country and the extent to which this energy is utilized. The burning of fossil fuels to generate energy is a dirty process. Greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions result when fossil fuels are produced and consumed and these emissions contribute to climate change. Nigeria as a country is highly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change because its economy is mainly dependent on income generated from the production, processing, export and/or consumption of fossil fuels and its associated energy-intensive products. Hence, it is on this premise that this paper is researched to review the energy sources being used in Nigeria and investigate its impact to climate change. Findings reveal Nigeria's over-dependence on fossil-generated energy with associated adverse environmental effects, among other things. Recommendations for the integration of renewable energy into Nigeria's energy mix, beyond other measures, have been offered, especially with reference to the salient environmental benefits that accrue to it. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions have increased substantially due to industrialization and the rapid growth in energy demand in Bangladesh. The aim of this study is to conduct a comprehensive carbon footprint analysis of fossil power plants in Bangladesh, focusing on the impact of GHG emissions. We evaluate the carbon footprint of fossil power plants based on their power generation capacity, fuel type, specific emission rates, and global warming potential (GWp) for various GHGs. The emission factor approach has been used in conjunction with the International Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) methodology. Findings of the study indicate that fossil power plants in Bangladesh contribute significantly to the country's overall carbon footprint, with CO 2 and other GHG emissions being the primary drivers. Furthermore, we evaluate Bangladesh's GHG emissions in comparison with neighbouring countries to determine its position. In terms of greenhouse gas emissions from fossil-based power plants, we find that Bangladesh has relatively low emissions compared to its neighbours and developing countries in Asia. Nevertheless, Bangladesh has witnessed a significant increase in coal-fired power generation in recent years, which has emerged as a significant contributor to emissions. Following an analysis of GHG emissions from fossil fuel power plants, we recommend adopting advanced technologies such as carbon capture and storage (CCS) with improved energy efficiency systems and integrating renewable energy sources into the power generation mix. We conclude our analysis by highlighting the importance of transitioning to cleaner, sustainable energy sources to reduce future carbon emissions. Highlights: Conducting an in-depth assessment of the carbon footprint generated by fossil power plants in Bangladesh. Utilizing comprehensive data and analysis techniques to quantify the extent of carbon emissions. Identifying and analyzing the major sources of carbon emissions within the energy sector of Bangladesh. Conducting a comparative study to understand Bangladesh's position in relation to neighboring countries regarding greenhouse gas (GHG) and local air pollutants (LAPs) emissions. Offering insights and recommendations on reducing carbon emissions from the energy sector in Bangladesh. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wind power is seen by many as a key industry for the future: an environmentally benign renewable energy to replace fossil fuels. The Northern and Western Isles, with their high average wind speeds, would seem to be well placed to exploit this rapidly emerging demand. As well as meeting a global need, to reduce output of greenhouse gases and a national need for security of supply into the twenty-first century, wind power promises an economic future for rural regions whose prospects are otherwise uncertain. However, this benign scenario is marred by potentially serious negative consequences for local environmental systems, landscape aesthetics and archaeology, which are themselves often of national and international importance. With particular reference to proposed projects in Lewis and Shetland, this paper will consider the competing demands from national and local policy on the location of wind farms, and weaknesses in the current planning process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The long time scale of the climate change problem and the inherent nature of the carbon cycle bring important implications for present technology development efforts. Even if major technology improvements are achieved for non-carbon-emitting technologies such as energy-intensity improvements, wind, solar, biomass, and nuclear over the course of the 21st century, most examinations of potential future greenhouse emissions conclude that additional technology development will be required to stabilize greenhouse gas concentrations. The development of an expanded suite of technologies including carbon capture and disposal, hydrogen systems and biotechnology hold the potential to dramatically reduce the cost of stabilizing greenhouse gas concentrations. This paper examines these technologies in the context of a global integrated assessment model of energy, agriculture, land-use, economics, and carbon cycle processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over the past few years, there has been a growing global consensus related to the importance of renewable energy to minimize the emission of greenhouse gases. The solution is an increase in the number of renewable power plants but unfortunately, this leads to a high dependence on climate variables which are already affected by climate change. Brazil is one of the largest producers of electricity by renewables through its hydro-dominant power generation system. However, hydro-generation depends on water inflows that are directly affected by climate change that consequently affect the electricity production. Therefore, these changes need to be considered in the operation and planning of a hydro-dominant power system. In this paper, we present the effects of different climate scenarios in the water inflows produced by the regional Eta climate model. Normally, studies use an optimization model to make decisions in case of a hydro-thermal scheduling problem and use the assured energy to evaluate the hydro-production. In this analysis, water inflows used in the optimization process consider different trends according to its associated climate scenario. Our paper shows that climate change may drastically impact the system assured energy and consequently, the system's capability to supply load. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: To reduce greenhouse gases, the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol seeks a phasedown of hydrofluorocarbons. R134a alternatives were analyzed for use in a water-cooled chiller: R450A, R513A, R516A, R1234ze (E), R515A, and R515B. Methods: A thermodynamic model of the chiller was employed to calculate compressor power, an input to the life cycle climate performance (LCCP) framework to estimate total equivalent carbon dioxide emissions, CO2eq. Emissions were calculated for an 809 kW [230 Tons of refrigeration (RT) nameplate] water-cooled centrifugal chiller at constant cooling capacity using five power sources (i.e., coal, distillate fuel oil, natural gas, nuclear, and wind) for a median chiller lifetime of 27 years. Two chiller operating profiles were considered: one using operational data from a university campus and a second from literature based on the Atlantic Fleet operation. Results and discussion: When powered via fossil fuels, over 90% of emissions were due to the indirect emissions from energy; therefore, the global warming potential (GWP) of the refrigerant was not the primary contributor to the total CO2eq emissions. With natural gas, total LCCP emissions were reduced for R450A (7.8%), R513A (4.7%), R516A (9.4%), R1234ze (E) (10%), R515A (8.4%), and R515B (6.4%) compared to R134a for the university campus load profile. For the round-the-clock Atlantic Fleet profile, there were emission reductions for R450A (3.6%), R513A (0.25%), R516A (2.3%), R1234ze (E) (2.4%), R515A (1.5%) and R515B (2.4%) compared to R134a. When coupled with renewable energy, the indirect emissions from the chillers substantially decreased, and GWP-dependent leakage emissions accounted for up to 74% or 40% of emissions from R134a alternatives powered by wind and nuclear, respectively. For operation using the load profile from the university campus chillers, R450A had the highest coefficient of performance (COP) of 5.802, while R513A had the lowest COP (5.606). Tradeoffs between alternative refrigerants exist in terms of operation, temperature glide, size of heat exchangers, system design, flammability, cost, availability, and material compatibility. In terms of flammability, R134a, R513A, R450A, R515B and R515A are A1 (nonflammable) fluids. R450A and R516A also have temperature glides of 0.4 K and 0.056 K, respectively, which can affect condenser design. In terms of equipment modification (sizing), R513A require fewer modifications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Generation of energy has to increase due to society's demand escalation. However, generation from conventional sources is one of the major reasons for greenhouse gas emission, which is a key reason for global warming and climate change issues. To mitigate the emission of greenhouse gas and to protect the environment from pollution, renewable energy sources (RESs) are the one and only effective solution till date. To reduce the fluctuation of RESs on energy generation, a RES-based hybrid system is an innocuous solution. Here, a brief discussion of hybrid systems and their opportunities are presented and reviewed the role of the different combinations of renewable energy-based hybrid systems to reduce environmental pollution, generation costs, improve efficiency, and achieve a continuous power output of the system. A discussion is made on the importance of the site selection and the importance of different kinds of storage systems for energy generation. Result of article gives a brief idea regarding different factors to design future hybrid energy system (HES). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, the increase in global energy demand is notorious, a situation that, in turn, impacts the environment through the generation of pollutants that are harmful to the planet. In this sense, an energy transition towards clean energy sources, also known as renewable sources, is essential, as well as better energy management and a responsible use of available natural resources. In this context, the objective of this systematic review was to analyze the use of renewable energy sources in Latin America, in addition to the guidelines established for their use, and the consequences of the use of non-renewable sources. Therefore, the PRISMA method was applied, and 60 publications were selected, from which the existing interest in this region in combatting the increase in energy demand and the use of fossil fuels through renewable energies is evidenced. Finally, it is concluded that there is still a need for greater dissemination in the region regarding this problem, as well as greater actions on the part of industries and governments to make proper use of this type of energy source. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of climate change are one of the most significant and urgent challenges confronting humanity today, which pose a risk to all the aspects of the natural environment. Due to the large quantities of Greenhouse Gases (GHG) emitted in different sectors worldwide, which is difficult to be controlled as it is correlated with the requirements of daily life, it is essential at least to reduce emissions through the implementation of clean or low pollution energy sources utilization. The atmosphere is widely recognized as a very susceptible ecosystem to GHG pollution. However, there is a concerning lack of attention given to this issue by individuals, despite its direct impact on other environmental systems and consequential disruptions to the overall ecosystem. This study aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the direct impacts of GHG emissions on climate change, specifically focusing on the implications on the environment, economy, and community. Moreover, it is important to assess the effects of these greenhouse gases on the overall ecosystem. This study proposes a set of solutions aimed at mitigating the substantial volumes of GHG emissions. It also explores strategies for managing and regulating GHG production to curb the accumulation of emissions that have occurred over the preceding decades. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: This paper will summarise the European Strategy for Energy and Climate Change. In current international negotiations Europe has proposed a 20% reduction in GHG (greenhouse gases) in the developed countries by 2020 or 30% should there be an international agreement in the domain. However it is important to define measures to achieve the targets. One of the principal tools is to improve energy efficiency under the energy efficiency action plan, which will help to achieve a 20% energy saving by 2020. On the other hand, the amount of energy from renewable sources consumed in Europe will have to rise from its current level of 8.5%–20% by 2020. These are ambitious but achievable targets. Nonetheless, these can only be achieved through strong investment in areas of the knowledge triangle which strengthens research and innovation in the energy sector in Europe. The paper covers European Energy and Climate Change Policy, the European Strategic Energy Technology plan, the consequences of the Lisbon Treaty, European and national Road maps to a low carbon economy, the Energy Efficiency Plan for 2011 and finishes with a brief consideration of the EU’s energy infrastructure priorities. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

This paper focuses on the status of policy studies on Global Climate Change and how renewable and high-efficiency generation technology can be part of the solution. It considers critical technologies and solutions toward realizing the targets set in the Kyoto treaty. Discussed is energy effi ciency in power generation, environmental benefits of high-effi ciency gas turbines in competitive energy markets which display less NOx and CO[sub 2] emissions per unit of power produced while providing power generators with the most competitive electricity, and experience in India in mitigating climate change with renewable energy as seen by the UN and an advisor to the Indian government in nonconventional energy sources. Also discussed is stabilization of greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere that will present dangerous anthropogenic interference with the climate system as called for under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using energy flowcharts and ERIC The energy flowchart presents energy supplies and uses in the United States for 2021 (Fig. We propose the use of two diagrams that connect energy directly to climate change and give students a visual representation of energy systems. When used in combination, energy flowcharts and ERIC can help students better grasp the multifaceted systems in which modern energy is embedded. Physics Teaching, Climate Change, and the Fossil Fuel-Dominated Energy System - Diagrams to Enhance Teaching Energy in Physics. [Extracted from the article]

Climate change is one of the most essential phenomena studied by several researchers in the last few decades. The main reason this phenomenon occurs is greenhouse gases (GHG), chiefly CO2 emissions. About 30% of the created GHG emissions are achieved by electricity generation. This article investigates the role of renewable energy projects in Jordan, specifically wind and solar energy, in mitigating climate change and water consumption reduction using RETScreen software. It was found that the cumulative water consumption reduction from 2017 to 2021 due to the use of wind and solar projects is equal to 6.9491 × 109 gallons. Finally, the results show that the future dependence on renewable energy projects in Jordan to meet the growth in demand by the year 2030 reduces the expected increment in the climate temperature by 1.047 °C by that year. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Energy is the prominent navigator of climate change as it contributes to most of the greenhouse gases (GHGs) and the burning of fossil fuels are the foremost sources of GHG emissions. Climate change is a major challenge for developing countries like India that face large scale climate variability and are exposed to enhanced risks from climate change. Few countries in the world are as vulnerable to the effects of climate change as India is with its vast population that is dependent on the growth of its agrarian economy, its expansive coastal areas and the Himalayan region and islands. The vulnerabilities of climate change and energy insecurity are directing a global changeover towards a low carbon and sustainable energy path. In the UNFCC, India has cleared its stand that it would not make any commitments to trim down its GHG emissions as it has one of the least per capita emissions and in the fi rst place the developed world is responsible for the dilemma and the developing world requires the carbon space to spring up. But by being a responsible and progressive member of the international community, India demonstrated the flexibility towards the endeavours to trim down climate change causalities. India is endowed with diverse natural resources such as solar, wind, water and biomass; these are the promising resources to meet up the energy requirements of the coming years. The present paper attempts to analyse the linkages between climate change and energy security. The paper also aims to project India’s response to the global climate regime. The paper argues that the problems of climate change and energy security are the major obstacles for India’s energy policy while they open gargantuan opportunities to shift its people to cleaner energy trajectories and know-how in the long term.

A variety of energy sources will compete to provide the energy services that humans will require over the next 100 years. The balance of these sources will depend upon the availability of fossil fuels and the development of new technologies including renewable energy technologies, and will be one of the keys in projecting greenhouse gas emissions. There is uncertainty about each of the energy sources. With oil, for example, there are two alternate views of future reserves, one that reserves are geologically limited and that supplies will decline within a decade or two, the other that there are enormous quantities of hydrocarbon in the earth’s crust and that reserves are a function of developing technology and price. With solar voltaics, as a second example, there is optimism that the technology will become increasingly competitive, but there is uncertainty about the rate at which costs can come down and about ultimate cost levels. This paper reviews the reserves of fossil fuels and the prospects for nuclear power and the renewables. It also reviews the main energy conversion technologies that are available now or are expected to become increasingly available through time. However, it should be noted that, over a time horizon of 100 years, there may be quite radical changes in both production and conversion technologies that cannot be predicted and it is quite possible for some as yet unheard of technology to be developed and to transform the markets. The paper has been written to aid the development of new scenarios for the emission of greenhouse gases for the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Global warming, climate change, and resource depletion have forced us to reconsider energy usage and efficiencies over the last few decades. Residential and commercial buildings are both large energy consumers, so improving energy and material usage efficiency in this sector is a common research topic. According to a recent study, the Building Sector (BS) accounts for 40% of greenhouse gas emissions. The primary objective of this paper is to examine and assess the potential of Renewable Energy Systems (RES) and their combinations for enhancing energy efficiency in the BS. Specifically, the focus will be on converting low energy-efficient buildings into highly efficient ones. The potential of the RES and their combinations for the BS is evaluated based on payback durations, energy generation, and reduction of CO 2 emissions. The optimization flow charts for the RES, feasibility studies, commercialization road maps of energy storage systems and the necessity of control mechanisms for enhancing RES efficiency were discussed. Additionally, the technology drawbacks are discussed, along with various innovative techniques recommended to direct future study in this area. Finally, this article assists the audience clear idea in the selection of the right combination of potential RES based on different conditions to achieve deep decarbonization in BSs. • Buildings sector (BS) responsible for 40% of GHG emissions. • Study assesses potential of Renewable Energy System (RES) in BS. • RES evaluated on payback, energy generation, and CO 2 reduction. • Optimization, feasibility and commercialization studies were discussed. • Article recommends right RES combinations for deep decarbonization in BS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anthropogenic greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions are the primary cause of climate change, one of the biggest challenges for humankind. To tackle this problem, the international community is looking for ways to reduce GHG emissions. To create reduction strategies in a city/province/country, there is a need for an inventory that provides emission amounts from different sectors. This study aimed to develop a GHG emission inventory for Karaj, a megacity in Iran, using international guidelines such as AP-42 and ICAO, and IVE software. The emissions of mobile sources were accurately calculated by a bottom-up method. The results showed that power plant with 47% of the total emissions is the primary GHG contributor in Karaj. Residential and commercial units with 27% and mobile sources with 24% of the total emissions play a critical role in emitting GHGs in Karaj. On the other hand, the industrial units and the airport have negligible (2%) contribution to the total emissions. Subsequent estimates showed that GHG emissions per capita and per GDP of Karaj were 6.03 t per person and 0.47 t per thousand US dollars, respectively. These amounts are higher than the global averages (4.97 t per person and 0.3 t per thousand US dollars). The relatively high GHG emissions in Karaj are due to the sole reliance on the consumption of fossil fuels. To reduce emissions, mitigation strategies such as developing renewable energy sources, switching to low-emission transportation, and raising public awareness should be implemented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New carbon crediting and offsetting mechanisms are being developed under the Paris Agreement. Polluters can meet their emission reduction targets by acquiring and retiring carbon offset credits. Globally, most of these credits come from renewable energy sources. However, their additionality is increasingly questionable. Global renewable electricity capacity continues to grow. Greenhouse gas emissions from coal‐fired power generation are starting to fall, as governments and organisations pledge to curtail emissions, more capital is mobilised for energy transition, and renewable energy technologies become commercially competitive. The opportunity to earn carbon offset credits is becoming less indispensable to renewable energy development. Aggregate emissions could rise above the baseline level when polluters increase their emission budgets by using carbon credits generated from a renewable energy installation that is part of the baseline scenario. To safeguard environmental integrity, the conditions for including renewable energy in carbon crediting and offsetting schemes should be reconsidered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is not the first time in human history, nor will it be the last for that matter, that a collective problem calls for a collective response. Climate change fueled by greenhouse emissions affects humankind alike. Despite the disagreement among policymakers and scientists on the severity of the issue, the truth is that the problem remains. A broad look at different technologies being used today in different fields has led to the idea of bringing them together in an attempt to offer a viable solution to reducing anthropogenic CO2. The following paper describes how the nanotechnologies, available or soon to be available, would make CO2 capture, cache, and conversion (coined the three Cs) a valid way for achieving a more sustainable energy society. Authors also set out to highlight with this work how knowledge transfer is instrumental in the development of technology and how methodical assessment of crossovers can expedite research when time plays against us. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Environmental Research, Engineering & Management / Aplinkos Tyrimai, Inžinerija ir Vadyba is the property of Institute of Environmental Engineering and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The globalized supply chain for crystalline silicon (c-Si) photovoltaic (PV) panels is increasingly fragile, as the now-mundane freight crisis and other geopolitical risks threaten to postpone major PV projects. Here, we study and report the results of climate change implications of reshoring solar panel manufacturing as a robust and resilient strategy to reduce reliance on foreign PV panel supplies. We project that if the U.S. could fully bring c-Si PV panel manufacturing back home by 2035, the estimated greenhouse gas emissions and energy consumption would be 30% and 13% lower, respectively, than having relied on global imports in 2020, as solar power emerges as a major renewable energy source. If the reshored manufacturing target is achieved by 2050, the climate change and energy impacts would be further reduced by 33% and 17%, compared to the 2020 level. The reshored manufacturing demonstrates significant progress in domestic competitiveness and toward decarbonization goals, and the positive reductions in climate change impacts align with the climate target. Reshoring silicon photovoltaic manufacturing back to the U.S. improves domestic competitiveness, advances decarbonization goals, and contributes to mitigating climate change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Global climate change has already created noticeable ill‐effects on the environmental system and attaining further economic growth without compromising environmental quality is a difficult challenge for every country on this planet. Inspired by United Nation's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) core agenda, we investigated the singular, combined, and coupling influence of income growth, foreign direct investment inflows, renewable energy, and regulatory quality (RQ) on climate change under the scale, technique, and composition effects hypothesis. This analysis enables the creation of appropriate policy interventions to mitigate the severity of climate change in the future for the diverse countries in the Asia‐Pacific region. The study adopted the dynamic heterogenous estimation methodology responsible for accounting for the heterogeneity. We estimated 14 empirical models for the panel data from 1996 to 2015 of Asia‐Pacific countries. Empirical results validated the scale, technique, and composition effects and include that the progress in the share of renewable energy consumption in emerging countries by 1% reduces the greenhouse gas emissions by 0.24% (99% Confidence interval [C.I]), whereas 1% increase in the interactive effect of renewable energy and RQ deepens the emissions by 0.35% (99% C.I). The income level and RQ aggravate greenhouse gas emissions; whereas renewable energy diminishes the overall emissions level in emerging and advanced economies. This article's empirical outcomes would facilitate climate change mitigation‐related policy interventions of diverse economies in the Asia‐Pacific region to attain Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs‐ 7 and 13). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anthropogenic global climate change has large and mounting negative economic impacts. Companies and nations responsible for greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions are thus acquiring considerable potential liabilities. If litigation becomes widespread, renewable energy technologies (RETs) potentially offer emitters reduced liability for climate change. This benefit has been ignored because of the lack of knowledge of potential liabilities. To overcome this information deficit, this paper reviews recent literature on the potential for climate change litigation and methods to quantify liability for climate change. Next, the top 10 emitters in the U.S. are identified and their potential liability is quantified using standard GHG emission costs. Potential liabilities are explored in depth with a single case study company comparing the results of the fractional liability from only natural disasters within the U.S. for a single year to a sensitivity of the future costs of carbon emissions from other sources of emission-related liability. Then classes of potential climate change litigants are identified and their capacity to bring such lawsuits is evaluated. The results show that the net income available to shareholders of large companies could see a significant reduction from the emissions liability related to only natural disasters in the U.S. from a single coal-fired power plant. Finally, a rough estimate of the economic risk associated with future scenarios and existing organized international potential litigants is quantified. The results show that potential liability for climate change for the Alliance of Small Island States is over $570 trillion. It is concluded that as emitters begin to be held liable for damages resulting from GHG emissions resulting in climate change, a high value for liability mitigation would provide additional powerful incentives for deployment of renewable energy technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper performed comparative assessment of greenhouse gas (GHG) emission trends and climate change mitigation policies in the fuel combustion sector of selected EU member states with similar economic development levels and historical pasts, and implementing main EU energy and climate change mitigation policies, having achieved different success in GHG emission reduction. The impact of climate change mitigation policies on GHG emission reduction was assessed based on analysis of countries' reports to UNFCCC by identifying the key areas of GHG emission reduction, their GHG emission reduction potential, and the driving forces behind them. The study revealed that climate change mitigation policies that have been implemented so far in Bulgaria are less efficient than in Lithuania, as Bulgaria places priorities not on energy efficiency improvement and penetration of renewable energy sources, but on switching from coal to natural gas. The policy implications for strengthening GHG emissions reduction efforts are provided based on analysis conducted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solar photovoltaic (PV) rooftops have significant potentials for reducing reliance on conventional energy source and enhancing energy security in response to emergency situations or in remote areas. Widespread adaptation of solar PV rooftops can also help address climate change issue via lower overall emission of Greenhouse Gases. This paper reviewed the latest situation of solar PV rooftop implementation, expansion and execution strategies in Thailand. The review examined factors impacting adoption rate of solar PV rooftops. Supporting factors include optimum solar radiation intensity, active renewable energy development policy and Feed-In Tariff (FIT). Increasing urbanization rate also resulted in an increase in potential space suitable for solar panel installation. Barriers of solar PV rooftop implementation in Thailand were carefully analyzed. Limitation in domestic technology and technical experiences in manufacturing sector is one of the major barriers inhibiting progress in solar rooftop adoption. In addition, government subsidy and support are still needed for solar PV rooftops to be competitive with other forms of energy generation. Increasing public awareness and reforming of energy and related regulations are necessary to promote meaningful implementation of solar energy in Thailand. To enhance rate of solar PV rooftop installation in Thailand, a short-term strategy could be in a form of providing financial supports such as low interest rate loans, tax credits and development of renewable portfolio standards together with the current FIT scheme. In the longer-term, to achieve grid parity, the government and private sectors need to rely less on financial subsidies and focus on establishing R&D centers to develop and strengthen domestic solar energy industry and introduce cost-effective solar PV solutions. With effective policies and credible solutions with a viable market, public demand in solar rooftop implementation in urban areas will naturally increase and create sustainable progress in solar rooftop industry in Thailand. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In 2009, Japan pledged to reduce its GHG emissions by 25% from 1990 levels by 2020 (“Copenhagen Pledge”). The achievement of the target depended largely on a large expansion of nuclear power. However, this ambitious plan became unfeasible after the Fukushima nuclear disaster of March 2011. This paper conducted a comprehensive review of Japan’s recent energy and climate policy developments since 2009 and particularly after March 2011 to assess where Japan stands today with regard to the achievement of the long-term global 2 °C goal. Japan achieved its mitigation target for the first commitment period of the Kyoto Protocol, but it was unsuccessful in reducing domestic GHG emissions in the residential and commercial sectors, and consequently relied more heavily on purchased Kyoto units. With regard to the revised 2020 mitigation target (“Warsaw Target”), when expected emissions reductions through nuclear power is factored out, domestic mitigation under the Warsaw Target was found to be only marginally more ambitious than the target that preceded the Copenhagen Pledge (9% reduction from 1990 levels). Japan cannot make secondary acquisitions of Kyoto units up to 2020 and thus, a bilateral offset scheme (JCM) could become an important credit source. However, its development regarding the additionality of the emissions reductions needs to be tracked carefully. Moreover, the legal underpinning of national mitigation targets and actions was currently found to be very weak in Japan. The review of currently implemented policy measures revealed that among the three key measures considered for achieving the Copenhagen Pledge, only the renewable Feed-In-Tariff scheme was found to be relatively successful to date, but even this is currently under critical scrutiny. Recent new coal-fired power plant construction plans could jeopardize the achievement of both mid-term and long-term mitigation goals. The impact of nuclear power plant restarts on future CO 2 emissions was found to be limited around 2030. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The energy sector is the main sector responsible for the production of greenhouse gases emissions, mainly through the burning of fossil fuels. In this context, the use of renewable energy sources, with low emissions of carbon dioxide gains momentum at the global level. In this situation, we have to consider all the elements relating to the use of energy produced by renewable sources, in the context of the economy-environment relationship. The following paper focuses on the presentation of the alternative technologies for energy production, the assessment of the main economic and environmental issues associated with them, and also on the proposal of measures to mitigate the produced impacts. Some of the economic aspects discussed are related to the high costs and the problem of integrating the power plants that use renewables into the national system. The environmental aspects refer to the location of wind turbines in the vicinity of the migration route of birds, which could have a negative impact on biodiversity, and the effect of cutting the trees in case of using biomass. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate change poses profound threats to the Earth and its people. Its mitigation, therefore, demands common but differentiated actions with comprehensive and coordinated approach. The global community has pledged to mitigate various greenhouse gases in some international soft law instruments. Exploitation of renewables to generate energy and produce electricity is simultaneously suggested for the last couple of decades as a viable alternative in mitigating climate change. This gets momentum with the adoption of the historical and universally ratified Paris Agreement in 2016 where energy is placed at the heart of the Agreement. Energy, where renewable energy is a branch, is generally regulated and governed domestically and so, international legal regime is still evolving in this regard. In the absence of any specific and direct international instrument on energy and renewable energy, published literatures have considered this topic from different directions ranging from climate change to the principle of national sovereignty, economic, trade and investment issues. In this backdrop, this paper aims to introduce various renewable sources, prospects and challenges in their promotion that may help to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change. Relevant international law provisions have been evaluated, performances of the relevant regional and international organizations active in this sector are highlighted and some of the disputes in this area considered in international forums are duly addressed. It is revealed that strong political will of the global community in fulfilling their commitments made so far in different international forums is the key to transforming the world into a better one for the future generation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current editorial summarized some of the scientific works presented in the Sustainable Energy and Environmental Protection (SEEP) conference-held at the University of the West of Scotland, UK, 2018. The selected work was directly related to the scope of the Renewable, Sustainable Energy Reviews (RSER) journal. During the conference activities, experts from all around the world in the subjects of: renewable energy, climate change, optimization, and economics presented and discussed the progress made in renewable energy sources, as well as the new strategies for protecting the environment from the hazards connected with fossil fuel utilization. The methods presented in the conference focused on several directions: the development of efficient energy conversion systems with low/no environmental impacts; the suggested policies to widespread renewable energies; the restriction in the emission of greenhouse gases, and the recent progresses in CO 2 capture. This editorial focused on the renewable energy developments and their positive effect on the climate change, and briefly summarized the accepted manuscripts in this issue. • Effects of renewable energy on climate change. • Background on the International Conference on Sustainable Energy and Environmental Protection SEEP. • Summary of selected papers of SEEP 2018. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although Turkey is not the biggest GHG polluter, its emissions have increased by 110.4% since 1990. Currently, its CO2 emissions alone have crossed 400 Mt. Within the scope of 2 °C targets (2D scenario), the country can easily surpass this target test by increasing its renewable energy sources as a primary energy source mix, by developing its Enhanced Geothermal Sources (EGS) locked up in the radiogenic granites of western Anatolia. The radiogenic heat generated by these granites, spread over an area of 4221 sq. km, varies from 5.3 to 16.34 µW/m3. Based on the electricity generation capacity of granites from Soultz-sous-Forets and Cooper Basin EGS sites, the combined electricity generation capacity of Kestanbol and Kozak granite plutons is about 830 billion kWh. For the period extending from 2019 to 2023, Turkey is aiming at reducing the usage of gas for electricity generation from 29.9 to 20.7%, increasing the share of renewable energy sources from 32.5 to 38.8%, increasing the electricity production from local energy sources from 150 to 219 TWh and increasing the electricity usage per-capita from 3.7 to 4.3 MWh. These energy targets can be achieved by major contributions from hydrothermal and EGS energy sources. This review demonstrates that besides electricity and heat, EGS energy can be utilized, together with other renewable energy sources, such as hydrothermal, wind, and concentrated solar for providing fresh water through the desalination process. These energy sources would provide food, energy, and water security to the country for several decades. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The costs associated to the abatement of pollutants coming from the burning of fossil fuels are calculated through the thermodynamic property exergy. We define the clean ton of a fossil fuel as the difference between its maximum recoverable energy (or exergy) and its exergy abatement cost. This way, energy reserves can be expressed in terms of clean tons of oil equivalent, ctoe, instead of the conventional measure expressed as toe. Additionally, the energy content of fossil fuels is affected by the conditions of the environment. An increase in atmospheric CO2 emissions and temperature due to the greenhouse effect, will lead to a decrease in their available energy. Hence, the actual clean tons will take into account both issues, the decrease of exergy due to the utilization of clean technologies plus the climate change effect. In the paper we make an inventory of the clean exergy fossil fuel reserves. The results show that the exergy of proven reserves are decreased by about 11%, if these two factors are taken into account. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The European Union Renewable Energy Directive 2009/28/EC (RED) has adopted climate change assessment as one of the environmental criteria used to evaluate the level of sustainability by indicating the impact values for every phase of the biofuel chain. This paper shows the results of a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from cultivation of sunflower for biodiesel production in Tuscany, Italy. In the five case studies, the GHG emissions of sunflower cultivation exceed the default value (18 g [CO2eq] MJ−1) indicated by the RED. This is mainly due to diesel consumption and emissions from nitrogen fertilisers that are on average 180% and 255% higher than the reference values, respectively. GHG emissions allocation among sunflower biodiesel and co-products was made according to energy content principle. Only the biodiesel from sunflower cultivated in the two most efficient farms achieved a GHG saving with respect to conventional diesel (36%) that made it possible to fulfil the RED''s requirements. From these results, it seems that the observance of such requirements on GHG emissions for sunflower biodiesel cultivation phase in Tuscany will not be easy to satisfy without a significant revision of local farm practices, aimed primarily at reducing the use of nitrogen fertilisers and diesel consumption. In fact, the GHG emissions reported in the RED for sunflower cultivation were calculated using excessively low farm inputs compared with the typical amounts for sunflower cultivation practices in Tuscany. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This paper describes a project for the integration of mini-hydro renewable energy in the trolleybus traction lines and in the electric battery operated mini-buses. Given the nearby hydropower resource of the Mondego river, a study was carried out in order to assess the technical and economical feasibility of hydropower production at an already existing multi-purpose mobile dam-bridge, located in Coimbra, Portugal, where a very low head run-of-river small-hydropower plant can be installed. As the main civil works have already been done, the hydropower installation costs are significantly reduced because the investment mainly resumes to hydro-mechanical, hydro-electrical and electrical equipment, with expected low hydraulic structure impact, as well as minimum environmental and visual impacts. The optimization of the hydroelectric production takes into account the seasonal water supply demands for agricultural, municipal and industrial use, the water discharges from the upstream reservoir system of Aguieira–Raiva–Fronhas, the very low head turbines state of the art technology, the physical constraints of the structure and the special feed-in tariff for renewable power plants. The small-hydropower plant, coupled with the electric public urban transportation fleet, will contribute to a sustainable clean mobility concept, reducing electric grid transportation losses by decentralized production and reducing greenhouse gases emissions, contributing to urban air quality improvement and to the Kyoto Protocol fulfillment. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: In this paper a generic methodology is presented that allows the impacts of climate change on wave energy generation from a wave energy converter (WEC) to be quantified. The methodology is illustrated by application to the Wave Hub site off the coast of Cornwall, UK. Control and future wave climates were derived using wind fields output from a set of climate change experiments. Control wave conditions were generated from wind data between 1961 and 2000. Future wave conditions were generated using two IPCC wind scenarios from 2061 to 2100, corresponding to intermediate and low greenhouse gas emissions (IPCC scenarios A1B and B1 respectively). The quantitative comparison between future scenarios and the control condition shows that the available wave power will increase by 2–3% in the A1B scenario. In contrast, the available wave power in the B1 scenario will decrease by 1–3%, suggesting, somewhat paradoxically, that efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions may reduce the wave energy resource. Meanwhile, the WEC energy will yield decrease by 2–3% in both A1B and B1 scenarios, which is mainly due to the relatively low efficiency of energy extraction from steeper waves by the specific WEC considered. Although those changes are relatively small compared to the natural variability, they may have significance when considered over the lifetime of a wave energy farm. Analysis of downtime under low and high thresholds suggests that the distribution of wave heights at the Wave Hub will have a wider spread due to the impacts of climate change, resulting in longer periods of generation loss. Conversely, the estimation of future changes in joint wave height-period distribution provides indications on how the response and power matrices of WECs could be modified in order to maintain or improve energy extraction in the future. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]