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Arid areas account for more than 20% of Earth's surface. Many of these arid areas suffer from harsh climates where energy consumption is high and production coexists with high hydrological stresses. In such areas, the production of water is directly linked to the production of electricity, bringing the Energy–Water nexus to a higher level [Heggy et al., Sustainable Energy-Water-Environment Nexus in Deserts (Springer, 2022)]. Under the current energy transition from a fossil-based economy to a renewable energy-based system, arid areas are seen as potential reservoirs for electricity production due to their high solar potential, thereby helping to achieve global decarbonation targets. This energy production transition will strongly affect the Energy–Water nexus as it will contribute to the decoupling of electricity from water production. The International Conference on Sustainable Energy–Water–Environment Nexus 2019 (ICSEWEN19) conference was the first to address the Sustainable Energy–Water Nexus in Deserts, bridging the gap between research and industry and highlighting the research capabilities relevant to Qatar, the region, and internationally. The Invited Papers from the International Conference on Sustainability, Energy, Water, and Environment Nexus in Desert Climates Special Collection in Journal of Renewable and Sustainable Energy presents articles covering the main elements of the conference with respect to solar photovoltaic implementation in desert environments as a key element to succeed in this global energy transition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low carbon operation of power systems is a key way to achieve the goal of energy power carbon peaking and carbon neutrality. In order to promote the low carbon transition of energy and power and the coordinated and optimized operation of distributed energy sources in virtual power plants (VPP), this paper proposes a framework for collaborative utilization of pumped storage–carbon capture–power-to-gas (P2G) technologies. It also constructs a multi-time scale low carbon economic dispatch model for VPP to minimize the internal resource operation cost of VPP in each time period. During the intraday scheduling stage, the day-ahead scheduling results as the planned output and the energy flow is then dynamically corrected at a short-term resolution in the framework. This allows for the exploration of the low-carbon potential of each aggregation unit within the virtual power plant. The results of the simulation indicate that the strategy and model proposed in this paper can effectively encourage the consumption of renewable energy sources, promote the low-carbon operation of power system power, and serve as a valuable reference for the low-carbon economic operation of the power system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The sustainability of the transport sector is targeted by various policies adopted by the European Union, and their impact must be constantly monitored in order to maximize the desired objective. This paper, through a two-stage investigation, aims to present a systemic approach of the sustainability dimensions in transport and to introduce an innovative technique to analyze the interdependencies between them. In the first stage, relevant indicators were selected from the Eurostat database for the content of four dimensions: economic, environmental, social and technological. The robustness of the developed dimensions was assessed and validated through a confirmatory factor analysis. In the second stage, a Gaussian graphical model was estimated as a technique integrating graphical and statistical modeling to identify complex structures of linkages between variables (as components of each dimension of sustainability). The structure of the network clearly highlights the dependence of transport on fossil fuel consumption as the main determinant of pollution in the sector (CO2 emissions). In addition, the central role of railways in decarbonizing transport is highlighted, in contrast to the limited, and isolated at one end of the network, role of electric vehicles. The findings support that affordability of this new technology plays an important role in its impact on zero-emission transition. Concentrating on the period 2013–2022, at EU27 level, the results are relevant in the context of decarbonization policies, offering useful insights both for future research and policy makers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Under the challenge of global energy transition, coal-fired cogeneration systems are undergoing a technical revolution towards enhanced efficiency, heating capacity, and flexibility. In this paper, four schemes using a steam ejector integrated into a cogeneration system are designed. Considering operational safety, integrated locations are selected at the front and back of high- and medium-pressure turbines. Subsequently, the thermodynamic and operational characteristics under both design and off-design conditions are analyzed based on a model built in EBSILON Professional. Finally, a sensitivity analysis of the heating process is conducted. The results show that the integration of steam ejectors can increase the waste heat recovery ratio of exhaust steam by 18.42–45.61% under design conditions. The largest waste heat recovery ratio is obtained in System 4, resulting in the power generation efficiency ( η g ) and gross energy utilization efficiency ( η p ) of 81.95% and 65.53%, respectively. Meanwhile, the steam ejector can expand the power-load regulation range of the cogeneration system, and System 4 has the lowest lower power limit among all the systems. The η p values of Systems 1–4 reach extreme values at different mixed steam pressures of the ejector. Increasing the pinch point temperature difference reduces the power load η g and η p of Systems 1–4. The results provide technical solutions for improving the heating capacity and efficient and flexible operation of cogeneration systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The measures needed to limit global warming pose a particular challenge to current fossil fuel exporters, who must not only decarbonise their local energy systems, but also compensate for the expected decline in fossil fuel revenues. One possibility is seen in the export of green hydrogen. Using Algeria as a case study, this paper analyses how different levels of ambition in hydrogen exports, energy efficiency and fuel switching affect the cost-optimal expansion of the power sector for a given overall emissions reduction path. Despite falling costs for photovoltaics and wind turbines, the results indicate that in countries with very low natural gas prices, such as Algeria, a fully renewable electricity system by 2050 is unlikely without appropriate policy measures. The expansion of renewable energy should therefore start early, given the high annual growth rates required, which will be reinforced by additional green hydrogen exports. In parallel, energy efficiency is a key factor as it directly mitigates CO2 emissions from fossil fuels and reduces domestic electricity demand, which could instead be used for hydrogen production. Integrating electrolysers into the power system could potentially help to reduce specific costs through load shifting. Overall, it seems advisable to analyse hydrogen exports together with local decarbonisation in order to better understand their interactions and to reduce emissions as efficiently as possible. These results and the methodology could be transferred to other countries that want to become green hydrogen exporters in the future and are therefore a useful addition for researchers and policy makers. • The required strong capacity expansion for PV and wind is challenging, but feasible. • "Energy efficiency first" benefits both the local energy transition and H2 exports. • Fully renewable power systems require a suitable political framework. • Higher hydrogen exports might help to reduce the specific power system cost. • Fossil capacity expansion must be stopped to avoid lock-ins and higher future costs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The challenges posed by climate change and global warming loom large, necessitating a critical initial step towards the long-term growth and the enhancement of both environmental and operational efficiency. Within the energy sector, renewable energy sources are gaining increasing prominence. Consequently, traditional oil and gas companies (OGC) are undergoing a gradual transformation into comprehensive energy corporations, aligning themselves with energy transition policies. This paper examines two types of efficiency measures—operational and environmental—for the 20 largest OGC during the period of 2010–2019. Secondly, this research aims to explore the effect of the global energy transition on both environmental and operational efficiency. Based on three estimation methods, two estimation steps are used in this research. In the first step, the True Fixed Effect (TFE) model and the Battese and coelli (1995) SFA model are applied to evaluate, measure and compare the environmental and operational efficiency scores. In the second step, the TFE model and GMM approach for the dynamic panel data model are used to explore, evaluate and verify the effect of global energy transition on the environmental and operational efficiency of the largest 20 OGC in the world. The results reveal that the average operational efficiency of major OGC measured using the BC.95 model and TFE model is 66% and 85%, respectively, and the overall average level of environmental efficiency for OGC over a 10-year period is 31% (based to B.C.95 model) and 13% (based to TFE model). Our findings reveal that biofuels, solar and hydropower contribute to promote the operational and environmental efficiency of the largest 20 OGC. However, the analysis suggests that while the global energy transition significantly influences and bolsters environmental efficiency, its effect on operational efficiency among these major OGC remains less pronounced and insufficient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although firms' expectations on future price dynamics are key for monetary policy, we still lack information on the expected effect of the transition to a net-zero economy on future prices. This paper fills this gap in the literature using survey data collected in the first quarter of 2022 on Italian firms' expectations of the impact of the Fit-for-55 - the package established by the EU to achieve its climate targets - on the prices of the goods and services they purchase. First, it documents that almost half of the sample expects that the Fit-for-55 plan will increase their input costs over the short and medium term, while the rest foresee no effect on prices. Then, it shows that firms extrapolate their private experience of high energy prices and shortages in raw materials when forming their expectations. These are salient events that are likely to be recalled relative to the others stored in memory when forming expectatons. In contrast, aggregate information such as energy, oil, and gas prices do not enter the expectations formation process. Finally, a propensity score analysis shows that the expected price impact of the green transition shapes firms' pricing and investment choices such that firms expecting the transition to raise the prices of the inputs they will purchase in the medium term increase (or intend to increase) their selling prices more than the others and are more likely to invest in improving their energy efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amidst the global energy crisis, governments are pursuing transitions towards low-carbon energy systems. In addition to physical infrastructure, political and regulatory enablers, and knowledge and capacities, changes in the energy systems require an energy-literate citizenship. Energy literacy is the understanding of how energy is generated, transported, stored, distributed, and used; awareness about its environmental and social impacts; and the knowledge to use it efficiently. The objective of the study is to provide a systematic review of the literature concerning energy literacy. In the methodology followed, the 138 papers found were categorized and subcategorized according to the research field and the main research objective, respectively. The papers are later described together with similar studies. Results show that most of the work performed around energy literacy addresses its evaluation among different groups, particularly students at different levels, and the construction, application, and evaluation of tools for improving energy literacy. Also studied are the influence of energy literacy in decision-making, its drivers, and conceptual research about the topic. The discussion highlights the debate on the link between energy-literate persons and efficient energy use, the under-researched areas of energy literacy, and the key role of energy literacy in addressing the energy crisis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper examines normality in time series econometrics for a sustainable energy transition. By analysing data from January 1997 to December 2021, this study integrates macroeconomic, environmental, and energy data to gain insights into the potential changes in daily commuting patterns among Slovenians. Various methods, including unit root tests such as the augmented Dickey–Fuller (ADF), Kwiatkowski–Phillips–Schmidt–Shin (KPSS), and Zivot–Andrews (Z-A), as well as other tests, are employed. Additionally, the vector autoregressive (VAR) model, Granger Causality and regression analysis determine the impact. This paper contributes to uncovering valuable information within data from macrovariables using macroeconometric techniques. It also provides insights that can support evidence-based decision-making for sustainable energy transition policies in Slovenia. The results of the normality tests indicate that most macro variables are integrated; there is a need for a careful analysis of integration levels and appropriate testing methods. These findings have implications for policymakers, researchers, and practitioners in economics, the environment, and energy supply. At the same time, this research highlights that gross domestic product, unemployment, inflation, and carbon dioxide positively impact car usage among Slovenians, while gasoline prices and commuters have a negative one. While the recently investigated development of sustainable commuting does not work, the study highlights an innovation: the connection of time series econometrics, which offers a better understanding of future commuting patterns on energy consumption and their causalities. [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]

Reserve power systems are widely used to provide power to critical infrastructure systems in the event of power outages. The reserve power system may be subject to regulation, typically focussing on a strict operational time commitment, but the energy involved in supplying reserve power may be highly variable. For example, if heating or cooling is involved, energy consumption may be strongly influenced by prevailing weather conditions and seasonality. Replacing legacy assets (often diesel generators) with modern technologies could offer potential benefits and services back to the wider electricity system when not in use, therefore supporting a transition to low‐carbon energy networks. Drawing on the Great Britain telecommunications systems as an example, this paper demonstrates that meteorological reanalyses can be used to evaluate capacity requirements to maintain the regulated target of 5‐days operational reserve. Across three case‐study regions with diverse weather sensitivities, infrastructure with cooling‐driven electricity demand is shown to increase energy consumption during summer, thus determining the overall capacity of the reserve required and the availability of 'surplus' capacity. Lower risk tolerance is shown to lead to a substantial cost increase in terms of capacity required but also enhanced opportunities for surplus capacity. The use of meteorological forecast information is shown to facilitate increased surplus capacity. Availability of surplus capacity is compared to a measure of supply–stress (demand‐net‐wind) on the wider energy network. For infrastructure with cooling‐driven demand (typical of most UK telecommunication assets), it is shown that surplus availability peaks during periods of supply–stress, offering the greatest potential benefit to the national electricity grid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Digital business plays a crucial role in driving energy efficiency and sustainability by enabling innovative solutions such as smart grid technologies, data analytics for energy optimization, and remote monitoring and control systems. Through digitalization, businesses can streamline processes, minimize energy waste, and make informed decisions that lead to more efficient resource utilization and reduced environmental impact. This paper aims at analyzing the character of digital business' impact on energy efficiency to outline the relevant instruments to unleash EU countries' potential for attaining sustainable development. The study applies the panel-corrected standard errors technique to check the effect of digital business on energy efficiency for the EU countries in 2011–2020. The findings show that digital business has a significant negative effect on energy intensity, implying that increased digital business leads to decreased energy intensity. Additionally, digital business practices positively contribute to reducing CO2 emissions and promoting renewable energy, although the impact on final energy consumption varies across different indicators. The findings underscore the significance of integrating digital business practices to improve energy efficiency, lower energy intensity, and advance the adoption of renewable energy sources within the EU. Policymakers and businesses should prioritize the adoption of digital technologies and e-commerce strategies to facilitate sustainable energy transitions and accomplish environmental objectives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The water-energy-food (WEF) nexus has emerged as a crucial framework for addressing the interdependencies and trade-offs between these vital resources. In the context of a just energy transition, where the pursuit of sustainable and equitable energy systems is paramount, understanding the WEF nexus becomes even more critical. We explore the evolving concept of the WEF nexus and its relevance to achieving a sustainable energy transition that considers social equity, environmental sustainability, and economic development. This paper highlights key challenges and opportunities in implementing a just energy transition within the context of the WEF nexus, with a focus on promoting social inclusion, ensuring water and food security, and optimizing energy production and consumption. Additionally, we discuss the importance of integrated policymaking, cross-sectoral collaboration, and innovative technologies in addressing the complex interactions between water, energy, and food systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent decades, the use of fossil fuels has had a harsh impact on the climate, and the frequency and intensity of various extreme weather events have increased, which has triggered an increased the use of renewable energy sources and reflection on technological advances. Many countries are trying to promote renewable energy to reduce their impact on climate change, but the impact of national energy policies in the climate risk framework remains poorly understood. Based on the panel data of 84 developed/developing countries around the world from 2006 to 2019, this paper studies and analyzes the impact of renewable energy use on climate risk. The study found that the increase in the proportion of renewable energy use can reduce the climate risk, and this result is still robust after undergoing robustness tests such as changing variables, samples, and research methods. The findings offer an important solution for European countries, where climate risks are most acute. The heterogeneity analysis shows that the higher the level of economic development, population density and the lower the level of incorruptibility, the weaker the inhibitory effect of renewable energy use on climate risk. The mechanism analysis also shows that the increase in the proportion of renewable energy use can reduce climate risk by reducing carbon dioxide (CO 2), methane (CH 4), nitrogen monoxide (NO), PM2.5 emissions, and the proportion of fossil fuel use, but it does not reduce climate risk by increasing biodiversity. In particular, we find that technological progress has not played a role in the use of renewable energy to reduce climate risk, breaking the stereotype. The policy recommendation of this paper is that under the increasing pressure of climate change, the transition to clean energy is an indispensable option, and the need to accelerate the energy transition becomes more urgent. There is a greater need to further protect biodiversity and enhance technological progress. • The increase in the proportion of renewable energy use can reduce the climate risk. • The mechanism is to reduce CO 2 , CH 4 , NO, PM2.5 emissions and fossil fuels use. • The use of renewable energy cannot reduce climate risks by increasing biodiversity. • The impact of renewable energy use on climate risk is heterogeneous. • Technological progress has not played a role in the use of renewable energy to reduce climate risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Morocco has resolutely committed to the green transition of its economy by opting for industry decarbonation, which now imposes itself as an essential access criterion to foreign markets. Intending to include energy efficiency in the leading players in energy-intensive industries, this paper has the main objective of contributing to a better understanding of the decarbonation plans potential impact, taking the example of solar energy integrating opportunities as an action for a thrifty, sustainable, and low carbon Moroccan industry. Indeed, the paper focuses on the industrial textile sector, such as the energy-intensive industry. This sector is the first employer and the most important industrial activity; it is also an icon and the oldest industry in Morocco. This study examines the energy, economic and environmental fallout, evaluating the productions, the investment and the CO2 emissions limit. Besides, the energy industrial sector is characterized by a strong dependence on fossil imports, which increases the energy factor and price. In this regard, several geographical sites and factories were studied under six climatic regional conditions, proposing the most optimal and sustainable configurations for each location and present models with scopes and levels of energy and environment gains and investments that can inspire the sector actors. Then the present work must install concepts by inspiring local factories, accompanying the national vision, and resizing the industrial ecology. In this paper, a power of 8.88 MW is the total power installed, which provides an annual total of 8484.65 tonnes of CO2, with an average payback time between 2.6 years and 4.5 years, and attractive economic parameters, with an LCOE of 0.034 $/kWh and $181,863 for the NPC, those outputs shows the importance of environmental gains that the generalization of this strategic vision can achieve. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The transition to renewable energy is key for sustainable development. Therefore, one of the sustainable development goals (SDG) of United Nations (UN) is to shift towards clean energy. However, in many resource-rich countries several factors can stand as barriers towards the transition process. In this regard, this paper examines the influence of higher oil price, CO 2 emissions, and income on renewable energy consumption in Iran from 1980 to 2019, employing General to Specific (Gets) modeling approach. Estimation results indicated that oil price and CO 2 emissions both have statistically significant and negative impact on renewable energy consumption. The negative influence of higher oil prices on renewable energy consumption may be interpreted as sign of satisfaction coming from higher oil prices, which postpones the transition from traditional energy sources to renewable for Iran. Furthermore, we concluded that income does not have a statistically significant influence on renewable energy use. The paper discusses alternative policies to promote renewable energy consumption. • The effect of higher oil price on renewable energy consumption was studied. • A novel version of General to Specific (Gets) modeling approach was employed. • We found significant, negative impact of oil price on renewable energy use in Iran. • The paper discusses alternative policies for Iran to promote renewable energy use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Remote community initiatives for renewable energy are rapidly emerging across Canada but with varying numbers, success rates, and strategies. To meet low-carbon transition goals, the need to coordinate technology deployment and long-term policy to guide the adoption is critical. Renewable resources such as wind, solar, hydro, and biomass can provide energy at a subsidized cost, create sustainable infrastructure, and provide new economic viability in social value integration. The renewable energy transition is crucial to Canada in sustaining remote and indigenous communities by providing local, clean, and low-carbon-emission energy for heat, power, and possibly transportation. This paper identified 635 renewable resources projects deployed to improve and increase electricity supply. To an extent, balancing demand within the remote and indigenous communities of Canada and highlighting sustainable renewable energy development through ownership participation within the communities is achievable before 2050 and beyond through energy efficiency and the social value of energy. The article identifies clean energy targets as mandated by the different provinces in Canada to reach net-zero GHG emissions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Guangxi is a typical developing region on the southern coast of China. The current issues encountered in the region's development are that fossil energy accounts for about 80% of the energy structure, fossil fuels are heavily dependent on imports, and the self-sufficiency rate of resources is only 32%. These challenges have created a disparity between the current regional development state and the country's dual carbon target. Under the premise of comprehensively considering the multi-sectors of electricity, industry, transportation, and heating, this paper presents a study on the energy system transition towards low-carbon development for Guangxi in four steps. Firstly, to demonstrate EnergyPLAN's capability in energy modeling, a reference scenario for Guangxi is created using official yearbook data from 2020. Then, a short-term scenario is formulated to analyze the development of Guangxi's energy system during the 14th Five-Year Plan. Furthermore, two mid-term scenarios are established, revealing that Guangxi is anticipated to reach its carbon emission peak between 2025 and 2030. Finally, three long-term scenarios are proposed for Guangxi's energy system for 2050. These scenarios encompass the expansion of photovoltaics, nuclear, and wind power in the electricity system and emission reduction policies in the industrial, transportation, and heating sectors. As a result, compared with the 2020REF scenario, Guangxi can achieve a carbon emission reduction exceeding 57% and the share of non-fossil energy consumption can reach about 70% in the 2050 scenarios, despite a substantial increase in energy consumption, which makes it possible to achieve carbon neutrality in 2060 and to establish an energy system with less than 20% of fossil energy consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ambitious goal of the European Union (EU) countries is to achieve carbon neutrality by providing inclusive economic growth, which requires the development of relevant incentives and initiatives. Furthermore, such incentives and initiatives should guarantee the achievement of the declared goals. Energy sectors are the core determinant of inclusive economic growth. Traditional energy resources (coal oriented) have a higher negative impact on nature and people's well-being than on economic and social benefits. However, the transition to renewable energy raises new issues in achieving goals of inclusive economic growth: affordable and clean energy, responsible energy consumption, and energy infrastructure. The analysis of the theoretical framework found that the digitalization of government could be a core instrument for handling the abovementioned issues. The paper aims to justify the role of green energy in achieving inclusive economic growth empirically. The study applies the following methods: fully modified Ordinary Least Square (OLS) and canonical cointegrating regression. The findings allow concluding that institutional quality passively affects inclusive economic growth and that the digitalization of government has a U-shaped impact on inclusive economic growth. In this case, countries should boost the digital transformation of public services and continuously increase the quality of institutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Global efforts towards sustainable energy transition remain uneven. Developing countries are embedded in a vulnerable setting requiring rapid but responsible action to meet increasing energy demands due to their specific projected economic and population growth. Consequently, such countries have addressed the challenges of achieving sustainable energy transition differently compared with developed countries with regard to renewable energy development and its governance. Theories of sustainability transition and responsible innovation (RI) have their origin in developed countries, and the application of this Western-centric version has been found incompatible with the contexts of developing countries. The aim of the paper is to explore how contextual understandings of RI are discursively constructed and how such understandings enable or constrain sustainable energy pathways in developing countries. The author draws on empirical evidence relating to the power sector in Sri Lanka and analyses three narratives in play revealed by a qualitative case study. The findings indicate that developing countries must place greater emphasis on aligning technological innovation systems with RI in efforts to achieve sustainability transitions by being vigilant with regard to contextual narratives on RI. The author concludes that prevalent narratives should be regarded as a bridge for linking sustainability transitions to RI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Africa, switching to renewable energy sources with low carbon emissions is becoming more popular. In the Economic Community of West African states (ECOWAS), the low-carbon energy transition must overcome significant obstacles, including those posed by policies put in place and their implementation. In order to replace the current fossil fuel-driven economy with low-carbon development that also advances the regional aims and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), this paper analyzes the current policy landscape in the region. A total of 75 policies from four categories (energy access, energy efficiency, renewable energy, climate change) were chosen for the policy review. Multicriteria decision analysis and a thorough review of the literature have shed light on how well the policies of the ECOWAS countries could promote low-carbon development and what the main challenges to overcome are. The last step was the comparison of the progress of the two key policies in the region: the National Energy Efficiency Action Plan (NEEAP) and National Renewable Energy Action Plan (NREAP). The results illustrate the amount of work still needing to be done in the region, with only 26 of the 75 policies receiving a score above 50. However, the prospect of a better energy strategy that adequately considers the difficulties of the energy transition is possible, given the progress made by the region's nations since the creation of national action plans for energy efficiency (EE) and renewable energy (RE). Our analysis has also shown that countries like Senegal have obtained quite promising results, as evidenced by the best scores of 76.88 and 73.25, respectively, obtained by its NREAP and NEEAP policies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The energy transition towards sustainable resources is more urgent than ever given the environmental and geopolitical challenges. Being one of the major energy users, cities need to understand their energy sector to accomplish its transition, by means of data. However, data are not easily accessible and have their own challenges. This paper presents a joint effort between researchers, city representatives and industry to provide an urban system service that supports research, accelerates urban innovation, and involves the community. An energy data portal, "NRGYHUB", has been developed, where hourly data from thousands of energy meters are available. These meters were collected from neighborhoods in the city of Västerås, Sweden, and they measure electrical and heating energy. In addition, the data are complemented by geometrical and non-geometrical information of the buildings, as well as demographic statistics of the areas. The paper describes the process of data collection, preprocessing, and visualization, in addition to the main challenges and limitations of the project. This dataset can be used for energy use benchmarking, prediction, and analysis. • The creation and implementation of an energy data portal is detailed and made available on nrgyhub.mdu.se. • Legal and licensing issues in data sharing are explored, offering insights for those interested in Sweden and beyond • By showcasing real-world problems, the impact and role of this data sharing initiative are demonstrated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrogen is a promising commodity, a renewable secondary energy source, and feedstock alike, to meet greenhouse gas emissions targets and promote economic decarbonization. A common goal pursued by many countries, the hydrogen economy receives a blending of public and private capital. After European Green Deal, state members created national policies focused on green hydrogen. This paper presents a study of energy transition considering green hydrogen production to identify Portugal's current state and prospects. The analysis uses energy generation data, hydrogen production aspects, CO 2 emissions indicators and based costs. A comprehensive simulation estimates the total production of green hydrogen related to the ratio of renewable generation in two different scenarios. Then a comparison between EGP goals and Portugal's transport and energy generation prospects is made. Portugal has an essential renewable energy matrix that supports green hydrogen production and allows for meeting European green hydrogen 2030–2050 goals. Results suggest that promoting the conversion of buses and trucks into H 2 -based fuel is better for CO 2 reduction. On the other hand, given energy security, thermoelectric plants fueled by H 2 are the best option. The aggressive scenario implies at least 5% more costs than the moderate scenario, considering economic aspects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Enhancing carbon emission mitigation and carbon utilization have become necessary for the world to respond to climate change caused by the increase of greenhouse gas concentrations. As a result, carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) technologies have attracted considerable attention worldwide, especially in China, which plans to achieve a carbon peak before 2030 and carbon neutrality before 2060. This paper proposed six priorities for China, the current world's largest carbon emitter, to achieve its dual carbon strategy in the green energy transition process. We analyzed and summarized the challenges and potentialities of conventional carbon utilization (CU), carbon capture utilization (CCU), and CCUS. Based on the current development trend, carbon dioxide capture, circular utilization, and storage (CCCUS) technology that integrates carbon circular utilization and partial sequestration, with large-scale underground energy storage were proposed, namely biomethanation. Technically and economically, biomethanation was believed to have an essential contribution to China's renewable energy utilization and storage, as well as the carbon circular economy. The preliminary investigation reveals significant potential, with a corresponding carbon storage capacity of 5.94 × 108 t~7.98 × 108 t and energy storage of 3.29 × 1012 kWh~4.42 × 1012 kWh. Therefore, we believe that in addition to vigorously developing classical CCUS technology, technical research and pilot projects of CCCUS technology that combined large-scale underground energy storage also need to be carried out to complete the technical reserve and the dual-carbon target. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The European Commission introduced a package of measures to accelerate the shift to low-carbon energy transition in Europe. In 2014, EU member states agreed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by at least 40% by 2030 compared to 1990 levels. The binding greenhouse gas emission targets for Member States from 2021 to 2030 for the transport, buildings, agriculture, waste, and land-use and forestry sectors were established. EU Member States should decide on their own how to meet the agreed upon 2030 target and implement climate-change-mitigation measures. All EU MSs have committed to prepare national energy and climate plans based on regulation on the governance of the energy union and climate action (EU)2018/1999, agreed as part of the Clean Energy for All Europeans package approved in 2019. The national plans outline how the EU Member States intend to implement the GHG reduction target by increasing their in energy efficiency, use of renewables, greenhouse-gas-emission reductions, interconnections, and research and innovation. This paper analyzes the energy and climate plans of the Baltic States and systematizes the main climate-change-mitigation policies in the energy sector targeting the household sector. The background of energy and climate planning is provided from a theoretical point of view, encompassing regional, local, and national energy and climate plans. The diffusion levels of renewables in the Baltic States were determined and the energy-climatic-friendly policies followed, by them, they were identified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The exploitation and utilisation of solar energy is challenging because of both diurnal and seasonal variation. Seasonal thermal energy storage is a prominent solution to solve the problem of seasonal variation of solar production. This paper investigates both the optimal design and energy management of a renewable energy plant with seasonal thermal energy storage. As a case study, the thermal, cooling and electrical energy demands of a university campus during one year are considered. Three scenarios, characterized by a different available area (20,555 m2, area covered at present; 50,000 m2, potentially available area by exploiting the entire rooftop and parking area; unlimited area) for solar thermal collectors and photovoltaic panels are investigated. In the first two scenarios, the exploitation of solar energy allows a primary energy saving of 31% and 57%, respectively compared to the use of a conventional plant. The seasonal storage reaches an overall efficiency (thus considering both charging and discharging) up to 84%. Finally, the analysis of the third scenario shows that the feasibility of meeting the energy demands by only exploiting solar energy is technically challenging because a large area equal to about 100,293 m2 is needed for solar thermal collectors and photovoltaic panels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To provide an effective energy transition, hydrogen is required to decarbonize the hard-to-abate industries. As a case study, this paper provides a holistic view of the hydrogen energy transition in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). By utilizing the directional distance function undesirable data envelopment analysis model, the energy, economic, and environmental efficiency of UAE sectors are estimated from 2001 to 2020 to prioritize hydrogen sector coupling. Green hydrogen production efficiency is analyzed from 2020 to 2050. The UAE should prioritize the industry and transportation sectors, with average efficiency scores of 0.7 and 0.74. The decomposition of efficiency into pure technical efficiency and scale efficiency suggests policies and strategies should target upscaling the UAE's low-carbon hydrogen production capacity to expedite short-term and overall production efficiency. The findings of this study can guide strategies and policies for the UAE's low-carbon hydrogen transition. A framework is developed based on the findings of the study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The COVID-19 pandemic and Russia's war on Ukraine have impacted the global economy, including the energy sector. The pandemic caused drastic fluctuations in energy demand, oil price shocks, disruptions in energy supply chains, and hampered energy investments, while the war left the world with energy price hikes and energy security challenges. The long-term impacts of these crises on low-carbon energy transitions and mitigation of climate change are still uncertain but are slowly emerging. This paper analyzes the impacts throughout the energy system, including upstream fuel supply, renewable energy investments, demand for energy services, and implications for energy equity, by reviewing recent studies and consulting experts in the field. We find that both crises initially appeared as opportunities for low-carbon energy transitions: the pandemic by showing the extent of lifestyle and behavioral change in a short period and the role of science-based policy advice, and the war by highlighting the need for greater energy diversification and reliance on local, renewable energy sources. However, the early evidence suggests that policymaking worldwide is focused on short-term, seemingly quicker solutions, such as supporting the incumbent energy industry in the post-pandemic era to save the economy and looking for new fossil fuel supply routes for enhancing energy security following the war. As such, the fossil fuel industry may emerge even stronger after these energy crises creating new lock-ins. This implies that the public sentiment against dependency on fossil fuels may end as a lost opportunity to translate into actions toward climate-friendly energy transitions, without ambitious plans for phasing out such fuels altogether. We propose policy recommendations to overcome these challenges toward achieving resilient and sustainable energy systems, mostly driven by energy services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The improvement of energy transition programs towards renewable energy sources and efficiency of energy savings programs should focus towards new energy behavioral characteristics for reducing energy consumption and maintaining people well-being. This paper deals with the results of a survey campaign focused on social energy behavior of customers after complete liberalization of the electricity market and facing the increase of electricity prices occurring in the last year. The energy behavioral assistance programs require indicators that can be quantified. The standardization of these results will determine useful information to be derived from the survey poll. The available data on energy consumption from energy utilities could help researchers and companies in estimating the efficiency of the actions towards energy transition. In addition, the up-scaling of various energy behavioral programs and life-cycle of the obtained energy savings should be monitored and evaluated. The energy consumption can be reduced using various behavior assistance programs, tuned for specific end users. The customer can diffuse the good practices involving more and more users of different age, involving and transforming the end-user in an active part. The analysis of the adopted methodology is very positive considering the obtained results with respect to the established objectives. • Social behavior analysis of customers after complete liberalization of the electricity market. • Positive energy transition with renewable energy sources. • Survey of energy behavior at national level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper utilizes data from 26 countries to document the relationship between renewable energy consumption, shadow banking, traditional banking, and economic growth covering 2010–2021. Employing panel quantile approaches, the results indicate a negative and significant impact of renewable energy consumption on economic growth, highlighting the initial high costs inherent in transitioning to renewable energy sources. Moreover, the findings reveal that shadow banking, along with traditional banking, tends to weaken the negative impacts of renewable energy consumption on economic growth, particularly in countries with medium and high levels of economic development. Finally, panel causality tests confirm bidirectional causality between economic growth and renewable energy consumption, economic growth and shadow banking, and renewable energy consumption and shadow banking. These insights underscore the need for policymakers to consider the role of alternative financing mechanisms in the transition to renewable energy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The energy demand in Sweden is increasing due to the growing electrification, and to meet this need, the generation must be expanded. Wind power generation is a very attractive renewable power production alternative for Sweden because of the favorable weather conditions. Research looks at how much wind energy may be deemed sustainable. Increased energy demand puts pressure on the government and industry to build more wind farms and, as a result, produce more wind turbines. Raw materials are necessary for wind turbines to provide a secure transition to green energy technologies. To meet these demands, the materials from various countries should efficiently contribute towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This paper gathers information about raw resources from diverse nations worldwide. All materials are mapped to the country where they are produced using social science criteria. A few nations are chosen based on a sample approach for further analysis, and the implications of mining operations are investigated. Finally, the direct and indirect effects of the SDGs are considered. Based on the data gathered, recommendations and considerations are given to avoid or mitigate the repercussions of raw materials mining and make wind power generation more socially and environmentally sustainable. • Evaluation of side effects of wind turbine raw materials. • The extraction of raw materials often violates human rights. • Mining of raw materials for wind turbines negatively affects the environment. • Extraction of wind turbine materials affects several Sustainable Development Goals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cities have emerged as critical and challenging places for promoting the green and low-carbon transformation of the economy and society in the context of the "dual carbon" targets. Meanwhile, fiscal policy is also an indispensable component of the public policy framework supporting the green and low-carbon transformation. This paper uses the pilot project of "Comprehensive Demonstration Cities for Energy Conservation and Emission Reduction Fiscal Policies" ("ECER-CD" policy) implemented in China since 2011 as a quasi-natural experiment. This research theoretically analyzes and empirically tests the energy conservation and emission reduction effects of fiscal policies supporting green and low-carbon transformation utilizing methodologies such as time-varying DID and multiple periods and multiple groups of DID. The study finds that the pilot cities effectively reverse the behavioural bias of local governments and promote energy conservation and emission reduction efforts. This conclusion holds after undergoing robustness tests such as parallel trend analysis and heterogeneity treatment effects. The effectiveness of the pilot policy is attributed to the upgrade of industrial structure, improvement of energy efficiency, and the effects of green technology innovation. However, cities' geographic location and resource dependency can interfere with the effective implementation of policies. This paper also further explores the environmental dividends and economic consequences of the policy and finds that the pilot cities have certain environmental dividends and do not significantly restrain economic and social development. This study broadens the research perspective on fiscal policies in energy conservation and emission reduction and clarifies the pathways through which fiscal policies promoting green, low-carbon transformation drive energy conservation and emission reduction in cities. Moreover, it also improves the use of the Difference-in-Differences method in evaluating policy effects in scenarios such as the overlapping implementation of pilot policies and policy withdrawal. Finally, this paper proposes policy recommendations to provide more empirical evidence for China to accelerate the green and low-carbon transformation of the economy and society. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Financial sector performance is increasingly linked with the transition to renewable energy in the sustainability discourse of developing economies. This paper examines the nexus and implication(s) of financial development on renewable energy consumption in Nigeria (the largest and most populous economy in Africa). Specifically, this study utilized the broad-based financial development index data to effectively address the multidimensional nature of financial development and the portion of renewable energy in total energy consumption as key variables, while other relevant pieces of information (growth rate of per capita GDP, foreign direct investment and consumer price index) were incorporated. The study employed a blend of the ADF test and Zivot-Andrew test to ascertain stationarity properties as well as the likelihood of structural breaks, while the ARDL was utilized to determine the long-run relationship(s) using data from 1981 to 2019. The study estimation finds, among other things, that financial development is critical for renewable energy consumption in Nigeria and recommends policies to promote better outcomes for the financial and energy sectors, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Households are responsible for almost 30% of final energy consumption in the EU. Therefore, sustainable energy consumption in households can provide a lot of benefits for energy savings, use of renewables and GHG emission reduction. Environmental awareness plays an important role in promoting sustainable energy consumption in households, fostering low carbon energy transition, and creating a carbon-neutral society in the EU by 2050. Though the use of renewables and energy efficiency improvements in households are increasing in the EU, the low environmental awareness about the benefits of sustainable energy consumption, especially in vulnerable households receiving state support, might be an important barrier to creating a carbon-neutral society in the EU. The paper analyses the main scientific literature showing the linkages between environmental awareness and sustainable energy consumption in households and presents the results of an empirical study conducted in Lithuanian households. The study identified the main barriers to sustainable energy consumption in households and assessed state policies targeting sustainable energy consumption in households. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Establishing conditions that meet climate requirements should be one of the most important goals of the whole world in order to protect against the negative effects of climate change. Without cooperation and considerable commitment from everyone, it is possible that these negative effects will worsen. The implementation of the Energy Policy from now until 2050 should facilitate the transformation of the coal-based power system toward a more sustainable and diversified mix of energy sources. Financial investments in the countries analyzed in this paper create real opportunities and changes for the transition toward renewable energy sources (RES), but there is criticism concerning the insufficient speed of change and the costs of the transformation for society. The dominant emphasis on the optimum selection of energy sources creates conflicts, especially in democratic decision-making. Resource management is both incremental and participatory, and while decisions are strongly based on science, the decision-making process is rarely rational or comprehensive. It is difficult to estimate environmental costs, especially because there is no method for comparing the many criteria between the different energy sources since there are differences in the energy efficiency results obtained in different areas. Public opinion is of great importance and it has a huge influence on the development of the development strategies and policies that are undertaken. Therefore, as part of our analysis, we conducted research using a questionnaire to obtain opinions on fundamental issues regarding the climate and energy strategies that have been adopted in the EU. This was important for achieving the main goal of this article, which is a multidimensional analysis of activities aimed at adapting the national economy to the EU strategies that are responsible for reaching the energy and climate goals by 2050. The low-emission energy transformation is aimed at introducing significant changes for the entire economy while at the same time ensuring the implementation of the so-called European triad of goals (energy security, energy competitiveness and climate protection), which often contradict each other in practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• "Transition to sustainable multi-building energy systems can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by synergising the multiple renewable energy sources with specific structural characteristics and occupancy constraints of buildings." • "To ensuring energy flexibility and resilience, optimization strategies for multi-building energy systems vary significantly with the climatic context and potentials for integrating energy storage technologies, highlighting the necessity for adaptable designs considering future energy demands and the expansion of district-level systems." • "There is a pressing need for more user-friendly multi-building energy system simulation tools to facilitate effective long-term planning and to optimize the design and management of energy flows among multiple buildings, ensuring maximum efficiency and sustainability. The transition to clean and sustainable energy systems in the building sector is vital to reduce global greenhouse gas emissions. In this regard, shifting the focus from single buildings to clusters of buildings, such as at the district level, can provide more effective sustainable solutions. In this study, the term Multi Building Energy Systems (MBES) was introduced to represent various scales, from local communities to districts and larger urban areas. This approach reflects a more inclusive understanding of sustainability potentials for large-scale building blocks that goes beyond traditional boundaries. Such systems encompass the aggregated energy impacts of multiple buildings whether physically proximate or connected via smart grid technologies that enable two-way energy and information flows. This paper comprehensively reviewed case studies on MBES that have achieved zero-energy, nearly-zero-energy, and positive-energy performance. The literature review, facilitated by a combination of database searches and snowball search techniques, has yielded 67 relevant case studies. The findings revealed diverse pathways towards achieving optimal renewable energy production depending on the location and the climate. Integration of renewable energy sources and energy storage systems is pivotal in achieving economies of scale, reducing operational costs, and enhancing resilience and reliability of energy supply at the neighbourhood scale. Total energy use and emissions reduction could be achieved by considering the architectural features of the building stocks. The study highlighted the need for adaptive strategies in MBES implementation to address challenges such as power grid overloads and the complexities of spatial arrangement, to meet current demands, while ensuring long-term energy resilience and sustainability in evolving urban landscapes. The limited adoption of MBES simulation software suggests a need for accessible tailored software. Future research should focus on developing advanced personalised energy management and control strategies, while continuously assessing emerging technologies for improving MBES performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Energy use between urban and rural areas is very important in the context of the global energy transition and climate change. However, it is difficult to measure the differences and inequalities in energy consumption due to data limitations. In this paper, a dataset distinguishing urban-rural energy consumption has been generated. We construct an energy inequality index (EI) to assess the difference in per capita energy consumption (PEC) between urban and rural areas. We find that the EI has decreased significantly from 10.42 in 2000 to 1.43 in 2020. Western China has a higher EI than the developed coastal areas. We further define 7 urban-rural types and find that the urban center has the highest PEC, while the rural cluster has the lowest. Cluster analysis shows that prefectures have different equalization trends, namely volatile decline, rapid decline, increase before decline, incremental decline. The urban-rural structure plays an important role in the different trends, and 4 modes of urban-rural energy consumption are summarized, namely urban-centered, urban-suburban double-centered, multi-centered and rural-biased. These results are valuable for understanding the energy consumption between urban and rural China. • A dataset distinguishing urban-rural per capita energy consumption (PEC) has been generated. • China's urban-rural energy inequality has decreased from 10.42 in 2000 to 1.43 in 2020. • Western China are facing a more urban-rural energy inequality than the developed coastal areas. • Among the 7 defined types, urban center ranked highest PEC, while rural cluster ranked lowest. • 4 modes of urban-rural energy consumption are summarized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Faced with international climate obligations and domestic pressure, Singapore has recently raised its climate goals significantly. The government had affirmed its intention for carbon emissions to peak before 2030 and for Singapore to attain net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. However, as Singapore transitions to green energy, there remains much uncertainty if this transformation, coupled with rapidly evolving geopolitics, would present vulnerabilities to energy security. Hence, this paper is an attempt to investigate Singapore's possible paths to achieve these goals while enhancing energy security in view of present and future energy plans. Key parameters of energy security in Singapore's context are identified to determine how different policy decisions would influence them. The effects of various current and potential policies can thus be evaluated using a systems thinking and system dynamics approach to propose new energy solutions to improve energy security. System dynamics modelling reveals that new energy supply solutions would have to be considered in Singapore's Energy 2050 Plan while furthering efforts in reducing energy demand. Findings reveal that Singapore should have a target of >80% renewable energy by 2050, pursue a central strategy towards sustainable diversification of its energy sources into hydrogen, electricity imports and solar energy and reduce energy consumption. Accordingly, Singapore's energy security can then be improved in terms of the economic, energy supply chain and environmental dimensions, and towards attaining net-zero emissions. [Display omitted] • Systems approach to Singapore Green Plan 2030 and simulation of policies towards energy security and net zero. • Systems thinking and system dynamics modeling to evaluate key assumptions and energy security parameters. • Model validation, both structural and behavioral, through base model simulations as well as behavioral tests. • Effect of government policies on hydrogen energy, low carbon electricity imports and energy saving on energy security. • Simulations suggest policies for higher renewable energy targets to attain net zero carbon emissions and energy security. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To achieve the goal of "carbon peaking and carbon neutrality", China is vigorously developing renewable energy. This paper aims to examine the major contributors to regional inequality in renewable energy consumption by analyzing the 30 provinces in China. We have analyzed the inequality of China's renewable energy consumption with Dagum Gini coefficient, and then use the Generalized Divisia Index Model (GDIM) to decompose the influencing factors contributing to the inequality of renewable energy consumption. The main conclusions are summarized as follows: First, renewable energy consumption was higher in the western region than in the central and eastern regions, and the regional inequality in renewable energy consumption have increased over time. Second, the study reveals that inter-group disparity is the primary source of regional inequality in renewable energy consumption in China. Third, at the national level, the results of the GDIM decomposition show that economic development continues to rely on fossil energy consumption, which negatively impacts the low-carbon transition of energy. Given China's complex geographical conditions, it is crucial for different provinces to develop their own strategies for renewable energy development, taking into account unique resources and challenges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

More voices are calling for a quicker transition towards clean energy. The exploration and exploitation of clean energy such as wind energy and solar energy are effective means to optimise energy structure and improve energy efficiency. To provide in-depth understanding of clean energy transition, this paper utilises a combination of multiple bibliometric mapping techniques, including HistCite, CiteSpace and R Bibliometrix, to conduct a systematic review on 2,191 clean energy related articles obtained from Web of Science (WoS). We identify five current main research streams in the clean energy field, including Energy Transition, Clean Energy and Carbon Emission Policy, Impact of Oil Price on Alternative Energy Stocks, Clean Energy and Economics, and Venture Capital Investments in Clean Energy. Clearly, the effectiveness of policy-driven and market-driven energy transition is an important ongoing debate. Emerging research topics are also discussed and classified into six areas: Clean Energy Conversion Technology and Biomass Energy Utilisation, Optimisation of Energy Generation Technology, Policy-Making in Clean Energy Transition, Impact of Clean Energy Use and Economic Development on Carbon Emissions, Household Use of Clean Energy, and Clean Energy Stock Markets. Accordingly, more and more research attention has been paid to how to improve energy efficiency through advanced clean energy technology, and how to make targeted policies for clean energy transition and energy market development. This article moves beyond the traditional literature review methods and delineates a systematic research agenda for clean energy research, providing research directions for achieving low-carbon development through the clean energy transition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Numerous studies have investigated how small vulnerable territories are adapting to climate change, particularly non-interconnected islands with focus on Renewable Energy Sources (RES) and self-sufficiency. A key to success is an energy plan with appropriate policy tools. This paper first presents a discussion on barriers to RES deployment. Then, we present the energy situation and the legislative energy framework in Reunion Island. Are the legislative and policy frameworks sufficient to achieve the energy transition? This paper proposes an original view discussing the potential of a territory and available tools to develop RES. Energy transition is also view as an opportunity. Highlights • Reunion Island's potential for achieve the energy transition. • A complex legal context: town planning and energy planning not in phase. • A set of barriers identified and analysed isolated island. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The role of energy transition amidst the energy crisis and how policymakers can drive down emissions while focusing on energy security are critical. Given the geo-political situation, energy crisis volatility, energy shortage and climate change all affect the green transition and the short-term priorities for energy companies and policymakers. Energy security is not an isolated issue but has widespread implications as various sectors depend on energy supply to function properly. Governments around the world are faced with this trilemma, how to balance energy security with energy sustainability while also considering energy affordability. Sustainability has been in focus for about a decade. However, energy security is suddenly becoming one of the most important priorities that policymakers need to consider. Unfortunately, the renewable energy infrastructure is not yet ready to replace the growing volume of energy demand from hydrocarbon, which the world has been dependent on. This means, for now, a surge in energy generation through hydrocarbon to meet the existing energy demand deficit. However, it is important not to lose focus on the challenge of energy sustainability and climate change adaption and mitigation. Where trends like carbon capture and storage; solar, wind, hydro, green hydrogen, etc.; renewable energy infrastructure and integrations, with supply chain and engineering services consideration [in aspect for the growing market in this space] need better attention with regards to investment and full-scale implementation. This paper aims to analyze this 1st energy crisis of green transition with a priori on energy poverty with consideration of major influences and associated impacts. Furthermore, it proposes a specific framework for inclusive investigations, which considers the entire energy ecosystem with consideration of major influences, to enable the policymakers to better drive the green transition. This involves formulating energy policies that are not entirely conservative towards renewable energy sources but instead promote investments in both green and relatively more environmentally benign energy sources compared to high emission hydrocarbons. In this regard, this paper renders exhaustive prospects and recommendations. • The nexus between energy transition, energy poverty and their impacts are investigated. • Influence of climate change, COVID-19, geo-politics, and energy infrastructure on energy transition. • Exhaustive prospects and recommendations are rendered. • Requirement for inclusive investigations and recognition of energy poverty. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The global shift to renewable energy is conducive to carbon reduction, but its impact on the economy is still uncertain. Unlike existing research focusing on the effect of domestic renewable energy (RE), this paper considers the global RE connection among countries and examines the impact of global RE development on economic growth (EG) using China as a sample. In addition, we apply a novel wavelet-based quantile-on-quantile method, which can estimate the local influence of the α-quantile of global RE on the β-quantile of the EG in different periods. The finding shows that the upper quantiles of RE promote EG , and this effect is greater at the upper quantiles of EG in the medium- and long-term. This is mainly because China plays a leading role in RE development and has an advantage in exporting RE -related products with the development of global RE. The finding proves the growth effect, indicating that RE is a blessing for China's EG. However, in the short term, a higher level of global RE development impedes China's EG due to high upfront costs of RE production, fierce competition from other countries, and insufficient energy supply when significant investment shifts from non-renewable energy to RE. The empirical results provide important policy implications to balance RE 's short-term inhibitory effect and long-term promoting effect on EG in the process of the global energy transition. • The global RE connection and the impact of global RE development on economic EG. • Applying wavelet-based quantile-on-quantile method can estimate the local influence of global RE on EG in different periods. • Upper quantiles of RE promote EG is greater at the upper quantiles of EG in the medium- and long-term. • The growth effect indicating that RE is a blessing for China's EG. • Balance RE's short-term inhibitory effect and long-term promoting effect on EG in the process of energy transition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Algeria, like other developing countries, has been committed to promoting the transition to renewable energy for several years. The national government established several laws and attractive subsidies that encouraged various socio-economic entities to use renewable energies and engage in more sustainable practices. Despite these efforts, industrial and private entities have not responded as hoped. To identify the factors that impede government efforts toward sustainable practices, this paper focuses on the two most energy-consuming sectors: building and transport. The analysis reveals that both financial and socio-cultural issues constitute the two main obstructive elements to energy transition in Algeria. This is the first study to be carried out in Algeria on technico-economic difficulties in the application of energy transition towards renewable sources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Energy scenarios describing transition pathways towards low-emission energy systems are commonly used to design mitigation strategies. There is a growing awareness in the research community that energy transitions should be understood as socio-technical transitions and that energy scenario construction should reflect this fact. This paper presents an application of a socio-technical scenario building method for improving long-term scenarios and strategies for the energy transition in Germany. Developing integrated scenarios on a national level starts with employing the cross impact balancing (CIB) approach for identifying consistent societal scenarios. As a first step, relevant context factors are selected and defined (39 descriptors and alternative future developments). Interviews with experts are used to develop a qualitative impact network for the CIB. The resulting context scenarios are then transferred to quantitative energy scenarios by using two different energy models that account for energy demand and supply structures for Germany. A final evaluation focuses on primary energy demand, renewable energy shares, and direct energy-related CO2 emissions. The approach integrates statements of societal and energy model experts and results in an interdisciplinary knowledge integration. This in turn provides insight into the method's capacity to improve the consistency of energy scenarios and to identify potential societal risks related to the energy transition process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This paper aims to present the results of a study aimed at performing a first diagnosis of energy literacy and energy use in a Faculty of Education, by means of identifying energy consumption patterns, as well as energy literacy and commitments regarding energy transition. This diagnosis is the basis for establishing the foundations of a path toward energy transition in the faculty and further designing energy saving and education strategies. Design/methodology/approach: Quantitative and qualitative data were collected in a mixed-method approach. A survey was arranged to assess the attitudes, habits and knowledge regarding the current energy system within the community of the Faculty (407 responses). Comparisons among the main collectives that make up the community were performed, i.e. students, teaching and research staff and management and services staff. In parallel, the general electric consumption of the faculty was monitored. The results of these diagnostics were presented at several forums and workshops on energy transition held in the faculty where personal commitments in favor of energy transition were gathered and further categorized (105 initiatives). Findings: Positive attitudes toward energy saving were observed, reflecting in different generic habits. Additionally, some belief or hope for a technological solution for current and future energy problems was detected, as well as a lower level of implication or commitment when specifying personal attitudes. Similarly, widespread ignorance of the current energy context was revealed, regarding both the energy system and household energy consumption. Concerning the undertaking of personal commitments, low impact energy saving habits prevailed, and knowledge was not identified as being a necessary element of energy saving education in attitudes and habits. Practical implications: This research provides relevant information for the design of educational interventions to promote energy literacy in higher education institutions. Originality/value: The survey provides valuable insights regarding future educators' and their current teachers' energy literacy in a challenging energy context. The lack of general knowledge about the energy context in the community, together with the limited impact of the commitments gathered among students, stresses the need for integration of basic energy contents, both within education degrees and the management strategy of the faculty. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studies of urban energy transitions place less attention to governance dynamics in diversified contexts. This paper thus focuses on an ordinary city, Philadelphia, and its place-based policy innovations in commercial energy efficiency. It develops an analytical framework at the intersection of multi-level governance and socio-technical urban energy change, which applies for a set of key policy initiatives in Philadelphia. The analysis demonstrates the importance of local and broader economic conditions, as well as actor political orientations, for the city's transformative capacity. It also offers a fine-grained view of transition actors, stressing the key role of third-sector entities for systemic change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Industry poses one of the biggest challenges in the renewable energy transition. In this paper, fossil fuels in the European industrial sector are replaced by renewable energy using a novel tool, IndustryPLAN, a planning tool for the assessment of national industrial sectors. In a bottom-up approach, each industry sub-sector is addressed with energy efficiency and fossil fuel replacement measures based on best available and innovative technologies, and in a top-down approach, the fuel and electricity consumption per country is analysed and decarbonised. The results indicate that: 1. Known technologies can decarbonise most of the industrial sector; 2. Costs and efficiencies are improved by energy savings and electrification; 3. Limiting bioenergy consumption is a critical challenge, emphasising the key role of energy savings and electrification, and the alternative of using hydrogen or hydrogen-based electrofuels will make the transition more expensive and induce energy losses. A full transition to renewable energy and a decarbonised industry sector may be possible before 2050, however, this requires that all investments are sustainable from 2030 onwards and that grid electricity is fully decarbonised. This paper presents several pathways toward 100% renewable energy supply in the European industrial sector and discusses the implications of the outlined scenarios. • Four tangible 100% renewable energy scenarios for industry in EU27 + UK are established. • 100% renewable energy in industry is feasible before 2050. • Energy efficiency improvements are essential to limit biomass consumption. • Industry energy transition needs to be prioritised in short- and long-term planning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]