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The pulp and paper industry accounts for approximately 5% of total industrial energy consumption and contributes 2% of direct carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) emissions from industries. World paper and paperboard demand and production are increasing significantly, leading to an increase in this sector's energy use and CO 2 emissions. Although current studies identify a wide range of energy-efficiency technologies that have already been commercialized for the pulp and paper industry, information is limited or scattered regarding new energy-efficiency technologies that are not yet fully commercialized. Development of emerging or advanced energy-efficiency technologies and their deployment in the market will be crucial for this industry's mid- and long-term energy saving and climate change mitigation strategies. This paper compiles available information on energy savings, environmental and other benefits, costs, and commercialization status for 25 emerging technologies to reduce the energy use and CO 2 emissions. The purpose is to provide a well-structured comprehensive review on these emerging energy-efficiency technologies for engineers, researchers, investors, policy makers, pulp and/or paper companies, and other interested parties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pulp and paper industry is a high energy consuming and polluting sector, and carbon emissions emitted from this sector are worthy of attention. This article, based upon an analysis of China’s Pulp and Paper Industry (CPPI), provides estimates of each of the following: carbon emissions from energy consumption, pre-treatment sector, combustion of condensed black liquor, and methane emitted from incomplete aerobic digestion during sewage treatment of CPPI. During the study period (2005–2012), total CO 2 emissions ranged from 126.0 Mt to 155.4 Mt. Energy consumption was estimated to be the largest source of carbon emissions, however, due to the application of the local emission inventory rather than the IPCC inventory, energy consumption decreased by 4.7%, a lower percentage than was calculated in a previous study. According to this study’s estimation, the emissions caused by the recovery of biomass energy contributed 26–29% of the total CO 2 emissions. CH 4 generated from sewage treatment accounted for 9–11% of the total carbon emissions. The CO 2 intensity dropped during the study period, which reflected the improvement of energy efficiency in the pulp and paper industry. The outcome of this study provides not only detailed information about CPPI’s carbon emissions, but also a calculation framework for studying carbon emissions from pulp and paper sector in the other regions. It suggests that the local carbon emissions inventory should be used for estimating carbon emissions and to reduce the fossil fuel energy, increase energy recovery from biomass, and that promoting cleaner production is essential to achieve a low carbon development of the pulp and paper industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Energy efficiency can help facing the climate crises. Yet the energy intensity has decreased more slowly than required to achieve climate goals. Based on this premise, we build an agent-based model to study the effects of different energy efficiency policies. Policies analysed range from indirect policies – taxes, incentives, and subsidies – to direct technological policies, where a public research laboratory invests in R&D to establish a new technological energy efficiency paradigm. Results reveal that, although most of the policies effectively reduce energy intensity, the research lab is the most efficient in promoting energy efficiency without negative impacts on macroeconomic and public finance conditions. However, the success of this policy requires a long-term commitment, highlighting the importance of complementing this strategy with more "ready to use" measures. The findings also indicate that most policies do not induce significant macroeconomic rebound effects. Concerns about macroeconomic rebound effects may likely be overstated. • Improvements in energy efficiency help face the ongoing climate and energy crises. • Yet, energy intensity has declined more slowly than needed to meet climate goals. • The paper builds an agent-based model to study different energy efficiency policies. • Indirect policies work but are outperformed by direct technological policies. • The macroeconomic rebound effect induced by most of the policies is rather small. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increase of Renewable Energy (RE) production to fight the climate crisis is posing new technological and financial challenges, due to the availability and variability of RE Sources (RES). These challenges can be addressed by selecting the most suitable mix of RES to optimise power production, to assure grid resilience and to promote local energy use. To facilitate the selection of such combination, this paper presents an original methodology that allows to compare mixing scenarios with different RES, also in presence of batteries and backup system. It simultaneously optimises the energy surplus with respect to the eventual external electrical load and the missing energy with respect to the same electrical load. This method, which can cope with isolated or plugged-to-grid systems, is here applied to a novel case study, an oil&gas platform under decommissioning, located in the Adriatic Sea (Italy). The RE production from wind, wave and solar panels is supposed to support other activities for the platform reuse, such as aquaculture, monitoring and mineral deposition. In this case, solar energy is providing the greatest contribution to the optimal mix in terms of production, while wave energy assures the most relevant contribution in terms of continuity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The mechanism of rolling resistance of asphalt pavements is presented. • The measuring and modelling approaches of rolling resistance are summarised. • The prediction methods of fuel consumption and environmental impact are reviewed. In the context of climate change and global warming, the attention on the environmental cost of pavements is increasing. To scientifically quantify the environmental cost of pavements, accurate prediction of rolling resistance and fuel consumption is important. In this paper, a comprehensive review on rolling resistance of asphalt pavements and its environmental impact was presented. At first, the commonly used definitions of rolling resistance and texture characterisation methods of pavement surface were introduced. Then, the influence of different factors on rolling resistance was discussed. Next, the measuring and modelling approaches of rolling resistance were reviewed. At last, methods which can be used to predict fuel consumption and environmental impact were presented. It was found that an ideal approach for texture characterisation of pavement surface is to make use of the entire wavelength spectrum of road profiles and consider the enveloping curve of tire treads. Furthermore, the fact that rolling resistance can be influenced by different factors introduces difficulties in accurate measurement and modelling of rolling resistance. Moreover, testing methods and conditions have a significant effect on the empirical modelling of rolling resistance, while it is difficult and time-consuming to consider all the energy loss in the computational modelling of rolling resistance. In addition, the prediction of fuel consumption and environmental impact highly depends on the formulating methods and measuring conditions. The work presented in this paper will help to gain more insight into rolling resistance and its environmental impact, which ultimately promotes the construction of environmentally friendly pavements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The dairy industry requires substantial energy resources at all stages of production and supply to meet consumer needs in terms of quantity, quality and food safety. The expected future climate change effects will cause serious uncertainty to the dairy industry. Adapting to these upcoming conditions is a challenge and one that is compounded by the continuous increase in food demand, as a result of global population growth. Predictably, under current conditions, this situation might lead to a significant increase in the energy requirements of the dairy industry. Therefore, there is a clear need to mitigate energy use through enhanced energy conservation, waste reduction and waste management. This review paper presents and discusses alternative dairy operations and mitigation strategies that have the potential to lead the dairy industry towards net-zero carbon emissions. Further, the focus of this work turns to supply chain energy modelling (SCEM) as means to mitigate energy use, while relevant work in the literature is reviewed. Supply chain energy models can provide a complete overview of the energy demand and the energy mix of a dairy supply chain. Additionally, they can highlight the most energy consuming processes and allow the evaluation of alternative energy-saving operations that can lead towards the net-zero carbon target. Overall, the development or use of computational tools for simulating the energy demand in the industry has strong potential for improving sustainability across the dairy supply chain. • Insight on climate change effects on the dairy supply chain and impact on energy demand. • Understanding the relevance and importance of the "net-zero" carbon emissions target in the dairy supply chain. • Identification of novel energy mitigation strategies across the dairy supply chain. • Importance of developing supply chain energy models (SCEM) to address energy mitigation in the dairy sector. • Evaluation of modelling techniques to develop or deliver supply chain energy models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The complex interconnectedness of climate change, energy demand, and health and long-term care poses current and future cascading challenges for the resilience of older people. • Key interconnections include a concern for the impact of frequent and intense weather events parallel to a global increase in life expectancy and social justice issues connected with strained resources and public infrastructure. • Comprehensive, targeted policies are needed on the national and global level that incentivize sustainable practices, enhance climate resilience, and support vulnerable populations in the Global South, and that mitigate the social justice implications of climate change for older adults. Challenges faced by many countries are energy insecurity, climate change, and the health and long-term care of growing numbers of older people. These challenges are increasingly intersecting with rising energy prices, aging populations, and an increased frequency and intensity of extreme climate events. This paper gives a deeper understanding of the current and predicted interconnections among these challenges through narrative-driven content and thematic analysis from workshops with a diverse group of international stakeholders from the Global North and Global South. Narratives emerged highlighting a complex nexus of interconnections and presenting critical action areas. Targeted local and global policies and interventions are needed to alleviate stress on health systems, encourage the integrated uptake of clean energy sources, and uphold social justice across all economies. Professionals can use this work to inform the design and implementation of effective interventions and increase the resilience of older adults by better preparing for systemic risks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract With fast development and urbanization, Chinese cities are facing several challenges including issues of environmental pollution, climate change, resource depletion and landfills shortage. Waste recycling is one effective way to respond these challenges. Under such a situation, this paper aims to evaluate energy saving and carbon reduction potential of recycling wastes by taking Shanghai, the biggest city in China, as a case study. Results show that 8.7 Mt standard coal (tce) and 16.81 Mt CO 2 could be reduced under current recycling system in Shanghai. And recycling of waste steel and nonferrous metals were the two dominant contributors, accounting for about 44% and 42% of energy saving, and 60% and 33% of CO 2 reduction, respectively. If the recycling rates of main recyclable wastes were improved to 100%, additional 6.44 Mt energy and 10.02 Mt CO 2 could be further saved, mainly from recycling waste glass, waste plastic and waste metals. Adoption of RPF (Refuse Plastic & paper Fuel) could further contribute to 1.24 Mt energy saving and 2.67 Mt CO 2 reduction. Finally, policy implications on establishing a mature recycling system and promoting RPF technologies are discussed, in which the potential on reducing total energy consumption and CO 2 emission of Shanghai can reach 6.6% and 4.9%, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The energy crisis caused by climate change is the most significant challenge of the 21st century. Single-objective and multi-objective optimization studies for buildings often only consider the building itself, without considering the impacts of climate change. However, in the future, energy-efficient design and appropriate operating parameters will be crucial considerations in the face of global climate change. This paper aims to discuss the impact of climate change in the humid-hot region over the past 60 years on the energy consumption of office buildings and propose countermeasures. Firstly, the meteorological data of Guangzhou from 1960 to 2020 is statistically analyzed, and four typical meteorological years and corresponding air conditioning design days are established. Secondly, Energyplus is used to simulate the building's energy consumption, and the energy consumption factors are analyzed for sensitivity using jEplus. Finally, a multi-objective optimization is performed using jEPlus + EA with the Non-dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm (NSGA-II). The results found that climate change led to a significant increase in the duration of high outdoor temperatures during summer. Specifically, the daily dry-bulb temperature for air conditioning design increased by 0.4–0.7 °C, and due to climate change, the energy consumption of the office building increased by about 4.6 %. The main factor affecting the cooling energy consumption in summer was the indoor cooling set point (8.29%–30%), infiltration air volume (1.0%–8.6%), fresh air volume (3.2%–16.06%), the glazing solar transmission rate (1.25%–9.0%), building orientation (0%–1.43%), and relatively small influence of envelope insulation performance. The operation scheme determined by multi-objective optimization can reduce the cooling energy consumption of the building by 10.6%–16.8%, which can mitigate the rise in energy consumption resulting from climate change to a greater extent. [Display omitted] • Discuss the impact of climate change over the past 60 years on the energy consumption of office buildings. • There was a significant increase in the duration of high outdoor temperatures during the summer. • Multi-objective optimization is performed using jEPlus + EA. • Climate change caused energy consumption to increase by about 4.6 %. • Optimal solutions can reduce the cooling energy consumption of the building by 10.6%–16.8%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper studies the influence of temperature and of rainfall intensity and the effect of such variations on the treatment efficiencies and on the electrical consumptions in seven medium-large size Wastewater Treatment Plants (WWTPs) in Apulia in South Italy (Bari, Barletta, Brindisi, Lecce, Foggia, Andria and Taranto). It has been observed, in the considered WWTPs, a slight but clear increase of the incoming flow due to the increase in rainfall intensity, which results to an increase of the energy consumption per incoming volume. The impact of the climate change to the incoming flow, during the last five years (2016–2020), has been assessed indicating that an increase in rainfall intensity results to an increase of the WWTPs energy consumptions per wastewater treated volume. More specifically, for a specific WWTP (Lecce) it was found that the electrical consumption increases from 0.36 kw/m3 to 0.51 kw/m3 when the rainfall intensity was increased from 0.8 mm/min to 2.9 mm/min. Some adaption measures have been considered to upgrade the existing WWTP so to mitigate the energy increase and to limit the global effects of climate change. [Display omitted] • As Rain intensity rises, wastewater influx into WWTPs increases. • Rainfall intensity influences negatively electrical consumptions. • BOD removal is lower with increasing annual precipitations. • Temperature influences BOD, COD and SST removal efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Given the significant energy consumption and carbon emissions associated with buildings, there is increasing interest in improving sustainability of building operations to reduce impact on climate change. A common goal is to operate buildings as "net-zero" energy users in which all energy consumed by the building is balanced against renewable energy purchased from the grid or produced on site. To achieve net-zero status, many buildings will require significant retrofit so as to both reduce energy consumption in the absolute sense and provide the remainder without consuming fossil fuels. Thus, multi-year planning is required to ensure that goals can be met on time. In addition, due to the inherent uncertainty associated with energy consumption and generation, actually achieving net-zero energy use may require discretionary curtailment actions to be taken, and deciding whether such actions are necessary can be challenging. To address these challenges, we propose in this paper a design optimization and operational planning strategy to make the decisions needed to achieve sustainability goals in buildings. The strategy can be applied to schedule design changes over a long horizon to meet annual targets, and it can also be applied in closed loop on a shorter horizon to determine whether curtailment is needed to stay on track. We discuss the formulation of the optimization problem, solution methods, and modeling approaches for key parameters. Application of the strategy is illustrated via examples. Overall, this approach will help automate planning that is often done manually, allowing buildings to take a significant leap forward toward achieving their sustainability goals. • Achieving sustainability goals in buildings requires multi-year planning. • The required design and operational decisions can be made via optimization. • Key problem parameters can be obtained from data-driven modeling. • The strategy allows sustainability goals to be met at minimum cost. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Climate change's impact on retrofitting was tested on Le Corbusier's apartment. • Climate change scenarios project up to 70% increase in summer overheating. • Adaptive natural ventilation can reduce warm discomfort of 50–60%. • Adaptive setpoints can reduce total energy consumption of 20–30%. • Adaptive strategies are particularly favourable in historic buildings. Historic buildings, often exempt from retrofits to preserve originality, require retrofitting due to potential future climate-related indoor issues. For Modern Architecture constructions, there is a need to find solutions that help address the discomfort and heat losses caused by the extensive use of glazing. By analysing Le Corbusier's studio-apartment this paper aims to inspect: (i) Solutions for energy, Indoor Environmental Quality, and preservation; (ii) Climate change impact on them; (iii) Possible adaptation strategies to cope with climate change. Spectrally selective glazing reduced summer overheating by 15%; high-performance glazing lowers cold discomfort (24%) and heating (22%) but increased warm discomfort; shadings maintained energy use and reduced summer discomfort by up to 44%; thermal insulation can reduce winter discomfort and halves energy use but raised summer discomfort by up to 41%. Tests on 2050–2100 climate change scenarios reveal up to 70% more warm discomfort hours. Adaptive strategies can help, with natural ventilation cutting warm discomfort by 50–60%, and adaptive setpoints reducing cooling demand by about 35%. Adaptive strategies can complement traditional retrofitting in addressing current and future climate conditions, especially in historic buildings that require minimal interventions to preserve their historical characteristics and enhance resilience. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Overheating regulations and calculation methods in 26 European countries were compared. • Most of the existing calculation methods are outdated and do not fit climate-proof buildings. • France requires a mixed-mode operation of naturally ventilated households. • The UK developed a heatwave-based calculation approach. • Comfort-based, multi-zonal, and time-integrated calculation approaches are needed. With the ongoing significance of overheating calculations in the residential building sector, building codes such as the European Energy Performance of Building Directive (EPBD) are essential for harmonizing the indicators and performance thresholds. This paper investigates Europe's overheating calculation methods, indicators, and thresholds and evaluates their ability to address climate change and heat events. e study aims to identify the suitability of existing overheating calculation methods and propose recommendations for the EPBD. The study results provide a cross-sectional overview of twenty-six European countries. The most influential overheating calculation criteria are listed the best approaches are ranked. The paper provides a thorough comparative assessment and recommendations to align current calculations with climate-sensitive metrics. The results suggest a framework and key performance indicators that are comfort-based, multi-zonal, and time-integrated to calculate overheating and modify the EU's next building energy efficiency regulations. The results can help policymakers and building professionals to develop the next overheating calculation framework and approach for the future development of climate-proof and resilient residential buildings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reducing the shipping sector's contribution to climate change requires urgent emission reductions this decade. Both weather routing and wind propulsion offer immediate solutions, where combining sails with efficient routing amplifies the performance of each technology. However, while large emission savings are theoretically available, the impact of stochastic uncertainty from wind forecasts is unknown. Here, we present a novel approach that exploits fuel consumption calculations from over a thousand departures across three routes to characterise stochastic uncertainty. We show that routes with ideal wind conditions and long voyage times are most sensitive to uncertain forecast inputs, reducing savings from Flettner rotors and weather routing by up to 44% when a priori weather routing strategies are used. This paper further shows how an adaptive weather routing strategy can be used as an accurate prediction tool to reduce uncertainty on all routes investigated, reliably amplifying carbon savings from Flettner rotors by between 1.16 and 2.48 times typical great circle route savings. Overall, this paper provides greater assurance around the previously estimated carbon savings that serves to strengthen confidence in a wind-assisted decarbonisation strategy and its potential to provide essential emission reductions this decade. • We develop an a priori strategy to quantify stochastic uncertainty. • We discuss stochastic uncertainty when weather routing ships with wind propulsion. • We identify characteristics of routes that display high sensitivity to uncertainty. • We develop an adaptive strategy to reduce the impact of forecast uncertainty. • We discuss weather routing and wind propulsion as a decarbonisation strategy. [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 review on performance impact of different design components of PVT modules. • The electrical and thermal efficiency analysis from various researches work on PVT modules. • The performance capacity results of different PVT structures has been reviewed and presented. • Recommendations were drawn for future performance enhancement. The Photovoltaic/Thermal (PVT) technology has attracted many researchers and scholars in order to increase the level of renewable energy utilization minimizing the issues caused by climate change especially the global warming which has the main roots on the greenhouse emissions produced by nonrenewable energy utilization. A PVT module is a combination of photovoltaic (PV) technology and solar thermal (ST) technology that receives and converts solar radiation into electrical and thermal energy at the same time leaving less greenhouse emissions. Even though the PVT technology seems simple in some designs and has low utilization cost, the inadequate performance and initial costs of PVT modules can slowdown their market. Based on research work outcomes and analysis, the design components of PVT modules have a strong influence on the performance. Analyzing the performance impacts of different main components of PVT module is very important not only for researchers but also for manufacturers because it points out both weaknesses and strengths for further improvements and invention of the technology to meet the market requirements. In this paper we deeply investigated the performance of PVT modules and the performance influence of each of the main components of PVT module by making a comprehensive review, finding analysis, summarizing and presenting the outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Railways are a rather efficient transport mean, and yet there is increasing interest in reducing their energy consumption and making them more sustainable in the current context of climate change. Many studies try to model, analyse and optimise the energy consumed by railways, and there is a wide diversity of methods, techniques and approaches regarding how to formulate and solve this problem. This paper aims to provide insight into this topic by reviewing up to 52 papers related to railways energy consumption. Two main areas are analysed: modelling techniques used to simulate train(s) movement and energy consumption, and optimisation methods used to achieve more efficient train circulations in railway networks. The most used methods in each case are briefly described and the main trends found are analysed. Furthermore, a statistical study has been carried out to recognise relationships between methods and optimisation variables. It was found that deterministic models based on the Davis equation are by far (85% of the papers reviewed) the most common in terms of modelling. As for optimisation, meta-heuristic methods are the preferred choice (57.8%), particularly Genetic Algorithms. Highlights • Modelling and optimisation methods for railways energy efficiency are reviewed. • Modelling methods provide reliable simulations of the trains' energy consumption. • Optimisation methods help obtaining the most efficient solutions for train traffic. • Most used modelling methods are deterministic, based on Davis equation. • Most used optimisation methods are meta-heuristics, mainly genetic algorithms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract African countries are in a unique position to reap the socio-economic and environmental benefits of renewable resources as a means for meeting increasing energy demand in a sustainable way. A critical obstacle for the deployment of renewable energy technologies in Africa is the difficulty of attracting sufficient and affordable finance. This paper compares the impact of financial conditions on the cost of electricity generation across six renewable and three fossil-based technologies in 46 African countries. The results show large cost variations and highlight the extent to which renewables are disadvantaged by current financial practices. The energy-economy-environment model TIAM-ECN is used to show how lowering financing costs results in a much higher deployment of renewables. For example, solar PV could account for 10–15% of total electricity generation by 2050, even without explicit climate policy, thanks to financial de-risking programmes. The results demonstrate that changes in financing schemes could outweigh the impact of technology learning. This paper also demonstrates that, once ambitious climate policies are in place, reducing financing costs for renewables could be an efficient way to lower greenhouse gas emissions. Financial de-risking is thus a key ingredient for unlocking the renewable energy potential in Africa. Highlights • We show how renewables are disadvantaged by today's financial practices in Africa. • We show how lower financing costs result in a higher deployment of renewables. • PV can account for 10–15% of electricity generation by 2050 without climate policy. • Changes in financing schemes could outweigh the impact of technology learning. • Financial de-risking is key for unlocking the renewable energy potential in Africa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract As a result of the increased awareness of the dangers posed by global climate changes (mainly caused by growing global energy consumption needs), the quest for clean and sustainable energy future is becoming of paramount importance. This can be largely realized via a large-scale integration of variable renewable energy sources (RESs) such as wind and solar, which have relatively low carbon footprints. In many power systems, the level of integration of such resources is dramatically increasing. However, their intermittent nature poses significant challenges in the predominantly conventional power systems that currently exist. Among others, frequency and voltage regulation issues can, for example, arise because of improperly balanced and largely uncoordinated RES supply and demand. Generally, the higher the integration level of intermittent power sources is, the higher the flexibility needs are in the system under consideration. Flexibility, in a power systems context, refers to the ability of such a system to effectively cope with unforeseen changes in operational situations, which are mainly induced by the inherent uncertainty and variability arising from the supply side, demand side or any other external factors. In the absence of appropriate flexibility mechanisms, it is increasingly difficult to manage the imbalances between generation and demand as a result of their natural variations in real-time. This paper presents an extensive and critical review of the main existing and emerging flexibility options that can be deployed in power systems to support the integration of "carbon-free" and variable power production technologies. Starting from a broader definition of flexibility, we highlight the growing importance of such flexibility in renewable-rich energy systems, and provide insights into the challenges and opportunities associated with various flexibility options provided by different technologies. Highlights • This paper presents an extensive and critical review of the main existing and emerging flexibility options. • Starting from a broader definition of flexibility, we highlight the growing importance of such flexibility. • Insights into the challenges and opportunities associated with various flexibility options are provided. • Certain barriers that may hinder their developments in the short to medium terms are also provided. [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]

Abstract Energy efficiency improvement is usually regarded as an effective way to decrease energy consumption and to fight climate change, but it also booms energy consumption through rebound effects. But the improvement of energy efficiency also has rebound effects, which increases energy consumption and emission. So this paper arms to capture the rebound effects of efficiency improvement by considering zero-cost breakthrough of energy efficiency and price jump of energy purchase. First, energy efficiency improvement, measured by zero-cost breakthrough of energy efficiency, stimulates energy consumption, but it may reduce the total emission. Second, both the direct and indirect rebound effects of energy efficiency improvement on energy consumption and environment are captured. Interestingly, jumping energy price decreases both the direct and indirect rebound effect. Finally, the result of the paper shows that restriction of individuals' entry or competition restriction moderates the rebound effects of energy efficiency improvement. Highlights • Effect of competition on energy efficiency rebound effects is developed in theory. • Rebound effects of energy efficiency are captured under zero-cost breakthrough. • Moderate monopoly is proofed to be helpful for reducing energy efficiency rebound effects. • Improvement of energy efficiency has both direct and indirect rebound effects. • Energy price jump has offset effects on rebound effects of efficiency promotion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Improving energy efficiency in industry is recognized as one of the most vital activities for the mitigation of climate change. Consequently, policy initiatives from governments addressing both energy-intensive and small and medium-sized industry have been enacted. In this paper, the energy end-use and the energy efficiency potential among industrial small and medium-sized companies participating in the Swedish Energy Audit Program are reviewed. The three manufacturing industries of wood and cork, food products and metal products (excluding machinery and equipment) are studied. A unique categorization of their production processes’ energy end-use is presented, the results of which show that the amount of energy used in various categories of production processes differ between these industries. This applies to support processes as well, highlighting the problem of generalizing results without available bottom-up energy end-use data. In addition, a calculation of conservation supply curves for measures related to production processes is presented, showing that there still remains energy saving potential among companies participating in the Swedish Energy Audit Program. However, relevant data in the database used from the Swedish Energy Audit Program is lacking which limits the conclusions that can be drawn from the conservation supply curves. This study highlights the need to develop energy policy programs delivering high-quality data. This paper contributes to a further understanding of the intricate matters of industrial energy end-use and energy efficiency measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The growing awareness of climate change is constantly moving the attention of designers and policymakers from typical and current scenarios to future layouts. This new approach introduces a degree of uncertainty that should be accounted in the building design process. The multitude of possible scenarios suggests considering dynamic system that can adapt themselves to unpredicted operating conditions. The aim of this study is to test a new approach and a new flexibility metric analysing the behaviour of a high-performance dynamic internal curtain in current and future scenarios. The first part of the paper focuses on the optimization of the dynamic system in the current scenario; this preliminary analysis represents the traditional design approach and is considered the baseline for all the comparisons. Hence, defining a matrix of likely scenarios, this paper explores the behaviour of three different selected control strategies – always off (i.e., no curtain), fixed control, optimized control – in the different scenarios considering possible variations of i) climate, ii) urban context, iii) internal loads, and iv) building use. The main outcomes of the research are, on the one hand, the comparisons of the control strategies and the benefits of the dynamic system and, on the other hand, the definition of a new metric that can properly describe the flexibility of the building systems with reference to the future scenarios analysed. This metric is based on six classes – which describe the statistical distribution of the energy consumptions of all the scenarios simulated in the matrix – and an index called Energy Flexibility Index (EFI) that quantifies the flexibility of the technology considered. The case study analysed highlights how implementing a dynamic shading system, considering the same building use, can increase the EFI of nearly 21% for non-optimized control strategy and up to 23% when optimized. While changing the building use in residential reduces these values respectively, to 6% and 7%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to improve the thermal comfort of the occupants within the buildings in summer and winter climates, the current study thoroughly examines several designs using the Trombe wall. This aids green building designers in making the best decision in light of the environment's present state and constantly changing climatic circumstances. In addition to using locally accessible resources to reduce the expense of importing substitute materials to create these structures. With a global view on energy conservation, there is a focused effort and research endeavor toward decreasing energy usage in light of the worldwide energy crisis and growing prices. Alternative solar energy must be maximized to provide thermal comfort for cooling and warming situations with the least amount of energy. A Trombe wall is a cost-effective and ecologically friendly approach to harness solar power to provide summertime natural ventilation that lowers inside temperatures. On the other hand, it causes overheating in the winter as the massive wall stores heat and transfers it to the interior of the building. The present study reviews previously published papers on all the various improvements made to the Trombe solar wall for optimization that deals with improving the performance of heating/cooling conditions through various experimental and numerical approaches. The current research shows that there are research gaps in many different improvement systems, which were clarified at the end of the research paper. Integrating the Trombe solar wall and PCM achieves a maximum energy saving of 36% in the summer and up to 55% in the winter. • A shortage of Trombe wall evaluation in the Middle East conditions was observed. • Employing the Trombe wall to buildings led to a reduction in energy demand. • TW system provided the proper internal thermal comfort during the summer/winter. • Investing in renewable energy results in energy source diversification and cost savings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The regional impact of climate change on heating and cooling demand is important to consider when designing optimal long-term energy policies. Several studies have addressed this issue, but either at a very aggregated level or without optimizing the whole energy system. The aims of this paper are to fill this gap in a generic way and to assess the impact of climate change on heating and cooling energy demands for residential and commercial sectors at the regional and nodal levels in the context of Chile's energy transition. We propose a methodology based on high resolution climate simulations for the Representative Concentration Pathways (RCP) RCP 2.6 and RCP 8.5 scenarios. First, a statistical analysis is performed to estimate the long-term trends of so-called heating and cooling degree-days and their impact on final regional energy demands. Then, demand pathways in the energy transition are assessed using a multi-sectoral energy planning model. Numerical experiments using data from Chile show an overall positive economic impact of climate change (limited to heating and cooling demands) for the energy system, with a significant decrease in heating demand compared to a limited increase in cooling requirements. For the RCP 8.5 scenario, cost reductions reach 2.1% of the total discounted system cost on the 2020-2050 period mainly due to a significant decrease of gas consumption for heating. This research highlights the importance for policymakers to consider climate change in efficient energy policies. [Display omitted] • Climate change impact on heating/cooling is assessed for Chile's energy transition. • Significant heating demand decrease and low cooling demand increase are observed. • A global positive economic impact for the energy system is estimated. • For the RCP 8.5 scenario, cost reductions reach 2.1% of the total discounted system cost. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Policies targeting energy efficiency and renewable energy are sometimes viewed as more politically feasible than carbon pricing in pursuit of emission reduction goals. This paper assesses underlying drivers of energy policy development. These factors include economic, social, environmental, and institutional variables. The between estimator for panel data is an appropriate method for our focus on some exogenous variables that vary more across countries than over time. We find that larger oil reserves per capita have a negative relationship with renewable energy policy development. Education and political globalisation have strong positive relationships with both energy-efficiency and renewable-energy policy development. These results suggest that greater participation in global political groups can be an indirect approach toward energy policy development, in cases where direct and immediate policies are hard to implement. OECD countries have higher policy scores by 33 and 25 points in energy efficiency and renewable energy respectively. Blinder-Oaxaca decomposition analysis shows that these higher scores are primarily due to social and political institution predictors rather than economics and physical endowments. • Large-n cross country international sample on continuous policy score measurement. • Political globalisation is positively linked with renewables and energy efficiency policies. • Education is positively linked to energy policy development, especially for efficiency. • Higher OECD countries' policy scores are primarily due to social and political predictors. • Higher incomes are unlikely to lead to automatic improvements in energy policies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Quantitative assessment of the heat waves in different city zones. • Quantification of the heat waves impact on building energy performance. • Influence of heat waves on the indoor operative temperature. • Impact of the synergic effect of heat waves and urban heat island. Global and local climate change increases the occurrence and the magnitude of extreme phenomena, as urban heat island and heat waves. These phenomena seriously affect the quality of life in several aspects: society, health, environment; they also heavily affect the building sector, increasing the energy use for cooling and deteriorating the indoor thermal environment. This paper utilizes data from a continuous urban microclimatic monitoring over three years to quantify the impact of heat waves on the thermal quality of two reference residential buildings in the city of Rome, Italy. The synergic effect of heat waves with the urban heat island is also analysed. The observation period includes summers of 2015, 2016 and 2017. The buildings' response is analysed through numerical thermal analyses in transient regime, taking into account several variants: thermal insulation, mechanical cooling system and thermal free-floating conditions, with different night ventilation strategies. Results show that daily average temperature and urban heat island intensity increase by up to 4.3 °C and 1.5 °C respectively during the heat waves with respect to the rest of the summer. The building cooling energy use rises up 87% during heat wave periods, while average operative temperature in free-running buildings increments by up to 3.5 °C. Results also show the impressive combined impact of heat wave and heat island: triplication of cooling energy use in the worst case and increase of the average operative temperature above 5 °C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Behaviour, practices and culture constitute a powerful human factor in the energy system; in particular the interactions between technologies, practices and norms lock individuals in to certain patterns of (often inefficient) energy use. Consequently, behaviour change has gained traction amongst policymakers as a key area of intervention given the impact energy-related behaviours have on climate change. Given the increasing emphasis within policy perspectives in the European Union, it is surprising that a gap in understanding of the success factors of behaviour change initiatives remains. This paper addresses this gap by identifying and characterising behaviour change initiatives across five European countries (the UK, Ireland, France, Italy, and Spain). The paper provides insights into the success factors and commonly encountered barriers to behaviour change initiatives. Initiatives are classified into 6 broad categories (community-based interventions; information and awareness based interventions; eco-districts; show-case events; energy switching; and smart-technology focused interventions). The results suggest that there are significant knowledge gaps between what is known to work to engage individuals in behavioural change and what is currently being applied in practice. An over-reliance on education and awareness-raising projects is evident, illustrating that such projects do not sufficiently aim for sustained behavioural changes. A dearth of projects incorporating fiscal measures, regulations or legislation to drive behaviour change reflects reluctance on behalf of decision-makers to engage widely with diverse approaches to foster lifestyle change. This paper contributes understandings of the different models and delivery tools employed to change energy-related behaviours; insights into the critical success factors that underpin best practice and the barriers to action; and a ‘what works in practice’ overview of the meaningful approaches to change behaviour. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

Cities are suggested as being the key level for shifts towards more sustainable modes of production and consumption. The building sector with its significant carbon footprint plays an important role in urban climate change adaptation strategies. Using the case study of Brisbane (Australia), the paper examines the place-specific contextualisation of green building transitions by analysing the co-evolution and interplay of building practices, policy making and involved actors. Drawing on theoretical approaches of Transition Studies and Evolutionary Economic Geography, we trace back and analyse policy and economic trajectories focusing on formative and hindering processes. The paper discusses ambivalent pathways and 'regime resistance' caused by local economic and political specificities. The analysis illustrates how crucial the continual support from both policy makers and industry actors can be when economic market mechanisms do not drive sustainability transitions. Regime actors can play a powerful role as 'transition detractors' and can determine the dynamics and the scope of sustainability transitions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper describes a method for residential water use modeling predicated on metered energy data. Actual measured hot water volumes for major indoor consumption are used to verify and adjust the outputs in gallons of hot water consumption based on climate variables, water heater technical features, and set-point and intake temperatures. Three independent datasets for residential energy (RECS 2009), water heater efficiency (Air-conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration Institute-AHRI), and end-use domestic water (Residential End Uses of Water, Version 2-REU II) are applied to identify specific demographic, built environment and geographic factors that relate patterns of energy demand to water consumption. The proposed model acts within the broader Integrated Urban Metabolism Analysis Tool (IUMAT), a system-based analytical framework for evaluating the environmental performance of the built environment. The method described in this paper offers an alternative approach to residential water consumption modeling by implementing volume of hot water consumption as a proxy for indoor water use. It provides utilities with the potential to parse and prioritize energy and water conservation measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this paper is to present an improved way of collection and compilation of data about solid biomass consumption in households in order to improve accuracy of official energy statistics data. The accurate, timely and reliable energy data significantly contribute to the consistency in national energy statistics, energy balance, as well as for many other obligatory reporting procedures which are requested and prescribed by national and international standards. When compiling energy statistics, statistics on renewables, particularly biomass consumption, it is often the most questionable as little or no available official data exists in the country. According to the international standards and definitions, solid biomass covers organic, non-fossil material of biological origin which may be used as fuel for heat production or electricity generation. In households, the most commonly used biomass are fuelwood and wood residues. In the process of compiling national energy statistics, national institutions responsible for official energy statistics usually estimate biomass consumption based on the reports on fuelwood cuts in state forests and official biomass production, although it is known that consumption is much higher. Over the past two decades, Energy Institute Hrvoje Požar worked intensively on the energy consumption data collection and particularly on the development of the tailored-made surveying methods for different final energy consumption sectors, particularly for the household sector. The similar methods were recommended to national statistics institutes in the countries in the region when providing technical assistance in developing energy statistics. This paper describes the survey results and methods applied for the determination of energy consumption in households and particularly biomass consumption in three selected countries: Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Macedonia, and recommendations for the further improvements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents new metrics to measure the effect of thermal mass on the energy required to heat and cool buildings. Previous studies have been flawed as they have not considered the interaction between intermittent occupancy and thermal mass, which has a significant impact on overall energy use. However, existing parameters do not adequately capture these effects, so the new metrics developed in this paper are used to analyse the impact of thermal mass in hot climates with active cooling, and cold climates with active heating. The results agree with existing literature that high thermal mass structures are likely to be effective in hot climates; however, in cold climates the drawbacks of high thermal mass likely outweigh the advantages, and high thermal mass can cause an increase in energy use. This finding has implications for the design of buildings in cold climates, and contradicts the commonly-held assumption that high thermal mass is correlated with low energy use. The new metrics (transient energy ratio and effective U -value) provide a generalisable method to quantify these effects. They are further used here to analyse the dynamic performance of heavily insulated buildings and show that high thermal mass often leads to higher energy use in cold climates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• This paper systematically reviews the research progress of RS technology applied to various stages of PV system development. • We conclude that RS plays a significant role in PV potential assessment, large-scale data analysis and PV health monitoring. • We discuss future challenges and opportunities for RS technology in PV applications for advancing the research in this area. Developing solar photovoltaic (PV) systems is an effective way to address the problems of limited fossil fuel reserves, soaring world energy demand and global climate change. The earth observation information provides a promising perspective for estimating the PV energy potential and understanding the status of the PV system development, which is critical for making scientifically sound and cost-optimal sustainable planning strategies. Remote sensing (RS), a versatile technology that captures surface information at various temporal and spatial scales, is now widely applied in different fields of the PV development. However, despite the rapid growth of related research, there is still a lack of comprehensive review on the application of RS to different stages (i.e., planning, site selection, installation, maintenance, etc.) of the PV system development. This paper systematically reviews the research progress of RS technology applied throughout various stages of the PV system development. The reviewed literatures are organized as four major parts: i) PV potential estimation, ii) PV array detection, iii) PV fault monitoring and diagnosis, and iv) other cross-cutting areas where RS can facilitate PV development. We conclude that RS technology can bridge the gap caused by the traditional methods in effective assessment of resource potential, large-scale data analysis and PV health monitoring, which can provide strong support in assisting the planning, management, and decision-making of PV systems. Finally, we discuss future challenges and opportunities for RS technology in PV applications for advancing the research in this area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Economic growth and development around the world are leading to increasing worldwide demand for energy, whose production still mainly comes from fossil fuels generating large amounts of greenhouse gas emissions, which contribute to global warming and climate change. To mitigate climate change, the European Union implemented an energy policy strategy that encourages firms to implement sustainable energy systems. This could generate investment opportunities in energy efficiency and renewable energy projects around the world for European mutual funds. Therefore, the main aim of this paper is to analyze the financial performance of energy and renewable energy mutual funds using conditional and unconditional models. To this end, we have a sample of 4496 mutual funds commercialized in Europe in the period 2007–2018. Our results indicate that renewable energy mutual funds perform similarly to the market using conditional models. However, they underperform their conventional peers using a specialized market benchmark, reaching similar performance to black energy funds. While the total expense ratio negatively affects renewable energy financial performance, other fund characteristics, such as size or Socially Responsible Investing (SRI) certification, do not affect it. • This study analyzes the financial performance of energy and renewable energy funds. • This study implements conditional and unconditional models. • Renewable energy funds perform similarly to the market using conditional models. • Renewable energy funds underperform their conventional peers in unconditional models. • The total expense ratio negatively affects renewable energy financial performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The energy consumption necessary to maintain thermal comfort in buildings remains a significant and partially unjustified part, accounting for about 30–40% of the total energy consumption. Despite the increasingly pressing regulations in the energy sector (EPBD recast), the quality of the internal environment remains one of the critical parameters on which to pay more attention in view of a consistent evaluation of the Nzeb building. The windowed components are often designed with thermal insulation performances higher than the minimum requirements but still they lack in design of the incident solar radiation control, which is a particularly delicate topic for indoor comfort and more generally for a higher energy efficiency in buildings. If we think of the numerous variables of influence (typology, orientation, geographical location, etc.), the possibilities to associate energy saving, lighting control and users' comfort are inevitably entrusted to dynamic systems integrated into the glass. In this paper authors present the results related to the experimental characterization of two identical test rooms with different typologies of windows. One room is furnished with a traditional high thermal performance glass and the other, with an electrochromic glass suitably controlled by remote. The operative temperature measured in both test rooms have been utilized to verify the simulation model developed to assess the energy saving achievable in a Mediterranean climate, taking properly into account the hourly variations of the climate and the actions on the shading regulation systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The problematic of climatic changes and the respective consequences raises the need to discuss the problem and define measures to control and/or reverse them. Because one of the causes of climatic changes is the emission of greenhouse gases, the European Union defined the reduction of emissions as a main concern as well as increasing efficiency in the energy sector. With the objective of analysing the main conditions affecting the growth of per capita emissions, this paper uses a fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA). Based on a sample of data from 2010 to 2014, the conditions evaluated were: i) GDP growth; ii) change in the share of GDP relating to private consumption; iii) change in the share of GDP relating to public consumption; iv) change in the share of GDP on investment; v) and energy consumption growth. The main drivers contributing to reduced emissions were the crisis and energy consumption. Evaluation of the main factors affecting emissions growth is the main contribution of this study. Considering that economic growth is an obvious goal, the European Union must design measures encouraging investment in more efficient and less pollutant technologies, which is also in accordance with OECD sustainability goals. • Fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis is used to study emission growth in the European Union. • The main drivers of reduced emissions were the economic crisis and energy consumption. • The results are important for policy makers in order to redesign their strategies. • It is crucial to start investing in more efficient and less pollutant technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In view of the current geopolitical situation, the EU and its Member States are accelerating efforts to reduce their dependency on fossil fuel imports, while simultaneously tackling the climate crisis. With heating in buildings accounting for a large share of the energy consumption in the EU, policies to phase-out fossil fuels for heating and to switch to renewables are key elements. In the context of the proposed actions to phase-out fossil fuels at EU level, this article provides a systematic analysis of current and planned phase-out regulations for fossil fuel boilers in the EU Member States. The paper quantifies the share of energy consumption for heating that is addressed by such regulations and finds that the current regulations only address about 10% of the total fossil energy consumption for heating in the EU. The share increases to almost 30% when considering the planned regulations, reflecting the fact that large energy consumers such as Germany and the Netherlands have announced such regulations. The analysis shows that several Member States with high energy consumption for heating have neither implemented nor announced plans to introduce phase-out regulations for fossil fuel heating. The study concludes that immediate policy action is needed both at EU and at Member State levels. At EU level, the proposed introduction of an end-date for stand-alone fossil fuel boilers needs to be substantiated and implemented into the legislative framework. At the national level, phase-out regulations for fossil fuel boilers need to be expanded both in quantity and scope. [Display omitted] • Systematic analysis of phase-out regulations for fossil fuel boilers in the EU. • Only 10% of the EU fossil energy used for heating is covered by phase-out regulations. • Including planned regulations, the share of heating energy covered by phase-out regulations increases to almost 30%. • Comparison of different approaches for implementing regulations for phasing out fossil fuel boilers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As the world leader in CO 2 emissions, China is a key focus for climate change mitigation. In this paper, we conducted a cross-province comparison of CO 2 emission trends in China from 2006 to 2012. We determined effects of CO 2 emission factor (EMF), energy mix change (EMX), potential energy intensity change (PEI), industrial structure (STR), economic activity (EAT), technological change (BPC) and energy efficiency change (EC) as underlying forces of CO 2 emission changes with production-based decomposition. Compared to other production-theory decomposition analyses (PDA), the method used in this paper can overcome the weakness of PDA on the measurement of structural changes and energy mix effect. The results provided strong evidence that EAT is the main driver behind rising emissions, while changes in PEI, EMX and EC have led to CO 2 emission reductions in most provinces/municipalities in China. In particular, we introduced the global benchmark technology to establish the relationship between CO 2 emissions and energy use technology. The potential CO 2 reductions in China were further measured under the scenarios of contemporaneous technology and global technology. The principal empirical implication is that the promotion of energy conservation technology and reductions in inter-regional technological disparity would be effective in reducing CO 2 emissions in technically inefficient regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Energy model, a systematic data-intensive multi-objective framework replicating the energy sector of the country or globe, constitutes of energy resource supply, energy consumption sector-by-sector, energy transformation technologies, greenhouse gas emission and energy pricing. Considering the atypical weather pattern yearly and geographical diversity, the challenges and benefits of designing an energy model have been summarized. The paper has documented the tremendous jeopardy of drastic climate change, energy crisis on the global economy, requirement for transition to low carbon economy and rural electrification which have been impetus for the evolution of legitimate energy model. Special emphasis has been provided on the types of energy models that have been developed and practiced throughout the world followed by a comparative analysis of a few. The requirement to configure a unique energy model in India followed by certain recommendations has been proposed in this paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Researchers and policy-makers have suggested tools to mitigate CO2 emissions worldwide. However, there appears to be uncertainty in terms of policy effectiveness. The objective of this paper is to develop an innovatively effective CO2 internalizing mechanism worldwide which builds on currency in circulation as its core operational tool. The study is based on a large sample of countries. Findings show that urbanization, electric power consumption and trade positively impact on CO2 emissions. No evidence is found in favour of the Environmental Kuznets Curve while the use of renewable energy reduces the level of CO2 emissions. The paper proposes a Central Bank Carbon Dioxide Emissions Internalizing Fund which rests on quantitative and qualitative tools to ensure a truly effective mechanism in CO2 emissions abatement. Quantitatively, this implies the use of a direct tax on currency in circulation and a conversion penalty in the fund. Qualitatively, there is the need to establish a global institution which would ensure that funds flow to the most polluting sectors in each country in view of unleashing the strongest decline in CO2 emissions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The global temperature has been increasing over the years due to climate change that, directly or indirectly, affects water and energy consumptions in the agriculture sector. The application of mulching practices reduces soil evaporation, conserves soil moisture, suppresses weed growth, controls soil structure and temperature, influences soil micro-organisms, and is aesthetically pleasing. This study has reviewed 189 published research papers, which described the effects of various mulching materials and methods on soil and environment that influence crop productivity. This paper describes the extent of influence of different mulching materials and methods on the hydrothermal environment of soils. It is imperative to know the processes that control soil environments under various mulching conditions and the effects of mulching materials on crop yield, productivity and water use efficiency. These issues of mulching are the prime concerns of this review study. Plastic mulching materials have a greater importance than the organic ones to control soil environment and increase crop yield. But, the organic mulching materials are inexpensive and environment friendly. The selection of an appropriate mulching material is, however, guided by crop type, crop management practices and climatic conditions. Future research is needed on the effects of low-cost biodegradable mulching materials on microclimate modifications, soil biota, soil fertility, crop growth and crop yields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Energy efficiency is recognised as a key strategy to tackle three energy-related challenges – climate change, energy security and economic development – at the least cost to the society. In the recent years of the economic downturn, it gained even more relevance in the developed countries as there is more than ever the need to decouple economic recovery and growth from energy consumption. However, despite this formal recognition, energy efficiency remains the least understood and the most neglected feature of overall energy policy. Despite the substantial efforts made to develop sound energy efficiency policies, the desired effects in terms of achieved energy savings are lacking. The phenomenon is known as energy efficiency gap and its persistence was the main driver of this research. The aim of the research was to examine the causes and propose solutions for bridging the gap. Therefore, ideal policy making cycle is defined connecting design, implementation and multiple criteria evaluation of policy instruments’ impacts in closed, repetitive loop. Concept of energy efficiency market was introduced as a basis for policy making, enabling better understanding of the overall environment where policy needs to be implemented. Paper deals with the concept of energy efficiency market. It discusses the fundamental aim of energy efficiency policy – to achieve market transformation towards more efficient products and services. It presents market barriers that call for policy interventions, but upgrades the list of usually addressed barriers with behavioural and societal aspects of energy efficiency related decisions. Established methodology for energy efficiency market assessment includes upgraded model of barriers to energy efficiency. Focus of this paper is how to establish a model of energy efficiency market and to upgrade exisitng model of barriers to energy efficiencies to describe the reality better as to be a basis for policy instruments design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

South East Europe is the region in a part of Europe with approximately 65.5 million inhabitants, making up 8.9% of Europe’s total population. The countries concerned have distinct geographical features, various climates and significant differences in gross domestic product per capita, so the integration of their energy systems is considered to be a challenging task. Large differences between energy mixes, still largely dominated by fossil-fuel consumption, make this task even more demanding. This paper presents the transition steps to a 100% renewable energy system which need to be carried out until the year 2050 in order to achieve zero carbon energy society. Novelty of this paper compared to other papers with similar research goals is the assumed sustainable use of biomass in the 100% renewable energy system of the region considered. It is important to emphasize here that only the sustainable use of biomass can be considered carbon-neutral. The resulting biomass consumption of the model was 725.94 PJ for the entire region, which is in line with the biomass potential of the region. Modelling the zero-carbon energy system was carried out using the smart energy system concept, together with its main integration pillars, i.e. power-to-heat and power-to-gas technologies. The resulting power generation mix shows that a wide variety of energy sources need to be utilized and no single energy source has more than a 30% share, which also increases the security of supply. Wind turbines and photovoltaics are the main technologies with shares of 28.9% and 22.5%, followed by hydro power, concentrated solar power, biomass (mainly used in cogeneration units) and geothermal energy sources. To keep the biomass consumption within the sustainability limits, there is a need for some type of synthetic fuel in the transportation sector. Nevertheless, achieving 100% renewable energy system also promises to be financially beneficial, as the total calculated annual socio-economic cost of the region is approximately 20 billion euros lower in the year 2050 than in the base year. Finally, energy efficiency measures will play an important role in the transition to the zero-carbon energy society: the model shows that primary energy supply will be 50.9% lower than in the base year. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Between 60% and 80% of global energy is consumed in urban areas and given the projected increase in world׳s urban population, this share is expected to further increase in the future. Continuity of energy supply in cities is affected by climate change and a growing array of other threats such as cyber attacks, terrorism, technical deficiencies, and market volatility. Determined efforts, acknowledging the interactions and interlinkages between energy and other sectors, are needed to avoid adverse consequences of disruption in energy supply. Resilience thinking is an approach to management of socio-ecological systems that aims to develop an integrated framework for bringing together the (often) fragmented, diverse research on disaster risk management. The literature on urban resilience is immense and still growing. This paper reviews literature related to energy resilience to develop a conceptual framework for assessing urban energy resilience, identify planning and design criteria that can be used for assessing urban energy resilience, and examine the relationship of these criteria with the underlying components of the conceptual framework. In the conceptual framework, it is proposed that in order to be resilient, urban energy system needs to be capable of “planning and preparing for”, “absorbing”, “recovering from”, and “adapting” to any adverse events that may happen in the future. Integrating these four abilities into the system would enable it to continuously address “availability”, “accessibility”, “affordability”, and “acceptability” as the four sustainability-related dimensions of energy. The paper explains different resilience principles associated with these abilities and sustainability dimensions. Also, different planning and design criteria were extracted from the literature and categorized into five themes: infrastructure; resources; land use, urban geometry and morphology; governance; and socio-demographic aspects and human behavior. Examination of the relationship of these criteria with the underlying components of the conceptual framework highlighted the complexity and multi-faceted nature of energy resilience. Exploration of the relevance of the identified criteria to climate change mitigation and adaptation revealed that most of the identified criteria can provide both mitigation and adaptation benefits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Globally, population weighting substantially changes degree-days rate of change. • Choice of base temperature strongly influences degree-day calculation. • For typical base temperatures, heating degree-days are falling at twice the rate that cooling degree days are increasing. • Within countries, heterogeneity in population changes determines relative changes in heating and cooling degree-days. Anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions are driving global increases in temperature. This rise will likely lead to an increase in demand for cooling in the coming years. However, increasing temperatures are not the main explanatory factor for why the world is moving towards more cooling. This paper compares population and area-weighted cooling and heating degree-days derived using ERA5-Land reanalysis temperature, to show that population growth in warmer parts of the world drives cooling demand globally. The analysis shows that mean global area-weighted heating degree-days have fallen 8.46 °C days/year, whereas population-weighted heating degree-days have fallen by 12.5 °C days/year. At the same time, mean global area-weighted cooling degree-days have risen by 3.0 °C days/year, while population-weighted cooling degree-days have risen at 6.0 °C days/year. By using sub-country analysis, this paper shows that population-weighted degree-days can substantially differ from area-weighted degree-days. Finally, the findings highlight that the choice of heating and cooling degree-day base temperature is the most important parameter in the variability of degree-days and will need to be understood better in order to accurately account for future heating and cooling energy demand. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Extraordinary declines in the cost of photovoltaic systems (PV), combined with a growing range of energy efficient consumer technologies (EE), has driven significant deployment of these two options in many jurisdictions. This deployment has proven to be a key way to mitigate the risks of catastrophic climate change. However, existing retail electricity arrangements can create mixed incentives for households contemplating investing in both PV and EE. This is caused by net metering arrangements that value self-consumption of PV generation far more than PV exports to the grid. This means that falling household demand due to EE may significantly reduce the financial value of PV. Meanwhile, the continuous cost decline of battery storage systems (BS) has encouraged more PV owners to consider storing PV exports to maximise self-consumption. However, there has been little research on whether the addition of BS could reduce barriers to the combined uptake of PV and EE. In this paper, real PV generation and electricity consumption data is used from numerous households in Sydney (Australia), together with a battery cyclelife model, to assess the financial outcomes of combining PV, EE and BS. The results indicate that EE can reduce PV system revenue, that adding BS to a combination of PV and EE generally increases PV revenue, that BS costs are still high for this residential application, and that the uptake of EE can result in deeper BS cycling which reduces the battery lifetime. Highlights • Energy efficiency (EE) reduces the household revenue from a PV system. • The addition of batteries (BS) increases the combined value of PV and EE. • Battery costs are still too high for this residential application. • The uptake of EE can result in deeper BS cycling which reduces the battery lifetime. • Overall, EE reduces the value of a battery in the presence of Time-of-Use tariffs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract China transport energy consumption grows greatly along with dramatically escalated carbon dioxide emissions. Saving energy in transportation is requested for both reducing energy pressure intensity and decreasing relevant emissions. Large scale energy conservation and emission reduction are Chinese automotive industrys' fundamental objectives. This paper addresses a nonlinear hybrid fuzzy based proportional integral derivative (PID) control methodology to reduce the automobile fuel over-consumption and gases over-emission. After introducing the mathematical model of the automobile Pierburg mechatronic actuator of nonlinear character with parameter uncertainties, its angular displacement is controlled via the proposed PID-fuzzy logic control (FLC) approach. The outputs of the PID controller are the entries of the series-connected FLC. The hybrid topology merges the simplicity and robustness advantages of both the classical PID and the FLC methods respectively. The feedback controller, based on FLC technique, is designed to desirably maintain the angular displacement towards their desired reference values with possible least steady state errors. The proper steady state error elimination will lead to considerable gas emission reduction together with improved energy efficiency. Through Matlab/Simulink tools, the numerical simulations significantly illustrate that the hybrid PID-FLC technique can contribute efficiently in ameliorating the system dynamic behavior in presence of parameter uncertainties. The overall system behavioral analysis enhancement and the proposed controller robustness are experimentally validated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Building energy demands in long-term studies are mostly calculated using the averaged weather data sets, reflecting the changes in environmental conditions over time, thus the different energy consumption each year. This paper reviews and discusses the coupled effects of warming trend in global mean surface temperatures, application of different design weather datasets, and utilization of different methods of building energy assessment on the calculated energy demands. The possible inaccuracies of building energy analyses caused by those three factors are investigated on the example of a residential house in Central Europe. For that purpose eight different weather data sets for Prague, Czech Republic are selected and simulations in two different scales are performed. The analysis of the effect of recent weather data is performed by an improved methodology. First, the simulation brings an increased precision as an advanced hygrothermal model is used for energy calculations. Second, the building performance is assessed, contrary to the Czech national standards, using both heating and cooling energy demands. The simulation results confirm the warming trend in the time period of 2013–2017 as the average heating demands are 3.95% lower and the average cooling demands 3.96% higher in a comparison with the Test Reference Year. In the extreme years, a 12–15% decrease of energy consumed for heating and up to 20% increase of energy necessary for cooling is found. This is in accordance with the presumed warming trend that has been widely discussed during the last few decades. Furthermore, the presented results verify the critical and positive design weather years as suitable for application in the simulation of heating and cooling energy demands in the Czech Republic. Highlights • The effect of recent weather data on building energy demands is analyzed. • The average heating demands are 3.95% lower in 2013–2017 period than TRY. • The average cooling demands are 3.96% higher in 2013–2017 period than TRY. • The results confirmed the effect of warming trend in the recent years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Cities, the core of the global climate change mitigation and strategic low-carbon development, are shelters to more than half of the world population and responsible for three quarters of global energy consumption and greenhouse gas (GHG). This special volume (SV) provides a platform that promotes multi- and inter- disciplinary analyses and discussions on the climate change mitigation for cities. All papers are divided into four themes, including GHG emission inventory and accounting, climate change and urban sectors, climate change and sustainable development, and strategies and mitigation action plans. First, this SV provides methods for constructing emission inventory from both production and consumption perspectives. These methods are useful to improve the comprehensiveness and accuracy of carbon accounting for international cities. Second, the climate change affects urban sectors from various aspects; simultaneously, GHG emissions caused by activities in urban sectors affect the climate system. This SV focuses on mitigation policies and assessment of energy, transport, construction, and service sectors. Third, climate change mitigation of cities is closely connected to urban sustainable development. This SV explores the relationships between climate change mitigation with urbanization, ecosystems, air pollution, and extreme events. Fourth, climate change mitigation policies can be divided into two categories: quantity-based mechanism (e.g., carbon emission trading) and price-based mechanism (e.g., carbon tax). This SV provides experiences of local climate change mitigation all over the world and proposes the city-to-city cooperation on climate change mitigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]