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The advancement of Financial Technology (FinTech) is crucial for government entities, the National Grid, and various energy corporations to facilitate the transition towards sustainable and green production methods. This study investigates the relationship between FinTech and Total Factor Energy Efficiency (TFEE) using data from a selected sample of 254 city groups in China. We examine how the development of FinTech impacts TFEE from both non-spatial and spatial perspectives. The results from the non-spatial panel model indicate that FinTech development has a significant positive impact on TFEE. Comparative studies were conducted using fixed effects (FE), feasible generalized least squares (FGLS) models, and system generalized method of moments (GMM) models, and the main findings remained consistent, confirming the robustness of our conclusions. Spatial autocorrelation results reveal a significant positive spatial spillover effect on TFEE. Both the spatial Durbin model and the dynamic spatial Durbin model demonstrate that FinTech also has a significant positive impact on TFEE, and this effect increases over time. These conclusions remain robust even after considering various spatial weight matrices and alternative methods for calculating TFEE. Additionally, we discovered that the digital economy plays a vital role in strengthening the relationship between FinTech and TFEE. Heterogeneity analysis indicates that, compared to cities without resource-based economies, FinTech development in growing resource-based cities has a more substantial impact on TFEE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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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]

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to explore the nature of rural energy transition in cooking options in India. Although India is aiming to achieve a double-digit economic growth, a large share of rural households still rely on firewood for cooking which not only has serious repercussions of increasing indoor pollution but also has a concomitant adverse effect on women and child morbidity and mortality. However, transition to clean energy options like improved cookstoves for these households may not be necessarily linear. It is often driven or resisted by latent factors such as caste, trust, social capital, information flow, social positioning of clusters that are deeply embedded in the social and cultural norms and values specific to local rural contexts. This has been shown in the present case study that pertains to eight villages in the remote and deprived Purnea district of Bihar and the need for internalizing them in the macro energy policymaking has been established in the paper.Design/methodology/approach The paper applies a macro foundation research that is complemented by micro foundation tools of fuzzy cognitive mapping-based mental model framework to achieve the purpose of the study. Focused-group discussions and interviews are also conducted to establish the narrative of the paper.Findings Caste, socio-political position, asset structure, remoteness, culture and technology access affect rural households’ decision making capability that is related to shifting from using the traditionalmeans of firewood and biomass based traditional cookstoves for cooking to adopting improved clean cooking stoves which will enable the transition toward the use of clean rural energy in the eight villages in Bihar chosen for this study.Research limitations/implications The findings of the paper have larger implications for the broader macro energy policymaking in the country by taking into account the non-linear, latent factors of village contexts.Practical implications The research will help energy policymakers in decision-making and will guide the implementation process of national- and state-level policies on rural energy transition in India.Social implications The findings of the paper will help the smoother implementation of national- and state-level rural energy transition policies for cooking, creating developmental dividends for rural Indian households.Originality/value The research is new with regard to the application of non-deterministic fuzzy cognitive mapping-based mental model approach to contribute to the country’s national- and state-level rural energy transition policies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aims of the paper are to identify and assess the determinants of transition to renewable and sustainable energy development in Azerbaijan and Poland. Both countries have a clear target to increase the share of renewable energy sources (RES) in the gross final energy consumption, i.e. Poland in the National Energy and Climate Plan for the years 2021–2030 declares that it wishes to achieve 21–23% by 2030 (total consumption in electricity, heating and cooling as well as for transport purposes). But there are currently significant producers and consumers of conventional energy carriers, respectively coal and oil, and these fuels ensure an appropriate level of energy security and production stability. Moreover, in Poland, the mining sector plays a very important social role, whereas the oil industry in Azerbaijan creates significant budget revenue. Therefore, even with stronger EU and worldwide climate policy and a decreasing cost of cleaner forms of energy, there are many challenges and obstacles for such countries in increasing energy from RES associated with energy security, efficiency, existing infrastructure, competitiveness and social aspects. In order to identify best practices for the transition to decarbonisation, the availability of energy resources, energy market structures, national strategies and policies were compared using PESTEL analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

This study focuses on the results obtained by the transformation of acoustic energy in the form of vibrations into electrical energy. The vibrations are transmitted from outdoors through a window glass covered with piezoelectric material. Only one side of the window glass is covered with piezoelectric material at certain positions. The paper also presents a mathematical model to describe the transformation of acoustic energy into electrical energy. The results obtained from the numerical experiments are used to determine the dimensions of the piezoelectric film and their optimum positions on the glass for electricity generation. The correct placement of piezoelectric material on the glass generates electrical energy of approximately 10 mV. The use of smart materials in window glass allows the management of acoustic energy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose – This paper aims to investigate the manner in which technological innovation in the European electrical-grid sector has developed by focusing, in particular, on the effect of public policy on innovation. To achieve this aim, this paper highlights how technological innovation and development progressed from the 1960s to the 1980s, and contrasts this period with the deregulated/privatization environment. Design/methodology/approach – The paper is based on a series of in-depth multiple company case studies of grid companies, some of their suppliers and other actors in their broader business network. Empirical data were collected through 55 interviews. Findings – The authors find that a phase of mutual collaboration was encouraged in the first period, which led to strong technological innovation with a focus on product quality and the development of functionality. Buyers played a pivotal role in the development of products and posed technical requirements. In contrast, the current role of the buyer has transformed principally into one of evaluating competing bids for specific projects. Today, buyers face increasing pressure to substantially lower CO2 emissions and transform the energy grid system. These goals are difficult to achieve without a new way of thinking about innovation. Research limitations/implications – Models to achieve innovation must not only focus on individual research projects; instead, the innovation should be factored into normal business dealings in the supply chain. Practical implications – We propose that policymakers and regulators need to: accommodate for innovation and address the collaborative elements of innovation when developing policies and regulations. Furthermore, regulators have the option of either developing a strategic vision for the electrical-grid network or incorporating sustainability into the evaluation of electrical grids and, thus, consumers’ willingness to pay. Originality/value – This paper makes a distinctive contribution in the area of innovation for electrical grids. Our paper shows how innovation and the development of new technology for electrical grids changed over time. Furthermore, this paper describes the energy sector in terms of a business network comprising the different actors involved in innovation and development and, thus, their role in the energy supply chain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

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

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

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

This paper explores how green fiscal expenditure affects G reen T otal F actor E nergy E fficiency (GTFEE) from both non-spatial and spatial perspectives based on selected panel data of 254 cities in China. The results of the non-spatial panel model indicate that green fiscal expenditure has a significant positive impact on GTFEE. A comparative study of different econometric models shows that the main parts of the results are largely consistent, which indicates that the conclusions are robust. The spatial autocorrelation findings indicate a statistically significant presence of positive spatial spillover effects in the GTFEE of Chinese cities. Spatial Durbin Model (SDM) and Dynamic Spatial Durbin Model (DSDM) indicate that green fiscal expenditure has a similarly significant positive effect on GTFEE, which will increase over time. This paper considers different spatial weight matrices and changing measures to measure GTFEE, and the conclusions remain robust. Furthermore, industrial structure upgrading, and digital economy are vital in strengthening the relationship between local governments' green fiscal expenditure and GTFEE. According to heterogeneity analysis, green fiscal expenditure has a more significant effect on the GTFEE in mature resource-based cities and non-resource-based cities. • Influence factors of green total factor energy efficiency (GTFEE) is explored. • Green fiscal expenditure (GFE) has a significant positive impact on GTFEE. • Significant positive spatial spillover effects exist in the GTFEE of Chinese cities. • Industrial structure upgrading and digital economy are vital for GFE and GTFEE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research paper examines the implications of energy imports on green innovation within the context of the Russia-Ukraine war. It utilizes panel data spanning EU countries from 1999 to 2022. Initially, the study explores the influence of natural gas and oil imports on the advancement of green innovation. Specifically, it reveals that the importation of natural gas facilitates progress in this area, whereas the importation of oil can impede such advancement. Following the Russia-Ukraine war, the role of gas imports in fostering green innovation within EU countries has grown, simultaneously exacerbating the adverse effects of oil imports on green innovation. Secondly, by employing a panel threshold model, the study identifies that higher energy prices make natural gas and oil imports unfavorable for the progress of green innovation in EU nations. Thirdly, an analysis of heterogeneity demonstrates that, as a result of the Russia-Ukraine war, natural gas imports have a more significant detrimental effect on the development of green innovation in EU nations with a natural gas dependency ranging from 10% to 90%. In the case of oil imports, EU nations with a dependence on Russian oil exceeding 50% experience a more pronounced negative impact on the development of green innovation. Fourthly, a mechanistic study elucidates that natural gas imports indirectly stimulate green innovation through the mechanism of energy transition, while oil imports hinder the development of green innovation by exacerbating carbon emissions. The empirical findings of this paper carry substantial policy implications for EU nations, urging the acceleration of energy transition in response to the impact of the Russia-Ukraine war on green innovation. Moreover, these findings have broader implications for global environmental management and the collective endeavor to combat climate change. • Natural gas imports can promote green innovation; Oil imports inhibit green innovation; The outbreak of the Russia-Ukraine War reinforced both effects. • Rising energy prices make gas and oil imports a disincentive for green innovation in EU countries. • Natural gas imports indirectly promote green innovation through the energy transition, while oil imports inhibit green innovation by increasing carbon emissions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

Renewable energy can be used from several natural sources, which are capable of wind, sun, water, geothermal springs, or biomass. Energy from these sources is clean, safe and inexhaustible. The use of alternative sources is becoming part of all realistic scenarios and promotes sustainable development and energy security in Europe as well. Renewable energy sources form a relatively significant part of primary energy sources in many countries. Thanks to the undeniable advantages of their use, they form another higher share of combined energy production in Slovakia. In addition, the correct location of renewable energy sources can be a key element in the development of individual regions, which can contribute to achieving better social and economic cohesion in the country. Given these obvious environmental and economic benefits, efficient use of renewable energy sources is receiving increasing attention and support from responsible officials and the general public around the world, including Slovakia. The main goal of this paper was to evaluate the use of renewable resources in Slovakia with a focus on biogas plants. We also evaluate the position of Slovakia within the EU in this area and find out what is the current situation of biogas plants in Slovakia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

The paper deals with the peculiarities of thermodynamic analysis of technological systems of food production with generation of secondary steam. System analysis is based on information about production, equipment operation, modern scientific achievements and modeling methods in chemical, physical, mathematical and other sciences. The information about applied energy and thermodynamic criteria, criteria of optimization of systems, list of sequence of actions on improvement of systems is given. Secondary energy resources of food industries are often represented by thermal energy of liquid media or secondary steam. Regeneration of the secondary steam allows, during its subsequent condensation, to return the heat potential of the steam to the media. This means that in the systems where the increase in the thermodynamic parameters of steam due to its compression, there is the use of Carno's return cycle. Such use occurs both in closed and open cycles. The description of the physical processes accompanying the work of the thermocompressors is subject to mathematical modeling based on the laws of conservation of energy, mass conservation and conservation of impulses. The assessment of the suitability for using secondary energy resources is based on exergy methods in order to determine the directions for their further improvement. For identical pressures in the mixing chamber, the efficiency of the actual compressor is higher than the ratio of the ejection coefficients of the real and ideal compressors, since internal irreversible losses along with the reduction of the ejection rate result in the increase of the specific exergy of the compressed flow. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The quality of the energy transformation processes focuses on improving the energy efficiency of the components used in a thermodynamic cycle with the aim to upgrade the application of the resources needed to produce energy in power generation plants. Due to the great importance of thermal analysis in the kinetic energy transformation of a fluid into electrical energy through combined Rankie cycles applied on industrial processes, this paper proposes an energetic and exergetic analysis of a heat exchanger used as a steam surface condenser with the aim to reduce the fuel consumption used by a steam turbine and to establish parameters that define the performance of the shell and tube heat exchanger using computational tools of thermal analysis. An experimental model has been used to validate the numerical analysis developed in a virtual environment. MATLAB software has been used as a numerical tool to develop the matrix manipulations written in .m code that define the thermal analysis of the equations that describe the behavior of the combined regenerative Rankine cycle power plant. Numerical data generated in the numerical model with MATLAB has been compared with the experimental model of the steam surface condenser. A good agreement has been reached between the CFD analysis and the experimental model of the steam surface condenser. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrogen energy has an advantage over conventional fossil energy because of its clean and low-carbon features, while its stability gives it an advantage over renewable energy sources such as hydropower, photovoltaic (PV) power, and wind power. Using hydrogen as a fuel can achieve zero carbon emissions or even net zero emissions at the end of energy conversion. Moreover, with hydrogen as the carrier, an energy system of multi-energy complementarity will be established by coupling multiple energy systems such as power grids, gas grids and heat networks, which can realize the comprehensive utilization of renewable energy sources in an efficient, stable, and flexible manner. Based on the “dual carbon” goals, this paper targets sectors with high carbon emissions represented by electric power, steel and transportation, analyzes the feasible path of using hydrogen energy to promote deep carbon reduction, and points out the obstacles faced by hydrogen energy development in various sectors. On account of the current development and expected prospects, this paper proposes that the current focus of hydrogen energy industry is to coordinate the development of industrial sectors and regions, build a pattern that can facilitate the industry’s systematic and concerted development, address key technical challenges (such as green hydrogen production or hydrogen storage and transportation via pipeline), improve industrial standards, and promote the industry’s development in a balanced, coordinated and orderly way.

Compared to other applications of distributed ledger technologies, for example, in decentralized finance, non-fungible tokens, and logistics, Blockchain applications in the energy industry have not found widespread dissemination and fell short of market expectations during the Blockchain hype in the late 2010s. In semi-structured qualitative interviews with leading providers in the energy industry, conducted from 2019 to 2021, hurdles in energy applications are compared with a control group of additional interviews with representatives of companies operating in IT and FinTech. The analysis uses a framework covering technical feasibility, desirability, and economic viability, as well as the role of regulatory frameworks. The interviews reveal that the first Blockchain applications suffered from a combination of technological constraints and inter-platform competition. Due to the permissionless configuration of the early energy Blockchains, they were slow in terms of transaction speed compared to existing platforms and prices per transaction were high, in addition to high degrees of complexity related to requirements from both critical-infrastructure systems and financial market regulation. The analysis further points to the slow adoption of Blockchain applications in the energy sector being related to business models rather focusing on products and platforms as well as on transactional rather than procedural use cases, with a high degree of standardization of the offering and low levels of inclusiveness concerning processes. The move from transaction platforms to innovation platforms and the emergence of Blockchain as a service provider—plus technical advances with regards to high-frequency transactions combined with the increasing importance of use cases, such as proof of origin for fuels or e-charging—may induce a shift from pilot applications to commercialization within the larger innovation ecosystem. While the involvement of Blockchain solutions in energy markets increases with pilot projects and with this, the acceptance of players and stakeholders in the energy ecosystem, a big hurdle for innovation remains the regulation of energy markets to allow for peer-to-peer trading, a usage-driven distribution of network costs, and bottom-up pricing markets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ultrafast laser technology has moved from ultrafast to ultra-strong due to the development of chirped pulse amplification technology. Ultrafast laser technology, such as femtosecond lasers and picosecond lasers, has quickly become a flexible tool for processing brittle and hard materials and complex micro-components, which are widely used in and developed for medical, aerospace, semiconductor applications and so on. However, the mechanisms of the interaction between an ultrafast laser and brittle and hard materials are still unclear. Meanwhile, the ultrafast laser processing of these materials is still a challenge. Additionally, highly efficient and high-precision manufacturing using ultrafast lasers needs to be developed. This review is focused on the common challenges and current status of the ultrafast laser processing of brittle and hard materials, such as nickel-based superalloys, thermal barrier ceramics, diamond, silicon dioxide, and silicon carbide composites. Firstly, different materials are distinguished according to their bandgap width, thermal conductivity and other characteristics in order to reveal the absorption mechanism of the laser energy during the ultrafast laser processing of brittle and hard materials. Secondly, the mechanism of laser energy transfer and transformation is investigated by analyzing the interaction between the photons and the electrons and ions in laser-induced plasma, as well as the interaction with the continuum of the materials. Thirdly, the relationship between key parameters and ultrafast laser processing quality is discussed. Finally, the methods for achieving highly efficient and high-precision manufacturing of complex three-dimensional micro-components are explored in detail. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this article is to present solutions related to wind energy in EU countries as an alternative to fossil fuels. This article is based on secondary information and statistical data regarding the development of wind power engineering in EU countries for the years 2016–2022. The main purpose of this paper is to analyze of the relations between the development of wind energy in European Union countries and GPD (gross domestic product) per capita and selected factors. The following hypotheses were formulated: H1—There is a statistically significant correlation between GDP per capita and the use of wind energy in European Union countries. H2—There is a relationship between the length of the coastline and the use of wind energy in European Union countries. H3—There is a statistically significant correlation between the attitude to uncertainty of the inhabitants of a given country and the use of wind energy in said country. The presented research results support all these hypotheses. The results of the research regarding H2 are as follows: in the case of northern European countries (Ireland and Finland) and the Iberian Peninsula (Spain and Portugal), the development of wind power engineering in the study period was faster than could be inferred from the length of the coastline in these countries. Regarding hypothesis H1, it was concluded on the basis of the analysis that the involvement of countries in the development of wind power engineering is correlated with their wealth. The novelty of this paper emerges from its innovative approach to analyzing wind power engineering, its incorporation of cultural factors, its quantitative assessment of correlations, and its actionable policy recommendations. These elements collectively contribute to a comprehensive and impactful study that advances our understanding of wind energy adoption in the European Union.

Poland's energy transformation will be carried out over the next two decades, and its main objective is decarbonization. Specific goals are included in the energy policy of Poland until 2040. In this context, it should be emphasized that the Polish energy sector requires a complete modernization, especially in terms of electricity supply. The current state of affairs is a consequence of the still too high use of coal in the energy mix. The planned investments are to lead to a deep transition in the Polish energy sector, which will ensure the energy security of the state. The Polish energy policy proposes several methods that are to be used for modernization, i.e., gasification of the electricity sector, implementation of nuclear energy, or the development of renewable energy sources. In this context, it is necessary to identify the challenges and threats to Poland's energy security. The article presents the current state of the Polish energy sector, the main goals of the EPP 2040 and the resulting threats to energy security. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

Purpose - Considering the well-known finiteness of resources and particularly in the light of previous concepts to ensure car-based mobility, this paper aims to outline to what extent the cost structure for sustainable mobility is still acceptable in the foreseeable future for the majority of people. The production and use of energy for mobility is a decisive factor for the future development of entire regions. This can be directly derived from the dramatically evolving energy cost in the recent years rooted in an increasing scarcity of known resources. Design/methodology/approach - On the basis of available new technology components, researchers from the University of Magdeburg (Germany) have converted a conventional car into an electric vehicle. Hereby, energy efficiency and sustainability were in the direct focus of the product redesign. Furthermore, a LCC analysis complements the qualitative analysis. Findings - Thus, a driving concept for electric mobility in the urban environment was drawn up which meets the criterion of suitability for everyday use due to an e-conversion. Moreover, the outstanding efficiency of the designed powertrain is demonstrated. Research limitations/implications - Using the research electric vehicle Editha, the researchers point out which technical options can be inferred from available components for the creation of mobility in the urban environment. However, the source of energy is crucial to assess if the claim for sustainability is fulfilled. Social implications - The paper illustrates that a monetary advantage of electric vehicles, such as the prototype Editha, arises after seven years due to disproportional purchase costs. Originality/value - In this context, the proposed driving concept of the prototype represents a transitional solution from vehicles with central engine to hub wheel electric engines. In addition, Editha is the first roadworthy and suitable for daily use research vehicle using an individual electric motor for each rear wheel without manual gearbox. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the context of energy transformation, new energy technologies are developing rapidly, the penetration rate of new energy is increasing, and the energy structure tends to be low-carbon, which leads to the asymmetry between traditional energy and new energy. At present, the smart power grid can be conceived as a complex cyber-physical system, and its resilience assessment in the face of extreme disasters needs more holistic consideration. Therefore, considering the impact of massive access to new energy on the resilience of the power grid main network, the resilience evaluation index system of the power grid main network under the background of the energy transition is established. It is proposed to use the priority comparison method and CRITIC (Criteria Importance Through Intercriteria Correlation) to determine the subjective weight and subjective and objective weight of the index, respectively, and combine the influence of the two weights to obtain the comprehensive weight. Then, TOPSIS (Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution) is used to evaluate the regional power grid restoring force. The results of an example show that the proposed method can effectively evaluate the resilience level of the power grid under the background of the energy transition, which has a certain guiding significance for improving the power grid's resilience under the environment of energy transformation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose – The ventilation and air-conditioning systems consume the highest energy in the building sector. The proper ventilation in residential buildings through the passive solar systems can substantially reduce the energy consumption in building sector. The paper aims to identify the application of wind shaft as a solar chimney, a passive ventilation system and evaluated the performance of the system. Design/methodology/approach – The paper investigated the performance of the solar chimney with size, absorber area 9.76 m2 and height 4.57 m, based on experimental data recorded in the city, Kota (25°10′N, 75°52′E), India. Solar data were recorded using the state of the art weather station situated very closer to the residence. The air velocity and temperatures in the chimney and in the building are recorded in data logger. A simple mathematical model was used for the evaluation of the air change per hour (ACH) in the residential building. Findings – From the analysis of weather data, it was found that the ambient temperature varies linearly with the solar irradiance. Air change rate of 5.7-7.7 can be achieved from this solar chimney, in peak summer season which is appropriate and meets the ventilation requirement as per BIS (Handbook of Functional Requirements of Buildings – 1987). Originality/value – The air temperature increases from bottom to top in the solar chimney. The solar irradiance dictates the chimney air temperature, and both are in step with each other. It shows that the solar chimney is working in tune with the solar radiation availability. In peak summer, it provides sufficient ACH to the tune of 3-6. Resulting wind shaft can act effectively as a solar chimney. It is a feasible solution for the ventilation needs and it improves the looks of any residential building. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transitioning electricity generation sectors to renewable energy is a necessary element of climate change mitigation but a challenging one with years of technical and social lock-in creating considerable inertia and a pace of change insufficient to meet the task. Transition management has emerged as a promising approach to proactively manage and accelerate transitions in sectors like energy and water and has the potential to do so in manner that would help secure energy justice. However, the approach has been criticised for ignoring the political dynamics of transitions, risking procedural and recognition injustice for traditional energy production regions while increasing opposition to a transition. This paper uses a qualitative case study approach to understand how a transition to renewable energy generation could be achieved in a way that secures energy justice for traditional energy production regions like those of Gladstone in the Australian state of Queensland. The paper augments the transition management approach with the “just transitions” concept, which has emerged from labour movements as a means to mitigate negative impacts on workers and communities in traditional energy production regions, to create a “Just Transition Management” framework that is applied as a diagnostic tool to the case study. While results suggest a transition is imminent within Queensland, a lack of: consistent, supportive federal policy; long-term visions, and a clear process leaves it at risk of being captured by the powerful incumbent resources sector utilising an “environment vs. jobs” narrative. Yet, the results also suggest that adopting a just transition management approach has the potential to successfully resist the influence of the resources sector, by providing cheap, secure renewable energy and supporting affected workers into roles in the renewable energy sector using a reflexive, representative network governance approach. Data analysis reveals how the application of just transition principles has already engaged communities and unions that were previously sceptical of renewable energy. Overall, this study suggests that the just transition management framework assists in identifying the political barriers to transitions and energy justice more broadly, while also providing a management approach which creates powerful niche actor-networks to counter the narratives and influence of the incumbent resource sector. Thus it could support successful transitions that achieve the distributional, recognition and procedural justice needed for energy justice globally. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the results of an innovative pilot experiment on elaborating transformative energy scenarios by using a causal layered analysis (CLA) game. CLA is an integrative and communicative method, which divides issues into four layers: litany, systemic causes, worldviews, and metaphors. In the piloted CLA game, four existing scenario drafts from the Neo-Carbon Energy project: “Radical Startups”, “Value-Driven Techemoths”, “Green DIY Engineers” and “New Consciousness” were used. The CLA game session, as depicted in this paper, worked through the CLA layers sequentially per each scenario, contributed new elements to the scenario narratives, and utilised roleplay for the worldview and metaphor layers. This CLA game highlighted the complexity, polyphony and actor dynamics of the future worlds. We identify four key benefits: developing the CLA game scenario methodology, gaming-based social learning, deepening of sociocultural energy scenario drafts and exploration of energy transformation toward renewable energy based futures. As a new type of CLA workshop, the game expanded the method's boundaries. Recommendations are presented for developing serious gaming further in scenario processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Manifestations of energy transformation are visible throughout the developed world. As the threat to the survival of humanity arises, the countries of the world are starting to take faster and more specific actions to transform the energy sector. One of the energy transformation strategies is the decentralized development of the energy system in the regions. This concept is especially relevant at this time, when centralized sources of energy production and supply are becoming the target of physical and cyber attacks. The purpose of this article is to form theoretical assumptions for the smooth implementation of the decentralization of the energy system. This article aims to remove obstacles to short-term energy transformation. The novelty of this article is related to emphasizing the role of biomass cogeneration in achieving energy system efficiency and greening. Mathematical modeling based on RSM is used in the article. The established factors of the market structure revealed that the efficiency of energy production is based on the use of cogeneration and the markets for raw materials and energy can be attributed to different types. The results of this study showed that the optimal combination of biomass cogeneration can ensure competitive energy production. This article is relevant because it offers transitional solutions until adequate hydrogen utilization and energy storage solutions are developed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study delves into the financial performance of the Compañía Española de Petróleos, S.A.U. (CEPSA) within the context of the ongoing ESG transformation in the Energy Sector. The primary aim of this research is to understand the critical dimensions essential for evaluating energy companies' ESG performances. The research assesses the changes in CEPSA's financial indicators over the last five years (2018–2022). The report uses DuPont analysis to evaluate CEPSA's environmental and social responsibility performances. The study examines several financial performance metrics, including return on net assets, profitability, and corporate financing structure changes. The methodology of this study comprehensively assesses CEPSA's sustainable development trajectory and ESG management system. The analysis reveals that CEPSA has consistently improved its sustainable development capabilities over the last five years by establishing a comprehensive ESG management system. While return on net assets and profitability indicators have shown positive trends, the financing structure has changed significantly. Notably, the proportion of debt financing has increased substantially, and there is a slight decline in the net profit margin. The formal transformation in 2020 further influenced increases in liabilities and fixed assets for CEPSA. The study focuses on CEPSA's sustained improvements in ESG management and the associated shifts in financial metrics, adding originality to the study and offering a nuanced perspective on the evolving landscape of sustainable practices. The study reveals the financial implications of ESG transformation in the energy sector and offers valuable insights for stakeholders. Moreover, this research contributes to the existing literature by employing the DuPont analysis system to explore the intricate relationship between ESG performance and financial indicators in the energy sector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the energy transformation in buildings, the proportions of energy consumption for heating, ventilation and domestic hot water preparation (DHW) have changed. The latter component can now play a significant role, not only in the context of the annual heat demand, but also in the context of selecting the peak power of the heat source. In this paper, the comparison of chosen methods for its calculation is presented. The results show that for contemporary residential buildings, the peak power for DHW preparation can achieve the same or higher value as the peak power for heating and ventilation. For this reason, nowadays the correct selection of the peak power of a heat source for DHW purposes becomes more important, especially if it uses renewable energy sources, because it affects its size and so the investment cost and economic efficiency. It is also indicated that in modern buildings, mainly accumulative systems with hot water storage tanks should be taken into account because they are less sensitive to design errors (wrongly selected peak value in the context of the uncertainty of hot water consumption) and because they result in acceptable value of peak power for DHW in comparison to heating and ventilation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a set of energy and resource intensive scenarios based on the concept of Shared Socio-Economic Pathways (SSPs). The scenario family is characterized by rapid and fossil-fueled development with high socio-economic challenges to mitigation and low socio-economic challenges to adaptation (SSP5). A special focus is placed on the SSP5 marker scenario developed by the REMIND-MAgPIE integrated assessment modeling framework. The SSP5 baseline scenarios exhibit very high levels of fossil fuel use, up to a doubling of global food demand, and up to a tripling of energy demand and greenhouse gas emissions over the course of the century, marking the upper end of the scenario literature in several dimensions. These scenarios are currently the only SSP scenarios that result in a radiative forcing pathway as high as the highest Representative Concentration Pathway (RCP8.5). This paper further investigates the direct impact of mitigation policies on the SSP5 energy, land and emissions dynamics confirming high socio-economic challenges to mitigation in SSP5. Nonetheless, mitigation policies reaching climate forcing levels as low as in the lowest Representative Concentration Pathway (RCP2.6) are accessible in SSP5. The SSP5 scenarios presented in this paper aim to provide useful reference points for future climate change, climate impact, adaption and mitigation analysis, and broader questions of sustainable development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To reach the climate goals set by national and international institutions, a vast transition of the legacy power system is unavoidable. The necessary integration of distributed, renewable generation devices, which are often interfaced with power electronic converters, has a non-negligible influence on the characteristics of the power grid. This is particularly visible during abnormal grid conditions such as faults. For rotating machines, the fast-timescale reaction to these events is mainly determined by physical properties. However, power electronic devices lack this strong coupling and their behavior is generated by the control and automation system, making them a major field of interest during this transition. The present paper provides a survey of real-world incidents, as for example blackouts or oscillatory incidents, that are discussed with respect to the implications for future converter dominated power grids. For typical cascading outages it is shown, where the increasing penetration of distributed, renewable generation and smart grid technologies can be leveraged to increase the system resilience, e.g. by providing grid services through adequate control design or by enabling microgrid concepts. Further, real-world examples of newly emerging challenges driven by power electronic devices are presented. The mechanisms of control system interactions with the neighboring grid and its inherent complex dependency on various factors is illustrated. Lastly, resulting structural developments such as the changed resonance properties of low voltage grids and the increase of harmonic emissions are exemplified.

The transformation of the European energy sector is becoming a priority for the European Union. This is indicated, for instance, in the European Union strategy known as the European Green Deal. According to the Green Deal, the area of ‘research and innovation’ is one which can counteract climate change. Universities can play a significant role in this by adopting a pedagogical approach aimed at mobilizing the spirit of innovation and entrepreneurship in young professionals. In addition to modifying curricula related to mining, energy, and environmental engineering, i.e., activities in recognized, traditional schemes, one prospective tool may be the involvement of students and PhD candidates in European initiatives such as the InnoEnergy PhD School (which is funded by the European Institute of Innovation and Technology). This paper aims to discuss the InnoEnergy PhD School programme as a possible instrument for mitigating the negative effects of energy transformation. The article analyzes the programme using a case study method, including surveys and open interviews. The paper draws attention to and highlights the role of human resources in the field of education and the stimulation of innovation, as well as the need to strengthen the business component in the education of PhD candidates.

The horizontal axis turbine is one of the most promising energy extractors for tidal stream energy utilization. However, there is no widely accepted model for describing the wake structure of a tidal stream turbine. Besides, the flow velocity variation in wakes is accompanied by energy transformation and has hardly been investigated to date. In this paper, a brief review of existing laboratory tidal stream turbine experiments is first presented, followed by a discussion about the controlling variables that includes cross-comparisons between different results from physical laboratory tests. Theoretical derivation and experimental data analysis are conducted to enable a better understanding of the energy transformation and wake development processes, and tidal stream energy extraction. It has been found that part of the flow kinetic energy has been converted into potential energy before reaching the rotor, commonly used power coefficients are not equivalent when quantifying energy extraction, and it is possible to reconstruct turbine wakes using 3 independent data-based parameters. • Energy transformation from potential energy to kinetic energy occurs even before the flow reaching the rotor. • The widely used energy coefficients based on torque and thrust are not equivalent to each other. • It is possible to reproduce the horizontal and vertical far-wake velocity profiles using 3 independent parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

After joining the globalization initiative, countries from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) have experienced an exponential growth in carbon emissions. The high carbon lock-in of the energy consumption structure and lagged energy infrastructure construction have led to high carbon emissions, which has put great pressure on ASEAN countries to reduce their carbon emissions. To achieve the goal of carbon neutrality by the middle of this century, ASEAN countries have successively formulated strategic guidelines for energy transformation and green development, focusing on the structural transformation of energy development and utilization, a coal decommissioning plan, grid interconnection, the electrification of urban transportation patterns, energy conservation, consumption reduction, and international technological cooperation. ASEAN countries still face many challenges in achieving their carbon neutrality targets, including unstable policies, poor environmental awareness among residents, poor guarantee for energy transformation, disconnection between technology and capital, and difficulties in regional coordination. These are reflected in the obvious carbon lock-in effect and the strong dependence on carbon in traditional industries. ASEAN countries are seeking a balance of interests in the Sino–US infrastructure game. In this context, China, as an advocate of South–South cooperation, is committed to expanding the cooperation with ASEAN countries on carbon neutrality in the following aspects: the development and utilization of renewable energy resources, formulation of a progressive grid interconnection plan, establishment of the green financial system, and research and development of green technologies. The purpose is to help ASEAN countries achieve their goals of carbon neutrality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Slovakia committed to the objectives related to the mitigation of climate change's pace. The most important acts include reducing energy consumption and increasing the share of renewable energy in gross final energy consumption of the country. Regions are challenged by a fundamental transformation of energy. The main aim of this paper was to evaluate the use of renewable energy sources in Slovakia, as well as the procedural and economic side of support mechanisms allowing progress in the use of renewable energy sources. The secondary aim was to economically assess the impact of support schemes for the effectiveness of investments and make recommendations on renewable energy use for the next period based on an example of a biogas plant in Slovakia. Slovakia has experienced the development of biogas installations after the year 2009. By 2013, Slovak market significantly promoted investments in biogas plants, but in 2014, there was a downturn in the installation of new ones. A database for the analysis was obtained from real data of a specific biogas plant in Slovakia. Results of the analysis declare that financial support mechanisms from the country and the EU are a major determinant in the development of biogas plants in Slovakia with a positive impact on important economic indicators of effectiveness. This process will also support the achievement of the objectives of Target 2020. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Impact disturbance and bedding angle have a substantial effect on the mechanical response of sandstone under prestressed loading. Therefore, in this paper, a combined 1D static and dynamic loading test system is employed for examining the compression of sandstone at various bedding angles under a pre-applied axial pressure of 25 MPa. Under these conditions, the strength, stress-strain curves, energy usage ratio, particle size and deformation of sandstone are obtained. The results are as follows. (1) Strain rebound easily occurs in high-strength sandstone under low impact pressure. (2) The peak strength of sandstone is positively correlated with the impact pressure. The peak strength and combined dynamic‒static strength of sandstone change in a "v" shape. (3) The rock's failure particle size is controlled by the bedding plane at low impact pressure. (4) We propose a new energy calculation method in which the energy utilization rate presents an approximately inverted "v" shape. (5) The sandstone with different bedding angles has different bursting liabilities at an identical impact pressure. (6) The impact pressure is proportional to the crack growth rate of sandstone. • A new method for rock energy calculation under dynamic and static loading is proposed. • The induced mechanism of rock burst is explored from the aspect of experiment, and the corresponding preventive measures are put forward. • From the aspect of fracture mechanism, the bedding effect and impact pressure effect of sandstone are studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]