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Employment and the competencies of employees in the energy sector are coming into particular prominence in economies around the world. It is one of the few sectors positively affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. As a result, a significant global change in the awareness of society occurred in favor of increasing pro-health and pro-environmental activities, which can be seen in the green transformation. Poland can also boast such changes in recent years, as evidenced by the dynamic development of renewable energy sources (boom for photovoltaics) and the increase in prosumption. Correlated with this is the increase in demand for employees with specific competencies, the so-called multi-competencies that are a compilation of technical, business, and soft and hard competencies, as well as interdisciplinary ones. The paper emphasizes the need to better adjust the education system to the real needs of the labor market in a turbulent environment with the use of the Sectoral Qualifications Framework in Energy, developed in cooperation with stakeholders from the industry. Therefore, the authors analyzed the employment structure in the energy sector in Poland, with particular emphasis on the factors and conditions of this structure and made an attempt to identify and create a competency profile of employees in this area. For the purposes of this article, two key research problems were formulated: What are the key competencies of employees in the energy sector? How is employment changing in this area? The following research hypothesis was also put forward: The transformation of the energy sector towards green energy affects the increase in employment in this area and the increase in the demand for soft competencies. The analysis was based on statistical data, reports, job advertisements, and a review of the results of empirical research to date. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article, meant as the first in a series, tries to answer some questions around the future desired shape of the new Polish electro-energy mix in relation to the one described in the national energy policy document PEP 2040 (Energy Policy of Poland till 2040) and as compared with the targets set up in the newest UE legislative package, 'Fit-for-55'. In this article, I first present the rich overview of literature as well as economic theory behind the analysis of the energy transformation and energy-mix decarbonisation, in order to show how the energy mix should evolve in a way that will guarantee the biggest net gain to the society. Second, some comparable cost calculations on selected electro-energy sources, both LCOE (levelized cost of energy) and external costs are presented; these are modifications of my previous work as a co-author. Finally, the comparison of the 2040 electro-energy mix, as designed in the official governmental programme PEP 2040, with the two alternative scenarios, both of which exclude coal, and one also neglects the possibilities for nuclear energy to be included in the mix are presented. The alternative scenarios built into the paper are based on European Union (EU) plans to decarbonise Europe quickly. Recent geopolitical considerations related to the war in Ukraine, however, make it necessary to consider energy security as an important part of the plan. That would mean that nuclear energy would be a necessary component of the future mix in Poland. Security considerations are left to be analysed in the coming months, after a series of articles on lessons learnt by other developed countries in the process of making their energy-mix transformations and will complete the final recommendations for the future of the Polish energy mix. [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]

Increasing seepage flow causes soil particles to migrate, i.e., from local piping to complete fluidization, resulting in reduced effectives stress and degraded shear stiffness of the soil foundation. This process has received considerable attention in the past years, however, majority of them concentrate on macro-aspects such as the internal erosion and soil deformation, while there is a lack of fundamental studies addressing the energy transport at micro-scale of fluid-soil systems during soil approaching fluidization. In this regard, the current study presents an assessment of the energy evolution in soil fluidization based on the discrete element method (DEM) coupled with computation fluid dynamics (CFD). In this paper, an upward seepage flow of fluid is modelled by CFD based on the modified Navier–Stokes equations, while soil particles are governed by DEM with their mutual interactions being computed through fluid-particle force models. The energy transformation from the potential state to kinetic forms during fluid flowing is discussed with respect to numerical (CFD-DEM) results and the energy conservation concepts. The results show that majority of the potential energy induced by fluid flows has lost due to frictional mechanisms, while only a small amount of energy is needed to cause the soil to fluidize completely. The contribution of rotational and translational components to the total kinetic energy of particles, and their changing roles during soil fluidization is also presented. The effect of boundary condition on the energy transformation and fluidization of soil is also investigated and discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The presented paper shows a hypothetical large solar farm that would be the only source of electricity for the entire country. The energy crisis in Europe raises the question of whether it is possible to supply an electrical system based only on renewable energy sources. What should the surface area of the solar panels be in a hypothetical large solar farm to power the entire country? In this work, we will show what requirements must be met to make this feasible. Very important differences between the installed power capacity in a coal-fired or nuclear power plant and a solar power plant are discussed. The article presents calculations of the surface area of photovoltaic panels in that solar farm for four exemplary countries in Central Europe: Poland, Germany, the Czech Republic and the Slovak Republic. These studies are particularly important for Poland, whose electrical system is still mainly based on coal-fired power plants. The hypothetical solar farm could, in practice, take the form of dozens of solar power plants located in different parts of the country. Most importantly, the proposed solution will counteract climate change. [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]

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]

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.)

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 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]

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.

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 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]

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]

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]

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]

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]

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 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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