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After the expiration of each lease, lessees may return leased equipment on schedule, renew the lease or purchase it according to the equipment status and their demands. By considering lessees' uncertain options and equipment status difference, the pricing and inventory decision-makings of leased equipment are explored. A mixed-integer nonlinear programming model by maximising the net present value of lessor's profit is presented with respect to constraints like rental revenue, manufacturing, lessees' credit check, transportation, maintenance, upgrade and inventory costs. The rental price and inventory decisions are obtained by solving the problem with a particle swarm optimisation algorithm. We also analyse the impacts of purchasing cost of old equipment from a third-party supplier on lessor's inventory, renewal price or purchasing price of leased equipment on lessees' options and lessor's profit. The results show: (1) with the extension of lease period, the rental price increases while the growth rate decreases; (2) the maintenance cost accounts for about 20% of total cost, and the preventive maintenance strategy can reduce excess maintenance cost as lease period increases; (3) the lessor shall set moderate renewal price discount coefficient and purchasing price coefficient, and analyse purchasing cost of old equipment to manage inventory timely. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The extensive use of external thermal insulation composite systems (ETICS) using expanded polystyrene (EPS) for building insulation in Germany has resulted in accumulating end-of-life EPS-ETICS. To address limited waste management options and enhance EPS circularity, alternative recycling options like pyrolysis or solvent-based recycling need to be implemented. However, efficient recycling requires ex-ante analyses of the corresponding reverse logistics networks, including all necessary pre-treatment and transport processes. This study aims to develop a decision support system to determine optimal EPS-ETICS waste management by minimising the net present value of the corresponding network design. Our mixed-integer linear optimisation model considers decisions on technology, capacity, and location for pre-processing and recycling facilities as well as on material flow allocation. Applied to a German case study, our model finds pyrolysis and solvent-based recycling economically superior to current waste treatment in waste incineration plants. We present an optimal network design combining central pyrolysis with decentral pre-processing. A scenario analysis shows fluctuating styrene and polystyrene prices might favour solvent-based recycling over the optimal choice in pyrolysis, with minor overall cost differences. Further, legal recycling quotas of at least 40% would be necessary to promote solvent-based recycling and enhance EPS circularity beyond what is achievable through pyrolysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates the association between life insurers' voluntary disclosure of embedded value (EV), an unregulated market-driven fair value measure, and analyst forecast accuracy and dispersion. EV is an estimate of the present value of future net cash flows from in-force life insurance business. Advocates of this disclosure believe that EV is a better measure of economic performance than traditional GAAP measures. Others argue that corporate management has discretion in estimating and reporting EV. Further, analysts may have access to information that allows the development of possibly more accurate estimation metrics in the absence of EV disclosure. It is then an empirical issue to determine whether EV disclosure has any incremental effect on analysts' forecast properties. Using a multi-country setting, we find that EV disclosure is positively associated with analysts' earnings forecast accuracy and negatively related to forecast dispersion. This result is consistent with the alternative hypothesis that disclosure of EV provides a richer information set that enriches analysts' forecasts beyond their own in-house developed surrogates. As guidance for insurance accounting and disclosure evolves, our findings support the value of continuing to provide EV information to the public. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The developing world continues to face substantial obstacles to achieving affordable and dependable electricity access. This issue is especially pertinent for Nigeria, where diesel generators are widely relied upon in urban and rural regions because of an underdeveloped and unreliable national grid. The lack of grid reliability is worsened in Northeastern Nigeria, an area plagued by conflict, extreme poverty, and grid infrastructure deterioration. This study investigates the feasibility of implementing community-scale microgrids in rural areas without grid connection access. It focuses on assessing the technical, economic, and environmental aspects of utilizing these microgrids to deliver inexpensive and dependable electricity to underserved populations to increase energy access. A case study was conducted in Kabuiri, a village with an estimated population of 2,300 residents and an estimated load demand of 610 kWh per day. A hybrid microgrid system was designed and optimized to meet the community's load demand using HOMER software, sized to produce 610 kWh/day of electricity with a renewable penetration of 99%. The optimal solar PV/battery/generator system had a levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) of $ 0.093 per kWh, a net present cost (NPC) of $266,709, and an annual operating cost of $9,110. The system contributed 1,624 kg CO2 eq/year of global warming potential and 56.81 kg O3 eq/year of smog formation during operation. Sensitivity analysis showed that the system could effectively react to or adapt to substantial increases in diesel prices, requiring only marginal increases in photovoltaic capacity and reduced generator usage to maintain the most cost-efficient operation. Additionally, the system model can be adapted based on the population of the remote community without substantially impacting the LCOE, however, the NPC increases with increase in population size. This research will aid in increasing energy access in remote locations by providing insights to stakeholders and energy access project developers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, green hydrogen production by utilizing diesel engine exhaust gas waste heat in steam and organic Rankine with internal heat exchanger with two thermoelectric generators and proton exchange membrane electrolyzer combined system under different load conditions is investigated. Thermo-economic, enviro-economic and exergo-environmental analyses of the maximum hydrogen production point determined for different waste heat conditions are carried out. Total and specific investment cost and levelized cost of hydrogen determined under different loads are compared. Simple and dynamic payback period, profit ratio of investment and net present value of the combined system at different selling prices of hydrogen are determined and their feasibility is analyzed. Carbon reduction and carbon credit gain amount due to green hydrogen produced in line with zero emission targets are compared under different waste heat conditions. Exergetic sustainability index of the system were determined within the scope of exergo-environmental analysis. In terms of economic and environmental performance, a hydrogen cost of 2.04 $/kg was obtained under 100% load and a carbon saving of 7211 $ was achieved depending on the hydrogen produced. Dynamic payback period and net present value were found to be 4.467 years and 404,696 $, respectively, if the hydrogen selling price was 5 $/kg under 100% load. It is found that a 50% load reduction leads to an increase in dynamic payback period and levelized cost of hydrogen by 18.6% and 13.72%, respectively, and a decrease in net present value and profit ratio of investment by 54.39% and 12.39%, respectively. On the other hand, since the exergy destruction decreases with the decrease in the load, exergo-environmental index is found to decrease by 2.03%. • 7211 $ carbon recovery was obtained. • Dynamic payback period between 1.942 and 9.578 years was determined. • The maximum net present value reached 1,123,000 $. • Combined hydrogen production system is unfeasible if the hydrogen price is 2 $/kg. • Within the scope of sustainability, exergo-environmental indices were examined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to assess the feasibility of utilizing sweet potato waste for distilled beverage production in two process scenarios: (i) acid hydrolysis and (ii) enzymatic hydrolysis. Laboratory experiments were conducted using in natura sweet potato waste and the data obtained were used to design a production system capable of producing 1000 L of distillate per day. Net present value (NPV), internal rate of return (IRR), and discounted payback indicators were used for economic analysis, with a minimum attractiveness rate (MARR) of 15%. The initial investment for the projects was BRL 1 139 610.86 (USD 223 146.80) for enzymatic hydrolysis and BRL 1 314 824.54 (USD 257 455.36) for acid hydrolysis. Packaging costs were identified as the greatest expenses in the process. Assuming a selling price of BRL 14.50 (USD 2.84), the enzymatic hydrolysis process demonstrated an NPV of BRL 4 792 520.77 (USD 938 421.92) and IRR of 83.39%, and the acid hydrolysis process showed an NPV of BRL 2 191 636.78 (USD 429 143.68) and IRR of 42.49%. Consequently, establishing a production plant for distilled beverages proved to be more economically attractive when employing the enzymatic hydrolysis process and fermentation simultaneously, resulting in a return on investment within 1.46 years of operation. Upon scrutinizing the gain matrix, it became apparent that critical factors with the potential to affect the project's feasibility detrimentally, if increased, included the cost of acquiring packaging, the final volumetric fraction of the distilled beverage, and the tax rate. Nevertheless, an upturn in the selling price of the beverage and a process improvement yield both have the potential to underpin the project effectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While phytoremediation has been widely employed for greywater treatment, this system suffers from the transfer of considerable amounts of surfactants to the aquatic environment through partially treated effluent and/or exhausted plant disposal. Hence, this study focuses on greywater phytoremediation followed by recycling the spent plant for preparing an adsorbent material used as post-treatment. P. crassipes was used to operate a phytoremediation unit under 23 °C, 60% relative humidity, plant density (5–30 g/L), dilution (0–50%), pH (4–10), and retention time (3–15 days). The optimum condition was 12.7 g/L density, 34.0% dilution, pH 8.4, and 13 days, giving chemical oxygen demand (COD), surfactant, and NH4-N removal efficiencies of 94.62%, 90.45%, and 88.09%, respectively. The exhausted plant was then thermally treated at 550 °C and 40 min to obtain biochar used as adsorbent to treat the phytoremediation effluent. The optimum adsorption process was biochar dosage of 1.51 g/L, pH of 2.1, and 137 min, providing a surfactant removal efficiency of 92.56%. The final discharge of this phytoremediation/adsorption combined process contained 8.30 mg/L COD, 0.23 mg/L surfactant, and 0.94 mg/L NH4+-N. Interestingly, this approach could be economically feasible with a payback period of 6.5 years, 14 USD net present value, and 8.6% internal rate of return. NOVELTY STATEMENT: The research succeeded in treating greywater by phytoremediation followed by recycling the exhausted P. crassipes plant to prepare an adsorbent material used in the post-treatment phase, giving an economically feasible scenario with 6.5-year payback period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The aim of this Education Briefing is to comment on the problematic issues that sometimes arise when using the internal rate of return (IRR) and/or the net present value (NPV) as a measure of expected investment performance. The briefing looks at the sometimes conflicting signposts that each benchmark presents and highlights ways that decision-makers can overcome or mitigate the effects of those problematic issues. Design/methodology/approach: After a short review of the IRR and NPV techniques, this Education Briefing provides numerous examples of problematic issues that arise with certain cash flow profiles and suggests how to address them. Findings: Both the IRR and NPV provide simple benchmarks that can mislead the decision-maker who is not familiar with the nuances of both techniques. Practical implications: This review should heighten the reader's ability to spot characteristics of proposed investments that may signal that a quick decision based on performance metrics may lead to disappointing results. These characteristics include: scale effects, unusual cash flow patterns and/or investments with dissimilar expected lives. Mutually exclusive investments merit special attention. Originality/value: This is a review of existing performance measurement models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The efficacy of vaccine storage is significantly impacted by temperature fluctuations within the cooler, often exacerbated by using phase change materials in existing cooler designs for remote areas. These materials can undergo uneven melting and phase separation, leading to temperature instability and vaccine potency loss. In response to this challenge, the present study introduces a novel design of a portable, locally‐made solar‐powered cooler optimized for longer storage periods. The cooler's performance in terms of temperature distribution, airflow dynamics, and the coefficient of performance (COP) is meticulously examined through computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations. The simulated results were validated using experimental data from the open literature, ensuring accuracy and reliability. The findings indicate that the developed cooler achieves significant improvements over traditional models. For instance, the current model reaches a temperature of +12°C in just 84 min, compared to 208 min, as reported in the literature results. Moreover, the current model reaches a temperature of −12°C in 195 min and it has energy efficient with a COP of 4.5. Statistical analysis further confirms the reliability of the simulation results, with root mean square and mean absolute percentage errors of 6.587 and 24.2%, respectively. Additionally, a comparative study of five insulative materials highlights polyurethane (Po) as the top performer, with a heat transfer performance of 14.3%, followed by feather fiber (Fe) (18.7%), fly ash (Fl) (19.8%), fiberglass (Fi) (21.9%), and coconut fiber (Co) (25.9%). Notably, net present value (NPV) of $689.336 and $448.01 was obtained for economic analysis of the current model over the existing model, showing the feasibility of the study. Hence, the cooler's effectiveness in storing vaccines in isolated regions exceeds that of conventional models, providing a hopeful solution to tackle vital challenges in vaccine distribution and preservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The global banana industry faces a significant threat from Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense Tropical Race 4 (TR4). While prior research has concentrated on TR4's dissemination, reproductive conditions, and resistant banana varieties, this study employs a socioeconomic and cost-benefit analysis to explore the vulnerability of banana producers to TR4 in Colombia. It assesses the financial viability of current monitoring strategies and estimates potential losses in the event of TR4 spreading within the study area. Interviews were conducted with producers and key stakeholders in Colombia's top two banana-producing departments, Antioquia and Magdalena. The findings reveal that farming systems are highly vulnerable to TR4, particularly due to the prevalent use of corms. Producers employ preventive measures such as cement paths, fences, disinfecting stations, and footbaths to counteract TR4's spread. A cost-benefit analysis indicates that the benefits of these prevention methods significantly outweigh the associated costs, with a net present value of implementing prevention strategies per hectare of $95,389 USD and $112,527 USD in Magdalena and Antioquia and a benefit-cost ratio of 3.1 and 4.2, respectively. Considering the substantial impact TR4 could have in Colombia if it becomes more widespread, we recommend widespread adoption of preventive measures, including the construction and utilization of cement paths and disinfectant methods on all banana farms. Additionally, to enhance awareness and early detection, we propose leveraging technology, such as mobile applications (apps) and chat groups, to empower farmers in identifying and preventing the spread of TR4. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An assessment was made of the influence of underburning of hydrogen in a hydrogen-oxygen steam generator on the technical and economic efficiency of installing a hydrogen energy complex at a nuclear power plant, which is a well-known approach to solving an urgent problem of modern energy systems – ensuring the further development of nuclear energy as an environmentally friendly source of electricity based on the accumulation of off-peak electricity. An approach is considered and a diagram is presented for increasing the reliability of using the hydrogen energy complex at nuclear power plants by reducing underburning and eliminating the entry of unburned hydrogen into the main steam power cycle of the power unit. Several options for the level of hydrogen underburning and a range of system operating conditions for the hydrogen energy complex are considered. A comprehensive calculation of the technical and economic indicators of the hydrogen energy complex at nuclear power plants was carried out, and the conditions for its effectiveness were determined. As calculations have shown, underburning of hydrogen leads to a noticeable decrease in annual income and average annual profit from the sale of peak electricity. The achieved reduction is 11.67 and 35.01 million rubles/year at 5 and 15% hydrogen underburning, respectively. At the minimum tariff for off-peak electricity, the reduction in accumulated net present value is 96.6, 192.8 and 289.4 with an increase in hydrogen underburning to 5, 10 and 15%, respectively. The dependence of the marginal level of hydrogen underburning on the tariff for off-peak electricity, which ensures the efficiency of implementation of the considered hydrogen energy complex at nuclear power plants, is constructed. As calculations have shown, efficient operation of the hydrogen energy complex is achieved at a tariff for off-peak energy in the range from 0 to 0.45, 0.38, 0.3 and 0.24 rubles/kWh with hydrogen underburning of 0, 5, 10 and 15%, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The multi-energy complementary system (MECS) is a new mode that converts renewables into electricity and is usually equipped with hydrogen storage. It realizes flexible conversion of electric and hydrogen energy, achieving high efficiency and low carbon. However, how to optimize capacity of each equipment based on operation strategies and objectives becomes the most important issue. Thus, this study focuses on MECS optimal allocation and manages to work out a scientific framework. Firstly, the Density-Based Spatial Clustering of Applications with Noise algorithm and the Calinski Harabasz Index are firstly integrated to improve K-means clustering algorithm and identify typical scenarios. It can efficiently deal with long-sequence scenario reduction under the uncertainty of generation and load demand. Then, different from conventional objective-determining processes, indicators of the net present value, the carbon emission reduction, the power curtailment rate are taken into account to reflect comprehensive benefits from the life cycle of the MECS. Subsequently, for the difficulty of mixed integer fraction optimization, the -constraint method is introduced in model solving. Finally, a case study of Shenzhen is carried out for verification. The proposed models can achieve optimal allocation with different preference, which can provide theoretical and technical reference for MECS development. [Display omitted] • Industrial park multi-energy complementary system with hydrogen storage is built. • DBSCAN algorithm is introduced to extract typical scenarios based on cluster analysis. • Comprehensive benefits are taken into account in configuration optimization. • An ε-constraint is applied to solve the mixed integer fraction optimization problem. • Theoretical and technical reference is provided for low-carbon and green transition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increasing adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) presents both opportunities and challenges for power networks. While EVs have the potential to reduce carbon emissions, accommodating their growing power demand requires careful planning to prevent overloading and mitigate environmental impacts. This paper introduces an integrated hosting capacity model to facilitate higher EV penetration while maintaining environmental standards. In addition to EV charging stations, the model incorporates transmission lines, reactive power compensators, energy storage systems, and thyristor-controlled series compensators to ensure a reliable power supply. The model aims to maximize EV charging station deployment, minimize greenhouse gas emissions, and optimize net present value through hosting capacity strategies. Three hosting capacity plans are proposed to analyze the impact of prioritizing one of these objectives over the others in network configurations. Accurate EV demand forecasting is critical for this model, and a swarm intelligence forecasting algorithm is proposed to explore various forecasting approaches. The model is complex and involves nonlinear multi-objective optimization. To solve it, a new hybrid optimization algorithm is introduced, combining the features of the Marine Predators Algorithm and the Honey Badger Algorithm. Three hybridization schemes—Series Hybrid Scheme, Population Division Scheme, and Switching Strategy Scheme—are developed to address the optimization challenges effectively. The results show that the first and second hybridization schemes are the most effective for solving the EV load forecasting models, with a robustness of at least 90%. In contrast, the robustness of the third scheme reaches only 30% in some models. Simulation studies on the IEEE 9-bus network and the IEEE 30-bus system validate the model's effectiveness in integrating EVs while achieving environmental sustainability objectives. The findings show the superiority of the proposed hybrid schemes in solving the hosting capacity model in terms of finding optimal solutions. However, the third scheme required less computing time than the others, with its convergence time being at least 33.3% shorter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigate the use of various momentum methods in combination with an ensemble approximation of gradients, for accelerated optimization. Although momentum gradient descent methods are popular in machine learning, it is unclear how they perform when applied to time-consuming dynamic problems such as production optimization for petroleum reservoir management. Four different momentum methods are extensively tested on a reservoir test case in one deterministic and one robust setting. The numerical experiments show that momentum strategies yield, on average, a higher net present value with fewer simulations needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Açaí seeds are an abundant agroindustrial residue from the Brazilian Amazon region and comprise a rich source of linear mannan polysaccharide, which offers high potential for valorization into bioactive mannose and mannanoligosaccharides. This work optimizes mannose production from açaí seeds using dilute oxalic acid as a safer and greener alternative to sulfuric acid. Experiments were performed to analyze the effects of hydrolysis temperature, time and acid concentration, achieving a maximum mannose yield of 83% when employing 6.0% w/w oxalic acid at 177 °C for 15 min. This is the highest mannose yield ever reported for a one-step hydrolysis of recalcitrant linear mannan using an organic acid. In addition to mannose, this process coproduces mannanoligosaccharides in 9.6% yield. Furthermore, the economic viability of this novel process is demonstrated on an industrial scale via process simulation and techno-economic analysis of a biorefinery processing 6000 kg h−1 of açaí seeds. The simulated process considered oxalic acid recovery and recycling by chromatography, avoiding the use of a base for hydrolysate neutralization and the generation of salt waste, thus minimizing the environmental impacts of the process. The techno-economic analysis revealed a high profitability for a mannose selling price of US$ 10 per kg, resulting in a net present value of US$ 188 million and a payback period of 2.5 years after startup. Therefore, this work provides significant advances in mannose production, offering an efficient and economically viable one-step hydrolysis process that reduces waste, uses renewable raw materials and less harmful chemicals, and has the potential to contribute to a circular bioeconomy in the Amazon region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a simulation model for determining the most suitable type of microbiogas plant for small local communities on Slovenian farms, focusing on the efficient processing of organic waste. This model uses various input parameters, including different types and quantities of slurry and corn silage. Four different scenarios were developed to represent potential plant sizes, each evaluated using key economic indicators: net present value, breakthrough price, and internal rate of return. A scenario sensitivity analysis was conducted to assess the effects of changes in investment costs, fluctuations in energy prices, and the addition of corn silage to the anaerobic digestion process. The results highlight significant differences in economic viability across the scenarios, with some demonstrating positive financial outcomes and shorter payback periods and others indicating potential financial risks and longer recovery times under certain conditions. The analysis suggests that smaller micro biogas plants may struggle to achieve profitability without optimizing input ratios or reducing costs, whereas larger plants show more favorable economic indicators, provided certain conditions are met. Furthermore, the economic efficiency improves when adding maize silage to the fermentor mixture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The problem of project portfolio selection considering risk propagation is a new research topic, but it overlooks the fact that the risk propagation process can be hindered by resource mobilization within candidate projects, which is defined as "risk absorption" in this paper. Neglecting this process may lead to the risk propagation process being overestimated, thereby resulting in the selection of suboptimal projects. Based on this, this article examines the risk absorption process in project portfolio selection problem, aiming to investigate its impact on project portfolio decision, ultimately resulting in the selection of more stable project portfolio. To address this issue, the article first examines the process of risk absorption among projects and calculates the amount of risk absorbed based on the strength of the interactions between the projects selected. Secondly, the total risk intensity of the project is given by calculating the risk propagation intensity and self-incurred risk intensity. Finally, a dual-objective project portfolio selection model considering risk absorption is developed by combining the risk intensity and net present value of the project. The analysis of a case study demonstrates that (1) considering risk absorption can reduce the probability of project risks occurring due to being propagated, (2) considering risk absorption will prioritize projects with higher returns, albeit accompanied by relatively higher risks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on the energy development strategy of Russia until 2035, the article substantiates the prospect for the development of nuclear energy, according to which nuclear plants are planned to be forced to unload in the range of up to 50% of the rated power while participating in the regulation of daily unevenness of the electrical load. In addition, nuclear power plants will be involved in primary frequency regulation, which is also associated with the unloading mode of operation of nuclear power plants. All these circumstances force us to look for ways to provide nuclear power plants with base load. Along with pumped storage power plants, the article considers an alternative option in the form of using a hydrogen complex based on the electrolysis production of hydrogen, which satisfies the concept of its carbon-free production. The article presents the global dynamics of the introduction of electrolyzers, and in addition to the increase in the share of electrolysis hydrogen produced at nuclear power plants. The hydrogen complex in this case is a means of providing the nuclear power plant with a base load, which involves the consumption of unclaimed electricity at cost. This allows hydrogen to be produced at a competitive price compared to individual producers on the market. The resulting hydrogen is in great demand as a useful product in a number of industries. The article provides examples of hydrogen consumption in various areas of consumption depending on purity, taking into account the requirements of GOST. A number of consumer industries use hydrogen of a special degree of purity, i.e., more than 99.999% vol. In this regard, additional hydrogen purification on palladium membranes was taken into account. A comprehensive assessment of the efficiency of the hydrogen production system was carried out, taking into account its additional purification and delivery to the consumer in various ways, mastered and in demand in world practice. A comparison has been made of the methods of delivering hydrogen to the consumer in comparison with the production of hydrogen by electrolysis at the point of consumption. A comparison was made using the criterion of net present value for the option of third-party consumers who do not have their own hydrogen production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increase in the share of energy output from nuclear power plants and the emergence of new requirements of the system operator of the Unified Energy System (UES) of the Russian Federation raise the question of increasing the efficiency of nuclear power plants in alternating mode. At the same time, the operation of nuclear power plants is economically feasible with a maximum utilization rate of installed capacity due to significant capital investments and the low price of nuclear fuel. A possible solution to regulating the level of supplied electricity during off-peak hours of energy consumption is to direct its excess to produce hydrogen with its further sale to consumers without reducing the power of the power unit. According to the analysis, most enterprises that are potential consumers of hydrogen from nuclear power plants have their own modular installations for its production. In the work, a comparative analysis of centralized hydrogen production at nuclear power plants and hydrogen production at places of its consumption was carried out. The daily period of hydrogen production at nuclear power plants is limited to the night period, when there is an excess of generating capacity in the energy system. In this case, local hydrogen production can be carried out evenly throughout the day. This leads to an increase in the cost of hydrogen production at nuclear power plants due to a larger storage system and an increase in the number of compressor and electrolysis units. Nuclear power plants will require significant costs to transport the generated gas. At the same time, the advantage of a nuclear power plant is the cost of consumed electricity, taken at the level of the cost of its production. For industrial consumers, the electricity tariff is significantly higher. In the work, a comparative assessment of the cost of hydrogen production at nuclear power plants and at the site of its consumption was carried out taking into account a range of system conditions. A sales surcharge to the cost of hydrogen production at nuclear power plants was additionally adopted. Zones of competitive efficiency in the implementation of the hydrogen complex at nuclear power plants have been identified, in which the production of hydrogen at the site of its consumption requires greater costs than the purchase of commercial hydrogen from nuclear power plants. Based on the competitive range of the sales surcharge to the selling price of hydrogen at nuclear power plants and the accepted initial conditions, an assessment of the accumulated net present value and payback period of the hydrogen production plant was carried out during its production at nuclear power plants for sale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The country's first on-site hydrogen refueling station (HRS) is installed at the Hydrogen Energy Laboratory, Bangladesh Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (BCSIR), and its performance is studied to penetrate and prepare the hydrogen refueling network for the future. The study fills the power conditioning and integration information gap to HRS and refueling performances of on-site HRS in the particular conditions of the country. Strategic integration of grid power to the HRS is materialized and its adaptation with on-site HRS. Low-cost frequency & voltage conversion (conversion of 50 Hz, 420 V, or 220 V to stable 60 Hz, 220 V, or 110 V) and its stabilization are successfully made. An initial pressure of 5 MPa and 10 MPa of the vehicle tank (two-time refueling conditions) at 25 °C fills with the hydrogen at the APRR of 5.07 & 6.39 by 5.91& 7.5 min accordingly whereas the target pressure is 35 MPa. Hydrogen transfer to the vehicle tank at the pressure established by SAE J2799 according to the APRR during refueling time. The system consumes 52.71 kW and 3.73 kW of power to produce and compress 1 kg of hydrogen. The temperature profile shows that at the maximum hydrogen flow rate of 20 g/s, the temperature rose to 56 °C maintaining the fueling protocol. The levelized cost of hydrogen (LCOH P) of on-site hydrogen production is $6.68 and the LCOH S&D of storage & dispensing of hydrogen is $1.07 using the grid electricity whereas it gets down to $3.74 and $0.76 for the case of solar PV. Hydrogen vehicles reduce 43% fuel cost (using grid power) as compared to diesel engines. The study also depicts that a solar-powered hydrogen fleet is a better option for replacing fossil fuels and in shaping a sustainable transport system. The economic analyses provide the net present value (NPV 20) and benefit and cost ratio (BCR) of the on-site HRS are 0.09 million and 1.18 at the discount rate of 9.5% which corresponds to the investment to the on-site HRS is feasible and free of risk. • Strategic conversion and integration of power with on-site hydrogen refueling station. • LCOH of hydrogen at on-site HRS $7.5 & $3.50 using grid and Solar PV accordingly. • SAE J2799 nozzle and slow filling are used to refuel the vehicle without precooling. • Hydrogen vehicle reduces 43% of fuel cost as compared to gasoline-burned vehicles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To achieve the near-zero carbon emissions from chemical looping hydrogen generation (CLHG) power plant, two novel systems were proposed in this study: one integrates CLHG with ammonia decomposition for hydrogen production (ADHP) and CO 2 hydrogenation to methanol (CHM), while the other integrates CLHG with CHM and CO 2 compression storage (CCS). The performance of these two integrated systems was evaluated through analyses of economy, energy, exergy, and ecology (4E). The findings reveal that the CLHG-CHM-CCS system is more economically competitive and environmentally favorable than the CLHG-ADHP-CHM system. Its maximum net present value increases by 2.373×108 $, and annual CO 2 emissions decreases by 361.401 t. Meanwhile, the system's profitable allowable maximum purchasing price of natural gas increases by 0.036 $/Nm3, while its minimum selling price of methanol decreases by 47.583 $/t. However, the CLHG-ADHP-CHM system exhibits improvements in both energy efficiency and exergy efficiency, with improvements of 1.88% and 2.34%, respectively, compared to the CLHG-CHM-CCS system. Moreover, reactors within the CLHG subsystem account for 42.60% of its total exergy loss, offering a potential 3.275 MW improvement. • Two novel CLHG-based systems for achieving near-zero carbon emissions were proposed. • Economy, energy, exergy and ecology analysis for the systems was carried out. • CLHG-CHM-CCS system proved to be more economical. • Carbon capture rates for both systems exceed 99.5%. • Reactors within the CLHG subsystem account for 42.60% of its total exergy loss. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to provide an overview of sweet bread production as an alternative in planning and developing teaching factories based on business feasibility projection analysis. A quantitative technique was applied in this research. Survey techniques and statistical tests were used to examine the hypotheses. To demonstrate that an institution can and should continue its sweet bread business, several variables were measured, including the Internal Rate of Return (IRR), Net Present Value (NPV), Return on Investment (ROI), Benefit--Cost Ratio (B/C ratio), Payback Period (PBP), and Break Event Point (BEP), providing further information for Business Model Canvas analysis of a business model. Based on the BMC, the value propositions are a variety of sweet bread, ease of access, affordable prices, quality, and taste. Key activities include sweetbread production, stock management, marketing and promotion, and customer service. Customer segmentation involves students, lecturers, staff, and institutional visitors. An analysis of financial projections reveals that business is feasible. This can be seen from IRR = 53,19%; the NPV > 0 is equal to IDR 85,222,327; ROI = 216.69%; B/C ratio =1.07; BCR >1; PBP = 41 months; and BEP = IDR 5,528,669.25. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Manufacturing industries are vital for economic development, but they cause significant environmental damages. As there are scarce research studies for this industrial sector from developing countries, this article reports a comprehensive environmental and economic analyses for cutlery manufacturing in Pakistan. SimaPro 9.5 was used as a modelling software tool, while ReCiPe 2016 methods were used to evaluate various midpoint and endpoint environmental impacts. Various economic indicators were used to evaluate the economic performance of different alternative scenarios. The results revealed that injection molding process, due to its energy-intensive nature caused the most environmental impacts as compared to other manufacturing processes. Global warming and terrestrial ecotoxicity were the most affected impact categories with values of 11.8 kg CO2 eq and 12.0 kg 1,4-DCB, respectively. Meanwhile, at endpoint level, human health category was most damaged as compared to others. Based on technical process intervention and energy transition, four different alternative scenarios were developed. In comparison with baseline scenario, the alternative scenario with double-cavity mold resulted in a reduction of more than 30% for various impact categories. The other three alternatives were grounded on the use of solar energy (50% or 100%) and injection mold with double or single cavity. Overall, the alternative scenario with 50% solar energy and double-cavity mold was the best solution that showed more than 50% reduction in most of the impact categories, less than 3-year payback time, 2.12 million (Pakistani Rupees) net present value, and 36.3% of return on investment. This study clearly shows the importance of renewable energy resources and simple changes in process technology for improving sustainability performance. The relevant stakeholders can effectively use the results and methodology of this study as a reference and guide for future research and practical interventions, especially in developing countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The uptake of low-carbon domestic heating systems is a significant strategy towards global targets of reducing greenhouse emissions and mitigating climate change. Pre-1900 hard-to-treat houses will still be existing in the next 25 years, and they have the greatest potential for improved energy-efficiency. This study investigates the potential of fabric retrofit to prepare an older, hard-to-treat house type for heat pump use. The house type was modelled in DesignBuilder and validated using the Ulster University test house. The wall, loft and floor insulation, as well as glazing upgrades can yield up to 50% reduction in heating demand for a hard-to-treat house type, thereby preparing it for heat pump installation. Additionally, upgrading insulation and glazing in line with the current building standards was cost-effective, with a net present value of approximately GBP 12,000. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mixture of cotton straw and plastic mulch film is co-treated by mobile pyrolysis technology for co-production of biochar, bio-oil and electricity, which shows good economic benefits and CO 2 emission reduction capacity while controlling environmental pollution. [Display omitted] • Co-pyrolysis approach resolves the application of high-ash straw and film mixture. • TEA and LCA perform the comparison of mobile pyrolysis and concentrated pyrolysis. • Mobile pyrolysis achieves short PBP of 4.32 years and low GWP of −1.298 kgCO 2 -eq. The widespread use of plastic mulch film (PMF) has led to significant environmental pollution, with PMF residues dispersed and mixed with straw and soil, posing challenges for recycling. Here, we proposed the mobile pyrolysis facility for the cotton straw and mulch film mixture (CMM) to mitigate the collection, storage, and transportation costs, while the application of co-pyrolysis technology for CMM conversion could improve the added value of products. Additionally, centralized combustion power generation and centralized pyrolysis systems were also established to evaluate and compare their sustainability from economic and environmental perspectives. Results showed that mobile pyrolysis has better economic performance than the centralized scenarios, due to its high internal rate of return (31 %) and significant net present value (29.21 M USD). Meanwhile, the mobile pyrolysis facility achieved a GWP of −1.298 kgCO 2 -eq/kg, reducing emissions by 70.79 % and 38.82 % compared to the two centralized scenarios. In conclusion, mobile pyrolysis technology provides a promising solution for PMF residue recycling because of its economically competitive approach with a lower carbon footprint. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In post-conflict Colombia, the government has prioritized resettlement of displaced people through development of strong rural livelihoods and the sustainable use of natural capital. In this paper, we considered government proposals for expanding payment for ecosystem services (PES) and sustainable silvopastoral systems, and private-sector investment in habitat banking. We coupled the Integrated Economic-Environmental Model (IEEM) with spatially explicit land use and land cover change and ecosystem services models to assess the potential impacts of these programs through the lens of wealth and sustainable economic development. This innovative workflow integrates dynamic endogenous feedbacks between natural capital, ecosystem services and the economic system, and can be applied to other country contexts. Results show that PES and habitat banking programs are strong investment propositions (Net Present Value of US$4.4 and $4.9 billion, respectively), but only when moving beyond conventional economic analysis to include non-market ecosystem services. Where a portfolio investment approach is taken and PES is implemented with sustainable silvopastoral systems, investment returns would reach US$7.1 billion. This paper provides a detailed evaluation of the benefits of investing in rural livelihoods and enhancing Colombia's natural capital base, with empirical evidence to inform the spatial targeting of policies to maximize economic, environmental and social outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As more renewable energy sources are integrated into the United Kingdom's power grid, flexibility services are becoming integral to ensuring energy security. This has encouraged the proliferation of Lithium-ion battery storage systems, with 85 GW in development. However, battery degradation impacts both system lifespan and the economic viability of large-scale projects. With rising commodity costs and supply chain issues, maximising the value of energy storage is critical. Traditional methods of mitigating battery ageing rely on static limits based on inflexible warranties, which do not fully account for the complexity of battery degradation. This study examined an alternative, degradation-aware current derating strategy to improve system performance. Using an optimisation model simulating UK energy trading, combined with an electro-thermal and semi-empirical battery model, we assessed the impact of this approach. Interviews with industry leaders validated the modelled parameters and the relevance of the alternative strategy. Results show the degradation-aware strategy can extend battery lifetime by 5–8 years and improve net present value and internal rate of return over a 15-year period compared with traditional methods. These findings highlight the economic benefits of flexible, degradation-aware operational strategies and suggest that more adaptive warranties could accelerate renewable energy integration and lower costs for storage operators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oilfield development optimization plays a vital role in maximizing the potential of hydrocarbon reservoirs. Decision-making in this complex domain can rely on various objective functions, including net present value (NPV), expected monetary value (EMV), cumulative oil production (COP), cumulative gas production (CGP), cumulative water production (CWP), project costs, and risks. However, EMV is often the main function when optimization is performed under uncertainty. The behavior and performance of different objective functions has been investigated in this paper, when EMV is the primary criterion for optimization under reservoir and economic uncertainty. One of the goals of this study is to provide insights into the advantages and limitations of employing EMV as the sole objective function in oil field development decision-making. The designed optimization problem included sequential optimization of design variables including well positions, well quantity, well type, platform capacity, and internal control valve placements. A comparative analysis is presented, contrasting the outcomes obtained from optimizing the EMV-based objective function against traditional objective functions. The study underscores the importance of incorporating multiple objective functions alongside EMV to guide decision-making in oilfield development. Potential benefits in minimizing CGP and CWP are revealed, aiding in the mitigation of environmental impact and optimization of resource utilization. A strong correlation between EMV and COP is identified, highlighting EMV's role in improving COP and RF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Brazil, pre-salt carbonate reservoirs are largely responsible for the current increase in oil production. However, due to its peculiar characteristics, increasing oil recovery by water injection is not enough. Therefore, we seek to evaluate the recovery potential using chemical methods (cEOR). Among these, the Alkali Surfactant Foam (ASF) method appears with high potential, a variant of Alkali Surfactant Polymers (ASP) without the problems presented by it. Therefore, this work presents an innovative methodology, which seeks to evaluate the potential for recovery with ASF in carbonate reservoirs by integrating experimental characterization and recovery prediction using reservoir simulation. For this, phase behavior and adsorption analyses were carried out. The experimental results provided key parameters for the simulation, such as optimal salinity, surfactant adsorption, foam mobility reduction factors. The results are from two case studies of AS and ASF flooding, using a section of UNISIM-II benchmark, using a one-quarter of five-spot model. Having the modelling for these cEOR methods defined, an optimization process for each method was applied, allowing a reliable comparison among the methods and over a base case of water injection, seeking the maximization of the net present value (NPV). As a result, in the experimental part, a low interfacial tension (IFT) value of 0.003 mN/m was achieved with a surfactant adsorption reduction of 17.9% for an optimal setting among brine (NaCl), alkali (NaBO2.4H2O), and surfactant (BIO-TERGE AS 40). In the reservoir simulation part, using a fast genetic algorithm in the optimization process, a NPV of US$ 14.43 million higher than the base case (water injection) and a 4.5% increase in cumulative oil production for the ASF injection case were obtained. Considering the analyses of production curves (cumulative oil production and oil rate) and oil saturation maps, a considerable oil production anticipation was observed, which was the main reason for NPV improvement, proving the high potential for application of the ASF method in carbonate reservoirs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Food production's environmental, economic, and social challenges should be demystified through quantitative data. Therefore, the objective of this paper was to investigate the ecoregional sustainability of the Amazon biome from the perspective of the environmental life cycle, economic feasibility, and social life cycle analysis, emphasizing the pillars of sustainability in the production of three commodities: soybean, beef cattle, and Brazil nuts. Carbon footprint, net present value, and worker endpoint were the metrics evaluated. According to the results found in this study, the livestock presented greater environmental burdens in terms of carbon balance when compared to the production of Brazil nuts and soybean production with carbon balances in the order of 4.75 tCO2eq/ha, −0.02 tCO2eq/ha, and −1.20 tCO2eq/ha, respectively. From an economic viewpoint, the extractive production of Brazil nuts presented the highest net profit per hectare/year (USD 559.21), followed by the agricultural system (USD 533.94) and livestock (USD 146.19). Finally, in relation to the social aspect of the production systems analyzed, the negative impacts linked to beef cattle production are related to the subcategories of forced labor and equal opportunities, and the positive impacts linked to soybean production are related to the subcategories of salary and benefits. The results highlight a genuine and sustainable balance in Brazil nuts extraction, presenting it as an investment for a sustainable future while demystifying the multifaceted information related to food production as a whole, in order to assist in decision-making and the formulation of public policies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) released a communiqué in March 2020 cautioning about the possibility of a worldwide food emergency due to coronavirus disease (COVID-19). As a response to the food shortages brought on by the COVID-19 outbreak, the authorities of Indonesia initiated a nationwide program aimed at improving the country's food supply known as the food estate (FE), which was later incorporated into national strategic programs. The climate and availability of surface water sources in this region make establishing an FE area in the Central Sumba Regency difficult. Sumba, on the other hand, possesses wind energy resources that can be transformed into electrical energy and used to pump underground water for agricultural purposes. A wind-powered water pump (WPW) is being developed in this study to provide water for maize plantations in the FE region in Central Sumba District, Indonesia. The study on the levelized cost of energy (LCOE) for water pumping indicates that the wind-powered system is more economically viable than the diesel-powered alternative. The LCOE for a WPW pumping system is 6,994 IDR/kWh, whereas the LCOE for a diesel-powered system is 16,667 IDR/kWh. The overall net present value of WPW and diesel-powered systems is 708,667,200 IDR and 2,158,349,000 IDR, respectively. This study contributes significantly to informed decision-making for enhancing the performance viability of the wind water pumping system for the food estate program in Indonesia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

By multivariate econometric analysis of UK offshore wind farms, we demonstrate a life cycle effect of the capacity factor of offshore wind. From the bathtub curve findings in reliability engineering, we would expect a long, flat segment of stable operation in the middle of the life cycle production schedule. Our general findings deviate from the standard curve as it does not have a long segment where production is stable. Production starts falling too early. Lack of stable operation period is harmful to wind farm economics. It indicates immature technology and a potential for improvement. We examine the effect life cycle production schedules have on project economics and compare with a common assumption of a flat production schedule. We find that project profitability (net present value) is very sensitive to the life cycle profile of production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biorefineries are novel biotechnological routes designed to generate sustainable processes from renewable raw materials. The valorization of orange peel waste (OPW) provides high-value products based on their composition. The economic optimization of biorefineries through conceptual design and generation of superstructures based on the analysis of processing units is a topic of great interest. This work aimed to obtain the most profitable biorefinery through economic optimization strategies based on high-value-added products from OPW. Two stages were considered: The first stage consisted of the conceptual design of multiple OPW processing units (production of essential oil, mucic acid, phenolic compounds, biogas, among others). An OPW flow rate of 140 kg/h was selected as the base case. From the stand-alone units, a biorefinery superstructure (second stage) was designed. Finally, the units with the best mass and energy results were selected in order to maximize the net present value (NPV) and obtain an optimal biorefinery configuration. The results evidenced that the production of essential oil and biogas presented the best yields (2.61 mL and 0.028 m3 per kg OPW, respectively). This biorefinery configuration obtained an NPV of −7.7 mUSD from the base case. Through the evaluation of the different superstructure configurations, the combined production of essential oil, biogas, and mucic acid and a scale-up of over 22 times the base case generated the minimum processing scale. Under a Colombian context, the implementation of the biorefineries analyzed are promising since the minimum processing scale contemplated only 8.8% of the OPW production. Efforts to increase yields and decrease capital and operating expenses while keeping environmental impacts low should be pursued. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The integration of Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is a crucial step in the restoration of ecosystems and the mitigation of the effects of urbanization and climate-induced flooding. Moreover, National Statistical Policies (NSP) and SDGs have notably diminished flood and hydrogeological risk in developed countries. Nevertheless, developing countries like Jordan have encountered difficulties in implementing NSP and SDG. Accordingly, the objective of the present study was to evaluate the feasibility of implementing NBS in the Jordanian Dead Sea (DS) area for the first time. To this end, a novel approach was proposed, integrating the NBS and SDGs with the SA-GIS and Fuzzy Analytical Hierarchy Process (FAHP) approaches, with the objective of addressing the severe issue of urban floods in the DS area. Furthermore, a life-cycle cost-benefit analysis was employed to comprehensively assess costs and benefits over a specified time frame, utilizing key indicators such as Net Present Value (NPV) and the Benefit-Cost Ratio (BCR). The findings revealed that detention ponds, vegetated swales, rain gardens, and rainwater harvesting have BCR values exceeding one, suggesting that incorporating co-benefits into economic assessments significantly enhances the economic efficiency and viability of NBS. In conclusion, the proposed method can be applied globally and serves as a viable strategy for advancing sustainable urban growth and reducing the risk of disasters in developing countries like Jordan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For more sustainable shipping operation in coastal areas and port cities, shore side power (SSP) systems are attracting widespread interest as a solution to reduce ship auxiliary engine emissions, noise and vibration. The potential of these systems can be further improved by integrating renewable energy into the electricity grid. However, the majority of prior research has focused on investigating SSP systems for large ports in large shipping hub countries. Therefore, in this study, SSP technology is investigated for an inland waterway in Egypt on the Suez Canal utilising real ferries operational data. Green electricity from solar sunshade structures is generated for the SSP system utilising the Egyptian excellent solar energy potential. For this study, the ferry diesel generator, battery and solar systems are modelled in MATLAB/Simulink environment to investigate the proposed SSP system. Results indicate that the proposed SSP system could eliminate annually 1420 tonnes of emissions as well reduce the grid ${CO2}$ CO 2 emissions by 1204 tonnes through the green electricity supplied to the grid. Moreover, the cash flow and net present value analyses have shown good profitability with a payback period between 7.4 and 12 years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As residential adoption of renewable energy sources increases, optimizing rooftop photovoltaic systems (RTPVs) with Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESSs) is key for enhancing self-sufficiency and reducing dependence on the grid. This study introduces a novel methodology for sizing Home Energy Management Systems (HEMS), with the objective of minimizing the cost of imported energy while accounting for battery degradation. The battery model integrated nonlinear degradation effects and was evaluated in a real case study, considering different temporal data resolutions and various energy management strategies. For BESS capacities ranging from 1 to 5 kWh, the economic analysis demonstrated cost-effectiveness, with a Net Present Value (NPV) ranging from 54.53 € to 181.40 € and discounted payback periods (DPBs) between 6 and 10 years. The proposed HEMS extended battery lifespan by 22.47% and improved profitability by 21.29% compared to the current HEMS when applied to a 10 kWh BESS. Sensitivity analysis indicated that using a 5 min resolution could reduce NPV by up to 184.68% and increase DPB by up to 43.12% compared to a 60 min resolution for batteries between 1 and 5 kWh. This underscores the critical impact of temporal resolution on BESS sizing and highlights the need to balance accuracy with computational efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To comply with the trend of emission reduction and energy-saving in the industrial sector, a novel integration of the hydrogen liquefaction process based on reversed Brayton cycle (RBC) with the organic Rankine cycle (ORC), for waste heat recovery is proposed. The high temperature gas in the compressor outlet of RBC, which is typically wasted in air-coolers, is recovered in ORC and used as the heat source for power generation for the hydrogen liquefaction process. Thermodynamic analysis showed that compared to the conventional system COP increased by 17.95% from 0.11 to 0.14 and specific energy consumption (SEC) decreased by 16.33% from 10.84 to 9.07 kWh/kg LH2. Parametric analysis was conducted to evaluate the impact of pressure ratio, evaporator temperature and minimum temperature difference (M Δ T) in heat exchangers, on system performance. Changes in these variables affect the system performance and heat transfer area in opposite directions, thus multi-objective optimization by the genetic algorithm was performed to determine the optimum operating conditions. The SEC and the net present value (NPV) were selected as objective functions and were optimized simultaneously. Results from the optimization process indicate that the SEC and NPV were found to be 9.165 kWh/kgH 2 and 1.55 million dollars with the optimal evaporator temperature of 365 K, pressure ratio of 2.85, and the M Δ T of 7.79. • A novel design of hydrogen liquefaction process with heat recovery is examined. • Reversed Brayton cycle is integrated with organic Rankine cycle for the process. • The specific energy consumption is decreased by 16.33% than the conventional one. • Multi-objective genetic algorithm is used to evaluate techo-economic viability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Volatile electricity prices have raised concerns about the economic feasibility of wind projects in Finland. This study assesses the economic viability and optimal operational strategies for integrating wind-powered green hydrogen production systems. Utilizing modeling and optimization, this research evaluates various wind farms in Western Finland over electricity market scenarios from 2019 to 2022, with forecasts extending to 2030. Key economic metrics considered include internal rate of return, future value, net present value (NPV), and the levelized cost of hydrogen (LCOH). Results indicate that integration of hydrogen production with wind farms shows economic benefits over standalone wind projects, potentially reducing LCOH to €2.0/kgH 2 by 2030 in regular and low electricity price scenarios, and to as low as €0.6/kgH 2 in high-price scenarios. The wind farm with the highest capacity factor achieves 47% reductions in LCOH and 22% increases in NPV, underscoring the importance of strategic site selection and operational flexibility. • Volatility of electricity prices raises viability concerns for wind producers. • Examining the optimal operation and economic feasibility of wind-hydrogen systems. • Evaluated wind farms in Western Finland from 2019 to 2022, with a 2030 outlook. • Integration with hydrogen production enhances financial resilience and adaptability. • Strategic site selection and adaptive PEMEC operational plans found crucial. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent advancements in power electronics have significantly improved photovoltaic (PV) inverters by equipping them with sophisticated monitoring capabilities. These enhancements provide economic advantages by facilitating swift failure detection and lowering monitoring costs. Educating users on the economic repercussions of undetected failures in specific inverter monitoring systems is crucial. This paper introduces a novel metric, "Cost of Detection", which assesses the financial impact of failures, considering the repair expenses and the "quality" of the monitoring system in place. The study analyzed fifteen inverter monitoring solutions, focusing on the variance in alerts generated by the manufacturers' standard and extra monitoring features. Employing the Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA) method, alerts were prioritized based on their importance for two PV system scenarios: a low-power residential system (5 kWp) and a medium-power industrial/commercial system (100 kWp). Lisbon, Rome, and Berlin were chosen as the locations for these systems. The economic impact of system failures is evaluated annually for each capacity and city. Given the differing costs and annual yields, comparing their economic performance over time is essential. This comparison utilizes the Net Present Value (NPV), which estimates an investment's worth by calculating the present value of all cash flows. The investment assessment includes only the costs of inverters and optimizers, excluding O&M expenses, licenses, and fees. Over five years, a higher NPV signifies a more economically advantageous solution. For residential systems, string inverters with optimizers have the highest NPV, surpassing those without optimizers by 17% across all three cities. The optimal monitoring solution in the industrial/commercial context was a string inverter with one optimizer for every two panels. Here, Rome emerged as the location with the most substantial NPV increase of 50%, followed by Berlin with 33% and Lisbon with 28%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Efficient sizing and economic analysis of community battery systems is crucial for enhancing energy efficiency and sustainability in rooftop PV panel-rich communities. This paper proposes a comprehensive model that integrates key technical and economic factors to optimize the size and operation of the prosumer-owned battery, maximizing the financial returns over the life span of the battery. Sensitivity and uncertainty analyses were also conducted on a number of factors that are constantly changing over the years such as per-unit cost of the battery and interest rate. Monte Carlo simulations were utilized to replicate the unpredictable PV generations and the volatility of house load demands. The developed model is evaluated under three scenarios: a shared community battery for all houses, individual batteries for each house, and a combined system with an additional large load. Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) is utilized to maximize the formulated objective function subject to the considered constraints. The findings indicate that integrating community batteries offered a substantial economic advantage compared to individual home batteries. The additional revenue stream of incorporating larger consumers looking to reduce their carbon footprint (e.g., commercial) returned a further augmented net present value (NPV). The influence of different tariff structures was also assessed and it was found that critical peak pricing (CPP) was the most prolific. The outcomes offer valuable insights for policymakers and stakeholders in the energy sector to facilitate a more sustainable future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study offers a thorough techno-economic evaluation of a hybrid desalination system merging Pressure Retarded Osmosis (PRO) with Seawater Reverse Osmosis (SWRO) process. The primary aim is to determine the feasibility and economic viability of the hybridized approach to conventional SWRO methods. Diverse scenarios are studied based on parameters such as PRO module costs, energy savings achievable and payback period. Our findings reveal the potential for energy savings through the PRO-SWRO hybrid system. For instance, in scenarios where PRO membrane costs are low, such as $450 per element, and electricity prices are relatively high at $0.12 per kilowatt-hour, energy savings of up to 7% are attainable compared to standalone SWRO setups. This potential could be amplified with increasing salinity levels in the feed solution and higher draw solution pressures. The study extends beyond theoretical analysis, offering practical solutions for the design and implementation of sustainable desalination solutions; by studying the interaction between various parameters and their impact; on both energy consumption and economic viability. The current study estimates the membrane break-even costs of a PRO-SWRO hybrid system by estimating and equating the Net Present Value (NPV) of the SWRO system (base configuration) with the NPV of the PRO-SWRO hybrid. This research lays a solid foundation for the development of hybrid desalination systems capable of addressing water scarcity challenges in a cost-effective and environmentally sustainable manner. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To understand the operational strategies and effects of photovoltaic-energy storage sys tems in standalone residential buildings under different electricity pricing modes. a model was developed for the electricity consumption of sample buildings and the power generation of photovoltaic systems. Two operational strategies, namely regular operation mode and mixed operation mode. were developed for photovoltaic-energy storage systems under two scenarios: tiered elec tricity pricing and time of use electricity pricing. Subsequently, the economic indicators net present value (NPV) and self consumption rate (SC) of the photovoltaic-energy storage system for single family residential buildings were analyzed for four energy storage unit prices ranging from 1 000 to 2 500 yuan/(kWh) as the energy storage capacity increased. The results show that the larger the installed capacity of photovoltaic, the higher the initial NPV value. In the conventional operating mode. the self consumption rate of photovoltaic systems with different installed capacities gradually increases with the increase of energy storage capacity, while in the mixed operating mode, the self absorption rate basically does not change with the increase of energy storage capacity. In both operating modes, the optimal energy storage capacity considering only economy is located at the highest point of the NPV curve and different photovoltaic installed capacities will result in different initial values and rankings of NPV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Most regulatory jurisdictions now require financial assurance for mines for post-closure activities, which typically include long-term monitoring and maintenance, and most importantly post-closure water treatment. Critical choices in calculating post-closure financial assurance include using a reputable cost estimation model to establish the amount needed for reclamation, selecting a realistic net return-on-investment for post-closure trust funds, and choosing the period of time over which the net present value calculation of the financial assurance is based. A conservative estimate of the amount of financial assurance is warranted to protect the public from assuming these costs. However, some regulatory agencies use financial assurance estimate practices that are arbitrary. The data and procedures needed to analyze and recommend conservative net present value calculations are readily available, but in too many instances are not being utilized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electrical energy is very important in everyday life to support the activities of various sectors. Fossil fuels as an energy source are a top priority, therefore renewable energy is an alternative to replace the limitations of fossil fuels which is the main priority in efforts to generate electrical energy in Indonesia. The high intensity of sunlight in Indonesia, especially in Pontianak City, is very suitable for building a Solar Power Plant (PLTS). The aim of this research is to find out how much potential PLTS has using applications PVsyst 7.3by utilizing the roof of the hospital building. This research uses three methods or economic analysis and analyzing the feasibility of PLTS. The method used isNet Present Value (NPV), Profitability Index (PI), and Discounted Payback Period (DPP). The results of research carried out using Software PVsyst 7.3 It was found that the PLTS system was installed on the roof of YARSI Pontianak General Hospital with a slope angle of 4O namely 115 kWp with the type of solar panel used being the Jinko Solar Tiger Neo N-type 72HL4-BDV 580Wp 198 units, 3 inverters of the SUN2000-30/36/40KTL-M3 type with a capacity of 40 kW, and batteries with type Sunlight RES OPzS with a capacity of 3060 Ah. Based on the results of calculations that have been carried out, the initial investment required is IDR. 1,578,472,422. Analysis of the economic feasibility of PLTS using 3 methods has been carried out to obtain an NPV value of Rp. 797.610.941,86, PI value of 1.505, and DPP value of 14 years. The three methods used in this research show that PLTS is feasible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluates a solar PV-powered evaporative cooling system for vegetable cooling. The system features dual cooling chambers with two different biomass pads, operating at different temperatures. To assess its potential, the research examines the evolution of temperature and humidity of the cooling chamber, evaporative effectiveness, cooling capacity, coefficient of performance (COP), energy metrics, greenhouse gas emissions, and overall cost. The results show that the system achieved a temperature depression range of 0.22 to 5.2 °C and 0.57 to 10.94 °C for wood shavings and polyurethane foam, respectively, under no-load conditions, while the values were 0.79 to 4.7 °C and 1.22 to 9.88 °C, with average values of 3.09 and 7.0 °C, for the same materials under loaded conditions. Loaded conditions also yielded a cooling capacity of 5.7 to 33.93 W for wood shavings and 8.13 to 75.55 W for polyurethane foam. The cooling efficiency ranged from 19.9 to 96.42% for polyurethane foam and 3.62 to 60% for wood shavings. The system's COP was higher than that of solar-powered mechanical chillers, ranging from 2.37 to 22.92. The energy production factor was 2.3 to 2.4, with a lifecycle conversion efficiency of 0.5 and an energy payback time of 1.1 and 2.2 years for using polyurethane foam and wood shavings, respectively. The net present value was positive, and the levelized cost of energy was low, at 36.7 to 38.3 NGN/kWh (0.043–0.045 USD/kWh), making it a viable alternative to grid-based energy systems in Nigeria. Additionally, the system offers significant CO2 mitigation potential, with estimated carbon credits of NGN 65,059 (USD 71.56) and NGN 98,576.49 (USD 108.43) over its lifetime. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work introduces two new thermally integrated pumped thermal energy storage (TIPTES) systems, including thermally integrated vapor compression heat pump (TIHP) as a charging cycle and dual‐pressure organic Rankine cycle (DPORC) and dual‐loop organic Rankine cycle (DLORC) as discharging cycles to investigate their capability of improving roundtrip efficiency compared with the basic ORC (BORC). The thermodynamic and economic performance of the proposed TIHP‐DPORC and TIHP‐DLORC are analyzed and compared with TIHP‐BORC using various working fluids. The multi‐objective multiverse optimization algorithm is conducted to ascertain the systems' optimum roundtrip efficiency and cost rate. Results indicate that at the same storage temperature, the TIHP‐DLORC gives the highest roundtrip and exergy efficiencies of 219.9% and 43.53% with R1233zd(E), indicating 6.69% and 8.04% improvements compared with the optimum TIHP‐BORC. Moreover, it shows the lowest levelized cost of storage (LCOS) and payback period (PP) of 0.160 $/kWh and 4.5 years, respectively, with a maximum net present value of 1.973 M$. Although the cost rate of TIHP‐DLORC is high, its excellent thermodynamic and economic performance compared with the existing TIPTES systems in the literature indicates that DLORC is a more appropriate candidate to be applied in the TIPTES systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

India is now one of the top five countries in the world for PV and solar thermal power generation. At the same time, we must develop a plan for recycling these massive numbers of solar panels in the future. This article has contributed to proposing the resulting regulatory system. The PV waste management sector is extremely neglected, leaving it entirely to the scrap trading underground. There is not enough of a system in place to collect and reuse the solar panels' components for recycling. In addition, a solid institution to manage this procedure on a commercial scale has yet to be established. As a result, the purpose of this work was to use cost–benefit analysis to determine the economic viability of a solar module recycling project in India. The benefit–cost ratio (BCR) and net present value (NPV) were calculated to be 1.64 and 25.22 million USD, respectively. According to the sensitivity study, the most delicate issues impacting the project's economy were the selling benefits of recycled materials and tax. Finally, this analysis offered strategies for the government and linked businesses to enhance the economy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The valuation and planning of complex projects are becoming increasingly challenging with rising market uncertainty and the deregulation of many industries, which have also raised the need for efficient risk management. We take the perspective of a private firm interested in sequential capacity expansion of a project and develop a framework for measuring the downside risk of the serial project and optimising the sequence of the stages. Under general distributional assumptions for the duration of each stage, we present an accurate representation of the project's net present value (NPV) distribution based on a Pearson curve fit, leading to closed-form expressions for the associated risk measures. We then assess the impact of duration variability on the value at risk and demonstrate its role in stochastic project scheduling. We also account for the trade-off between maximising the expected NPV and minimising the risk exposure, and obtain the optimal schedule for risk-averse decision-makers. It becomes obvious that both the duration variability of each stage and the decision-makers' risk preferences can significantly affect the optimal sequence of the stages and that high duration variability is not always undesirable, even for risk-averse decision-makers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Conventional underground long-term mine planning is based on a deterministic stepwise framework, which is unable to effectively manage the synergies between the mine planning components or to manage the orebody risk in production schedules and forecasts. The present study enhances prior integrated optimisation approaches to a variation of the sublevel longhole open stoping mining method using backfilling, through a new two-stage stochastic integer programming formulation. A comparison to a sequential stochastic approach shows different stope layouts and extraction sequences for a copper mine with secondary elements being gold and uranium. The integrated approach shows lower horizontal development costs and 6% higher net present value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Effective monitoring of perishable food products has become increasingly important for ensuring quality, enabling smart packaging to be a key consideration for food companies. Among the promising technologies available for transforming packaging into intelligent packaging, chipless radio frequency identification (RFID) sensors stand out. Despite the high initial implementation costs associated with chipless RFID technology, the potential benefits could outweigh the costs if electrical challenges can be overcome. We examine various economic methods to analyze the economic benefits of chipless RFID technology, evaluating the benefits of using this technology for the quality monitoring of seafood products of an Australian seafood producer, Tassal. The analysis considers three primary business drivers, viz. quality monitoring, operational efficiency, and tracking and tracing, using net present value and return on investment as the key indicators to assess the feasibility of implementing the technology. Based on sensitivity analysis, we suggest chipless RFID technology is currently best suited for large firms facing significant quality monitoring and operational efficiency challenges. However, as the cost of chipless RFID sensors decreases with further development, this technology may become a more viable option for small businesses in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]